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Egypt reports 15 military casualties in Sinai recently
3 May 14:09
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Egypt reports 15 military casualties in Sinai recently
CAIRO (Reuters) - Egypt’s military said on Sunday that 15 of its men had died or been wounded in operations in the Sinai Peninsula recently, and that 126 suspected militants had been killed. The military publishes updates on its operations in Sinai every few months, without giving a specific time frame. The statement came three days after the military said 10 personnel were killed or wounded in an attack near Bir al-Abd in North Sinai. Islamic State claimed the attack. The Interior Ministry later said 18 suspected militants had been killed in a shootout near Bir al-Abd. Militants loyal to Islamic State are active in the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, where Egypt has been battling an insurgency for years. Human rights organisations accuse Egypt of carrying out extrajudicial executions, forced evictions and collective punishment as part of the crackdown. The military has denied such accusations, saying it takes the lives of civilians into consideration during operations.
3 May 14:09 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-security-idUSKBN22F0L7Rating: 4.04
17 Taliban militants killed, wounded in Paktiya and Logar provinces
The Afghan forces killed 11 Taliban militants during the operations in Paktiya and Logar provinces, the Afghan military said. The 203rd Thunder Corps in a statement said the Taliban militants attacked the security posts in Pir Laka area of Jani Khel district on Saturday night. The statement further added that the Afghan forces effectively responded to the attack with the support of the Afghan Air Force, killing at least 6 militants. The Taliban militants also launched an attack in Deh Naw area of Mohammad Agha district in Logar province which was repelled by the Afghan forces. According to 203rd Thunder Corps, the Afghan forces killed 5 Taliban militants and wounded 6 others during the clash besides destroying some weapons and munitions of the militants. The Taliban group has not commented regarding the two incidents so far.
3 May 20:59 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/17-taliban-militants-killed-wounded-in-paktiya-and-logar-provinces-04768/Rating: 1.51
Renewed Rioting Reported at Prison Housing Daesh Militants in Kurdish-Held Area of Syria – Video
The incident follows a similar uprising at the prison in late March which allowed four members of the terrorist group to escape the facility and flee before being captured and brought back by local police. A major insurrection by Daesh (ISIS)* prisoners has taken place at the al-Sinaa prison facility in the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces-controlled area in Hasakah, northeast Syria, the Syrian Arab News Agency has reported, citing local sources. Yet to be authenticated footage from the scene shows SDF troops being deployed along the prison’s perimeter in Humvees and pickup trucks armed with machineguns, with US attack helicopters seen circling overhead. Unconfirmed reports suggest the revolt may have been put down following negotiations between SDF and coalition forces and Daesh detainees. The new bout of rioting follows an uprising which took place at the same prison on March 30, which saw militants taking partial control of the facility, with several managing to escape, before SDF special forces and US-backed coalition troops stormed the prison to restore order. The al-Sinaa prison contains Daesh fighters of various nationalities, and is run by the SDF under the supervision of US occupation forces, holding part of the estimated 10,000 ex-Daesh fighters that the SDF has in its custody. 20 percent of these 10,000 prisoners are said to consist of foreigners whose home countries have refused to repatriate them. The United States continues to maintain an occupying presence throughout much of oil-rich northeastern Syria despite repeated demands by the Damascus government that they leave the territory, in accordance with the principles of international law. * A terrorist group outlawed in Russia and many other countries.
3 May 18:59 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/202005031079184647-renewed-rioting-reported-at-prison-housing-daesh-militants-in-kurdish-held-area-of-syria--video/Rating: 3.96
Daesh steps up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with COVID-19
Baghdad: The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched towards the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin - the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighbouring Syria, Daesh attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and UN experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a US troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilising and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said Daesh was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of Daesh fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for Daesh as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for US-allied Kurdish-led forces. Daesh fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir Al Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. Daesh is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50 per cent because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said Daesh attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new Daesh leader Abu Ibrahim Al Hashimi Al Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a US raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when Daesh fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian air strikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 Daesh gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30 per cent drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can’t operate in other parts run by government troops - and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “Daesh has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said.
3 May 13:44 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/mena/daesh-steps-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-covid-19-1.71306207Rating: 3.21
ISIS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD -- The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq's northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged co-ordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin -- the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group's defeat in 2017. In neighbouring Syria, ISIS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and UN experts that the group would stage a comeback after its "caliphate," which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. "It's a real threat," said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. "They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon." He said ISIS was benefiting from a "gap" between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for ISIS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. ISIS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. ISIS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. "Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week," said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said ISIS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader's strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when ISIS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country's nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. "They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs," he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can't operate in other parts run by government troops -- and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants' improved capabilities. "[ISIS] has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people," he said. ------ Mroue reported from Beirut. Associated Press writer Salar Salim contributed from Irbil, Iraq.
3 May 13:29 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/isis-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virus-1.4922705Rating: 2.87
ISIS takes advantage of Covid crisis to launch attacks on military positions in Iraq and oil fields and civilians in Syria
Iraq and Syria are battling a resurgence in attacks from ISIS as the terror group takes advantage of the coronavirus pandemic. There are between 2,500 to 3,000 Islamic state fighters in Iraq, security officials estimate, and a further 500 have escaped from prisons in Syria, fuelling a spike in violence in the region. Three security guards were killed outside a government building in Kirkuk, Iraq, after a suicide bomber blew himself up in the first week of Ramadan. And yesterday ten Iraqi military fighters were killed in a three-pronged co-ordinated attack in Salahaddin province, just 54 miles from the capital Baghdad. As many as 32 Syrian soldiers were killed during a two-day ISIS attack on a settlement near Homs. Two oil fields were also heavily damaged by the terror group, causing electricity production to collapse to 70 per cent of normal levels. The deputy prime minister of Iraq's northern Kurdish region, Qubad Talabani, said the group's resurgence is a 'real threat'. 'They are mobilising and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon,' he said. Iraq's designated prime minister, Mustafa al-Kadhimi, has paid tribute to those killed on May 2. 'This attack reflects a desperate attempt to capitalise on the state of political rivalry which has impeded the formation of a new government that will work to protect and secure its citizens,' he said. The village of Kujalo, concealed in the barren centre of Iraq, has also seen a rise in extremist activity. 'They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,' a local farmer said. 'IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organised and have more people.' An attack in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala killed a federal police officer and wounded a battalion commander and brigadier general on April 1. And an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of earlier last month. The uptick comes as Baghdad cuts the number of soldiers on the ground by half due to coronavirus, and as the US-led coalition forces continue to withdraw from bases in Nineveh and Kirkuk, western Iraq. Territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities in the northern Kurdish region have also left parts of three provinces without law enforcement, leaving the rugged landscape open to rebel groups. 'Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,' said a senior intelligence official, who declined to be named. 'Now', he said, 'security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month.' Coalition spokesman Colonel Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Analysts have warned the surge in attacks is aimed at securing the influence of the new leader, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, named after his predecessor who was killed last year. Iraq has recorded 95 deaths and 2,219 cases of Covid-19 since the outbreak began, although the figures are feared to be far higher due to the country's proximity to Iran. Syrian forces have also faced a sudden surge in ISIS-run violence. On April 9, extremists targeted government positions near Sukhna, Homs, forcing the government to bring in reinforcements covered by a Russian airstrike. As many as 32 soldiers died in two days of gun-fighting, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. It also said 26 ISIS fighters were killed. Gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were targeted on April 13, leaving them non-operational and causing a 30 per cent fall in electricity production. Syria has recorded three deaths due to coronavirus and 44 cases. However, nine years of civil war have left the country's health system severely damaged, prompting fears there may be far more cases in the country than reported.
3 May 15:52 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8282389/ISIS-takes-advantage-Covid-crisis-launch-attacks-Iraq-Syria.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ito=1490&ns_campaign=1490Rating: 4.11
26 Taliban militants killed, wounded in Balkh province: Shaheen Corps
The Afghan forces killed 16 Taliban militants during separate operations in northern Balkh province of Afghanistan, the Afghan military said. The 209th Shaheen Corps in a statement said a group of Taliban militants ambushed a convoy of the Afghan forces between Zari district and Mazar-e Sharif city. The statement further added the Afghan force carried out airstrikes in response to the attack, killing at least 14 militants and wounding 6 others. The airstrikes also destroyed multiple weapons and vehicles of the militants, the statement added. Meanwhile, the 209th Shaheen Corps said the Afghan forces responded to another Taliban attack in Chemtal district, killing at least 2 militants and wounding 4 others. The Taliban group has not commented regarding the two incidents so far.
3 May 12:37 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/26-taliban-militants-killed-wounded-in-balkh-province-shaheen-corps-04767/Rating: 1.51
Gun battles leave 9 dead including 5 security personnel in Occupied Kashmir
SRINAGAR: Five Indian armed forces were killed and four freedom fighters embraced martyrdom in two gun battles in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&K), officials said on Sunday. Tensions are high in the restive Himalayan region after New Delhi scrapped Kashmir’s autonomous status in early August, with flashes of violence reported regularly. Four army personnel, including two officers, a counterinsurgency policeman and two separatists died after a firefight in the village of Changimul near the Line of Control (LoC), said army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia. They had entered a home “to evacuate the civilians”, but came under “heavy fire” from separatists inside the building, Col Kalia added in the statement. It was unclear why the men had entered the house, with a police officer, who asked to remain anonymous, telling AFP they had “walked into an ambush”. On Saturday, two separatists were martyred by security forces in a brief shoot-out in the Pulwama area, police said. At least 54 freedom fighters have been martyred in IOJ&K this year, including more than 30 since the start of the lockdown from late March, according to an AFP tally. Last month, at least five Indian soldiers and nine separatists were killed in two separate firefights over two days in the occupied valley. Since the start of lockdown, India has continuously violated the ceasefire agreement despite the holy month of Ramazan. Freedom fighters have fought the Indian regime for decades in the Himalayan region and have sacrificed many lives. The fighting has left tens of thousands dead since 1989, mostly civilians.
3 May 15:40 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213251/3-gun-battles-leave-9-dead-including-5-security-personnel-occupied-kashmir/Rating: 1.80
Egypt reports 15 military casualties in Sinai recently
CAIRO, May 3 —Egypt’s military said today that 15 of its men had died or been wounded in operations in the Sinai Peninsula recently, and that 126 suspected militants had been killed. The military publishes updates on its operations in Sinai every few months, without giving a specific time frame. The statement came three days after the military said 10 personnel were killed or wounded in an attack near Bir al-Abd in North Sinai. Islamic State claimed the attack. The Interior Ministry later said 18 suspected militants had been killed in a shootout near Bir al-Abd. Militants loyal to Islamic State are active in the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, where Egypt has been battling an insurgency for years. Human rights organisations accuse Egypt of carrying out extrajudicial executions, forced evictions and collective punishment as part of the crackdown. The military has denied such accusations, saying it takes the lives of civilians into consideration during operations. —Reuters
3 May 13:49 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/egypt-reports-15-military-casualties-in-sinai-recently/1862691Rating: 1.42
Egypt says 18 suspected armed fighters killed in Sinai firefight
Egypt's interior ministry has said 18 suspected armed group members were killed in North Sinai in a firefight with security forces, two days after a deadly blast claimed by the ISIL (ISIS) armed group. "National security received intelligence about terrorist elements hiding out in a home in Bir al-Abed, where they were planning to launch hostile operations," the ministry said in a statement on Sunday. "Their hideout was targeted and a firefight ensued, which led to the death of 18 [fighters]." Security forces found 13 automatic weapons, two explosive belts and three other explosive devices in their possession, the ministry said. The incident came after Egypt's army said on Thursday that 10 soldiers, including an officer, had been killed or wounded in an explosion targeting an armoured vehicle near Bir al-Abed in North Sinai. The ISIL claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement posted on its propaganda channels. The army on Friday killed two suspected armed group members in North Sinai province, spokesman Tamer al-Rifai said. On Sunday, the army released a video outlining its latest counterterrorism operations in the Sinai Peninsula, in which it said 126 suspected armed men had been killed in 22 raids, while 15 military personnel had been killed or wounded. The army added that 228 "hideouts used by terrorist elements" had been destroyed and 266 "criminal elements" arrested. Security forces have been battling a long-running armed uprising in the area, spearheaded by a local ISIL affiliate. The fighting intensified after the military's 2013 removal of President Mohamed Morsi. In February 2018, security forces launched a nationwide operation against armed groups, focused on North Sinai. More than 925 suspected armed fighters have been killed in the region along with dozens of security personnel, according to official figures.
3 May 14:55 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/egypt-18-suspected-armed-fighters-killed-sinai-firefight-200503135545337.htmlRating: 2.44
Jihadists block Turkish Army from entering strategic town in Aleppo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (9:10 P.M.) – The jihadist forces blocked the Turkish Army on Sunday from entering a strategic town in northern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported. According to the monitor, the jihadist group, Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), blocked a Turkish Army column from entering Daret ‘Izza, which has been a long-time militant stronghold in the western countryside of Aleppo. The SOHR report said that the HTS members previously blocked the Turkish Armed Forces at the Al-Katoura checkpoint, which caused friction between the two parties. Tensions between the jihadists and Turkish Armed Forces have been rising for several days now, as the latter demands HTS and its allies leave the M-4 Highway (Aleppo-Latakia Highway) and close their crossings with the Syrian government. These increased tensions have even led to both sides exchanging attacks in the Idlib Governorate; this resulted in three Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham militants being killed last week.
3 May 18:27 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-block-turkish-army-from-entering-strategic-town-in-aleppo/Rating: 0.63
Taliban Kill 3 Soldiers in Attack on Checkpoints in Eastern Afghanistan - Official
KABUL (Sputnik) - Three Afghan soldiers were killed and five others injured overnight in a gunfight with Taliban militants in the eastern Afghan province of Paktia, a spokesman for the governor told Sputnik on Sunday. "Last night, insurgents fought for several hours at Afghan checkpoints in the Loari area of Chamkani district and Muqbalo area of Patan district and killed three soldiers and injured five others," Abdullah Hasrat said. Government forces killed eight insurgents and wounded five others, he added. The Taliban have not yet commented on the clashes. The Pentagon said in a quarterly report published this week that the Taliban had increased attacks on Afghan forces to levels above seasonal norms in the month following the signing of the US-Taliban peace deal in late February.
3 May 12:42 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/asia/202005031079181948-taliban-kill-3-soldiers-in-attack-on-checkpoints-in-eastern-afghanistan---official/Rating: 3.96
ISIS terrorists launch new attack in central Iraq
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:00 P.M.) – The Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL/IS/Daesh) launched a new attack in the central region Iraq, targeting the positions of the Popular Mobilization Units (Hashd Al-Sha’abi) near the Diyala Governorate. According to the PMU, their forces confronted a group of Islamic State terrorists that attacked their positions in the eastern countryside of the Salaheddine Governorate. The PMU said that Islamic State attempted to infiltrate their positions in the Al-‘Ayath area, which is located near the Diyala Governorate’s administrative border. The Islamic State has recently intensified their operations in the eastern part of Salaheddine, prompting the Iraqi security forces to increase their presence in the governorate.
3 May 19:10 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-terrorists-launch-new-attack-in-central-iraq/Rating: 0.63
Nine killed in Indian Kashmir gun battles
SRINAGAR, May 3 — Five security personnel and four suspected militants have been killed in two gun battles in Indian-administered Kashmir, officials said today. Tensions are high in the restive Himalayan region contested with nuclear rival Pakistan after New Delhi scrapped Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status in early August, with flashes of violence reported regularly. Four army personnel, including two officers, a counterinsurgency policeman and two militants died after a firefight in the village of Changimul near the Line of Control that divides the disputed territory, said army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia. They had entered a home to “to evacuate the civilians” but came under “heavy fire” from militants inside the building, Kalia added in the statement. It was unclear why the men had entered the house, with a police officer, who asked to remain anonymous, telling AFP they had “walked into an ambush”. Yesterday, two suspected militants were killed by security forces in a brief shootout in the Pulwama area of the southern Kashmir valley, police said. At least 54 militants have been killed in Kashmir this year, including more than 30 since the start of the lockdown from late March, according to an AFP tally. Early last month at least five Indian soldiers and nine militants were killed in two separate firefights over two days in the Kashmir valley. Near-daily cross-border firing between India and Pakistan in Kashmir has occurred regularly despite the pandemic and the ongoing Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. Two Indian soldiers were killed in one such incident yesterday, authorities said. Rebel groups have fought for decades for the Himalayan region’s independence or its merger with Pakistan. The fighting has left tens of thousands dead since 1989, mostly civilians. India regularly accuses Pakistan of arming and sending rebels across the heavily militarised border. Islamabad denies the claims. — AFP
3 May 12:44 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/nine-killed-in-indian-kashmir-gun-battles/1862672Rating: 1.42
Turkish-backed forces bomb strategic airbase near Libyan capital
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:10 P.M.) – The Government of National Accord (GNA) forces, bombed a strategic airbase in the western countryside of Tripoli, today, the GNA’s official Facebook page announced. “The Air Force carried out 3 airstrikes a short time ago on Al-Watiyah Airbase, targeting the mechanisms and concentrations of the Haftar terrorist militia at the base,” Mohammed Qanunu, a spokesman for the GNA said in a brief statement released by their media center on Facebook. The type of aircraft used by the GNA forces not revealed; however, in the past, they have used both Turkish-supplied drones and Russian-made jets. Libya is going through a political and military crisis that has persisted since the overthrow of former President Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Two major parties are currently contesting for power, which is the Turkish-backed Government of National Accord, led by Fayez al-Sarraj, who is president of the Presidential Council, and the working interim government In eastern Libya headed by Abdullah Al-Thani, which is supported by the House of Representatives in the city of Tobruk and the Libyan National Army (LNA), which is led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar. Haftar, whose forces have launched an attack to capture Tripoli in April 2019, announced last month that his forces will no longer recognize the Skhirat Agreement.
3 May 17:25 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkish-backed-forces-bomb-strategic-airbase-near-libyan-capital/Rating: 0.63
Kashmir Gun Battle Kills at Least 7
NEW DELHI — A gun battle between the Indian Army and militants in Kashmir left at least seven people dead, Indian officials said on Sunday, and the violence threatened to heighten tensions in the disputed region. The army said soldiers were hunting down militants fighting Indian rule in the remote town of Handwara, in northern Kashmir, close to the border with Pakistan, when the militants took civilians hostage on Saturday afternoon. The claim could not be independently verified. As fighting worsened, the army said, five Indian security personnel — including a colonel, a major and a Kashmiri police officer — were killed. India’s defense minister, Rajnath Singh, said on Sunday on Twitter that the loss was deeply disturbing. “We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice,” he said. Kashmir — caught in a territorial dispute between Hindu-majority India, which controls much of the territory, and Muslim-majority Pakistan — has endured brutal conflict for decades. A violent secession movement that started in the late 1980s saw many guerrilla fighters crossing the border from Pakistan into India. In turn, India increased its military presence in the region to try to quell the uprising. In recent weeks, tensions have risen between India and Pakistan along the rugged and mountainous Line of Control, which divides the Kashmir region into two parts. Videos shot late last month in northern Kashmir depicted soldiers firing artillery shells across the watch towers and bunkers that dot foothills populated by villages. On Saturday, a spokesman for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said India was seeking to divert attention from its human rights violations in Kashmir by raising false allegations of “infiltration attempts.” The ministry has not denied that Indian soldiers were killed over the weekend. “Pakistan’s policy and approach is clear as it does not allow use of its soil for any activity against anyone,” a statement by the ministry said. Kashmir was cast into chaos in August when the Indian government revoked the region’s partial autonomy. Since then, tensions have been high in Kashmir Valley, where many businesses were shuttered, streets emptied and, doctors said, residents’ hopelessness morphed into a severe psychological crisis. Life had started to rebound a bit before India imposed a nationwide lockdown in March to fight the coronavirus, plunging Kashmir into fresh turmoil. Police officers blocked roads with coils of glistening concertina wire. Shops closed once again, and thousands of Kashmiris lost their jobs. But despite the lockdown, firefights and skirmishes in Kashmir have not stopped. At least 50 militants and 20 soldiers have been killed this year, according to data collected by the South Asia Terrorism Portal, a research project that tracks the conflict. The gun battle raged late Saturday for hours in Handwara, where Indian Army and police officers found themselves trapped between houses as they came under fire from militants, witnesses said. A shopkeeper, Mushtaq Ahmad Wagee, 61, who lives near the site of the gun battle, said his family could not sleep as the firing between the holed up militants and forces continued and giant plumes of smoke filled the sky. “In the end, someone dies every day in Kashmir,” he said. “This bloodshed should stop now.”
3 May 11:43 • NY Times • https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/03/world/asia/kashmir-gun-battle-army-militants.htmlRating: 5.38
Ex-convict helps neighbors cope in Morocco virus lockdown
CAIRO: Egypt’s military said on Sunday that 15 of its men had died or been wounded in operations in the Sinai Peninsula recently, and that 126 suspected militants had been killed.The military publishes updates on its operations in Sinai every few months, without giving a specific time frame.The statement came three days after the military said 10 personnel were killed or wounded in an attack near Bir Al-Abd in North Sinai. Daesh claimed the attack.The Interior Ministry later said 18 suspected militants had been killed in a shootout near Bir Al-Abd.Militants loyal to Daesh are active in the northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, where Egypt has been battling an insurgency for years.Human rights organizations accuse Egypt of carrying out extrajudicial executions, forced evictions and collective punishment as part of the crackdown.The military has denied such accusations, saying it takes the lives of civilians into consideration during operations.
3 May 15:11 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1669031/middle-eastRating: 1.72
Southern Idlib battle flaring up as Syrian Army troops launch heavy attack
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:10 P.M.) – It was thought that the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) would sit idly while the jihadist rebels of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) feud with their Turkish-backed allies; however, it appears the armed forces are taking the initiative to weaken the militants along the Jabal Al-Zawiya front. According to a field source in northwest Syria, the Syrian Arab Army struck several areas along the southern Idlib front-lines, Sunday, hitting the positions of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham and the Turkish-backed National Liberation Front (NLF). In particular, the Syrian Arab Army reportedly attacked the militant positions in towns like Al-Bara’, Al-Fateera, Ankawi, and Kafr Awaid, making May 3rd one of the most violent days in the last month or so. The Syrian Arab Army has repeatedly warned the jihadist rebels and allies that if they do not withdraw six kilometres north of the Aleppo-Latakia Highway that they would resume their field operations against them. While they have not launched any attempted ground advances, the Syrian Armed Forces have intensified their shelling and missile strikes against the jihadist rebels positioned along the front-lines in the Jabal Al-Zawiya region of Idlib. The situation along the southern Idlib front-lines will not likely get any better any time soon, despite attempts by Russia and Turkey to implement the March 5th Moscow Agreement.
3 May 12:35 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-idlib-battle-flaring-up-as-syrian-army-troops-launch-heavy-attack/Rating: 0.63
ISIS Extremists Step Up as Iraq, Syria, Grapple With Coronavirus
The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group's defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, ISIS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon." He said ISIS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of ISIS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for ISIS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. ISIS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. ISIS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said ISIS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when ISIS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 ISIS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can't operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “ISIS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said.
3 May 11:31 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/isis/isis-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-coronavirus-1.8815956Rating: 1.13
Iraqi group accuses US of transferring ISIS from Syria to fight them
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:45 P.M.) – Iraq’s Hezbollah al-Nujaba Movement claims in a new statement that the U.S. is planning to ‘transfer’ senior Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL/IS/Daesh) commanders and other terrorists to Iraq. “Washington is insisting on the implementation of a plot to return the terrorists to Iraq by transferring a large number of ISIS commanders and militants from the eastern Euphrates and other parts of Syria,” the Movement said via a statement from their official account. The statement addressed the “U.S. occupiers”, and said, “We stress that the Islamic Resistance of Iraq is monitoring all your destructive plots to prevent the dangers which threaten the Iraqi provinces.” The statement came after at least ten Iraqi fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), also known as Hashd al-Sha’abi, were killed in an attack by ISIS terrorists in the Salaheddine Governorate this past weekend. The coordinated assault which took place in the cities of Mekeeshfa and Balad, led to clashes between PMU forces and the ISIL terrorists on several fronts, the paramilitary group announced on Saturday. The PMU further said its fighters have now taken control of the situation, adding the Iraqi government has also sent reinforcements to supplement efforts and prepare for a possible retaliatory attack. Iraq’s Prime Minister-designate Mustafa al-Kadhimi has paid tribute to families of those who were killed, according to a statement circulated by Iraqi media. “With great sadness, we received news of the martyrdom of a group of heroes from among the Hashd al-Shabi who died defending their homeland in the face of ISIL attacks in the Mekeeshfah and Balad areas north of Baghdad,” the statement read.
3 May 13:01 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iraqi-group-accuses-us-of-transferring-isis-from-syria-to-fight-them/Rating: 0.63
Ukraine sees spike in enemy attacks in Donbas
Russian occupation forces in eastern Ukraine 23 times violated the ceasefire on May 2. Two Ukrainian troops were injured in enemy shelling, reads the morning update by the Joint Forces Operation Command. The enemy employed 120 mm and 82 mm mortars, proscribed by the Minsk agreements, as well as grenade launchers of various types, UAVs, heavy machine guns, and small arms. In a resolute response, Ukrainian forces brought the attack to a halt. According to intelligence data, one invader was killed and at least two were injured over the past day. Since day-start on Sunday, the enemy opened fire near Shyrokyne and Bohdanivka. Ukrainian forces returned fire, the report reads. No losses were reported in Joint Forces on May 3 and neither were there any coronavirus cases.
3 May 11:25 • UNIAN • https://www.unian.info/war/ukraine-sees-spike-in-enemy-attacks-in-donbas-10981874.htmlRating: 0.30
IDF Captures 5 Sudanese Infiltrators on Lebanon Border
The IDF arrested five Sudanese citizens who attempted to cross into Israel from Lebanon on Saturday night, the army stated. “During the night, IDF forces detected five suspects who tried to cross from Lebanon into Israeli territory. The suspects were apprehended during the crossing attempt on the perimeter fence,” an IDF spokesperson stated. No one was injured in the incident. The five were returned to Lebanon. Israel in recent years has become a sought-after destination by work migrants from Africa, coming primarily through Egypt. Israel in recent years has built a fence along the Egyptian border to block the flow of work migrants, bringing down the number of infiltrators annually from thousands to a mere few. It appears that the African work migrants are seeking new ways to illegally enter the country.
3 May 12:02 • The Jewish Press • https://www.jewishpress.com/news/breaking-news/idf-captures-5-sudanese-infiltrators-on-lebanon-border/2020/05/03/Rating: 0.34
Turkish military strikes Libyan Army despite call for Ramadan ceasefire: LNA
BEIRUT, LEBANON (2:45 P.M.) – In a new interview with RT Arabic in Benghazi, Spokesperson of the Libyan National Army (LNA), Major General Ahmed al-Mesmari, said that LNA forces responded to calls from the international community to declare a ceasefire, to show respect to the holy month of Ramadan. Al-Mesmari confirmed that Turkish artillery, positioned in Mitiga base, continues to shell LNA positions, prompting the armed forces of the LNA to respond to it, also pointing out the violations committed by the Government of National Accord after declaring the ceasefire. “Since yesterday night and since the announcement of the truce, the fighting has not stopped, and the bombing has not stopped. The truce announcement was interpreted by the militia as weakness in the forces of [LNA] General Command and they thought that the armed forces have logistical problems,” added the spokesperson. On Monday, Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, commander of the Libyan National Army, declared the Skhirat Agreement (signed in 2015 to organize the political process in Libya which is engulfed in a civil war since 2014) invalid, accepting the “mandate of the Libyan people” to rule the country. Following the ousting of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya was split into UN-backed GNA-controlled regions in Tripoli and the northwest and LNA-held areas in Benghazi led by Haftar. Source: Ruptly
3 May 12:00 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkish-military-strikes-libyan-army-despite-call-for-ramadan-ceasefire-lna/Rating: 0.63
IDF detains 5 Sudanese men sneaking across Lebanon border - Inside Israel
Israeli forces caught five Sudanese men who tried to illegally enter the country across the Lebanese border overnight and sent them back, the army said in a statement. A military spokeswoman told AFP it was believed the men had intended to seek work in Israel, which was home to more than 6,000 Sudanese asylum seekers as of January. The Lebanese army said it had detained "five Sudanese people" near the Israel border for their illegal presence there and was investigating them. Israel and Lebanon are technically at war, with the Jewish state having fought a full-fledged war against Hezbollah, the Iran-back Lebanese militia,in 2006. Israel also remains technically at war with Sudan, which supported hardline Islamists -- including, for a period, Al-Qaeda -- under former president Omar al-Bashir. In February, the leaders of both countries met in Uganda for what the Israeli prime minister's office described as talks aimed at normalizing ties.
3 May 14:55 • Israel National News • http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/279575Rating: 0.83
Taliban commander Hafiza among 15 killed, wounded in Faryab clash
The Afghan forces killed 8 Taliban militants including one of the commanders of the group during a clash in northern Faryab province. The 209th Shaheen Corps in a statement said the Taliban militants attacked the security posts in Yangi Village of Qaisar district. The statement further added that the security forces effectively responded to the attack, killing at least 8 Taliban militants including Mullah Ismail alias Hafiza, one of the commanders of the group. The security forces also wounded 7 Taliban militants during the clash, the 209th Shaheen Corps said, adding that the security forces defused two improvised explosives which the militants had planted in the area. The Taliban group has not commented regarding the clash so far.
3 May 10:44 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/taliban-commander-hafiza-among-15-killed-wounded-in-faryab-clash-04763/Rating: 1.51
Russian military builds up forces in northern Syria as new reinforcements arrive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:15 P.M.) – A new convoy of reinforcements from the Russian Armed Forces arrived in the Al-Raqqa Governorate this weekend, as the latter continues to build up their troops in northern Syria. According to a field report from the Al-Raqqa Governorate, the Russian military sent reinforcements on Saturday and Sunday to the town of Ma’adan and the Al-Hasakah Governorate town of Tal Tamr. The report said the Russian convoy brought both reinforcements and military equipment to Maadan and Tal Tamr. At the same time, the Russian military is conducting joint patrols with the Turkish Armed Forces along the strategic M-4 Highway (Aleppo-Hasakah Highway). Since the start of April, the Russian and Turkish armed forces have carried out several patrols between the Aleppo, Al-Raqqa and Al-Haskah governorates. These joint patrols in northern Syria were agreed upon in October and they continue to take place despite Turkey’s continued strikes against the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
3 May 10:32 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-military-builds-up-forces-in-northern-syria-as-new-reinforcements-arrive/Rating: 0.63
Five people attempt to infiltrate Israeli border from Lebanon
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:35 P.M.) – On Sunday, the Israeli Armed Forces announced that it arrested five people who had tried to infiltrate from Lebanon into Israel via border fence last night. “During the hours of last night, the IDF forces identified five suspects, as they were trying to infiltrate into Lebanon from Israel, where they were arrested while trying to cross the security fence,” IDF spokesman Avijaa Adraie tweeted. The website Arab 48, quoting an Israeli army spokesman, said that the five who were arrested at the border strip, turned out to be Sudanese asylum seekers, and later they were released and returned to Lebanese territory. Last month, Israel accused Hezbollah of cutting the border fence at three different locations before returning Lebanese territory without the Israeli army noticing them. The Israeli Armed Forces had later targeted a vehicle carrying a Hezbollah commander on April 15th on the Syrian side of the Syrian-Lebanese border.
3 May 10:57 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/five-people-attempt-to-infiltrate-israeli-border-from-lebanon/Rating: 0.63
Turkish military launches new attack on Syrian Army defenses in northern Aleppo
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:45 P.M.) – The Turkish military launched a new attack on the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) positions in the northern countryside of the Aleppo Governorate on Sunday. According to a field report from the Aleppo Governorate, the Turkish military launched several artillery shells towards the Syrian Arab Army’s defenses at the key town of Tal Rifa’at. The report said the Turkish military also targeted some areas that are under the control of the Kurdish-led People’s Protection Units (YPG); however, the majority of the shells landed near the SAA’s positions. A source from the Syrian Army said they did not respond to this latest ceasefire violation from the Turkish Armed Forces, nor did they do anything to prompt an attack by the latter. The Turkish military has carried out several attacks against the Syrian Arab Army this year, but these types of strikes go unanswered because the Russian Armed Forces later intervene to ease tensions. There is supposed to be a ceasefire in the Tal Rifa’at District of Aleppo, but Turkey claims they are targeting “terrorist forces”, a reference to the YPG, who they claim is the Syrian offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).
3 May 10:10 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/turkish-military-launches-new-attack-on-syrian-army-defenses-in-northern-aleppo/Rating: 0.63
ISIS launches heavy overnight attack in eastern Iraq
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:10 P.M.) – Three Iraqi police were killed and two others wounded late Saturday night, after an armed attack was carried out by the Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL/IS/Daesh) terrorist organization in the eastern part of the country. The Iraqi security forces said in a statement that members of the terrorist gangs attack the police station in the Al-Fattah district of the Diyala Governorate, killing 3 members of the police forces. The Iraqi security forces said that the terrorist attack resulted in the injury of two members of the police, citing more details to be announced later. Six Iraqi fighters were killed late Thursday night after ISIS terrorists targeted a point belonging to the 35th Brigade of the Popular Mobilization Units in the Salaheddine Governorate. The liberated provinces, especially Salaheddine, and parts of Kirkuk, Diyala, Nineveh and Al-Anbar have recently witnessed terrorist attacks by members of the Islamic State sleeper cells. In December 2017, Iraq announced the liberation of its entire territory from the grip of the Islamic State after about three and a half years of confrontations with the terrorist organization that had occupied about a third of the country, declaring the establishment of a so-called “caliphate”.
3 May 09:30 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/isis-launches-heavy-overnight-attack-in-eastern-iraq/Rating: 0.63
Egypt Says Security Forces Kill 18 Militants in Sinai Raid
Egyptian police forces killed 18 militants in a raid on the restive northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, the Interior Ministry said Sunday. The ministry said security forces exchanged fire with Islamic militants as they stormed a hideout in the small Sinai town of Bir al-Abed. No casualties were reported among the police. The ministry, which did not say when the raid took place, said police found weapons, three explosive devices and two explosives belts. The details could not be independently corroborated as Egyptian authorities heavily restrict access to that part of Sinai. On Thursday, an explosion hit a military armored convoy causing at least 10 casualties among Egyptian soldiers who were participating in a campaign against an Islamic insurgency in the volatile region. The military spokesman, Tamer el-Refai, did not specify the number of soldiers killed by the improvised explosive device. But other officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said 10 soldiers died, including an officer, and three others suffered shrapnel wounds. An affiliate of the Islamic State group based in northern Sinai claimed responsibility for Thursday’s attack, which took place during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, after sundown when the faithful break their daily fast. El-Refai said Friday that the military killed two militants who were hiding in a farm in northern Sinai. Egypt has been battling militants in the northern part of Sinai Peninsula for years, but the insurgency became far more deadly after the 2013 military ouster of Mohammed Morsi, an elected but divisive Islamist president amid nationwide protests against his brief rule. An Islamic State affiliate based in the Sinai has carried out high-profile attacks in recent years, mainly targeting security forces and Egypt’s Christian minority.
3 May 08:37 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/egypt/egypt-says-security-forces-kill-18-militants-in-sinai-raid-1.8816220Rating: 1.13
14 Taliban militants killed, wounded in Kandahar and Badakhshan operations
The Afghan forces killed 5 Taliban militants and wounded at least 6 others during an operation in southern Kandahar province of Afghanistan. The 205th Atal Corps in a statement said a group of Taliban militants planned to launch attacks in Panjwai district. However, the Atal Corps said the Afghan forces conducted in operation to thwart the attack plan and killed 5 Taliban militants during the operation. The Afghan forces also wounded 6 other militants during the same raid, the 205th Atal Corps added in its statement. Meanwhile, the Special Operations Corps in a statement said the Afghan Special Forces killed 3 Taliban militants during a similar raid in Nasi district of Badakhshan province. The Taliban group has not commented in this regard so far. This comes as Taliban militants are persistently attempting to intensify attacks against the Afghan forces despite ongoing efforts to end the violence through peace process.
3 May 08:03 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/14-taliban-militants-killed-wounded-in-kandahar-and-badakhshan-operations-04760/Rating: 1.51
IS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD: The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq's northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin - the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group's defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its "caliphate," which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. "It's a real threat," said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. "They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon." He said IS was benefiting from a "gap" between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. "Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week," said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader's strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country's nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. "They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs," he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can't operate in other parts run by government troops - and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants' improved capabilities. "IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people," he said.
3 May 07:39 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virus/articleshow/75515924.cmsRating: 0.30
Yemen’s prime minister reviews COVID-19 measures in Taiz
BAGHDAD: The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan.Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months.The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Daesh group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, Daesh attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified.The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and UN experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year.In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a US troop drawdown.“It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said Daesh was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting.Intelligence reports say the number of Daesh fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000.In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for Daesh as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for US-allied Kurdish-led forces.Daesh fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir Ezzor to the east, bordering Iraq.Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said.Daesh is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media.Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said.Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police.The uptick also coincides with a pullout of US-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December.“Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media.Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said Daesh attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq.Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new Daesh leader Abu Ibrahim Al-Hashimi Al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a US raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength.In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when Daesh fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes.Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 Daesh gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war.Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production.Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers.He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals.The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can’t operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns.On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village.Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities.“IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said.
3 May 07:04 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1668881/middle-eastRating: 1.72
IS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighbouring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its caliphate, which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. It’s a real threat, said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said IS was benefiting from a gap between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week, said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes.
3 May 06:58 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virus/article31493731.eceRating: 0.30
IS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD — The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged co-ordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighbouring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said IS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can’t operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said. ___ Mroue reported from Beirut. Associated Press writer Salar Salim contributed from Irbil, Iraq. Qassim Abdul-Zahra, Bassem Mroue And Samya Kullab, The Associated Press
3 May 06:04 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virus/Rating: 0.61
Virus Outbreak Islamic State
1 / 4FILE - In this July 23, 2019, file photo, security forces detonate an explosive device placed by the Islamic State militants during a search operation in Taramiyah, 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Baghdad, Iraq. Islamic State militants in Iraq and Syria are stepping up attacks, taking advantage of governments preoccupied with the economic and health impact of the coronavirus. Security officials in Iraq say attacks are up fivefold over last year, as the group exploits security gaps linked to the virus lockdown and a U.S. troop drawdown in the country’s north. (AP Photo/Hadi Mizban, File) BAGHDAD (AP) — The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group's defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon." He said IS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can't operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said. ___ Mroue reported from Beirut. Associated Press writer Salar Salim contributed from Irbil, Iraq.
3 May 06:03 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/extremists-step-iraq-syria-grapple-060345557.htmlRating: 0.30
IS extremists step up attacks as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD — The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group's defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon." He said IS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can't operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said. © Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
3 May 03:10 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virusRating: 2.09
Egypt says security forces kill 18 militants in Sinai
CAIRO (AP) - Egyptian police forces killed 18 militants in a raid on the restive northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, the Interior Ministry said Sunday. The ministry said security forces exchanged fire with Islamic militants as they stormed a hideout in the small Sinai town of Bir al-Abed. No casualties were reported among the police. The ministry, which did not say when the raid took place, said police found weapons, three explosive devices and two explosives belts. The details could not be independently corroborated as Egyptian authorities heavily restrict access to that part of Sinai. On Thursday, an explosion hit a military armored convoy causing at least 10 casualties among Egyptian soldiers who were participating in a campaign against an Islamic insurgency in the volatile region. The military spokesman, Tamer el-Refai, did not specify the number of soldiers killed by the improvised explosive device. But other officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said 10 soldiers died, including an officer, and three others suffered shrapnel wounds. An affiliate of the Islamic State group based in northern Sinai claimed responsibility for Thursday’s attack, which took place during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, after sundown when the faithful break their daily fast. El-Refai said Friday that the military killed two militants who were hiding in a farm in northern Sinai. Egypt has been battling militants in the northern part of Sinai Peninsula for years, but the insurgency became far more deadly after the 2013 military ouster of Mohammed Morsi, an elected but divisive Islamist president amid nationwide protests against his brief rule.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/egypt-says-security-forces-kill-18-militants-in-si/Rating: 0.79
Video: 126 terrorists killed in Sinai operations: Egyptian Army
CAIRO – 3 May 2020: The Egyptian Armed Forces said 126 “takfiris” (terrorists) were killed in 22 raids and 12 operations carried out by the army and police forces in Central and North Sinai. Also, four officers, three non-commissioned officers and eight soldiers were either killed or injured during the operations, the statement noted, without specifying the exact number of deaths. This comes two days after 10 army members, including two officers, were “either killed or injured” in a terrorist attack in Bir El Abd city, North Sinai, according to Military Spokesman Tamer Al-Refae. In a statement, the Armed Forces said it could seize a number of weapons and explosive belts, which were possessed by the eliminated terrorists. The army could also find and detonate 630 explosive devices that were planted to target the armed forces. The opening of eight tunnels were also discovered and destroyed. Also, the Air Force managed to destroy 228 hideouts that belonged to terrorists and 116 four-wheel drive vehicles, the statement added. On Friday, a day after the North Sinai tragedy, the military spokesman said two high-risk terrorists were shot dead in a shoot-out with Egyptian armed forces in North Sinai. The Interior Ministry on Friday mourned the death and injury of the army officers and soldiers and denounced the terrorists’ “abortive attempts” to harm the nation. “Such abortive attempts will not stop the brave Armed Forces’ men from defensing the resources of the nation,” the ministry said in a brief statement. In the early hours of Sunday, the Interior Ministry said police forces killed 18 “terrorist elements” in the same area, as forces raided a house, where they were hiding to plan their hostile operations. The security forces managed to seize 13 automatic firearms, three explosive devices and three explosive belts, according to the statement. Egypt has been countering terrorism and extremism ideologies over the past years since the ouster of late Muslim Brotherhood President Mohamed Morsi. Several operations have been taking place in Sinai against terrorists, as many Egyptian officers and soldiers have martyred in the battle.
3 May 00:00 • Egypt Today • http://egypttoday.com/Article/1/85363/Video-126-terrorists-killed-in-Sinai-operations-Egyptian-ArmyRating: 0.67
IS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD (AP) - The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin - the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said IS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-v/Rating: 0.79
Egypt’s security forces kill 18 ‘terrorists’ in North Sinai: Interior Ministry
CAIRO – 3 May 2020: The security forces killed 18 “terrorist elements” in Egypt’s North Sinai, the Interior Ministry announced early on Sunday, two days after a terrorist attack in the same area either “killed or injured” 10 army members, according to the military spokesman. North Sinai’s attack in Bir El Abd city on Thursday have provoked international condemnation. Military spokesman Tamer Al-Refae did not specify how exactly was the number of deaths. In a statement, the Interior Ministry said intelligence information had revealed that the 18 elements were hiding in a house, which they used to plan their hostile operations. The security forces managed to seize 13 automatic firearms, three explosive devices and three explosive belts. The ministry on Friday, a day after the tragic attack, mourned the death and injury of army officers and soldiers in North Sinai in the attack and denounced the terrorists’ “abortive attempts” to harm the nation. “Such abortive attempts will not stop the brave Armed Forces’ men from defensing the resources of the nation,” the ministry said in a brief statement. Also on Friday, the military spokesman said two high-risk terrorists were shot dead in a shoot-out with Egyptian armed forces in North Sinai. Egypt has been countering terrorism and extremism ideologies over the past years since the ouster of late Muslim Brotherhood President Mohamed Morsi. Several operations have been taking place in Sinai against terrorists, as many Egyptian officers and soldiers have martyred in the battle.
3 May 00:00 • Egypt Today • http://egypttoday.com/Article/1/85345/Egypt%E2%80%99s-security-forces-kill-18-%E2%80%98terrorists%E2%80%99-in-North-Sinai-InteriorRating: 0.67
Ukrainian soldier wounded in Donbas as enemy drops grenade from UAV on JF positions
Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters (JFO HQ) has said one Ukrainian soldier has sustained a shrapnel wound, as Russia's hybrid military forces dropped a grenade launcher fragmentation round, using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), on JF positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine. "Today, on May 2, the Russian-occupying forces once again fired at our defenders near the village of Hnutove. The enemy dropped a VOG-17 fragmentation round from an unmanned aerial vehicle on Joint Forces positions," the JFO HQ wrote on Facebook on May 2. As a result of a grenade rupture, a soldier received a shrapnel wound. He was rushed to a hospital and provided with medical assistance. "Such insidious actions of the enemy did not go unpunished. The invaders received an adequate response from the Ukrainian defenders. Losses among enemy forces are being verified," the report said.
2 May 23:40 • UNIAN • https://www.unian.info/war/donbas-war-ukrainian-soldier-wounded-as-enemy-drops-grenade-from-uav-10981814.htmlRating: 0.30
IS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD (AP) — The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged coordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighboring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said IS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Advertising Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Advertising Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can’t operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Advertising Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said. ___ Mroue reported from Beirut. Associated Press writer Salar Salim contributed from Irbil, Iraq. BASSEM MROUEQASSIM ABDUL-ZAHRASAMYA KULLAB
2 May 23:04 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virus/Rating: 0.74
10 Iraqi paramilitary men killed in Islamist attack
Ten Iraqi paramilitaries were killed in Islamic State (IS) group attacks north of Baghdad overnight, security forces said on Saturday, the deadliest operation by jihadist sleeper cells in months. Iraq declared IS defeated in late 2017 but remnants of the group still wage hit-and-run attacks on security forces in remote areas of the north and west. Across Baghdad, a moment of respite and guarded hope Early on Saturday, the jihadists attacked fighters of Iraq’s Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force stationed outside a town about 180 km north of Baghdad, according to a statement by Iraq’s security forces. “Six fighters were killed. As another unit was dispatched to reinforce them, an explosive device detonated on that convoy and killed three fighters,” the statement said. A 10th fighter was killed in a separate IS attack on nearby unit from the Hashed, a network of armed groups incorporated into the regular army chain of command. A security source in Salahaddin province, where the attack took place, told AFP said that the first IS ambush took place just before midnight. “All the Iraqi security forces manning the checkpoint were killed. F16 planes are flying overhead to search for the IS fighters,” said the source. The attack was IS’s deadliest in several months and appeared to cap a period of more numerous and aggressive operations. Last week, the jihadists claimed a suicide attack that wounded four outside an intelligence headquarters in the northern province of Kirkuk. “The group's attacks have seemingly grown bolder over the past month or so, as it's increasingly launched direct assaults on Iraqi security forces and carried out some daytime attacks,” Sam Heller, an independent analyst focused on IS and Iraq, told AFP. “Last night's attack, if it was in fact coordinated between several IS units, would mark a new escalation by the group,” he added. IS overran around a third of Iraq in 2014, triggering the creation of both a US-led coalition to defeat the jihadists and the Hashed, comprised mostly of Shiite units with ties to Iran – Iraq's neighbour but a foe to Washington. The two forces are at odds in Iraq, as the U.S. blames hardline Hashed factions for deadly rocket attacks on its troops while the Hashed and allied politicians have demanded US troops leave the country. In recent months, the coalition has pulled back from five bases where it had been deployed to help track down IS sleeper cells, saying the Iraqi military could largely finish the fight on their own. The coalition is still backing Iraqi troops with air strikes, intelligence and surveillance.
2 May 17:14 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/10-iraqi-paramilitary-men-killed-in-islamist-attack/article31491259.eceRating: 0.30
11 Afghan soldiers suffer casualties while repelling a Taliban attack in Balkh
At least eleven Afghan soldiers suffered casualties during a clash in northern Balkh province of Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defense said. According to a statement released by defense ministry, the Taliban militants attacked the security posts in Balkh province late on Thursday night. The statement further added that the Afghan forces responded to the attack and inflicted heavy casualties on Taliban militants while repelling the attack. However, the defense ministry said 6 Afghan soldiers lost their lives during the clashes and 5 others sustained injuries. The Taliban group has not commented in this regard so far.
2 May 04:08 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/11-afghan-soldiers-suffer-casualties-while-repelling-a-taliban-attack-in-balkh-04751/Rating: 1.51
5 ANA, 15 Taliban Killed in Balkh Clash
At least five members of the Afghan National Army (ANA) were killed and 5 others were wounded in fighting in Zare district of northern Balkh province, said Mohammad Hanif Rezayee, a spokesman for the 209 Shaheen Army Corps. He said that the fighting erupted late Friday night after the Taliban fighters attacked an army checkpoint in Zare. 15 Taliban were also killed in the fighting, according to Razayee, who said the Taliban fled the area and the situation is back to normal. But residents in Zare have said that the Taliban will most likely return. Meanwhile, Saifurrahman Rahmani, district governor of Zare, said that at least 15 ANA soldiers were killed and 20 more were wounded in the fighting with the insurgents. He said that the Taliban attacked Zare from four directions. Rahmani asked the central government to send more troops in the area to repel future attacks by the Taliban.
2 May 08:21 • TOLO news • https://tolonews.com/afghanistan/5-ana-15-taliban-killed-balkh-clashRating: 1.16
5 ANA, 15 Taliban Killed in Balkh Clash
At least five members of the Afghan National Army (ANA) were killed and 5 others were wounded in fighting in Zare district of northern Balkh province, said Mohammad Hanif Rezayee, a spokesman for the 209 Shaheen Army Corps. He said that the fighting erupted late Friday night after the Taliban fighters attacked an army checkpoint in Zare. 15 Taliban were also killed in the fighting, according to Razayee, who said the Taliban fled the area and the situation is back to normal. But residents in Zare have said that the Taliban will most likely return. Meanwhile, Saifurrahman Rahmani, district governor of Zare, said that at least 15 ANA soldiers were killed and 20 more were wounded in the fighting with the insurgents. He said that the Taliban attacked Zare from four directions. Rahmani asked the central government to send more troops in the area to repel future attacks by the Taliban.
2 May 08:21 • TOLO news • https://tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan/5-ana-15-taliban-killed-balkh-clashRating: 1.16
Blast near Laghman Prison Leaves 3 Civilians Dead
At least three civilians were killed in an explosion near the Laghman prison in the city of Mehtarlam on Saturday morning, a local official said. The explosives were placed on a motorbike, the provincial governor’s spokesman Assadullah Dawlatzai said. He said that the target of the explosion was Haji Noor Mohammad, the head of the prison, who was wounded along with three others. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. This comes as a UN report shows that more than 500 civilians were killed in the Afghan conflict in the first quarter of this year.
2 May 07:33 • TOLO news • https://tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan/blast-near-laghman-prison-leaves-3-civilians-deadRating: 1.16
Blast near Laghman Prison Leaves 3 Civilians Dead
At least three civilians were killed in an explosion near the Laghman prison in the city of Mehtarlam on Saturday morning, a local official said. The explosives were placed on a motorbike, the provincial governor’s spokesman Assadullah Dawlatzai said. He said that the target of the explosion was Haji Noor Mohammad, the head of the prison, who was wounded along with three others. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. This comes as a UN report shows that more than 500 civilians were killed in the Afghan conflict in the first quarter of this year.
2 May 07:33 • TOLO news • https://tolonews.com/afghanistan/blast-near-laghman-prison-leaves-3-civilians-deadRating: 1.16
Explosion close to a prison leaves 3 dead in Laghman province of Afghanistan
An explosion took place close to a prison in eastern Laghman province of Afghanistan leaving at least three dead, the local officials said. Asadullah Dawlatzai, a spokesperson for the provincial government, said a bomb exploded close to a prison in Mehtarlam city earlier today. According to Dawlatzai, the explosives were placed in a bike which went off as the head of the prison was crossing the area. He also added that the explosion killed 3 civilians and wounded 4 others. No individual or group including Taliban has so far claimed responsibility for the incident. Laghman is among the relatively calm provinces in East of Afghanistan but the anti-government armed militants including Taliban are active in some of its remote districts where they often attempt to carry out terrorist related activities.
2 May 12:18 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/explosion-close-to-a-prison-leaves-3-dead-in-laghman-province-of-afghanistan-04757/Rating: 1.51
IS extremists step up as Iraq, Syria, grapple with virus
BAGHDAD — The man wearing an explosive vest emerged from a car and calmly marched toward the gates of the intelligence building in Iraq’s northern city of Kirkuk. When he ignored their shouts to halt, guards opened fire, and he blew himself up, wounding three security personnel in the first week of Ramadan. Days later, a three-pronged co-ordinated attack killed 10 Iraqi militia fighters in the northern province of Salahaddin — the deadliest and most complex operation in many months. The assaults are the latest in a resurgence of attacks by the Islamic State group in northern Iraq. The first was a brazen suicide mission not seen in months. The second was among the most complex attacks since the group’s defeat in 2017. In neighbouring Syria, IS attacks on security forces, oil fields and civilian sites have also intensified. The renewed mayhem is a sign that the militant group is taking advantage of governments absorbed in tackling the coronavirus pandemic and the ensuing slide into economic chaos. The virus is compounding longtime concerns among security and U.N. experts that the group would stage a comeback after its “caliphate,” which once encompassed a third of Iraq and Syria, was brought down last year. In Iraq, militants also exploit security gaps at a time of an ongoing territorial dispute and a U.S. troop drawdown. “It’s a real threat,” said Qubad Talabani, deputy prime minister of the northern Kurdish region of Iraq. “They are mobilizing and killing us in the north and they will start hitting Baghdad soon.” He said IS was benefiting from a “gap” between Kurdish forces and federal armed forces caused by political infighting. Intelligence reports say the number of IS fighters in Iraq is believed to be 2,500-3,000. In northeast Syria, Kurdish-dominated police have become a more visible target for IS as they patrol the streets to implement anti-virus measures, said Mervan Qamishlo, a spokesman for U.S.-allied Kurdish-led forces. IS fighters in late March launched a campaign of attacks in government-held parts of Syria, from the central province of Homs all the way to Deir el-Zour to the east, bordering Iraq. Some 500 fighters, including some who had escaped from prison, recently slipped from Syria into Iraq, helping fuel the surge in violence there, Iraqi intelligence officials said. IS is shifting from local intimidation to more complex attacks, three Iraqi military officials and experts said. Operations previously focused on assassinations of local officials and less sophisticated attacks. Now the group is carrying out more IED attacks, shootings and ambushes of police and military. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Multiple factors help the militants. The number of Iraqi military personnel on duty has dropped 50% because of virus prevention measures, the military officials said. Also, territorial disputes between Baghdad and authorities from the northern Kurdish autonomy zone have left parts of three provinces without law enforcement. The rugged landscape is difficult to police. The uptick also coincides with a pullout of U.S.-led coalition forces from bases in western Iraq, Nineveh and Kirkuk provinces in line with a drawdown conceived in December. “Before the emergence of the virus and before the American withdrawal, the operations were negligible, numbering only one operation per week,” said a senior intelligence official. Now, he said, security forces are seeing an average of 20 operations a month. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. Coalition spokesman Col. Myles B. Caggins III said IS attacks were increasing in reaction to operations against its hideouts in the mountains and rural areas of north-central Iraq. Iraqi military officials believe the improved, organized nature of the attacks serves to cement the influence of new IS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi, who was named after his predecessor was killed in a U.S. raid late last year. One military official said more operations are expected during Ramadan to demonstrate the new leader’s strength. In Syria, one of the most significant attacks occurred April 9, when IS fighters attacked government positions in and near the town of Sukhna. The government brought in reinforcements for a counterattack backed by Russian airstrikes. Two days of fighting left 32 troops and 26 IS gunmen dead, according to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which tracks the country’s nine-year war. Days later, the government said that because of the security situation in the desert several gas wells in the fields of Shaer and Hayan were damaged, leading to a 30% drop in electricity production. Back in Iraq, the green pastures of the northern village of Kujalo conceal a hidden enemy that keeps resident Nawzad up at night. His farming community lies in a disputed territory that has witnessed a sharp increase in attacks, including a nearby ambush earlier this month that killed two peshmerga officers. He said the militants have local collaborators. “They know everything about each farm in Kulajo and they know to whom each house belongs,” he said, asking to be identified only by his first name, fearing reprisals. The militants also receive shelter, supplies, food and transport from local sympathizers, said Kurdish Brig. Kamal Mahmoud. His peshmerga forces are based on part of the front lines there, but can’t operate in other parts run by government troops — and there, he said, the overstretched security forces control only main roads with no presence in villages and towns. On April 1, a federal police officer was killed, and a battalion commander and brigadier general wounded in a security operation in the Makhoul mountain range in Diyala. Two days later, an IED attack targeted a patrol of a commando regiment of the Diyala Operations Command in the outskirts of Maadan village. Sartip, a Kujalo resident, said he fears the militants’ improved capabilities. “IS has been carrying out attacks in Kurdish areas for a long time, but now they are more organized and have more people,” he said. Mroue reported from Beirut. Associated Press writer Salar Salim contributed from Irbil, Iraq. Qassim Abdul-Zahra, Bassem Mroue And Samya Kullab, The Associated Press
2 May 19:04 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/02/is-extremists-step-up-as-iraq-syria-grapple-with-virus/Rating: 0.77
IS militants kill 10 in co-ordinated attack in Iraq
BAGHDAD — Islamic State militants killed at least 10 Iraqi militiamen in a co-ordinated assault overnight near the central city of Samarra, security officials said Saturday, adding to concerns the extremist group that once controlled large areas of the country is staging a comeback. The military and the Popular Mobilization Forces, an umbrella group of mostly Shiite militias allied with the government, confirmed the attack in separate statements. It was the deadliest of a series of attacks in recent weeks that come as authorities are grappling with a worsening economic crisis and trying to contain a coronavirus outbreak. Iraq declared victory over IS in December 2017 after a costly three-year campaign. At its height, the group controlled around a third of Iraq and neighbouring Syria, which it governed in accordance with a harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. In recent months, remnants of IS have exploited security gaps resulting from a territorial dispute between Iraq’s central government and the autonomous Kurdish region in the north, as well as the withdrawal of U.S. forces in a planned drawdown. Last week a suicide bomber targeted an intelligence office in the northern city of Kirkuk, wounding at least three security forces in the first such attack in months. The PMF said six of its fighters were killed by direct fire late Friday in the village of Mekeeshfa, south of Tikrit. Another three fighters were killed by a roadside bomb as reinforcements were called in. A 10th militiaman was shot dead in the nearby village of Tal al-Dahab. The co-ordinated attack occurred around 60 miles (95 kilometres) north of the capital, Baghdad. Qassim Abdul-Zahra, The Associated Press
2 May 10:19 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/02/is-militants-kill-10-in-co-ordinated-attack-in-iraq/Rating: 0.77
IS militants kill 10 in co-ordinated attack in Iraq
BAGHDAD — Islamic State militants killed at least 10 Iraqi militiamen in a co-ordinated assault overnight near the central city of Samarra, security officials said Saturday, adding to concerns the extremist group that once controlled large areas of the country is staging a comeback. The military and the Popular Mobilization Forces, an umbrella group of mostly Shiite militias allied with the government, confirmed the attack in separate statements. It was the deadliest of a series of attacks in recent weeks that come as authorities are grappling with a worsening economic crisis and trying to contain a coronavirus outbreak. Iraq declared victory over IS in December 2017 after a costly three-year campaign. At its height, the group controlled around a third of Iraq and neighbouring Syria, which it governed in accordance with a harsh and violent interpretation of Islamic law. In recent months, remnants of IS have exploited security gaps resulting from a territorial dispute between Iraq’s central government and the autonomous Kurdish region in the north, as well as the withdrawal of U.S. forces in a planned drawdown. Last week a suicide bomber targeted an intelligence office in the northern city of Kirkuk, wounding at least three security forces in the first such attack in months. The PMF said six of its fighters were killed by direct fire late Friday in the village of Mekeeshfa, south of Tikrit. Another three fighters were killed by a roadside bomb as reinforcements were called in. A 10th militiaman was shot dead in the nearby village of Tal al-Dahab. The co-ordinated attack occurred around 60 miles (95 kilometres) north of the capital, Baghdad. Qassim Abdul-Zahra, The Associated Press
2 May 09:19 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/02/is-militants-kill-10-in-co-ordinated-attack-in-iraq/Rating: 0.61
ISIL attack kills Hashd al-Shaabi forces in Iraq
At least 10 members of the Hashd al-Shaabi forces have been killed in a coordinated attack carried out by the ISIL (ISIS) group in Iraq's Salahaddin province. According to Hashd and Iraqi state media early on Saturday, clashes erupted between the paramilitary unit, also known as the Popular Mobilisation Forces, and ISIL on several fronts in the town of Mekeeshfa and the city of Balad. "The Popular mobilisation forces and security forces have killed and wounded a number of ISIL fighters after being exposed to significant attacks on Balad and Mekeeshfah south of Tikrit," the Hashd said in a statement later on Saturday. "The Hashd also lost 10 members, while several others were wounded in clashes between the two sides," it said, adding that its forces had managed to push back ISIL after the arrival of air and land reinforcements in the area. According to the Hashd statement, nine members of the Tigris Regiment were killed in Mekeeshfah and two others were wounded, while one member of Brigade 41 was killed in Tal al-Dahab area. In a statement published by local media, Iraq's Prime Minister-designate Mustafa al-Kadhimi paid tribute to families of those who were killed. "It is with great sadness, we received news of the martyrdom of a group heroes from among the Hashd al-Shaabi who died defending their homeland in the face of ISIL attacks in the Mekeeshfah and Balad areas north of Baghdad." He also took the opportunity to call on Iraq's political factions to agree on a new government ahead of his looming 30-day deadline to form a new cabinet by May 9. "This attack reflects a desperate attempt to capitalise on the state of political rivalry which has impeded the formation of a new government that will work to protect and secure its citizens." Al-Kadhimi had announced on Wednesday that he sent his proposed government programme to Parliament in Baghdad, adding that names of candidates for various ministerial posts would be submitted soon. Reports circulated on Friday night of the list of nominees for the majority of the posts. After two other candidates failed to form a government since Adel Abdul Mahdi stepped down in December last year, Iraqi President Barham Salih tasked al-Kadhimi, the former head of Iraq's intelligence, with the job on April 9. The coordinated assault is believed to be one of the largest ISIL attacks since the armed group was defeated in December 2017. "This was a well organised attack, something of this scale hasn't been seen at all for two years," independent Iraqi analyst Sajad Jiyad told Al Jazeera. The Hashd al-Shaabi, founded as a loose network of Shia-majority factions, played a crucial role in defeating ISIL, which occupied a large swath of territory in Iraq and Syria between 2014 and 2017. ISIL attacks in Iraq have been on the rise since April compared with previous months this year. According to Jiyad, the attack's significance lay in its proximity to Baghdad, its involvement of a large number of ISIL fighters and the sophisticated nature of the attack which used "varied methods." "It's worrying for Iraq that so many of the Iraqi security forces including PMF fighters were killed. It is a reminder that Iraq needs constant counter terrorism efforts and support from the coalition in terms of surveillance and logistical or air support," said Jiyad. "If that will no longer be there, then the Iraqi government needs to find a way to replace this in kind through other partners or it needs to step up its own capabilities otherwise ISIL will continue with these attacks," he added. The US-led coalition forces in Iraq have withdrawn from several military bases across the country over the past months in line with a plan to consolidate forces in Baghdad and at Ain al-Assad in western Iraq. According to Zeidon al-Kinani, the attack pointed towards ISIL taking "advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic and curfew [in place], the long deadlock of forming a cabinet...and the increasing divisions within the PMF." Last week, four Iraqi militant groups affiliated with Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, the highest Shia authority in Iraq, announced their withdrawal from the Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) in a move that signified a deepening divide within the group. According to Kinani, the threat of ISIL may continue. "The existing protest movement and their preparation to revolt again following the COVID-19 pandemic gives ISIL an opportunity as the government will be facing two fronts: the protesters in the capital and southern provinces and ISIL around the western and northern fronts," he told Al Jazeera.
2 May 09:38 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/isil-attack-kills-hashd-al-shaabi-forces-iraq-reports-200502021705978.htmlRating: 2.44
ISIS Kills 10 PMF Fighters in Coordinated Attack in Iraq
ISIS militants killed at least 10 Iraqi militiamen in a coordinated assault overnight near the central city of Samarra, security officials said Saturday, adding to concerns the extremist group that once controlled large areas of the country is staging a comeback. The military and the Popular Mobilization Forces, an umbrella group of mostly Shiite militias allied with the government, confirmed the attack in separate statements. It was the deadliest of a series of attacks in recent weeks that come as authorities are grappling with a worsening economic crisis and trying to contain a coronavirus outbreak. Iraq declared victory over ISIS in December 2017 after a costly three-year campaign. At its height, the group controlled around a third of Iraq and neighboring Syria. In recent months, remnants of ISIS have exploited security gaps resulting from a territorial dispute between Iraq's central government and the autonomous Kurdish region in the north, as well as the withdrawal of US forces in a planned drawdown. Last week a suicide bomber targeted an intelligence office in the northern city of Kirkuk, wounding at least three security forces in the first such attack in months. The PMF said six of its fighters were killed by direct fire late Friday in the village of Mekeeshfa, south of Tikrit. Another three fighters were killed by a roadside bomb as reinforcements were called in. A 10th militiaman was shot dead in the nearby village of Tal al-Dahab. The coordinated attack occurred around 60 miles (95 kilometers) north of the capital, Baghdad.
2 May 13:30 • Asharq AL-awsat • https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2264156/isis-kills-10-pmf-fighters-coordinated-attack-iraqRating: 2.10
Islamic State attack kills 10 Iraqi fighters north of Baghdad
Ten Iraqi paramilitaries were killed in Islamic State group attacks north of Baghdad overnight, security forces said Saturday, the deadliest operation by jihadist sleeper cells in months. Iraq declared IS defeated in late 2017 but remnants of the group still wage hit-and-run attacks on security forces in remote areas of the north and west. Early Saturday, the jihadists attacked fighters of Iraq’s Hashed al-Shaabi paramilitary force stationed outside a town about 180 kilometres (110 miles) north of Baghdad, according to a statement by Iraq’s security forces. “Six fighters were killed. As another unit was dispatched to reinforce them, an explosive device detonated on that convoy and killed three fighters,” the statement said. A 10th fighter was killed in a separate IS attack on nearby unit from the Hashed, a network of armed groups incorporated into the regular army chain of command. A security source in Salahaddin province, where the attack took place, told AFP that the first IS ambush took place just before midnight. “All the Iraqi security forces manning the checkpoint were killed. F16 planes are flying overhead to search for the IS fighters,” the source said. The attack was IS’s deadliest in several months and appeared to cap a period of more numerous and aggressive operations. Last week, the jihadists claimed a suicide attack that wounded four outside an intelligence headquarters in the northern province of Kirkuk. “The group’s attacks have seemingly grown bolder over the past month or so, as it’s increasingly launched direct assaults on Iraqi security forces and carried out some daytime attacks,” Sam Heller, an independent analyst focused on IS and Iraq, told AFP. “Last night’s attack, if it was in fact coordinated between several IS units, would mark a new escalation by the group,” he added. IS overran around a third of Iraq in 2014, triggering the creation of both a US-led coalition to defeat the jihadists and the Hashed, comprised mostly of Shiite units with ties to Iran -- Iraq’s neighbour but a foe to Washington. The two forces are at odds in Iraq, as the US blames hardline Hashed factions for deadly rocket attacks on its troops while the Hashed and allied politicians have demanded US troops leave the country. In recent months, the coalition has pulled back from five bases where it had been deployed to help track down IS sleeper cells, saying the Iraqi military could largely finish the fight on their own. The coalition is still backing Iraqi troops with air strikes, intelligence and surveillance.
2 May 11:47 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/is-attack-kills-10-iraqi-fighters-north-of-baghdad/story-udkzt5UHxlOlJ4EDAAuF2N.htmlRating: 0.30
Islamic State militants kill 12 militiamen in Iraq
Kindly Share This Story: Twelve members of a powerful Iran-backed militia were on Saturday killed in an attack by Islamic State militants South of the Iraqi city of Tikrit, a security official said. According to Police official from Salah el-Din province, Islamic State elements opened fire on a trailer in which Hash Shaabi militiamen had been preparing a pre-dawn meal before the start of fasting hours. The official said that the attack left all the 12 people inside the trailer dead. Meanwhile, they set the trailer on fire before fleeing the scene. However, a manhunt had been launched to arrest them. Iraq declared victory over Islamic State in December 2017, having retaken all the territory captured by the Sunni extremists in 2014 and 2015 with the help of a U.S-led alliance. However, some remnants of the extremist group remained in the country. vanguardngr.com Kindly Share This Story:
2 May 14:06 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/islamic-state-militants-kill-12-militiamen-in-iraq/Rating: 2.43
Kabul Police arrest 6 who had destroyed electricity transmission tower in Kabul
The police forces in Kabul arrested six militants who destroyed an electricity transmission tower in capital Kabul last week. The Ministry of Interior (MoI) in a statement said the Kabul police forces arrested the six suspects during a raid which they conducted last night. The statement further added that the suspects planned to carry out another attack on security posts in Mir Bacha Kot district at around 11 pm local time. The group was led by Gul Padshah, the shadow district chief of Taliban group for Qarabagh district of Kabul, the Ministry of Interior added. The Taliban group has not commented in this regard so far. The anti-government armed militants destroyed a transmission tower in capital Kabul late on Sunday night and disrupted the supply of electricity to the capital. The militants had earlier destroyed a transmission tower in northern Baghlan province few days ago which halted the supply of electricity to Kabul and some other provinces.
2 May 12:13 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/kabul-police-arrest-6-who-had-destroyed-electricity-transmission-tower-in-kabul-04756/Rating: 1.51
Libyan Army scores direct hit on Syrian mercenaries: video
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:00 P.M.) – A group of Syrian mercenaries were killed recently when the Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an attack on their positions inside the capital city of Tripoli. In the video shared on social media, a group of Syrian mercenaries are seen inside a building in an undisclosed part of Tripoli. Moments later, the group of Syrian mercenaries are hit by the Libyan Army, resulting in the death of a number of the militants. The Syrian mercenaries were first transported to Libya from Turkey after Ankara reached an agreement with the Government of National Accord (GNA) forces to provide them military assistance through their cooperation agreement. Since then, thousands of Syrian mercenaries have been deployed to Libya, with some sources claiming up to 17,000 transferred from Turkey to the North African nation.
2 May 16:24 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/libyan-army-scores-direct-hit-on-syrian-mercenaries-video/Rating: 0.63
Syrian Army launches powerful attack across southern Idlib front-lines
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:00 P.M.) – For the second day in a row, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has heavily attacked the jihadist front-lines in southern Idlib, as they intensify their strikes against the enemy forces. According to a field report from northwestern Syria, the Syrian Arab Army launched several artillery strikes and missiles towards the jihadist defenses, hitting their positions along the Jabal Al-Zawiya front-lines. In particular, the Syrian Arab Army reportedly concentrated their attacks on the militant lines near the towns of Al-Bara’ and Al-Fateera. These two aforementioned towns have been repeatedly targeted by the Syrian Arab Army, as they serve as imperative logistical points for the jihadist rebels and their allies. With tensions rising between the Turkish-backed militants and jihadists, there is a strong chance that the Syrian military won’t resume their offensive in Idlib anytime soon. Similar to the 2016 infighting between the militant factions, the Syrian Army often let them attack one another, as these opposition groups would weaken each other through these internal tiffs.
2 May 13:22 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-launches-powerful-attack-across-southern-idlib-front-lines/Rating: 0.63
Syrian Civilian Shot Dead by US Servicemen in Deir Ez-Zor Province, Syrian Media Report
The US troops, jointly with the Arab-Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces, maintain control over parts of northeastern Syria. The American military is concentrated around oil and gas fields in the provinces of Al-Hasakah and Deir ez-Zor. Earlier in the month, an American officer and two members of the Syrian Democratic Forces were killed in the town of Al-Sur in the province of Deir ez-Zor after they were ambushed by unidentified persons, according to the agency. Syria has repeatedly demanded that all uninvited occupying forces, including the US and Turkish troops and their proxies, vacate the area immediately and return control of the occupied area back to Damascus, its rightful owner under international law.
2 May 01:27 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/202005021079167755-syrian-civilian-shot-dead-by-us-servicemen-in-deir-ez-zor-province-syrian-media-report/Rating: 3.96
Taliban commander Bashar, comrades killed after murdering 2 local soldiers
The Afghan forces killed a Taliban commanders and his two comrades by conducting a retaliatory raid in response to an attack which led to the murder of local soldiers. The Nangarhar Governor’s Office in a statement said the Taliban commander, Bashar, killed two Afghan Local Army soldiers in Bati Kot district late on Friday night. The statement further added that the Afghan forces conducted a retaliatory raid, killing Bashar and his two comrades. The Taliban group has not commented regarding the incident so far. This comes as numerous incidents involving clashes between the Afghan forces and Taliban militants have been reported in various provinces during the recent days. The incidents took place amid ongoing efforts to find a negotiated political settlement to end the conflict.
2 May 09:52 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/taliban-commander-bashar-comrades-killed-after-murdering-2-local-soldiers-04754/Rating: 1.51
Three Civilians Killed in Bomb Blast Near Prison in Afghanistan's East - Governor’s Office
KABUL (Sputnik) - Three civilians were killed and four others sustained injuries after a motorcycle bomb went off near a prison in Afghanistan’s eastern province of Laghman on Saturday, the governor’s spokesman said. Locals revealed that the explosion took place at 11 a.m. local time (06:30 GMT). No militant group has claimed responsibility for the blast yet. Earlier this week, four Afghan policemen were killed and five others were injured as Taliban militants carried out an attack on a security checkpoint in the Nachin area of the country's central province of Oruzgan.
2 May 09:04 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/asia/202005021079169799-three-civilians-killed-in-bomb-blast-near-prison-in-afghanistans-east---governors-office/Rating: 3.96
Three Ukrainian soldiers wounded amid 24 enemy attacks on May 1
Russia's hybrid military forces on May 1 mounted 24 attacks on Ukrainian Army positions in Donbas, eastern Ukraine, with three Ukrainian soldiers reported as wounded in action. "The Russian Federation's armed groups violated the ceasefire 24 times on May 1. Three Ukrainian soldiers were wounded as a result of enemy shelling," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation Headquarters said in an update posted on Facebook as of 08:00 Kyiv time on May 2. Russia-led forces opened fire from proscribed 120mm and 82mm mortars, grenade launchers of various types, heavy machine guns, as well as sniper and small arms. Under attack came Ukrainian positions near the villages of Bohdanivka, Vodiane, Taramchuk, Kamianka, Starohnativka, Hnutove, Lebedynske, Nevelske, Krymske, Pivdenne, Myronivske, Novotoshkivske, Khutir Vilny, and Travneve. In response to enemy provocations, units of the Joint Forces returned fire, using common weapons. "Since Saturday midnight, Russia-led forces have attacked Ukrainian positions nine times, mostly in the "Pivnich" [North] tactical grouping's zone," the update said. One Ukrainian soldier was wounded as a result of enemy shelling on Saturday. Losses among enemy forces are being verified.
2 May 13:20 • UNIAN • https://www.unian.info/war/donbas-war-three-ukrainian-soldiers-wounded-on-may-1-10981460.htmlRating: 0.30
Watch: Front-line footage of Iraqi forces engaging ISIS terrorists
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:20 A.M.) – On Saturday morning, a video clip showed members of the Popular Mobilization Forces in Iraq tracking down ISIS terrorists in the Salaheddine Governorate. In the video filmed by a member of the PMF, dozens of their fighters appear at dawn in the Samarra district of Salaheddine Governorate as they attack and pursue the ISIS terrorists who launched a large-scale attack against their forces from four axes last night. The Popular Mobilization Forces said in a press statement last night that “strong confrontations waged by the PMF forces against ISIS gangs in the Balad and Machishafa regions in southern Tikrit within the sector of Salaheddine operations.” They said that theirforces “killed and wounded a number of ISIS during the repulsion of the attack, and a process is now underway to surround the areas of exposure to track the criminal ISIS gangs after the arrival of air and ground reinforcements to secure the exposure areas.” They added that “the primary outcome is the killing of 10 Hashd (PMF) fighters and the wounding of others, and they have been evacuated to the Hashd medical field hospitals for treatment.”
2 May 07:52 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/watch-front-line-footage-of-iraqi-forces-engaging-isis-terrorists/Rating: 0.63
Mike Pompeo: 'enormous evidence' coronavirus came from Chinese lab
3 May 21:12
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Mike Pompeo: 'enormous evidence' coronavirus came from Chinese lab
The US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, claimed on Sunday there is “enormous evidence” the coronavirus outbreak originated in a Chinese laboratory – but did not provide any of the alleged evidence. Pompeo’s claims, made in an interview with ABC’s This Week, represented an escalation in rhetoric. He had previously said the US was looking into the possibility the virus came from a lab in Wuhan, China. On Sunday, Pompeo said: “There is enormous evidence that that’s where this began,” later adding: “I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan.” At one point, the secretary of state appeared confused over whether he was claiming the Sars-CoV-2 virus (which causes the Covid-19 disease) was deliberately engineered or escaped as the result of a lab accident. “Look, the best experts so far seem to think it was manmade. I have no reason to disbelieve that at this point,” he said. But when he was reminded that US intelligence had issued a formal statement noting the opposite – that the scientific consensus was that the virus was not manmade or genetically modified – Pompeo replied: “That’s right. I agree with that.” Donald Trump made a similar unsupported claim on Thursday, saying he was privy to evidence of the pandemic began in a Chinese lab but was not permitted to share it. On the same day, Pompeo told a radio interviewer: “We don’t know if it came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. We don’t know if it emanated from the wet market or yet some other place. We don’t know those answers.” By Sunday afternoon, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins University, the US had confirmed 1,134,507 coronavirus cases and more than 66,000 deaths. Worldwide, there had been nearly 3.5m cases confirmed and more than 245,000 people had died. Beset by criticism of its response to the outbreak and management of the ensuing public health crisis, the Trump administration has sought to focus blame on China. Most epidemiologists say that while it is possible the outbreak started in the Wuhan Institute of Virology, where coronaviruses have been intensively studied, it is a far less likely scenario than the theory that it was transmitted naturally from bats through an intermediary animal, mutating along the way to become dangerous to humans. On Tuesday, the chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, Gen Mark Milley, said “the weight of evidence” pointed to natural transmission but was not conclusive. Beijing has rejected the suggestion the virus could have escaped from a laboratory. But Chinese authorities have not allowed foreign experts, including investigators from the World Health Organization, to take part in the investigation into the origins of the virus. Nor have they shared samples taken from wild animals at the Wuhan livestock market where they claim the outbreak began. In 2018, US diplomats and scientists raised concerns in state department cables about safety standards and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Analysis of the first 41 Covid-19 patients in medical journal the Lancet found that 27 had direct exposure to the Wuhan market. The same analysis found that the first known case of the illness did not. Pompeo has a patchy record on characterising US intelligence estimates. He repeatedly claimed there was no direct evidence linking the Saudi crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, to the murder of journalist and dissident Jamal Khashoggi, contradicting substantial US evidence implicating him. He also repeatedly claimed there was evidence of an “imminent threat” to US embassies posed by the Iranian general Qassem Suleimani, who the US killed in a drone strike in Baghdad on 3 January. A formal letter justifying the strike sent by the White House to Congress in February made no mention of an imminent threat.
3 May 21:12 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/03/mike-pompeo-donald-trump-coronavirus-chinese-laboratoryRating: 5.39
Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' coronavirus came from Wuhan lab
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday (May 3) that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. "There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC's "This Week." But while highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China's role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held "accountable." News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement on Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred "with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But he went further than Trump, in citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 23:50 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/pompeo-enormous-evidence-covid-19-coronavirus-wuhan-lab-12698348Rating: 3.25
Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' virus came from Wuhan lab
WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. "There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC's "This Week." But while highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China's role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held "accountable." News reports say Trump has tasked U.S. spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the U.S. intelligence community in which it concurred "with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But he went further than Trump, in citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." © 2020 AFP
3 May 21:03 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/pompeo-says-%27enormous-evidence%27-virus-came-from-wuhan-labRating: 2.09
Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' virus came from Wuhan lab
Washington: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. "There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC's "This Week." But while highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China's role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held "accountable." News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred "with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But he went further than Trump, in citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." Read MoreIran warns of nuclear deal 'death' if arms embargo extended A top Iranian official on Sunday warned that a nuclear deal the US withdrew unilaterally from would "die forever" if an arms embargo on Tehran is extended. Read MoreShots fired from NKorea believed to be 'accidental': Pompeo US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said shots fired Sunday from North Korea towards the South in the DMZ that divides the peninsula were believed to have been "accidental." Read More'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November.
3 May 17:59 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Pompeo-says-enormous-evidence-virus-came-from-Wuhan-labRating: 3.14
Mike Pompeo says there's 'enormous evidence' COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab even though intelligence officials have said there's none
ANDREW HARNIK/POOL/AFP via Getty Images Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday claimed there was "enormous evidence" that COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, though there has been so far no public evidence to support such a theory. "There's enormous evidence that that's where this began," Pompeo told ABC News' Martha Raddatz during his appearance on "This Week." "We have said from the beginning, this virus originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset." "But I think the whole world can see now," Pompeo added. "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These aren't the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures from a Chinese lab." Jonna Mazet, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Davis, who has worked with and trained Wuhan Institute of Virology researchers in the past, told Business Insider's Aylin Woodward that an accidental lab leak is extremely unlikely. The WIV houses China's only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory, and Mazet said that instead of an accident at the high-security lab, it's far more likely that the virus spilled over naturally from bats, jumping to humans via an intermediary animal host. Pompeo is not the first US official to make such a claim. At a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the US was investigating the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has studied coronaviruses that originate in bats. At that news conference, a reporter asked Trump whether he'd seen evidence that gave him a "high degree of confidence" to suggest the virus had originated in a Chinese lab. "Yes I have," Trump said, adding he was "not allowed to tell" anyone about the intelligence. Trump previously floated a similar theory on April 19, promising "consequences" if China was found to have created the novel coronavirus. Pompeo told Raddatz Sunday "the Chinese communist party has refused to cooperate with world health experts" and he could not answer whether he believed the theory that the virus was intentionally released by the Chinese government or whether he believed it to be mistakenly released during a lab accident. The president and other members of his party have continued to attempt to shift blame toward China for the virus's impact on the US, where it has so far killed at least 66,430 and infected some 1,134,673, according to data analyzed by Johns Hopkins University. US intelligence officials said there is no such evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab, according to reports from the Washington Post and New York Times. Experts told the Post that while a lab accident is possible, it's not entirely likely. One US official who spoke to the Post on the condition of anonymity said officials have been briefed that China could have initially downplayed the outbreak, but they had not seen evidence that COVID-19 was the result of accidental transmission in a Chinese lab. "It's far more likely that Mother Nature is just a step ahead of us and has created a novel pathogen, now able to move quite effectively from human to human," Jason Rao, a bio-security specialist and former senior policy adviser to President Barack Obama, told the Post. Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 16:50 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/mike-pompeo-says-theres-enormous-165005735.htmlRating: 0.30
Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' virus came from Wuhan lab
WASHINGTON (AFP) - US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. "There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC s "This Week." But while highly critical of China s handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China s role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held "accountable." News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred "with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But he went further than Trump, in citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we ll hold those responsible accountable."
3 May 20:13 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543882-Pompeo-says-enormous-evidence-virus-came-from-Wuhan-labRating: 1.71
Mike Pompeo says there's 'enormous evidence' COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab even though intelligence officials have said there's none, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday claimed there was “enormous evidence” that COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, though there has been so far no public evidence to support such a theory. “There’s enormous evidence that that’s where this began,” Pompeo told ABC News’ Martha Raddatz during his appearance on “This Week.” “We have said from the beginning, this virus originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset.” “But I think the whole world can see now,” Pompeo added. “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These aren’t the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures from a Chinese lab.” Jonna Mazet, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Davis, who has worked with and trained Wuhan Institute of Virology researchers in the past, told Business Insider’s Aylin Woodward that an accidental lab leak is extremely unlikely. The WIV houses China’s only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory, and Mazet said that instead of an accident at the high-security lab, it’s far more likely that the virus spilled over naturally from bats, jumping to humans via an intermediary animal host. Pompeo is not the first US official to make such a claim. At a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the US was investigating the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has studied coronaviruses that originate in bats. At that news conference, a reporter asked Trump whether he’d seen evidence that gave him a “high degree of confidence” to suggest the virus had originated in a Chinese lab. “Yes I have,” Trump said, adding he was “not allowed to tell” anyone about the intelligence. Trump previously floated a similar theory on April 19, promising “consequences” if China was found to have created the novel coronavirus. Pompeo told Raddatz Sunday “the Chinese communist party has refused to cooperate with world health experts” and he could not answer whether he believed the theory that the virus was intentionally released by the Chinese government or whether he believed it to be mistakenly released during a lab accident. The president and other members of his party have continued to attempt to shift blame toward China for the virus’s impact on the US, where it has so far killed at least 66,430 and infected some 1,134,673, according to data analyzed by Johns Hopkins University. US intelligence officials said there is no such evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab, according to reports from the Washington Post and New York Times. Experts told the Post that while a lab accident is possible, it’s not entirely likely. One US official who spoke to the Post on the condition of anonymity said officials have been briefed that China could have initially downplayed the outbreak, but they had not seen evidence that COVID-19 was the result of accidental transmission in a Chinese lab. “It’s far more likely that Mother Nature is just a step ahead of us and has created a novel pathogen, now able to move quite effectively from human to human,” Jason Rao, a bio-security specialist and former senior policy adviser to President Barack Obama, told the Post.
3 May 16:50 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/pompeo-enormous-evidence-covid-19-originated-in-a-chinese-lab-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Mike Pompeo says there's 'enormous evidence' COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab even though intelligence officials have said there's none
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday claimed there was "enormous evidence" that COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, though there has been so far no public evidence to support such a theory. "There's enormous evidence that that's where this began," Pompeo told ABC News' Martha Raddatz during his appearance on "This Week." "We have said from the beginning, this virus originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset." "But I think the whole world can see now," Pompeo added. "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These aren't the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures from a Chinese lab." Jonna Mazet, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Davis, who has worked with and trained Wuhan Institute of Virology researchers in the past, told Business Insider's Aylin Woodward that an accidental lab leak is extremely unlikely. The WIV houses China's only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory, and Mazet said that instead of an accident at the high-security lab, it's far more likely that the virus spilled over naturally from bats, jumping to humans via an intermediary animal host. LoadingSomething is loading. Pompeo is not the first US official to make such a claim. At a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the US was investigating the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has studied coronaviruses that originate in bats. At that news conference, a reporter asked Trump whether he'd seen evidence that gave him a "high degree of confidence" to suggest the virus had originated in a Chinese lab. "Yes I have," Trump said, adding he was "not allowed to tell" anyone about the intelligence. Trump previously floated a similar theory on April 19, promising "consequences" if China was found to have created the novel coronavirus. Pompeo told Raddatz Sunday "the Chinese communist party has refused to cooperate with world health experts" and he could not answer whether he believed the theory that the virus was intentionally released by the Chinese government or whether he believed it to be mistakenly released during a lab accident. The president and other members of his party have continued to attempt to shift blame toward China for the virus's impact on the US, where it has so far killed at least 66,430 and infected some 1,134,673, according to data analyzed by Johns Hopkins University. US intelligence officials said there is no such evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab, according to reports from the Washington Post and New York Times. Experts told the Post that while a lab accident is possible, it's not entirely likely. One US official who spoke to the Post on the condition of anonymity said officials have been briefed that China could have initially downplayed the outbreak, but they had not seen evidence that COVID-19 was the result of accidental transmission in a Chinese lab. "It's far more likely that Mother Nature is just a step ahead of us and has created a novel pathogen, now able to move quite effectively from human to human," Jason Rao, a bio-security specialist and former senior policy adviser to President Barack Obama, told the Post. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 16:50 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/pompeo-enormous-evidence-covid-19-originated-in-a-chinese-lab-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Mike Pompeo says there's 'enormous evidence' COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab even though intelligence officials have said there's none
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday claimed there was “enormous evidence” that COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, though there has been so far no public evidence to support such a theory. “There’s enormous evidence that that’s where this began,” Pompeo told ABC News’ Martha Raddatz during his appearance on “This Week.” “We have said from the beginning, this virus originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset.” “But I think the whole world can see now,” Pompeo added. “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These aren’t the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures from a Chinese lab.” Jonna Mazet, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Davis, who has worked with and trained Wuhan Institute of Virology researchers in the past, told Business Insider’s Aylin Woodward that an accidental lab leak is extremely unlikely. The WIV houses China’s only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory, and Mazet said that instead of an accident at the high-security lab, it’s far more likely that the virus spilled over naturally from bats, jumping to humans via an intermediary animal host. Pompeo is not the first US official to make such a claim. At a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the US was investigating the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has studied coronaviruses that originate in bats. At that news conference, a reporter asked Trump whether he’d seen evidence that gave him a “high degree of confidence” to suggest the virus had originated in a Chinese lab. “Yes I have,” Trump said, adding he was “not allowed to tell” anyone about the intelligence. Trump previously floated a similar theory on April 19, promising “consequences” if China was found to have created the novel coronavirus. Pompeo told Raddatz Sunday “the Chinese communist party has refused to cooperate with world health experts” and he could not answer whether he believed the theory that the virus was intentionally released by the Chinese government or whether he believed it to be mistakenly released during a lab accident. The president and other members of his party have continued to attempt to shift blame toward China for the virus’s impact on the US, where it has so far killed at least 66,430 and infected some 1,134,673, according to data analyzed by Johns Hopkins University. US intelligence officials said there is no such evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab, according to reports from the Washington Post and New York Times. Experts told the Post that while a lab accident is possible, it’s not entirely likely. One US official who spoke to the Post on the condition of anonymity said officials have been briefed that China could have initially downplayed the outbreak, but they had not seen evidence that COVID-19 was the result of accidental transmission in a Chinese lab. “It’s far more likely that Mother Nature is just a step ahead of us and has created a novel pathogen, now able to move quite effectively from human to human,” Jason Rao, a bio-security specialist and former senior policy adviser to President Barack Obama, told the Post.
3 May 19:24 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/pompeo-enormous-evidence-covid-19-originated-in-a-chinese-lab-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
US Secretary of State says there's 'enormous evidence' Covid came from Wuhan lab
The US Secretary of State said there is ‘enormous evidence’ that the coronavirus originated in a Wuhan lab that failed to contain the virus. Mike Pompeo told ABC’s ‘This Week’ on Sunday that the US has gathered evidence that supports a theory that coronavirus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, not a nearby wet market, which had previously been suspected to be where the virus may have originated. ‘There’s enormous evidence that that’s where this began. We have said from the beginning, that this was a virus that originated in Wuhan, China,’ Pompeo said. ‘We took a lot of grief for that from the outset. But I think the whole world can see now.’ ‘Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These are not the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab,’ he continued. Pompeo’s explosive statement comes days after The Office of the Director of US National Intelligence Thursday that it was investigating the origin of the outbreak, which has killed over 68,000 Americans and at least 247,000 worldwide. US intelligence said it was looking into two possibilities: Whether the outbreak began because of exposure to wild animals or if it was because of a laboratory accident in Wuhan. The intelligence community recently concluded that the virus was ‘not man-made or genetically modified’ and Pompeo said Sunday that he has no reason to doubt the consensus. ‘I’ve seen what the intelligence community has said. I have no reason to believe that they’ve got it wrong,’ he said. Last week, Trump said that he has seen evidence that gives him a ‘high degree of confidence’ that the outbreak began in the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which houses China’s only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory. ‘Yes I have,’ the president said, but added that he was ‘not allowed to tell’ anyone about the evidence. Trump has consistently insisted that China downplayed or concealed important information about the virus and demanded Beijing be held ‘accountable.’
3 May 19:39 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/us-secretary-state-says-enormous-evidence-coronavirus-came-wuhan-virus-lab-12649249/Rating: 2.18
Mike Pompeo says there's 'enormous evidence' COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab even though intelligence officials have said there's none
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday claimed there was “enormous evidence” that COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, though there has been so far no public evidence to support such a theory. “There’s enormous evidence that that’s where this began,” Pompeo told ABC News’ Martha Raddatz during his appearance on “This Week.” “We have said from the beginning, this virus originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset.” “But I think the whole world can see now,” Pompeo added. “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These aren’t the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures from a Chinese lab.” Jonna Mazet, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Davis, who has worked with and trained Wuhan Institute of Virology researchers in the past, told Business Insider’s Aylin Woodward that an accidental lab leak is extremely unlikely. The WIV houses China’s only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory, and Mazet said that instead of an accident at the high-security lab, it’s far more likely that the virus spilled over naturally from bats, jumping to humans via an intermediary animal host. Pompeo is not the first US official to make such a claim. At a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the US was investigating the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has studied coronaviruses that originate in bats. At that news conference, a reporter asked Trump whether he’d seen evidence that gave him a “high degree of confidence” to suggest the virus had originated in a Chinese lab. “Yes I have,” Trump said, adding he was “not allowed to tell” anyone about the intelligence. Trump previously floated a similar theory on April 19, promising “consequences” if China was found to have created the novel coronavirus. Pompeo told Raddatz Sunday “the Chinese communist party has refused to cooperate with world health experts” and he could not answer whether he believed the theory that the virus was intentionally released by the Chinese government or whether he believed it to be mistakenly released during a lab accident. The president and other members of his party have continued to attempt to shift blame toward China for the virus’s impact on the US, where it has so far killed at least 66,430 and infected some 1,134,673, according to data analysed by Johns Hopkins University. US intelligence officials said there is no such evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab, according to reports from the Washington Post and New York Times. Experts told the Post that while a lab accident is possible, it’s not entirely likely. One US official who spoke to the Post on the condition of anonymity said officials have been briefed that China could have initially downplayed the outbreak, but they had not seen evidence that COVID-19 was the result of accidental transmission in a Chinese lab. “It’s far more likely that Mother Nature is just a step ahead of us and has created a novel pathogen, now able to move quite effectively from human to human,” Jason Rao, a bio-security specialist and former senior policy adviser to President Barack Obama, told the Post.
3 May 16:50 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/pompeo-enormous-evidence-covid-19-originated-in-a-chinese-lab-2020-5Rating: 0.30
There is ‘enormous evidence’ COVID-19 came from Wuhan lab ― US
Kindly Share This Story: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was “enormous evidence” that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. “There is enormous evidence that this is where it began,” he said on ABC’s “This Week.” But while highly critical of China’s handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China’s role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held “accountable.” News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred “with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified.” But he went further than Trump, in citing “significant” and “enormous” evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. “I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories,” Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.” “President Trump is very clear: we’ll hold those responsible accountable.” [AFP] Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 17:03 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/there-is-enormous-evidence-covid-19-came-from-wuhan-lab-%e2%80%95-us/Rating: 2.43
There is ‘enormous evidence’ that coronavirus came from Chinese lab: Pompeo
There is “enormous evidence” that the coronavirus came from a laboratory in the Chinese city of Wuhan, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in an interview with ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday. Despite his criticism of China’s response to the outbreak, Pompeo did not say directly if he thought that the virus had been released on purpose, AFP reported. This comes after the US national intelligence director’s office said earlier this week that they agreed with the scientific consensus that the coronavirus was not genetically modified. They added, however, that they would continue their investigation into how the outbreak started. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested that COVID-19 could have been released from a Wuhan laboratory. China rejected the allegation, with a top Wuhan laboratory official denying any role in spreading the deadly infection. As of 3 May, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases globally has exceeded 3,349,786, with 238,628 deaths, according to the World Health Organisation. Source: Sputnik
3 May 18:55 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/there-is-enormous-evidence-that-coronavirus-came-from-chinese-lab-pompeo/Rating: 0.63
Pompeo says ‘enormous evidence’ shows coronavirus began in Wuhan lab
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said “enormous evidence” exists indicating the coronavirus pandemic began in a lab in Wuhan, China and that the ruling Communist Party did everything it could to keep the outbreak under wraps. “There’s enormous evidence that that’s where this began. We’ve said from the beginning that this was a virus that originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset. But I think the whole world can see now,” he said on ABC News’ “This Week” on Sunday. “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories. These are not the first times that we’ve had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab.” After the first cases were reported in Wuhan in December, Pompeo said Beijing began a “disinformation” campaign that “created enormous risk” around the world. “China behaved like authoritarian regimes do, attempted to conceal and hide and confuse. It employed the World Health Organization as a tool to do the same. These are the kind of things that have now presented this enormous crisis, an enormous loss of life and tremendous economic cost, all across the globe,” Pompeo said. There are now nearly 3.5 million cases around the world and more than 245,000 people have died from COVID-19. Asked by host Martha Raddatz if he believed the virus was man-made or genetically modified, Pompeo cited “experts” saying it was man-made. But Raddatz pointed out that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said the scientific consensus is that COVID-19 was not man-made or genetically modified. “That’s right. I agree with that. Yeah. I’ve seen their analysis. I’ve seen the summary that you saw that was released publicly. I have no reason to doubt that that is accurate,” he said. Pompeo said it still hasn’t been determined whether China intentionally released the virus or it was a lab accident. “I think there’s a lot to know. But I can say this. We’ve done our best to try and answer all of those questions. We tried to get a team in there. The World Health Organization tried to get a team in there. And they have failed. No one’s been allowed to go to this lab or any of the other laboratories — there are many labs inside of China,” he said. “This risk remains.”
3 May 18:35 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/pompeo-enormous-evidence-shows-coronavirus-began-in-wuhan-lab/Rating: 2.55
Trump's Secretary of State claims there's 'enormous evidence' that coronavirus originated in Wuhan lab
US SECRETARY OF State Mike Pompeo said today that there was “enormous evidence” that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. “There is enormous evidence that this is where it began,” he said on ABC’s This Week. But while highly critical of China’s handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China’s role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held “accountable”. News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement on Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred “with the wide scientific consensus that the Covid-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified.” But he went further than Trump, in citing “significant” and “enormous” evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. “I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories,” Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.” “President Trump is very clear: we’ll hold those responsible accountable.” - © AFP 2020 #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
3 May 15:18 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/pompeo-wuhan-evidence-5090835-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Mike Pompeo says there’s ‘enormous evidence’ COVID-19 originated in a Chinese lab even though intelligence officials have said there’s none
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday claimed there was “enormous evidence” that COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China, though there has been so far no public evidence to support such a theory. “There’s enormous evidence that that’s where this began,” Pompeo told ABC News’ Martha Raddatz during his appearance on “This Week.” “We have said from the beginning, this virus originated in Wuhan, China. We took a lot of grief for that from the outset.” “But I think the whole world can see now,” Pompeo added. “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world and they have a history of running sub-standard laboratories. These aren’t the first times that we have had the world exposed to viruses as a result of failures from a Chinese lab.” Jonna Mazet, an epidemiologist at the University of California, Davis, who has worked with and trained Wuhan Institute of Virology researchers in the past, told Business Insider’s Aylin Woodward that an accidental lab leak is extremely unlikely. The WIV houses China’s only Biosafety-level-4 laboratory, and Mazet said that instead of an accident at the high-security lab, it’s far more likely that the virus spilled over naturally from bats, jumping to humans via an intermediary animal host. Pompeo is not the first US official to make such a claim. At a White House press briefing on Thursday, President Donald Trump said the US was investigating the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has studied coronaviruses that originate in bats. At that news conference, a reporter asked Trump whether he’d seen evidence that gave him a “high degree of confidence” to suggest the virus had originated in a Chinese lab. “Yes I have,” Trump said, adding he was “not allowed to tell” anyone about the intelligence. Trump previously floated a similar theory on April 19, promising “consequences” if China was found to have created the novel coronavirus. Pompeo told Raddatz Sunday “the Chinese communist party has refused to cooperate with world health experts” and he could not answer whether he believed the theory that the virus was intentionally released by the Chinese government or whether he believed it to be mistakenly released during a lab accident. The president and other members of his party have continued to attempt to shift blame toward China for the virus’s impact on the US, where it has so far killed at least 66,430 and infected some 1,134,673, according to data analyzed by Johns Hopkins University. US intelligence officials said there is no such evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab, according to reports from the Washington Post and New York Times. Experts told the Post that while a lab accident is possible, it’s not entirely likely. One US official who spoke to the Post on the condition of anonymity said officials have been briefed that China could have initially downplayed the outbreak, but they had not seen evidence that COVID-19 was the result of accidental transmission in a Chinese lab. “It’s far more likely that Mother Nature is just a step ahead of us and has created a novel pathogen, now able to move quite effectively from human to human,” Jason Rao, a bio-security specialist and former senior policy adviser to President Barack Obama, told the Post.
3 May 16:50 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/pompeo-enormous-evidence-covid-19-originated-in-a-chinese-lab-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' coronavirus originated in Wuhan lab
"There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," the US secretary of state said on ABC's "This Week." "These are not the first times that we've had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab," Pompeo added, pointing at China's "history of running substandard laboratories." Though highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. Speaking at the White House on Thursday, Trump also claimed he had seen evidence that the virus originated in a Chinese lab, ratcheting up tensions with Beijing over the origins of the deadly outbreak. "Yes, yes I have," Trump said when asked if he had seen evidence that gave him a "high degree of confidence" the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The US president declined to give specifics, adding: "I can't tell you that. I'm not allowed to tell you that." The Chinese state-backed Wuhan Institute of Virology has dismissed the allegations, and other US officials have downplayed their likelihood. Most experts believe the virus originated in a market selling wildlife in Wuhan and jumped from animals to people. Pompeo himself had appeared to cast doubt on Trump's claims, stating on Thursday that it was not known whether the virus came from the lab. "We don’t know if it came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. We don’t know if it emanated from the wet market or yet some other place. We don’t know those answers," Pompeo said in an interview with Newsradio 1040. The spread of the coronavirus, which causes the respiratory disease Covid-19, has contributed to a deepening rift between the Trump administration and China. Beijing has suggested the US military might have brought the virus to China and Trump has said China failed to alert the world to the risks in a timely and transparent fashion. Trump also said on Thursday it was possible that China either could not stop the spread of the coronavirus or allowed it to spread. (FRANCE 24 with AFP, REUTERS)
3 May 15:00 • France 24 • https://www.france24.com/en/20200503-pompeo-says-enormous-evidence-coronavirus-originated-in-wuhan-labRating: 2.48
Pompeo says ‘enormous evidence’ virus came from Wuhan lab
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was “enormous evidence” that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. “There is enormous evidence that this is where it began,” he said on ABC’s “This Week.” But while highly critical of China’s handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China’s role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held “accountable.” News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred “with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified.” But he went further than Trump, in citing “significant” and “enormous” evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. “I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories,” Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.” “President Trump is very clear: we’ll hold those responsible accountable.”
3 May 14:52 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/pompeo-says-enormous-evidence-virus-came-from-wuhan-lab/Rating: 0.30
Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' virus came from Wuhan lab
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. "There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC's "This Week." But while highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China's role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world. He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held "accountable." News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby. Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred "with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But he went further than Trump, in citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," Pompeo said. He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." bbk/jm https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 14:48 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/pompeo-says-enormous-evidence-virus-came-from-wuhan-lab/dgmr2kkRating: 0.51
‘Enormous evidence’ that Covid-19 originated in Wuhan lab, says Mike Pompeo
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was “enormous evidence” that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. “There is enormous evidence that this is where it began,” he said on ABC’s “This Week.” But while highly critical of China’s handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released.
3 May 14:30 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/enormous-evidence-that-covid-19-originated-in-wuhan-lab-says-mike-pompeo/story-qexa1UwEPRvYIEw6nwVgeL.htmlRating: 0.30
COVID-19: Pompeo says 'enormous evidence' virus came from Wuhan lab
Washington: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China. "There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC's "This Week." But while highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday did not mince words at a White House event on Thursday, when asked if he had seen evidence that gave him a “high degree of confidence” the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology. “Yes, yes I have,” he said, declining to give specifics. “I can’t tell you that. I’m not allowed to tell you that.” The Chinese state-backed Wuhan Institute of Virology has dismissed the allegations, and other US officials have downplayed their likelihood. Most experts believe the virus originated in a market selling wildlife in Wuhan and jumped from animals to people. Trump said previously his administration was trying to determine whether the coronavirus emanated from the Wuhan lab, following media reports it may have been artificially synthesized at a China state-backed laboratory or perhaps escaped from such a facility.
3 May 14:09 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/americas/covid-19-pompeo-says-enormous-evidence-virus-came-from-wuhan-lab-1.1588515442738Rating: 3.21
Philippines rejects all international flights amid virus outbreak
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that there was "enormous evidence" that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a laboratory in Wuhan, China."There is enormous evidence that this is where it began," he said on ABC's "This Week."But while highly critical of China's handling of the matter, Pompeo declined to say whether he thought the virus had been intentionally released.President Donald Trump has been increasingly critical of China's role in the pandemic, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 around the world.He has insisted that Beijing recklessly concealed important information about the outbreak and demanded that Beijing be held "accountable."News reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, at first blamed on a Wuhan market selling exotic animals like bats, but now thought possibly to be from a virus research laboratory nearby.Pompeo, a former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, told ABC that he agreed with a statement Thursday from the US intelligence community in which it concurred "with the wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified."But he went further than Trump, in citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan laboratory."I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," Pompeo said. He added that the US and the World Health Organization (WHO) tried to get access to the lab in Wuhan where coronavirus may have originated but that they were denied access. “We tried to get a team in there. The World Health Organization tried to get a team in there. And they have failed. No one has been allowed to go to this lab or any of the other laboratories.” He said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.""President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable."
3 May 14:03 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1669016/worldRating: 1.72
Pompeo: ‘Enormous Evidence’ Linking Wuhan Lab To Covid Outbreak
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said there is “enormous evidence” to support the controversial theory COVID-19 originated in Wuhan laboratory, another indication the Trump administration is rallying around the claim despite assertions from scientists and health officials that the virus originated in wildlife. The unsubstantiated claim that the virus spread from a lab in Wuhan, China, has emerged as a powerful political weapon as the Trump administration turns to deflecting attention away from claims the White House faltered in its handling of the outbreak and casting blame onto China. “I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan,” Pompeo said Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” though there has so far been no public evidence to support such a theory. “These are not the first times that we’ve had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab,” Pompeo said. Last week, the New York Times reported that senior Trump administration officials, led by Pompeo, have pushed U.S. spy agencies to dig up evidence supporting the lab theory even though most intelligence agencies remain skeptical of the lab claim. Pompeo’s comments come days after President Trump also claimed, without showing proof, to have seen evidence the lab was the origin of the virus. Still, Pompeo noted that he agreed with the report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence stating the virus was not genetically modified or man-made: “I’ve seen what the intelligence community has said,” Pompeo said of the statement. “I have no reason to believe that they’ve got it wrong.” The idea of a lab-leaked virus bubbled up in February among conservative media — including Fox News — and right-wing lawmakers, including Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., who has been one of the most vocal proponents of the theory. But the claim the virus originated in a lab has gained new life in recent weeks with reports that officials inside the government were investigating the claim. Trump gave credence to the theory when he, without citing evidence, said April 18 during a White House briefing that the U.S. government was looking into the claim and that it made “sense.” The director of the Wuhan lab in question, Yuan Zhiming, denied the allegation in an interview with the state-run China Global Television Network on April 18. Scientists say that all seven known human coronaviruses originated in bats, mice or domestic animals. Report: Trump Officials Pressured Spy Agencies To Link Covid Outbreak To Wuhan Lab (Forbes) Pompeo Says ‘Enormous Evidence’ Links Virus to Wuhan Laboratory (Bloomberg) Trump Claims To Have Seen Evidence Linking Coronavirus To Wuhan Lab After Intelligence Chief Says Virus Not Manmade (Forbes) The Controversial Rumor COVID-19 Originated In A Wuhan Lab Creeps Into The GOP Mainstream (Forbes) Trump Officials Are Said to Press Spies to Link Virus and Wuhan Labs (New York TimesNYT ) Republicans See Attacking China As A Winning Strategy (Forbes) A Virologist Explains Why It Is Unlikely COVID-19 Escaped From A Lab (Forbes) No, COVID-19 Coronavirus Was Not Bioengineered. Here’s The Research That Debunks That Idea (Forbes) Coronavirus and the Laboratories in Wuhan (Wall Street Journal) Chinese lab conducted extensive research on deadly bat viruses, but there is no evidence of accidental release (Washington Post)
3 May 00:00 • Forbes • https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackbrewster/2020/05/03/pompeo-enormous-evidence-linking-wuhan-lab-to-covid-outbreak/Rating: 4.41
Israel's Supreme Court discusses Netanyahu's fate as prime minister
3 May 17:01
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Israel's Supreme Court discusses Netanyahu's fate as prime minister
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel’s Supreme Court began a two-day hearing on Sunday to determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indictment on criminal charges disqualifies him from forming a new government. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election, the fourth since April 2019, as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout. Netanyahu and his main rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement last month to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel after three elections that neither of them won. In power for more than a decade and currently head of a caretaker government, right-wing Netanyahu will serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz, according to the unity deal. The pact has support from a majority in parliament. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned Israel’s highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel’s Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit wrote to the court saying that there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. He described the case as a “head-on collision” between “on one side the most basic democratic principle of honouring the will of the majority ... (and) on the other integrity in public service, specifically among elected officials.” Eleven justices, wearing face masks and separated by screens as coronavirus precautions, presided over the discussion. A small group outside the court, also following social distancing guidelines, carried signs and Israeli flags to protest against government corruption. Some Israeli analysts have said the court, cast by Netanyahu loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and says he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu’s trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. But legal some experts say there are legal precedents suggesting elected officials indicted with charges that carry moral turpitude should resign.
3 May 17:01 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-israel-politics-netanyahu-idUSKBN22F084Rating: 4.04
Israel’s Supreme Court discusses Netanyahu’s fate as prime minister
JERUSALEM, May 3 — Israel’s Supreme Court began a two-day hearing on Sunday to determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indictment on criminal charges disqualifies him from forming a new government. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election, the fourth since April 2019, as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout. Netanyahu and his main rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement last month to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel after three elections that neither of them won. In power for more than a decade and currently head of a caretaker government, right-wing Netanyahu will serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz, according to the unity deal. The pact has support from a majority in parliament. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned Israel’s highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel’s Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit wrote to the court saying that there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. He described the case as a “head-on collision” between “on one side the most basic democratic principle of honouring the will of the majority ... (and) on the other integrity in public service, specifically among elected officials.” Eleven justices, wearing face masks and separated by screens as coronavirus precautions, presided over the discussion. A small group outside the court, also following social distancing guidelines, carried signs and Israeli flags to protest against government corruption. Some Israeli analysts have said the court, cast by Netanyahu loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and says he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu’s trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. But legal some experts say there are legal precedents suggesting elected officials indicted with charges that carry moral turpitude should resign. — Reuters
3 May 13:50 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/israels-supreme-court-discusses-netanyahus-fate-as-prime-minister/1862692Rating: 1.42
Israel’s supreme court mulls Netanyahu’s fate as prime minister
Israel’s supreme court began a two-day hearing on Sunday to determine whether prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu’s indictment on criminal charges disqualifies him from forming a new government. A ruling against Mr Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election, the fourth since April 2019, as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic impact. Mr Netanyahu and his main rival, Benny Gantz, signed an agreement last month to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel after three elections that neither of them won. The right-wing Mr Netanyahu – in power for more than a decade and head of a caretaker government – will serve as PM of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Mr Gantz, according to the unity pact. The agreement has support from a majority in parliament. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned Israel’s highest court to nullify the deal and bar Mr Netanyahu from leading the government, citing criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel’s attorney general Avichai Mandelblit wrote to the court saying there was insufficient legal ground to disqualify Mr Netanyahu. He described the case as a “head-on collision” between “on one side the most basic democratic principle of honouring the will of the majority . . . [and] on the other integrity in public service, specifically among elected officials”. Eleven judges, wearing face masks and separated by screens as coronavirus precautions, presided over the discussion. A small group outside the court, also following physical-distancing guidelines, carried signs and Israeli flags to protest against government corruption. Some Israeli analysts have said the court, cast by Netanyahu loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Mr Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and says he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Mr Netanyahu’s trial is due to start on May 24th. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. But several legal experts say there are precedents suggesting elected officials indicted with charges that carry moral turpitude should resign. – Reuters Stay on top of the latest newsSIGN UP HERE
3 May 14:46 • The Irish Times • https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/middle-east/israel-s-supreme-court-mulls-netanyahu-s-fate-as-prime-minister-1.4244005Rating: 1.99
Israel's Supreme Court discusses Netanyahu's fate as prime minister
JERUSALEM: Israel's Supreme Court began a two-day hearing on Sunday (May 3) to determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been indicted for corruption, will be allowed to form a new government. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election, the fourth since April 2019, as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout. Netanyahu and his main rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement last month to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel after three elections that neither of them won. In power for more than a decade and currently head of a caretaker government, right-wing Netanyahu will serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz, according to the unity deal. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned the country's highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel's Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit said there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. Some Israeli analysts have said the court, cast by Netanyahu loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and has said that he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu's trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting US$264,000 worth of gifts from businessmen, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, and of promoting regulatory favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website and Israel's best-selling newspaper. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison on bribery charges and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.
3 May 16:22 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/israel-supreme-court-fate-netanyahu-prime-minister-12697944Rating: 3.25
Israel's Supreme Court discusses fate of Netanyahu-Gantz unity government
Israel's Supreme Court began a two-day hearing on Sunday to determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been indicted for corruption, will be allowed to form a new government. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election - the fourth since April 2019 - as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout. Netanyahu and his main rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement last month to form a unity government, after three elections that neither of them won. Under the agreement, they would take turns leading Israel. Right-wing Netanyahu - who has been in power for more than a decade - would serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned the country's highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel's Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit said there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. Some Israeli analysts have said the Supreme Court, cast by Netanyahu loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Israel's longest-serving prime minister was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and claims to be the victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu's trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obliged to step down until a final conviction. He is accused of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts from businessmen, and of offering regulatory favours in exchange for positive news coverage. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison on bribery charges and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.
3 May 12:59 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/israels-supreme-court-discusses-fate-125927839.htmlRating: 0.30
Top Israeli court hears challenge to Netanyahu forming government
Benjamin Netanyahu could be barred from forming a government after Israel’s high court began assessing petitions that seek to obstruct the prime minister because he is under criminal indictment. Sunday’s hearing threatens to end the political career of the country’s longest-serving leader. It could also return Israel to political crisis just two weeks after it appeared the year-long stalemate had finally been resolved. On 20 April, Netanyahu and his main rival, Benny Gantz, agreed to form a unity government. The deal, which envisions Netanyahu remaining in power for the first 18 months, after which Gantz would assume the role of prime minister for the next 18 months, follows three elections with no clear result. However, eight petitions filed by advocacy groups and opposition figures say that as a caretaker leader, Netanyahu is not protected by an Israeli law under which prime ministers are not legally obliged to step down if charged with a crime. “This is part of the difficult problem in Israel today. Corruption has become acceptable,” Eliad Shraga, the founder of the non-profit Movement for Quality Government in Israel, said in court. It would be a significant and controversial step for the courts to intervene after such a critical political agreement, especially one that was in part achieved because of the added urgency caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The virus has infected about 16,000 Israelis, killed 230, and devastated the economy. Shimi Brown, a lawyer representing Gantz’s Blue and White alliance, told the judges on Sunday it would be “improper and extremely unreasonable” for the court to rule in favour of the petitioners after such a deal was reached. In an opinion submitted to the court last week, Israel’s attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, said that while Netanyahu’s indictments raised “major difficulties”, there was no legal basis for barring him from forming a government. In January, the high court also declined to rule on whether Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, essentially deferring the decision to the electorate in March’s election. However, that vote was inconclusive, leaving the question open. Netanyahu and his allies have accused the court of overreach. Interviewed on public radio on Saturday, the energy minister, Yuval Steinitz, said that if the court ruled Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to “an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy”. On Sunday, Netanyahu’s lawyer, Michael Ravillo, told the court: “Can this composition of judges replace voters?” Meanwhile, pro-democracy protests have taken place, calling on the courts to hold the government to account. The weekly protests have been held under tight restrictions, with each protester standing two metres apart and wearing masks. A few dozen protesters gathered outside the prime minister’s residence in Jerusalem as the court convened on Sunday. The hearing was broadcast live, unusual for Israeli cases, because coronavirus restrictions meant few were allowed to attend. All 11 judges wore face masks, with clear plastic barriers separating them from each other. It is unclear when a decision will be announced. On Monday, the court will address separate petitions that question whether the Netanyahu-Gantz deal was itself legal, in part because it reduces the legally mandated four-year term to three. Netanyahu’s upcoming trial – in which he faces damning charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust – was meant to begin last month but was postponed until 24 May owing to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus in courthouses. The 70-year-old has denied any wrongdoing, describing the investigations as a “witch hunt”.
3 May 16:04 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/03/top-israeli-court-hears-challenge-to-netanyahu-forming-governmentRating: 5.39
Israel’s Supreme Court discusses Netanyahu’s fate as Prime Minister
Israel’s Supreme Court began two-day hearing on Sunday to determine whether Prime Ministe Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been indicted for corruption, wil be allowed to form a new government. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a sna election, the fourth since April 2019, as the country grapple with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout. Netanyahu and his main rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement last month to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel after three elections that neither of them won. In power for more than a decade and currently head of caretaker government, right-wing Netanyahu will serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz, according to the unity deal. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned the country’s highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel’s Attorney Genera Avichai Mandelblit said there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. Some Israeli analysts have said the court, cast by Netanyah loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach o trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and has said that he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu’s trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,00 worth of gifts from businessmen, which prosecutors said include cigars and champagne, and of promoting regulatory favours and alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website an Israel’s best-selling newspaper. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison o bribery charges and a maximum three-year term for fraud an breach of trust.
3 May 09:28 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/israels-supreme-court-discusses-netanyahus-fate-as-prime-minister-6391723/Rating: 0.30
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his election rival Benny Gantz agreed to a power-sharing deal last month
1 / 3Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his election rival Benny Gantz agreed to a power-sharing deal last month (AFP Photo/Oded Balilty, JACK GUEZ) Jerusalem (AFP) - Israel's top court Sunday started hearing arguments to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government as he faces a criminal trial on corruption charges. The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel's parliament. Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government and left the country in a grinding political deadlock. "Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed," Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings. "Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement," she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with COVID-19 precautions. The hearing was broadcast live on the court website. Neither Netanyahu, the right-wing premier in power since 2009, nor the centrist ex-military chief Gantz, was able after a March election to form a viable governing coalition in the deeply divided 120-seat Knesset. They agreed to a power-sharing deal last month, aiming to avert a fourth poll that is opposed across the political spectrum. - Netanyahu indictments - Under the three-year coalition deal, the government's first six months will be dedicated primarily to combatting the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 16,000 Israelis and ravaged the economy. But eight separate petitions to the Supreme Court seek to declare the deal illegal, including one from former Gantz ally Yair Lapid, head of the opposition Yesh Atid. Lapid broke with Gantz last month when the ex-military commander was elected parliament speaker and decided to pursue a deal with Netanyahu. As a long list of lawyers representing the eight petitioners and the dozens of respondents filed in front of the judges on Sunday, Israelis in protective masks protested near the courtroom and outside Netanyahu's official Jerusalem residence. Demonstrator Tmira Stareck said that his unsuitability for another term was so blatant that there should be no need for a court hearing. "The very fact that we even need to discuss the obvious issue - a criminally-charged man forming a government is already a failure, it's already abnormal," she told AFP in Hebrew. "Would you hire someone who is criminally charged? No. You wouldn't even let him be the school janitor. Sunday's court session deals with indictments filed against Netanyahu in January. The veteran premier has been charged with accepting improper gifts and illegally trading favours in exchange for favourable media coverage. He denies wrongdoing and his trial is set to start May 24. Israeli law bars an indicted person from serving as an ordinary cabinet minister, but does not compel a criminally-charged prime minister to leave office. The complication regarding Netanyahu is that he is not currently an ordinary prime minister. He has been serving as the caretaker head of a transitional government through Israel's period of political deadlock. According to some interpretations of Israeli law, that makes Netanyahu merely a candidate to become prime minister. Interviewed on public radio Saturday, energy minister and Netanyahu ally Yuval Steinitz said that if the court rules Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to "an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy". The Gantz-Netanyahu agreement, Steinitz said, is "a necessity, the result of three election campaigns and a desire among Israelis to avoid a fourth election". - The deal's terms - The main argument against the coalition deal concerns specific provisions opponents say violate the law. The agreement sees Netanyahu serving as prime minister for 18 months, with Gantz as his "alternate", a new title in Israeli governance. They will swap roles midway through the deal before likely taking voters back to the polls in 36 months. But Israeli law traditionally endows governments with four-year mandates, an issue pounced on by the deal's opponents. There is also a provision freezing certain public appointments during the government's initial six-month pandemic emergency phase, which critics also say is illegal. An opinion delivered to the Supreme Court this week by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who indicted Netanyahu, said that while "certain arrangements in the coalition agreement raise major difficulties... at this time there are no grounds to disqualify (it)." He advised that problematic provisions be reviewed "at the implementation stage".
3 May 14:49 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/top-israel-court-hear-bids-block-coalition-deal-034248961.htmlRating: 0.30
Israel's Supreme Court discusses Netanyahu's fate as prime minister
1 / 5FILE PHOTO: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks as he chairs the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel's Supreme Court began a two-day hearing on Sunday to determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's indictment on criminal charges disqualifies him from forming a new government. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election, the fourth since April 2019, as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis and its economic fallout. Netanyahu and his main rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement last month to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel after three elections that neither of them won. In power for more than a decade and currently head of a caretaker government, right-wing Netanyahu will serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz, according to the unity deal. The pact has support from a majority in parliament. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned Israel's highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel's Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit wrote to the court saying that there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. He described the case as a "head-on collision" between "on one side the most basic democratic principle of honouring the will of the majority ... (and) on the other integrity in public service, specifically among elected officials." Eleven justices, wearing face masks and separated by screens as coronavirus precautions, presided over the discussion. A small group outside the court, also following social distancing guidelines, carried signs and Israeli flags to protest against government corruption. Some Israeli analysts have said the court, cast by Netanyahu loyalists as liberal and interventionist, was unlikely to bar the premier from heading a new government. A ruling is expected to be announced by Thursday. Netanyahu, Israel's longest-serving prime minister, was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and says he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu's trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. But legal some experts say there are legal precedents suggesting elected officials indicted with charges that carry moral turpitude should resign. (Reporting by Ari Rabinovitch; Editing by Maayan Lubell and Edmund Blair)
3 May 08:06 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/israels-supreme-court-discusses-netanyahus-080640875.htmlRating: 0.30
Two teenagers charged with murder of NHS worker David Gomoh
3 May 17:17
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Two teenagers charged with murder of NHS worker David Gomoh
Two teenagers have been charged with the murder of David Gomoh, the NHS worker killed outside his home in east London, Scotland Yard said. Gomoh, 24, who worked for Barts Health NHS trust in supplies and procurement, was stabbed to death in Newham just days before he was due to attend the funeral of his father, who died from a coronavirus-related illness. Muhammad Jalloh, 18, from Stratford, in Newham, and a 16-year-old boy, from Telford, in Shropshire, were both charged with murder on Sunday. The teenagers were also charged with conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm in connection with an alleged incident against a different person shortly before Gomoh was found stabbed on 26 April. Both will appear at Thames magistrates court on Monday. Gomoh’s mother, Marian, also works for the NHS as a matron at Newham hospital. A fundraising page has been set up by her colleagues to help with the costs of her son’s funeral. A statement on the page reads: “A mother should never have to bury her own child, especially just after the death of her husband. “Sister Marian has helped so many of us in the NHS, she has practised as both a nurse and midwife for over 20 years and is a credit to the service. She is currently matron of labour ward, where she goes above and beyond to support her staff with any problems they present to her.“Her life has been suddenly turned upside down and this is a chance for us to show our support and gratitude.” Gomoh was allegedly attacked in Freemasons Road by a group of four to five males moments after he left his home close to the NHS Nightingale hospital at the ExCel centre at 10.45pm. Gomoh was on the phone to a friend when he was attacked and had not been involved in any argument, police said.
3 May 17:17 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2020/may/03/two-teenagers-charged-with-murder-nhs-worker-david-gomohRating: 5.39
David Gomoh stabbing: Two teens charged with murder
Two teenagers have been charged with murdering an NHS worker who was stabbed to death days after his father died with coronavirus. David Gomoh, 24, was attacked after leaving his home in Newham, east London, on 26 April. Muhammad Jalloh, 18, of Stratford, Newham, and a boy, 16, from Telford, Shropshire, are charged with murder. They are also charged with conspiracy to cause GBH and are due to appear at Thames Magistrates' Court on Monday. Police said a post-mortem examination found Southbank University graduate Mr Gomoh was stabbed in the chest and abdomen. Mr Gomoh, whose mother is a nurse, worked for the NHS helping to supply staff with essential equipment. The Met said he was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died after contracting Covid-19.
3 May 16:36 • BBC News • https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-52523940Rating: 4.85
Telford boy, 16, charged with murdering young NHS worker in London
A Telford teenager has been charged with the murder of a 24-year-old man in London. Victim David Gomoh was found stabbed, in Newham, on April 26, just days before the funeral of his father, who died of a coronavirus-related illness. Detectives from the Metropolitan Police arrested a 16-year-old youth at an address in Telford, on Saturday. He and Muhammad Jalloh, aged 18, of London, have now both been charged with murder. They were also charged with conspiracy to cause grievous bodily harm in connection with an alleged incident against a different person shortly before Mr Gomoh was found with fatal injuries, in Freemasons Road, Newham. The teenagers are due to appear at Thames Magistrates Court on Monday. Mr Gomoh, was a health service key worker, helping to keep NHS staff supplied with equipment.
3 May 17:47 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/2020/05/03/telford-teen-16-charged-with-murdering-young-nhs-worker/Rating: 0.30
Teenagers charged with murdering NHS worker
David Gomoh, 24, died after being stabbed in Newham, east London, on April 26. Two teenagers have been charged with the murder of an NHS worker in east London. David Gomoh, 24, died after being stabbed in Newham on April 26. Muhammad Jalloh, 18, and a 16-year-old boy from Telford in Shropshire, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were charged with his death on Sunday. They were also charged with conspiracy to cause GBH in connection with another alleged incident shortly before Mr Gomoh was found with knife wounds in Freemasons Road. Mr Gomoh was working for the NHS at the time of his death, supplying staff with equipment. The teenagers are due to appear at Thames Magistrates Court on Monday May 4.
3 May 17:13 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/teenagers-charged-with-murdering-nhs-worker/Rating: 0.30
Two teens are charged with the murder of NHS supply worker David Gomoh, 24, who was stabbed to death in east London just days after his father died from coronavirus
Two teenage boys have been charged with the murder of NHS worker David Gomoh. The 24-year-old was stabbed to death a short distance from his home in Newham, east London on April 26, just days after his father passed away from coronavirus. Muhammad Jalloh, 18, from Newham and a 16-year-old boy from Telford, Shropshire are charged with the murder and will appear at Thames Magistrates' Court on Monday. The pair, who had been in custody following their arrests over the weekend, are also charged with conspiracy to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) in a seperate incident involving a different person. According to post-mortem examination, Mr Gomoh was struck in the chest and abdomen, with the fatal incident taking place on Freemasons Road, Newham at around 10.25pm last Sunday. The 24-year-old's death also occurred days before the funeral of his father, Ken, who died from coronavirus in the days leading up to the attack on his son. Mr Gomoh was an NHS worker, like his mother Marian, 53, and helped to supply his colleagues with essential equipment during the global crisis. Earlier this week, Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: 'Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her father and brother. Both are heartbroken. 'At this time we believe the only thing David did to be murdered was walk down the street.' Earlier this week, Ms Gomoh told the MailOnline: 'My son was not able to bury his father and we lost them both so close to each other. You cannot imagine how devastated the whole family is. 'For any family one death is bad enough but to suffer two in short a short space of time is so painful that I cannot put it into words. 'I am devastated, we all are and it's difficult to be strong at this time, but we are trying.'
3 May 19:02 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8282725/Teenage-pair-charged-murder-NHS-worker-David-Gomoh-stabbed-death-week.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Teenagers charged with murdering NHS worker
Two teenagers have been charged with the murder of an NHS worker in east London. David Gomoh, 24, died after being stabbed in Newham on April 26. Muhammad Jalloh, 18, and a 16-year-old boy from Telford in Shropshire, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were charged with his death on Sunday. They were also charged with conspiracy to cause GBH in connection with another alleged incident shortly before Mr Gomoh was found with knife wounds in Freemasons Road. Mr Gomoh was working for the NHS at the time of his death, supplying staff with equipment. The teenagers are due to appear at Thames Magistrates Court on Monday May 4.
3 May 17:13 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/teenagers-charged-with-murdering-nhs-worker/Rating: 0.30
Gun dealer charged with murdering his solicitor wife who was shot dead while their twin sons, 8, were at home
A GUN dealer has been charged with the murder of his solicitor wife after she was shot while their eight-year-old twin sons were at home with her. Peter Hartshorne-Jones, 51, is due in court today accused of fatally wounding Silke Hartshorne-Jones at their farmhouse in Barham, Suffolk, on Sunday. The solicitor lived in the 17th century property with her husband and their boys. Neighbours have told how the boys were taken away by police in the early hours of Sunday. The property remained cordoned off by police on Monday. A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: "It's a tragedy what's happened. We're a close community here." Kevin Terry, 53, who lives next door, said: "There didn’t seem to be any movement or anyone coming and going before the police arrived. “But it later showed police taking away the two boys in a car while an officer appeared to be restraining a man." Mrs Hartshorne-Jones worked as a solicitor in London, her LinkedIn profile said, describing her as multilingual and qualified to work in England, Wales and Germany. Mr Hartshorne-Jones runs his own business called Hartshorne Fine English Shotguns, selling what his website describes as “the finest sporting English and Scottish shotguns”. He also has a recruitment company providing staff for the catering industry. Land Registry records reveal that Mr and Mrs Hartshorne-Jones bought their home including a one acre paddock for £460,000 in October 2015. Hartshorne-Jones will appear before Ipswich Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.
3 May 16:07 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11538954/gun-dealer-charged-murdering-solicitor-wife/Rating: 2.72
Teens charged with murdering NHS worker days after his dad died with coronavirus
Two teenagers have been charged with murder after an NHS worker was stabbed to death in east London. David Gomoh, 24, was attacked just seconds away from his home on Freemasons Road, Newham, just before 10.30pm on April 26. His dad died just days earlier from a coronavirus-related illness. He had been working for the NHS at the time of his death, supplying staff with equipment. Police said he was ambushed by a gang of masked assailants in a ‘ferocious’ attack. Muhammad Jalloh, 18, and a boy, 16, not named for legal reasons, from Telford in Shropshire, have now been charged with causing his death. They were also charged with conspiracy to cause GBH in connection with another alleged incident shortly before Mr Gomoh was found suffering from knife wounds. Both teenagers are due to appear at Thames Magistrates Court on Monday, May 4. Mr Gomoh’s family had already been grieving for his father when they received the news of his death. His mother also works for the NHS as a nurse. Discussing the case, Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: ‘David’s family are going through unimaginable torment. Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her brother and father, both are now heartbroken. ‘David was a young man who had worked hard to put himself through university and, like his mother, worked hard for the community in the NHS.’ Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 20:16 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/two-teens-charged-stabbing-nhs-worker-death-days-dad-died-coronavirus-12649330/Rating: 2.18
Two teenagers arrested over murder of NHS worker
Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a young NHS worker. David Gomoh, 24, was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, last weekend. He was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died of a coronavirus-related illness. A 19-year-old man was arrested in Stratford, east London, on Friday, and another aged 16 was detained at an address in Telford, Shropshire, on Saturday morning. Both remain in custody. The attack took place in Freemasons Road, Newham, near Mr Gomoh’s home at around 10.25pm on Sunday April 26. The Southbank University marketing graduate was a health service key worker, helping to keep NHS staff supplied with equipment. His mother is a nurse. Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: “David’s family are going through unimaginable torment. “Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her father and brother. “Both are heartbroken.” Crediting Mr Gomoh’s hard work at university and in the NHS, Mr Kirk added: “At this time we believe the only thing David did to be murdered was walk down the street.” Scotland Yard are appealing for anyone with any information about the attack to contact them.
3 May 12:33 • Jersey Evening Post • https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/two-teenagers-arrested-over-murder-of-nhs-worker/Rating: 0.38
Young woman fighting for life after being slashed in the stomach in North London
A YOUNG woman is fighting for her life after being slashed in the stomach with a knife in North West London last night. Police were called to Lawrence Way in Neasden at 11.30pm on Saturday after reports of people fighting in the street. The victim, aged in her 20s, was rushed to hospital with knife wounds to her abdomen by London Ambulance Service. She is currently in a critical condition, the Met Police said. No arrests have been made and the investigation is still ongoing. Witnesses or those with information can call 101 citing the reference CAD 8620/2 May. The woman is yet to another victim of London's out-of-control knife crime epidemic. Last year, there were 149 murder probes in the capital, which was the highest total since 2008. Of those stabbed to death, 23 were teens, up from 16 in 2018. Knife crime offences recorded by police in England and Wales last year were the highest on record, the Office for National Statistics said. Police recorded 45,627 offences in 2019 - which was a jump of seven per cent on the previous year. But the true total is likely to be significantly higher because the figures do not include Greater Manchester Police due to IT issues. The areas with the highest rate of knife crime were London, West Yorkshire and the West Midlands. Offences included in the figures were homicide, attempted murder, threats to kill, assault with injury, assault with intent to cause serious harm, robbery, rape and sexual assault.
3 May 11:15 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11537876/woman-slashed-stomach-north-london/Rating: 2.72
Kentucky toddler found in road wearing only a diaper
MONTICELLO, Ky. (WVLT/WYMT) -- Kentucky officials said a child under the age of two was found on a Monticello road wearing only a diaper. Deputies with the Wayne County Sheriff's Department responded to the area after receiving a report of a small child on the road. When deputies arrived they saw a child being taken care of by two people who said they found the child. According to reports, officials found the child's home and had to make multiple loud knocks before the door was answered. James Roberts said he was the child's father and had reportedly laid down to take a nap with the child around noon. According to reports, Roberts said he did not know the child had gotten out of bed. Deputies said the father admitted to using marijuana on a regular basis but said he had not on that day, Roberts was charged and arrested for wanton endangerment in the 1st degree. Roberts was sent to the Wayne County Detention Center.
3 May 13:17 • WVLT • https://www.wvlt.tv/content/news/Kentucky-toddler-found-on-road-wearing-only-a-diaper--570156251.htmlRating: 0.30
Police investigate attempted murder after man slashed outside Kilmarnock nursery
Detectives have launched an attempted murder probe after a man was slashed outside a Kilmarnock nursery last night. The 28-year-old was attacked at the rear of a nursery school in Craigie Road at around 9.20pm before making his way back to a flat on Jeffrey Street. The man was rushed to Crosshouse Hospital where he was treated for injuries including slash wounds. Officials say he remains in a critical but stable condition. Today, the surrounding area, including Turnberry Drive remain sealed off by cops as they continue their investigation. Detective sergeant Andrea Templeton, East Ayrshire CID, said: "From our enquiries so far, it appears that the man was attacked to the rear of a nearby nursery school in Craigie Street and then managed to make his way to a flat in Jeffrey Street where an ambulance and police were called. "At this time we are still trying to establish why he was attacked and so would appeal to anyone who saw what happened, or who may have any information, CCTV or dash-cam footage that may assist our enquiry to come forward. "Although the area is quite open, it's near Riccarton Park, there may have been people about who saw what happened or the injured man, who was wearing a dark coloured 'gilet' and a grey jumper. "Information can be passed to East Ayrshire CID, Kilmarnock Police Station, via 101. Please quote reference number 4218 of 2 May 2020 when calling. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
3 May 10:13 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/police-investigate-attempted-murder-after-21966154Rating: 0.35
Police search for two suspects in east end shooting
Toronto police are searching for two suspects following a shooting in the city’s east end. Police were called to the area of Tower Drive and Lawrence Avenue East around 11 p.m. following reports of shots being fired. Upon arriving on the scene they discovered a victim suffering from what they describe as “very serious” injuries. He was taken to a trauma centre via an emergency run. Police say one of suspects fled the scene on foot. He’s described as a black male with baggy jeans and a hoodie. The second suspect fled the scene in a white car.
3 May 03:41 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/02/police-search-for-two-suspects-in-east-end-shooting/Rating: 0.61
One person seriously injured in Scarborough shooting
One person has been rushed to a hospital after a shooting in Scarborough Saturday evening. It happened in the area of Lawrence Avenue East and Tower Drive, west of Warden Avenue, at around 10:45 p.m. Upon arrival, Toronto police said officers located a male victim suffering from serious injuries. Police said they are looking for two suspects. One suspect fled the area on foot while the other fled in a white car. Anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers.
3 May 03:05 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/one-person-seriously-injured-in-scarborough-shooting-1.4922597Rating: 1.66
Man charged with murder after woman’s body found in garage
A man is due in court today, charged over the alleged murder of his partner who was found dead in a Sydney garage. Police made the grim discovery around 1.10pm on Saturday, after being called to a home on Timbaram Way in Woodcroft following a concern for welfare. Upon arrival, the body of a 69-year-old woman was located in the garage. A crime scene was established at the home and following investigations, police arrested a 73-year-old man at Richmond Railway Station about 3.30pm. He was taken to Windsor Police Station and charged with murder (DV). “Police will allege the man and woman were in a domestic relationship” NSW Police said in a statement. The man was refused bail and is due to appear before Parramatta Bail Court today.
3 May 00:49 • myGC.com.au • http://www.mygc.com.au/man-charged-with-murder-after-womans-body-found-in-garage/Rating: 0.30
Teenager suspected of murdering young NHS worker arrested in Telford
David Gomoh, 24, was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, just days before the funeral of his father. A teenager has been arrested in Telford on suspicion of murdering a young NHS worker in London. The man, aged 16, is suspected of killing 24-year-old David Gomoh who was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, last weekend. Mr Gomoh was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died of a coronavirus-related illness. The 16-year-old suspect was detained at a residential address in Telford on Saturday morning, the Metropolitan Police said. A second murder suspect, aged 19, was arrested in Stratford, east London, on Friday. Both remained in custody on Saturday afternoon. The attack took place in Freemasons Road, Newham, near Mr Gomoh’s home at around 10.25pm on Sunday April 26. The Metropolitan Police say Mr Gomoh was on the phone to a female friend when he was attacked and had not been involved in any argument. He was approached by a group of men wearing masks and was stabbed multiple times in a "ferocious assault" which is believed to have been totally unprovoked. A post mortem examination gave the cause of death as stab wounds to the chest and abdomen. Police believe the knifemen left the scene in a stolen silver Dodge Caliber which was found dumped half a mile away and are appealing for anyone who saw the car before or after the attack to come forward. The Southbank University marketing graduate was a health service key worker, helping to keep NHS staff supplied with equipment. His mother is a nurse. Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: “David’s family are going through unimaginable torment. “Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her father and brother. “Both are heartbroken.” Crediting Mr Gomoh’s hard work at university and in the NHS, Mr Kirk added: “At this time we believe the only thing David did to be murdered was walk down the street. “David and his mother, who have done so much to help the community, now need the public to come forward and tell us what they know. "If you have any information, please think of this young man and the suffering of his family and call us. "If you don’t want to give your name, call Crimestoppers, but do make that call. David’s family deserve both answers and justice.”
2 May 19:16 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/crime/2020/05/02/teenager-suspected-of-murdering-young-nhs-worker-arrested-in-telford/Rating: 0.30
David Gomoh stabbing: Two held on suspicion of murder
Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of murdering an NHS worker who was stabbed to death days after his father died with coronavirus. David Gomoh, 24, was attacked seconds after leaving his home in Newham, east London, on 26 April. Police said Mr Gomoh's family were "going through unimaginable torment". A 19-year-old man arrested in Stratford on Friday and a 16-year-old boy detained in Telford, Shropshire, on Saturday, remain in custody. Mr Gomoh, whose mother is a nurse, was attacked on Freemasons Road, close to the junction with Kerry Close, at about 22:25 BST. The Southbank University graduate worked for the NHS helping to supply staff with essential equipment. Police said Mr Gomoh was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died after contracting Covid-19. Det Insp Tony Kirk said: "David's family are going through unimaginable torment. "Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son - his sister has lost her father and brother. Both are now heartbroken." He added: "David and his mother, who have done so much to help the community, now need the public to come forward and tell us what they know." Police urged anyone with information about a stolen silver Dodge Caliber which was abandoned at about 22:30 in Lincoln Road, to come forward. Officers said the car, which had a temporary wheel on the front passenger side, was stolen in Dagenham on 16 April and was on cloned plates when it was recovered.
2 May 12:33 • BBC News • https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-52514517Rating: 4.85
Dundee street collapse victim believed to be local 67-year-old
Formal identification of the victim is yet to take place, but he is understood to be a 67-year-old who lived close to the area of Kinghorne Road where he was found lying on Thursday afternoon. Police Scotland said on Saturday: “Officers in Dundee believe they have identified a man found collapsed on Kinghorne Road, Dundee, who sadly died on the way to hospital. “Formal identification has yet to take place, however, the family of a 67-year-old local man has been informed and the death is not being treated as suspicious, but remains unexplained pending a post mortem. “The man was found lying on Kinghorne Road around 2.15pm on Thursday April 30. “The Scottish Ambulance Service and local officers attended and the man was pronounced dead en route to hospital.” They added: “Officers would like to thank members of the public who helped the man when he was found collapsed and all those who responded to the appeal to identify him. “Police Scotland is continuing to ask anyone who may have information about him or his movements on the day he was found to come forward. “If you can help please call 101, quoting incident number 1816 of April 30.”
2 May 15:18 • The Courier • https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/local/dundee/1305280/breaking-news-dundee-street-collapse-victim-believed-to-be-local-67-year-old/Rating: 0.30
East Kilbride woman, 33, found dead in house as man arrested and police continue probe
A MAN has been arrested after a woman died in an East Kilbride home. Emergency services raced to Park Terrace after the alarm was raised on Thursday, April 30. The 33-year-old woman was found dead within a property on the street. Cop enquiries are still ongoing to establish the cause of death. But officers confirmed a man, 35, has been arrested. A police spokeswoman said: “A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death of a 33-year-old woman within a property on Park Terrace in East Kilbride on Thursday, 30 April, 2020. "Enquiries into the circumstance surrounding the death are ongoing. A post-mortem will be carried out in due course to establish the cause of death.” scoop@thesun.co.uk
2 May 09:25 • The Scottish Sun • https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/5554191/east-kilbride-woman-dead-man-arrested-police/Rating: 0.30
First picture of woman found dead in East Kilbride home as cops charge man with murder
A man has been arrested in connection with the murder of woman in her home. Police were called to a property in Park Terrace, East Kilbride, during the coronavirus lockdown on Thursday, April 30. Cops had attended the property at around 4.30pm on the day, after concerns for the occupant were reported. The body of Louise Aitchison was discovered inside. The 33-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Following a post-mortem today, her death is now being treated as murder. A 35-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with the death and is due to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday, 4 May. Officers are still appealing for information, so they can establish exactly what happened to Miss Aitchison. Detective Inspector Sandy MacKinnon, of Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts are with Louise's family at this incredibly difficult time and we are keeping them fully updated on the progress of our enquiries. "As we continue to seek answers for them, I urge anyone who may have information which could be relevant to contact us or Crimestoppers as soon as possible." Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1951 of April 30. Crime prevention charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
2 May 16:14 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/first-picture-woman-found-dead-21963696Rating: 0.35
Man, 35, charged with murder of East Kilbride woman Louise Aitchison
A man has been charged with murder following the death of a 33-year-old woman East Kilbride woman. Officers attended an address in Park Terrace, West Mains around 4.30pm on Thursday, April 30, after concerns for the occupant were reported to police. Louise Aitchison, aged 33, was found within her home and pronounced dead at the scene by the Scottish Ambulance Service. Following a post-mortem today her death is now being treated as murder. A 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with Louise’s death and is due to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday, May 4. Detective Inspector Sandy MacKinnon of the Major Investigation Team said: “Our thoughts are with Louise’s family at this incredibly difficult time and we are keeping them fully updated on the progress of our enquiries. "As we continue to seek answers for them, I urge anyone who may have information which could be relevant to contact us or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.” Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1951 of 30 April, or report this anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
2 May 15:43 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/man-35-charged-murder-east-21963446Rating: 0.35
N.B. RCMP arrest man after woman found dead; homicide investigation ensues
HALIFAX -- New Brunswick RCMP have arrested a man following the discovery of a deceased woman on Saturday morning. On Saturday, at around 10:20 a.m., police responded to a report of a woman who was possibly dead at a residence along Main Street in Hillsborough. Police say when they arrived on the scene, they discovered a woman – confirming she was deceased. Shortly after the discovery, police searched for a man a few kilometres from the residence. Police say the man was driving and was pulled over and arrested. The man remains in custody. Meanwhile, the RCMP major crime unit is investigating the woman’s death as a homicide. Police add that more information will be released on Sunday – there is no risk to the public.
2 May 16:51 • Atlantic • https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/n-b-rcmp-arrest-man-after-woman-found-dead-homicide-investigation-ensues-1.4922130Rating: 0.30
Police arrest two men on suspicion of murdering NHS worker who was stabbed to death days before funeral of his father who died from coronavirus
Police have arrested two men on suspicion of murdering an NHS worker who was tragically stabbed two days before his father's funeral. The Metropolitan Police arrested a 19-year-old man in Stratford on Friday afternoon after arresting a 17-year-old boy in Telford, Shropshire, on suspicion of murdering NHS worker David Gomoh. David Gomoh, 24, was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, just two days before he was supposed to attend his father's funeral who had died of coronavirus. The family have gone through 'unimaginable pain' after David's father, Ken Gomoh, died of coronavirus only to be followed by David being stabbed 100 metres outside his house on April 26. David staggered to his home with his stab wounds and shouted 'mum help me' before neighbours rushed to him and medics rushed him to hospital. David was a supply chain worker for the NHS at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London and his mother is a labour ward matron at Newham University Hospital. On April 29 Police released a photo of the stolen silver Dodge Caliber that was used by David's killers found abandoned minutes after the stabbing, half a mile away in Lincoln Road, Plaistow. The car, which was stolen in Dagenham on April 16, had fake number plates and had previously been driven through a no entry sign from Cumberland Road. Police believe he was murdered in murdered in a 'totally unprovoked attack'. Detective Inspector Tony Kirk of the Met Police Specialist Crime Command said: 'David's family are going through unimaginable torment. 'Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son; his sister has lost her brother and father, both are now heartbroken. 'David was a young man who had worked hard to put himself through university and, like his mother, worked hard for the community in the NHS.' David's death came on a weekend where, in a separate incident, a man in his 30s was stabbed to death in the Midlands, and in another incident, on Saturday, a man died following an incident in Hackney. Pictured below is Karl Gallagher, 31, who suffered a stab wound to his heart after an incident outside West Cross Shopping Centre in Smethwick, West Midlands. He died following the incident, which took place 4.40pm on Sunday, April 26. Eight people have been arrested after police launched a murder investigation. Mr Gallagher's death came as Britain endured a weekend of bloodshed that left two others dead and a 16-year-old boy fighting for his life in hospital. Police say two men aged 19, as well as a 21-year-old and a 20-year-old have been arrested on suspicion of murder. Three others men, aged 20, 21 and 22, have been held on suspicion of assisting an offender. A 24-year-old man has also been held on suspicion of obstructing police. Officers say they raided six properties overnight, and continue to examine CCTV and mobile phone footage from the scene of the stabbing. Detective Chief Inspector Jim Munro said: 'We've made significant progress over the past 24 hours and are building up a clearer picture of the events of Sunday afternoon.' Also at the weekend, a 16-year-old boy was left in a critical condition after two separate knife attacks in the West Midlands.
2 May 12:38 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8280297/Police-arrest-two-men-suspicion-stabbing-NHS-worker.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Police identify man found collapsed on Dundee street as death remains 'unexplained'
Police officers have identified a man found collapsed in a street in Dundee. The 67-year-old man, who was local to the city, died on his way to hospital after being found lying on Kinghorne Road on Thursday. Formal identification has yet to take place, however, the 67-year-old's family has been informed and the death is not being treated as suspicious, but remains unexplained pending a post mortem. Officers would like to thank members of the public who helped the man when he was found collapsed and all those who responded to the appeal to identify him. Police Scotland is continuing to ask anyone who may have information about him or his movements on the day he was found to come forward. If you can help please call 101, quoting incident number 1816 of 30 April, 2020.
2 May 15:05 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/police-identify-man-found-collapsed-21963416Rating: 0.35
Two arrested over murder of NHS worker David Gomoh
Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of NHS worker David Gomoh. The 24-year-old was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, last weekend. He was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died after contracting Covid-19. A 19-year-old man was arrested in Stratford, east London, on Friday, and another aged 16 was detained at an address in Telford, Shropshire, on Saturday morning. Both remain in custody. The attack took place in Freemasons Road, Newham, near Mr Gomoh’s home at around 10.25pm on Sunday, April 26. The Metropolitan Police say Mr Gomoh was on the phone to a female friend when he was attacked and had not been involved in any argument. The Southbank University marketing graduate was a health service key worker, helping to keep NHS staff supplied with equipment. His mother is a nurse. Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: “David’s family are going through unimaginable torment. “Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her father and brother. “Both are heartbroken.” Crediting Mr Gomoh’s hard work at university and in the NHS, Mr Kirk added: “At this time we believe the only thing David did to be murdered was walk down the street.” Scotland Yard are appealing for anyone with any information about the attack to contact them.
2 May 14:31 • Wales Online • https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/two-arrested-over-murder-nhs-18189685Rating: 0.62
Two teenagers arrested over murder of NHS worker
Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a young NHS worker. David Gomoh, 24, was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, last weekend. He was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died of a coronavirus-related illness. A 19-year-old man was arrested in Stratford, east London, on Friday, and another aged 16 was detained at an address in Telford, Shropshire, on Saturday morning. Both remain in custody. The attack took place in Freemasons Road, Newham, near Mr Gomoh’s home at around 10.25pm on Sunday April 26. The Metropolitan Police say Mr Gomoh was on the phone to a female friend when he was attacked and had not been involved in any argument. The Southbank University marketing graduate was a health service key worker, helping to keep NHS staff supplied with equipment. His mother is a nurse. Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: “David’s family are going through unimaginable torment. “Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her father and brother. “Both are heartbroken.” Crediting Mr Gomoh’s hard work at university and in the NHS, Mr Kirk added: “At this time we believe the only thing David did to be murdered was walk down the street.” Scotland Yard are appealing for anyone with any information about the attack to contact them.
2 May 11:56 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/two-teenagers-arrested-over-murder-of-nhs-worker/Rating: 0.30
Two teenagers arrested over murder of NHS worker
David Gomoh, 24, was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, just days before the funeral of his father. Two teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of the murder of a young NHS worker. David Gomoh, 24, was stabbed to death in Newham, east London, last weekend. He was killed just days before the funeral of his father, who died of a coronavirus-related illness. A 19-year-old man was arrested in Stratford, east London, on Friday, and another aged 16 was detained at an address in Telford, Shropshire, on Saturday morning. Both remain in custody. The attack took place in Freemasons Road, Newham, near Mr Gomoh’s home at around 10.25pm on Sunday April 26. The Metropolitan Police say Mr Gomoh was on the phone to a female friend when he was attacked and had not been involved in any argument. The Southbank University marketing graduate was a health service key worker, helping to keep NHS staff supplied with equipment. His mother is a nurse. Detective Inspector Tony Kirk said: “David’s family are going through unimaginable torment. “Within days his mother has seen the death of her husband and son, his sister has lost her father and brother. “Both are heartbroken.” Crediting Mr Gomoh’s hard work at university and in the NHS, Mr Kirk added: “At this time we believe the only thing David did to be murdered was walk down the street.” Scotland Yard are appealing for anyone with any information about the attack to contact them.
2 May 11:55 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/two-teenagers-arrested-over-murder-of-nhs-worker/Rating: 0.30
Syrian tycoon decries 'inhumane' security forces in unprecedented criticism
3 May 13:11
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Syrian tycoon decries 'inhumane' security forces in unprecedented criticism
AMMAN (Reuters) - Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf said on Sunday that security forces were arresting employees at his companies “in an inhumane way” amid pressure on him to step down from his business empire and pay millions of dollars in tax. Makhlouf, a cousin of President Bashar al-Assad and widely considered part of the president’s inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. He played a big role in financing Assad’s war effort, Western officials have said. “Today pressures began in an unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees,” Makhlouf said in a video in an unprecedented attack on the powerful security forces by one of the country’s most influential figures. “Mr President (Assad), the security forces have started attacking people’s freedoms. These are your loyal supporters... The situation is dangerous and by God, if we continue, the situation of the country will be very difficult,” Makhlouf said. The security forces did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Makhlouf said in the video he had been asked to step down from his companies, including Syriatel, the main mobile operator and main source of revenue for the sanctions-hit government. “I have been asked today to step down from my companies and take instructions while I close my eyes. Authority is not given to put pressure on people to give in,” he said. “Did anyone expect the security forces would pounce on Rami Makhlouf’s companies who were their biggest supporters and their patron during the war?” He said he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth. The billionaire has been under U.S. sanctions since 2008 for what Washington calls public corruption and it has since toughened measures against top businessmen who are close to him. The European Union has also slapped sanctions on Makhlouf since the Syrian conflict began in 2011, accusing him of bankrolling Assad. Makhlouf became a hated figure to many pro-democracy protesters who rose up against corruption and the authoritarian rule of Assad in March 2011. Makhlouf, who belongs to Assad’s Alawite minority sect that holds political power in Syria, owes his fortune to Assad and was seen by many Syrian businessmen and others as a front man for the president and other members of the ruling family. The tycoon was rumoured in private business circles last year to have fallen out of favour with Assad. But until a first video he released on Thursday, he had kept out of the spotlight. In Thursday’s video, Makhlouf lashed out at his critics who accuse him of monopolising sectors of the economy through political patronage, saying his businesses and a charity arm had provided thousands of jobs for Syrians. He said he would appeal to Assad to allow Syriatel to reschedule payment of taxes. He said the government’s demand for 130 billion Syrian pounds ($300 million) was “unjust” but that he would comply. Makhlouf said in Sunday’s video that he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth to powerful rivals, whom he did not name. “This is an attack on private property. What I already have is something I cannot give up,” he said defiantly.
3 May 13:11 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-syria-security-tycoon-idUSKBN22F0F3Rating: 4.04
Syrian tycoon decries 'inhumane' security forces in unprecedented criticism
AMMAN — Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf said on Sunday that security forces were arresting employees at his companies “in an inhumane way” amid pressure on him to step down from his business empire and pay millions of dollars in tax. Makhlouf, a cousin of President Bashar al-Assad and widely considered part of the president’s inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. He played a big role in financing Assad’s war effort, Western officials have said. “Today pressures began in an unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees,” Makhlouf said in a video in an unprecedented attack on the powerful security forces by one of the country’s most influential figures. “Mr President (Assad), the security forces have started attacking people’s freedoms. These are your loyal supporters… The situation is dangerous and by God, if we continue, the situation of the country will be very difficult,” Makhlouf said. The security forces did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Makhlouf said in the video he had been asked to step down from his companies, including Syriatel, the main mobile operator and main source of revenue for the sanctions-hit government. “I have been asked today to step down from my companies and take instructions while I close my eyes. Authority is not given to put pressure on people to give in,” he said. “Did anyone expect the security forces would pounce on Rami Makhlouf’s companies who were their biggest supporters and their patron during the war?” He said he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth. The billionaire has been under U.S. sanctions since 2008 for what Washington calls public corruption and it has since toughened measures against top businessmen who are close to him. The European Union has also slapped sanctions on Makhlouf since the Syrian conflict began in 2011, accusing him of bankrolling Assad. Makhlouf became a hated figure to many pro-democracy protesters who rose up against corruption and the authoritarian rule of Assad in March 2011. Makhlouf, who belongs to Assad’s Alawite minority sect that holds political power in Syria, owes his fortune to Assad and was seen by many Syrian businessmen and others as a front man for the president and other members of the ruling family. The tycoon was rumored in private business circles last year to have fallen out of favor with Assad. But until a first video he released on Thursday, he had kept out of the spotlight. In Thursday’s video, Makhlouf lashed out at his critics who accuse him of monopolizing sectors of the economy through political patronage, saying his businesses and a charity arm had provided thousands of jobs for Syrians. He said he would appeal to Assad to allow Syriatel to reschedule payment of taxes. He said the government’s demand for 130 billion Syrian pounds ($300 million) was “unjust” but that he would comply. Makhlouf said in Sunday’s video that he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth to powerful rivals, whom he did not name. “This is an attack on private property. What I already have is something I cannot give up,” he said defiantly. (Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi Editing by David Goodman and Nick Macfie)
3 May 13:03 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/syrian-tycoon-decries-inhumane-security-forces-in-unprecedented-criticismRating: 0.94
Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf decries 'inhumane' security forces
Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf said security forces were arresting employees at his companies "in an inhumane way" amid pressure on him to step down from his business empire and pay millions of dollars in tax. Makhlouf, a cousin of President Bashar al-Assad and widely considered part of the president's inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. He played a big role in financing Assad's war effort, Western officials have said. "Today pressures began in unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees," Makhlouf said on Sunday in a video in an unprecedented attack on the powerful security forces by one of the country's most influential figures. "Mr President (Assad), the security forces have started attacking people's freedoms. These are your loyal supporters ... The situation is dangerous and by God, if we continue, the situation of the country will be very difficult," Makhlouf said. The security forces made no immediate comment. Makhlouf said in the video he had been asked to step down from his companies, including Syriatel, the main mobile operator and main source of revenue for the sanctions-hit government. "I have been asked today to step down from my companies and take instructions while I close my eyes. Authority is not given to put pressure on people to give in," he said. "Did anyone expect the security forces would pounce on Rami Makhlouf's companies who were their biggest supporters and their patron during the war?" He said he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth. The billionaire has been under US sanctions since 2008 for what Washington calls public corruption and it has since toughened measures against top businessmen who are close to him. The European Union has also slapped sanctions on Makhlouf since the Syrian conflict began in 2011, accusing him of bankrolling Assad. Makhlouf became a hated figure to many pro-democracy protesters who rose up against corruption and the authoritarian rule of Assad in March 2011. Makhlouf, who belongs to Assad's Alawite minority sect that holds political power in Syria, owes his fortune to Assad and was seen by many Syrian businessmen and others as a frontman for the president and other members of the ruling family. The tycoon was rumoured in private business circles last year to have fallen out of favour with Assad. But until a first video he released on Thursday, he had kept out of the spotlight. In Thursday's video, Makhlouf lashed out at his critics who accuse him of monopolising sectors of the economy through political patronage, saying his businesses and a charity arm had provided thousands of jobs for Syrians. He said he would appeal to Assad to allow Syriatel to reschedule the payment of taxes. He said the government's demand for 130 billion Syrian pounds ($300 million) was "unjust" but that he would comply. Makhlouf said in Sunday's video that he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth to powerful rivals, whom he did not name. "This is an attack on private property. What I already have is something I cannot give up," he said defiantly.
3 May 14:51 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/syrian-tycoon-rami-makhlouf-decries-inhumane-security-forces-200503135939918.htmlRating: 2.44
Syrian tycoon decries ‘inhumane’ security forces in unprecedented criticism
Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf said on Sunday that security forces were arresting employees at his companies “in an inhumane way” amid pressure on him to step down from his business empire and pay millions of dollars in tax. Makhlouf, a cousin of President Bashar al-Assad and widely considered part of the president’s inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. He played a big role in financing Assad’s war effort, Western officials have said. “Today pressures began in an unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees,” Makhlouf said in a video in an unprecedented attack on the powerful security forces by one of the country’s most influential figures. “Mr President (Assad), the security forces have started attacking people’s freedoms. These are your loyal supporters … The situation is dangerous and by God, if we continue, the situation of the country will be very difficult,” Makhlouf said. The security forces did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Makhlouf said in the video he had been asked to step down from his companies, including Syriatel, the main mobile operator and main source of revenue for the sanctions-hit government. “I have been asked today to step down from my companies and take instructions while I close my eyes. Authority is not given to put pressure on people to give in,” he said. “Did anyone expect the security forces would pounce on Rami Makhlouf’s companies who were their biggest supporters and their patron during the war?” He said he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth. The billionaire has been under U.S. sanctions since 2008 for what Washington calls public corruption and it has since toughened measures against top businessmen who are close to him. The European Union has also slapped sanctions on Makhlouf since the Syrian conflict began in 2011, accusing him of bankrolling Assad. Makhlouf became a hated figure to many pro-democracy protesters who rose up against corruption and the authoritarian rule of Assad in March 2011. Makhlouf, who belongs to Assad’s Alawite minority sect that holds political power in Syria, owes his fortune to Assad and was seen by many Syrian businessmen and others as a front man for the president and other members of the ruling family. The tycoon was rumoured in private business circles last year to have fallen out of favour with Assad. But until a first video he released on Thursday, he had kept out of the spotlight. In Thursday’s video, Makhlouf lashed out at his critics who accuse him of monopolizing sectors of the economy through political patronage, saying his businesses and a charity arm had provided thousands of jobs for Syrians. He said he would appeal to Assad to allow Syriatel to reschedule payment of taxes. He said the government’s demand for 130 billion Syrian pounds ($300 million) was “unjust” but that he would comply. Makhlouf said in Sunday’s video that he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth to powerful rivals, whom he did not name. “This is an attack on private property. What I already have is something I cannot give up,” he said defiantly. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 13:43 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-syrian-tycoon-decries-inhumane-security-forces-in-unprecedented/Rating: 2.18
Syrian tycoon Makhlouf says security forces are arresting his employees
AMMAN: Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf on Sunday said that security forces are arresting employees at his diversified companies in what he said were "mounting pressures" on him days after Syrian authorities asked him to repay hefty taxes. "Today pressures began in unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees," Makhlouf said in a video. Makhlouf, a maternal cousin of President Bashar al-Assad and widely considered part of the president’s inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. He had played a big role in financing Assad's war effort, Western officials have said. (Reporting by Suleiman Al-Khalidi Editing by David Goodman)
3 May 13:32 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Syrian-tycoon-Makhlouf-says-security-forces-are-arresting-his-employeesRating: 3.14
Bashar al-Assad's cousin makes unprecedented public criticism of security forces amid family rift
Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf said on Sunday that security forces were arresting employees at his companies "in an inhumane way" amid pressure on him to step down from his business empire and pay millions of dollars in tax. Mr Makhlouf, a cousin of President Bashar al-Assad and widely considered part of the president’s inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. He has played a big role in financing President Assad's war effort, Western officials say. However, a major and unusually public rift has appeared between the cousins, with the alleged arrest of employees being the latest development. "Today pressures began in an unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees," Mr Makhlouf said in a video, in an unprecedented attack on the powerful security forces by one of the country's most influential figures. "Mr President [Assad], the security forces have started attacking people's freedoms. These are your loyal supporters... The situation is dangerous and by God, if we continue, the situation of the country will be very difficult," Mr Makhlouf said. The security forces did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Mr Makhlouf said in the video he had been asked to step down from his companies, including Syriatel, the country's largest mobile operator and main source of revenue for the sanctions-hit government. "I have been asked today to step down from my companies and take instructions while I close my eyes," he said. "Did anyone expect the security forces would pounce on Rami Makhlouf's companies who were their biggest supporters and their patron during the war?" He said he would not bow to pressure to hand over his wealth.
3 May 13:46 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/facebook-video-reveals-rift-within-134655147.htmlRating: 0.30
Makhlouf Says Syrian Regime Forces are Arresting his Employees
Sanctions-hit Syrian tycoon Rami Makhlouf on Sunday said that security forces are arresting employees at his diversified companies in what he said were "mounting pressures" on him days after Syrian authorities asked him to repay hefty taxes. "Today pressures began in an unacceptable ways and the security forces, in an inhumane way, are arresting our employees," Makhlouf said in a video. Makhlouf, a maternal cousin of President Bashar Assad and widely considered part of the president’s inner circle, has a business empire that ranges from telecoms and real estate to construction and oil trading. Addressing Assad in the video, Makhlouf said he had been asked to step down from the companies he runs, including Syriatel, the country's main mobile operator and main source of revenue for the sanctions-hit regime. "Did anyone expect the security forces would pounce on Rami Makhlouf's companies who were their biggest supporters and their patron during the war?" he asked. Makhlouf had played a big role in financing Assad's war effort, Western officials have said. Earlier this week, Makhlouf posted a video on Facebook pleading with Assad to prevent the collapse of his telecommunication company through what he called excessive and “unjust” taxation. The unprecedented video pries open what has been rumored as a major rift in the tight-knit Assad family, which has ruled Syria for nearly 50 years. The regime on Saturday hit back, demanding that Makhlouf comes forth with the payment of public financial dues connected to Syriatel. The Regulatory Authority for Communications and Post, which is affiliated with the Ministry of Communications and Technology, issued a warning through the authorities to the two cellular companies in Syria, one of which Makhlouf owns, and gave them until May 5 to pay more than 233 billion pounds ($334 million) to “achieve a balance in the license”, otherwise legal measures will be taken. The Authority, in a statement, said that the sums required to be paid by the two telecom companies Syriatel and MTN were calculated according to existing and clear documents and by specialized committees. “The amounts required to be paid by cellular companies are amounts due to the state in accordance with clear and existing documents, and were calculated based on the work of specialized committees in financial, economic, technical and legal affairs,” the statement said. “In order to preserve the continuing work of the cellular network and the continued provision of its services to citizens … all the reservations of the companies were taken into consideration and given the deadlines and periods requested by them,” the Authority added. “The amounts required to be paid in two phases have been calculated, the first according to the actual figures during the first five operating years of 2015 to 2019 (according to the request of the two companies and according to the published financial data) … and the second according to the expected numbers presented by each company,” it said. The statement also stressed that the amounts claimed by the Authority are due and have nothing to do with the issue of tax evasion Syriatel is being accused of. As for the tax evasion case, the statement said that it is being pursued by “competent authorities.” Disputes and intrigue are not new to the family, including feuds and defections within its inner circle, particularly in the course of the country's nine-year war. But the public airing of grievances is extremely rare, perhaps a reflection of the multitude of players vying for influence in the fractured country. His video, posted on a new Facebook page, seems to be a running public diary of the widening rift — and the fall from grace of a once-powerful tycoon. Makhlouf, who is four years younger than the 54-year-old Assad, had declared that he was stepping aside from business to focus on charity work in 2011, at the start of Syria’s conflict. But he remained associated with the regime. The billionaire has been under US sanctions since 2008 for what Washington calls public corruption and it has since toughened measures against top businessmen who are close to him. The European Union has also slapped sanctions on Makhlouf since 2011, accusing him of bankrolling Assad. He became a hated figure to many pro-democracy protesters who rose up against corruption and the authoritarian rule of Assad in March 2011. Reports first surfaced last year of troubled relations as news of a regime campaign against Makhlouf and his businesses began to trickle out. Initial reports said he was under house arrest, and then a series of stories appeared about him being fined and having his holdings confiscated. Last month, a shipment of dairy products from one of Makhlouf's businesses was confiscated in Egypt, reportedly with drugs hidden in the cargo. On his Facebook page, Makhlouf called the incident a set-up aimed at “defaming" him.
3 May 10:15 • Asharq AL-awsat • https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2265301/makhlouf-says-syrian-regime-forces-are-arresting-his-employeesRating: 2.10
Coronavirus latest: at a glance
3 May 11:08
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16 articles
Weight: 4.61
Importance: 4.78
Age penalty: 0.97
Best date: 3 May 10:28
Average US: 11.622499999999999
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Coronavirus latest: at a glance
Key developments in the global coronavirus outbreak today include: The country’s coronavirus crisis response centre reported 10,633 new cases and 58 deaths, increasing the total number of deaths to 1,280. The country confirmed 235 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, marking its biggest one-day rise of new infections, and 12 patients died overnight – bringing the total number of infections to 2,704 and death toll to 85. Parks and museums are among the facilities that could reopen soon, as long as strict preventive measures are adhered to. However, Japan’s state of emergency – which currently expires on Wednesday – is likely to be extended by another month. The health ministry announced a one-day rise of 164 deaths from coronavirus, meaning the country’s total is now 25,264. It is the smallest increase since 18 March. Meanwhile, confirmed cases of the virus in Spain rose to 217,466. The president, Hassan Rouhani, confirmed that centres of worship in around one-third of the country’s administrative divisions would be allowed to operate from Monday. He did, however, stress that “social distancing is more important than collective prayer”. Watchdogs in the US say Donald Trump’s links with donors and backers deserve scrutiny, as huge amounts of federal funds are distributed. There are concerns that, even during an unprecedented national crisis, Trump’s priorities and campaign machine often tilt towards giving donors and political allies favours, access and publicity.
3 May 11:08 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/03/coronavirus-latest-at-a-glance-Rating: 5.39
The US records its highest daily death toll as almost 20 states ease lockdown restrictions, WHO reports
The US suffered its biggest one-day death toll from the coronavirus to date on Friday, as several states are beginning to reopen parts of their economies and ease lockdown measures. According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 1 at 4 a.m. ET, the country recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours — its worst number yet. The previous record was on April 23, when the country saw 2,471 deaths in one day, according to CNBC. At the time of writing, there have been more than 67,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the US. The new figure comes as around half of US states have already partially eased lockdown restrictions, according to the BBC. Other states, including Florida, have announced they will be partially lifting stay-at-home orders on Monday, Tampa Bay Times reported. States including Georgia and Texas have already started allowing non-essential businesses to reopen. Georgia reported over 1,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on May 1, the same day Gov. Brian Kemp lifted the shelter-in-place order. State officials have been under increasing amounts of pressure, as demonstrations to reopen the economy continue to take place across the country. On Friday, protesters took to the streets in states including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The data published by the WHO is different from that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does not report historical daily coronavirus deaths, according to CNBC. On the same day of the WHO report, the agency reported 2,349 deaths from the virus. But a spokesperson told CNBC this data might not be complete because of delays in reporting, asymptomatic patients, and limited testing make it harder to track the deaths. CDC spokeswoman Kate Grusich told CNBC: "CDC does not know the exact number of COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths for a variety of reasons." New York Governor Andrew Cuomo — whose state is one of the worst-affected in the country —said on Saturday that he needs more information about the spread of the virus before loosening restrictions, Al Jazeera reported. "Even when you are in uncharted waters, it doesn't mean you proceed blindly," Cuomo said. "Use the information to determine action — not emotions, not politics, not what people think or feel, but what we know in terms of facts," he added. LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 10:28 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/us-records-highest-daily-death-toll-states-start-reopening-economy-2020-5Rating: 4.40
The US records its highest daily death toll as almost 20 states ease lockdown restrictions, WHO reports
The US suffered its biggest one-day death toll from the coronavirus to date on Friday, as several states are beginning to reopen parts of their economies and ease lockdown measures. According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 1 at 4 a.m. ET, the country recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours – its worst number yet. The previous record was on April 23, when the country saw 2,471 deaths in one day, according to CNBC. At the time of writing, there have been more than 67,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the US. The new figure comes as around half of US states have already partially eased lockdown restrictions, according to the BBC. Other states, including Florida, have announced they will be partially lifting stay-at-home orders on Monday, Tampa Bay Times reported. States including Georgia and Texas have already started allowing non-essential businesses to reopen. Georgia reported over 1,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on May 1, the same day Gov. Brian Kemp lifted the shelter-in-place order. State officials have been under increasing amounts of pressure, as demonstrations to reopen the economycontinueto take place across the country. On Friday, protesters took to the streets in states including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The data published by the WHO is different from that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does not report historical daily coronavirus deaths, according to CNBC. On the same day of the WHO report, the agency reported 2,349 deaths from the virus. But a spokesperson told CNBC this data might not be complete because of delays in reporting, asymptomatic patients, and limited testing make it harder to track the deaths. CDC spokeswoman Kate Grusich told CNBC: “CDC does not know the exact number of COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths for a variety of reasons.” New York Governor Andrew Cuomo – whose state is one of the worst-affected in the country -said on Saturday that he needs more information about the spread of the virus before loosening restrictions, Al Jazeera reported. “Even when you are in uncharted waters, it doesn’t mean you proceed blindly,” Cuomo said. “Use the information to determine action – not emotions, not politics, not what people think or feel, but what we know in terms of facts,” he added.
3 May 13:05 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/us-records-highest-daily-death-toll-states-start-reopening-economy-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
The US records its highest daily death toll as almost 20 states ease lockdown restrictions, WHO reports
The US suffered its biggest one-day death toll from the coronavirus to date on Friday, as several states are beginning to reopen parts of their economies and ease lockdown measures. According to data published by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on May 1 at 4 a.m. ET, the country recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours – its worst number yet. The previous record was on April 23, when the country saw 2,471 deaths in one day, according to CNBC. At the time of writing, there have been more than 67,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the US. The new figure comes as around half of US states have already partially eased lockdown restrictions, according to the BBC. Other states, including Florida, have announced they will be partially lifting stay-at-home orders on Monday, Tampa Bay Times reported. States including Georgia and Texas have already started allowing non-essential businesses to reopen. Georgia reported over 1,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on May 1, the same day Gov. Brian Kemp lifted the shelter-in-place order. State officials have been under increasing amounts of pressure, as demonstrations to reopen the economy continue to take place across the country. On Friday, protesters took to the streets in states including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The data published by the WHO is different from that of the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does not report historical daily coronavirus deaths, according to CNBC. On the same day of the WHO report, the agency reported 2,349 deaths from the virus. But a spokesperson told CNBC this data might not be complete because of delays in reporting, asymptomatic patients, and limited testing make it harder to track the deaths. CDC spokeswoman Kate Grusich told CNBC: “CDC does not know the exact number of COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths for a variety of reasons.” New York Governor Andrew Cuomo – whose state is one of the worst-affected in the country -said on Saturday that he needs more information about the spread of the virus before loosening restrictions, Al Jazeera reported. “Even when you are in uncharted waters, it doesn’t mean you proceed blindly,” Cuomo said. “Use the information to determine action – not emotions, not politics, not what people think or feel, but what we know in terms of facts,” he added.
3 May 10:28 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/us-records-highest-daily-death-toll-states-start-reopening-economy-2020-5Rating: 0.30
The US records its highest daily death toll as almost 20 states ease lockdown restrictions, WHO reports
The US suffered its biggest one-day death toll from the coronavirus to date on Friday, as several states are beginning to reopen parts of their economies and ease lockdown measures. According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 1 at 4 a.m. ET, the country recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours – its worst number yet. The previous record was on April 23, when the country saw 2,471 deaths in one day, according to CNBC. At the time of writing, there have been more than 67,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the US. The new figure comes as around half of US states have already partially eased lockdown restrictions, according to the BBC. Other states, including Florida, have announced they will be partially lifting stay-at-home orders on Monday, Tampa Bay Times reported. States including Georgia and Texas have already started allowing non-essential businesses to reopen. Georgia reported over 1,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on May 1, the same day Gov. Brian Kemp lifted the shelter-in-place order. State officials have been under increasing amounts of pressure, as demonstrations to reopen the economycontinueto take place across the country. On Friday, protesters took to the streets in states including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The data published by the WHO is different from that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does not report historical daily coronavirus deaths, according to CNBC. On the same day of the WHO report, the agency reported 2,349 deaths from the virus. But a spokesperson told CNBC this data might not be complete because of delays in reporting, asymptomatic patients, and limited testing make it harder to track the deaths. CDC spokeswoman Kate Grusich told CNBC: “CDC does not know the exact number of COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths for a variety of reasons.” New York Governor Andrew Cuomo – whose state is one of the worst-affected in the country -said on Saturday that he needs more information about the spread of the virus before loosening restrictions, Al Jazeera reported. “Even when you are in uncharted waters, it doesn’t mean you proceed blindly,” Cuomo said. “Use the information to determine action – not emotions, not politics, not what people think or feel, but what we know in terms of facts,” he added.
3 May 10:28 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/us-records-highest-daily-death-toll-states-start-reopening-economy-2020-5Rating: 0.30
The US records its highest daily death toll as almost 20 states ease lockdown restrictions, WHO reports, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
The US suffered its biggest one-day death toll from the coronavirus to date on Friday, as several states are beginning to reopen parts of their economies and ease lockdown measures. According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 1 at 4 a.m. ET, the country recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours – its worst number yet. The previous record was on April 23, when the country saw 2,471 deaths in one day, according to CNBC. At the time of writing, there have been more than 67,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the US. The new figure comes as around half of US states have already partially eased lockdown restrictions, according to the BBC. Other states, including Florida, have announced they will be partially lifting stay-at-home orders on Monday, Tampa Bay Times reported. States including Georgia and Texas have already started allowing non-essential businesses to reopen. Georgia reported over 1,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on May 1, the same day Gov. Brian Kemp lifted the shelter-in-place order. State officials have been under increasing amounts of pressure, as demonstrations to reopen the economycontinueto take place across the country. On Friday, protesters took to the streets in states including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The data published by the WHO is different from that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does not report historical daily coronavirus deaths, according to CNBC. On the same day of the WHO report, the agency reported 2,349 deaths from the virus. But a spokesperson told CNBC this data might not be complete because of delays in reporting, asymptomatic patients, and limited testing make it harder to track the deaths. CDC spokeswoman Kate Grusich told CNBC: “CDC does not know the exact number of COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths for a variety of reasons.” New York Governor Andrew Cuomo – whose state is one of the worst-affected in the country -said on Saturday that he needs more information about the spread of the virus before loosening restrictions, Al Jazeera reported. “Even when you are in uncharted waters, it doesn’t mean you proceed blindly,” Cuomo said. “Use the information to determine action – not emotions, not politics, not what people think or feel, but what we know in terms of facts,” he added.
3 May 10:28 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/us-records-highest-daily-death-toll-states-start-reopening-economy-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus Global Updates, 03 May: Australia eases distancing rules, Bangkok parks reopen as restrictions eased
As of May 3, the coronaviruspandemic has caused 243,808 fatalities and the confirmed cases top 3.42 million, while the number of recoveries stand at 1,093,137. United States, where the first confirmed coronavirus case emerged on January 21, continues to remain the worst affected country with 1,133,069 cases and over 66,000 deaths. As cases continue to rapidly rise in the US, many states are looking for ways to reopen businesses as the global economy plunged into its deepest slump since the 1930’s. Follow coronavirus LIVE UPDATES Meanwhile, Russia and Pakistan reported their highest one day spikes in COVID-19 infections in the last 24 hours. The number of infections in Russia crossed 124,000 and 19,000 in Pakistan Sunday. United Kingdom death toll crossed the 28,000 mark and inched closer to Italy’s to become the worst affected country in Europe in terms of coronavirus induced fatalities. In terms of infections, US is followed by Spain (216,582) , Italy (209,328), United Kingdom (183,500), France (168,518 ) Germany (164,967), Turkey (124,375 ) and Russia (124,054). Here are the latest Covid-19 developments from around the globe: The death toll from the novel coronavirus in UK hospitals, care homes and the wider community rose by 315 to hit 28,446 on Sunday, the latest government figures revealed. The latest figures indicate that the UK’s toll is now edging closer to that in Italy, one of the worst-hit countries in the pandemic where the figure stands at 28,710 this week. UK Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove announced the figures at the daily 10 Downing Street briefing as he also confirmed that Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be laying out a detailed plan next week to start easing the economy out of the current lockdown. Nepal on Sunday confirmed 10 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections to 69. Nepal is among the nations that has the least cases of coronavirus. As many as 16 COVID-19 patients have been recovered so far, a heath ministry spokesperson said. Of the 10 new coronavirus cases, one is reported from Parsa district and nine are from Banke district. The patients are aged between 7 and 58 years, the spokesperson said, adding that 13,414 coronavirus tests have been conducted so far in the country. Russia’s National Guard will deploy helicopters and drones in Moscow to monitor compliance with lockdown measures during holidays this week. There is concern that warm spring weather and a string of holidays could draw people in large numbers to leave home and gather in woodland parks. Monday and Tuesday are legal holidays and Saturday marks the 75th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany, a day that usually sees huge outdoor gatherings. Bangladesh registered its highest single-day increase in the coronavirus cases with 665 new infections in the last 24 hours, taking the total number to 9,455. Bangladesh also recorded two more deaths from the novel coronavirus in the last 24 hours, taking the total death count to 177, PTI reported. One of the dead was a child, while the other was over 60 years. Residents of Thailand’s capital enjoyed the city’s parks, booked haircuts and stocked up on beer and other alcoholic drinks Sunday as they enjoyed their first day of eased restrictions that were imposed weeks ago to combat the spread of the coronavirus. The top perk in Bangkok, a city famous for its eateries, may have been the reopening of restaurants. But it was not clear how many were actually serving seated customers again, since strict guidelines will make it hard for many of them to turn a profit. Restaurants have to keep their customers at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) apart and practice a wide range of sanitary measures, beginning with taking the temperature of customers and staff, and circulating fresh air. Small restaurants that could fit 20 people before might be able to seat eight to 10 under the rules. Pope Francis on Sunday called for an international collaboration in the search for a vaccine and treatment for COVID-19.Speaking from the Apostolic Palace library after delivering his blessing, Francis stressed the importance of guaranteeing universal access to the essential technologies that allow every infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary health care. China has reported 14 new COVID-19 cases, including 12 asymptomatic ones, taking the number of infections in the country to 82,877 while over 4,630 people have succumbed to the deadly virus, health officials said on Sunday. China’s National Health Commission (NHC) said the two new confirmed cases were reported on Saturday which included one imported and another locally transmitted. The death toll remained 4,633 as no fatalities due to the coronavirus were reported on Saturday while the total number cases increased to 82,877 with 531 still undergoing treatment, it said. Russia reported more than 10,000 new cases of coronavirus infections on Sunday, the first time the country’s daily tally reached five figures. More than half of the 10,633 new cases reported were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Russia has recorded more than 134,000 coronavirus infections overall and 1,420 deaths. Hundreds opposed US state Oregon’s stay at home order Saturday by coming out and protesting on the streets as health officials announced at least 12 new cases and 5 deaths in the state due to COVID-19. Most of the protesters did not wear face masks, but they waved American flags and Trump campaign signs in the rain. Other signs read “Reopen Oregon” and “Let me earn a living”. Public health officials say stay-at-home orders are essential for slowing the transmission of the novel coronavirus. But protest organizers told The Oregonian/OregonLive that they view the social distancing mandates issued by Gov. Kate Brown as government overreach. Since mid-March, Brown’s orders have closed many businesses, put some parks and campgrounds off limits, and required public schools to adopt distance learning programs. Read| Health official says US missed some chances to slow coronavirus Meanwhile China just confirmed two news coronavirus cases Saturday, continuing its downward trend since the government has been taking measures to cut foreign returnees. One new case was in the inland Shanxi province, west of Beijing, and the other was an imported one in Shanghai. China’s official confirmed case count stands at 82,877 with 4,633 deaths. Most of the patients have recovered and been discharged from hospitals. Travellers to France, including French nationals returning home, will face a mandatory 14-day quarantine and a possible isolation when they arrive in the country, French health minister said Saturday. This comes after the country decided to gradually lift down lockdown measures post 11 May. “This quarantine will be imposed on any person returning on French soil,” Health Minister Olivier Veran told a press briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting. Read| As coronavirus lockdown eases, Italians fear bleak future He said the duration and conditions of both quarantine for asymptomatic people and isolation for those showing symptoms of COVID-19 The new quarantine rules will be laid out in a bill that extends the state of emergency till 24 July, a move that allows the government to restrict freedom of movement. Spring season across the United States and Europe on Saturday drew people out after being indoors for weeks in order to soak the sun. In New York city, the epicentre of coronavirus in the US, police and park officials were spread out and sent over 1,000 officers to enforce social distancing on the warmest day since mid-March. But they were more likely to break up large groups, leaving the nuisances of social distancing and hanging out safely outside to New Yorkers themselves. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said people need to go outside and enjoy the warm weather. A New York City farmer’s market enforced the familiar 6 feet (2 meters) of space between people waiting to buy spring flowers. Read| Trump hopes COVID deaths will be below 100,000 Meanwhile, fighter jets from the US Navy Blue Angels and US Air Force Thunderbirds drew people outside as they flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington in honor of health care workers. In some areas of the United States, reopening is being urged to ease the shutdown of businesses that plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930’s .Webcams showed dozens of people on the beach Saturday, but pools still closed. South Carolina also hasn’t reopened dine-in restaurants, unlike neighbouring Georgia. Families in a satellite city of Mexico’s capital with one of the country’s highest tallies of the coronavirus have staged protests to demand news of sick relatives and the return of the bodies of the dead after videos surfaced showing cadavers at a hospital. One video of the Las Americas general hospital in Ecatepec that was posted to social media showed several bagged bodies on stretchers, some in a small room and others outside lined against a courtyard wall. Read| UNSC President Estonia calls Security Council’s handling of COVID-19 “a shame” Back in session from Monday the US Senate risks a return of the virus but Congressional leaders are turning down President Donald Trump’s offer of the rapid coronavirus testing used at the White House. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators at the Capitol during a pandemic gives President Donald Trump the imagery he wants of America getting back to work despite health worries and a lack of testing. Senator gathering for the first time since March risks lawmakers, cooks, cleaners, police force and other workers working at the Capitol complex when the Washington region remains under stay at home orders. Although Trump himself offered Congress access to the instant virus test system used to screen visitors to the White House But in an extraordinary rebuff McConnell and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a statement that they would respectfully decline the offer and instead direct resources to the front lines where they can do the most good. Senators face few new rules for operating in the pandemic beyond the recommendations that they wear masks, blue face coverings will be available for free, keep their distance and leave most staff at home Hand sanitizer is back in stock But public access will be limited including at public hearings The Capitol itself remains closed to visitors and tours. Australia’s state of Victoria saw its highest increase in new coronavirus cases in weeks on Sunday and New South Wales state struggled with a cluster of infections at an aged care facility, as parts of the country began easing distancing rules.Thirteen new cases were recorded in Victoria on Sunday, health officials said, with six of the cases related to an infections cluster at a meat processing facility in Melbourne. Australia and its neighbour New Zealand, which have closed borders and imposed lockdowns and tight social restrictions, have been hailed for containing COVID-19 outbreaks, but the measures are set to push both economies into recession. China’s most populous cities saw a spike in outbound travellers, tourists and day-trippers on May 1, the first day of a long holiday weekend, led by Wuhan, epicentre of the coronavirus epidemic that first struck the country late last year. The number of people travelling outside their home cities jumped nearly 50% at the start of the Labour Day weekend, compared with the first day of the Tomb Sweeping holiday on April 4, Reuters reported. The increase in outbound travel during the five-day holiday, one of China’s peak tourism periods each year, would help lift the travel and hospitality sectors that have been hit hard by disruption from the coronavirus pandemic.
3 May 16:58 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/coronavirus-global-updates-03-may-france-coronavirus-global-updates-may-2-spain-italy-us-china-pakistan/Rating: 0.30
The US records its highest daily death toll as almost 20 states ease lockdown restrictions, WHO reports
John Nacion/NurPhoto via Getty Images The US suffered its biggest one-day death toll from the coronavirus to date on Friday, as several states are beginning to reopen parts of their economies and ease lockdown measures. According to data published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 1 at 4 a.m. ET, the country recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours — its worst number yet. The previous record was on April 23, when the country saw 2,471 deaths in one day, according to CNBC. At the time of writing, there have been more than 67,000 coronavirus-related deaths in the US. The new figure comes as around half of US states have already partially eased lockdown restrictions, according to the BBC. Other states, including Florida, have announced they will be partially lifting stay-at-home orders on Monday, Tampa Bay Times reported. States including Georgia and Texas have already started allowing non-essential businesses to reopen. Georgia reported over 1,000 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on May 1, the same day Gov. Brian Kemp lifted the shelter-in-place order. State officials have been under increasing amounts of pressure, as demonstrations to reopen the economy continue to take place across the country. On Friday, protesters took to the streets in states including California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Tennessee, and Washington. The data published by the WHO is different from that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It does not report historical daily coronavirus deaths, according to CNBC. On the same day of the WHO report, the agency reported 2,349 deaths from the virus. But a spokesperson told CNBC this data might not be complete because of delays in reporting, asymptomatic patients, and limited testing make it harder to track the deaths. CDC spokeswoman Kate Grusich told CNBC: "CDC does not know the exact number of COVID-19 illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths for a variety of reasons." New York Governor Andrew Cuomo — whose state is one of the worst-affected in the country —said on Saturday that he needs more information about the spread of the virus before loosening restrictions, Al Jazeera reported. "Even when you are in uncharted waters, it doesn't mean you proceed blindly," Cuomo said. "Use the information to determine action — not emotions, not politics, not what people think or feel, but what we know in terms of facts," he added. Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 10:28 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/us-records-highest-daily-death-102816137.htmlRating: 0.30
U.S. Records 'Deadliest Day Yet' as People Around the World Begin to Exit Lockdown
From the United States to Europe and Asia, people in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as virus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. But the global pandemic took a turn for the worse in many places over the weekend. The U.S. recorded 2,909 deaths in 24 hours, according to World Health Organization data, which was collected early morning on Friday. CNBC's analysis of the WHO data concluded it was the deadliest 24-hour period yet in the U.S., with the previous record set on April 23 with 2,471 recorded deaths. Center for Disease Control data and state revisions have varied numbers as to daily deaths in the U.S. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories India on Sunday reported more than 2,600 new cases, its biggest single-day jump. That followed record increases in neighboring Pakistan and Russia the previous day. There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where about a third tested positive in a random test. China, which reported two new cases, is seeing a surge in visitors to tourist spots, many newly reopened, after domestic travel restrictions were relaxed ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than a million visitors, according to Chinese media reports. Many spots limited the number of daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less, keeping crowds below average. Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City’s Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday, and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. “It’s great to have an audience after all these weeks,” saxophonist Julia Banholzer, a native of Germany, said. “All my dates have been canceled through September, and I don’t know if any will come back this year. New York is a tough place, but this is just another tough period we need to get through.” Neighboring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. In Spain, many ventured out Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. “I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape,” Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. “Some people think it may be too early, as I do, but it is also important to do exercise for health reasons.” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. COVID-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. “Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Sánchez said. “What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. In India, air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities Sunday to thank doctors, nurses and police who have been at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. U.S. Navy and Air Force fighter jets flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., on Saturday in honor of health care workers. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives and millions of jobs. The official death toll reached 1,301. Afghanistan’s health ministry said Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Ministry spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said that more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 9,633 new cases Saturday, and Pakistan, nearly 1,300, both one-day highs. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, which is considering establishing temporary hospitals at sports complexes and shopping malls to deal with the influx of patients. The virus has killed more than 245,000 people worldwide, including more than 67,000 in the United States and more than 25,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Britain and Italy both passed 28,000 deaths as of Sunday morniong. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. Read more: U.K. shadows Italy as worst hit in Europe: virus death toll passes 28,000 For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and those with health problems, it can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, or death. There are economic factors to consider as well. The shutdown of businesses has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. Singapore announced Saturday it will let selected businesses reopen from May 12 in a cautious rollback of a two-month partial lockdown, and Sri Lanka said the government and private sector should resume work from May 11 “to ensure a return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy.” Bangladesh, which opened thousands of garment factories last month, confirmed 552 new cases on Saturday. The South Asian country’s health care system is fragile, and authorities say they would not be able to provide ventilation and intensive care support for more than 500 people at one time. Haaretz contributed to this report
3 May 09:46 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/us-news/u-s-records-deadliest-day-yet-as-people-around-the-world-begin-to-exit-lockdown-1.8816420Rating: 1.13
In U.S., 2,909 people die of COVID-19 in 24 hours, highest daily death toll in the U.S. yet
Deadliest day comes as state officials reopen parts of economy and stay-at-home orders expire This seems like an extremely bad time for various U.S. states to be lifting restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of the deadly novel coronavirus, but what do I know? The U.S. saw 2,909 people die of Covid-19 in 24 hours, according to public health data collected as of 4AM ET on Friday. This is the single highest daily death toll in the U.S. yet. From CNBC: Read more: The US just reported its deadliest day for coronavirus patients as states reopen, according to WHO
3 May 12:42 • Boing Boing • https://boingboing.net/2020/05/03/in-u-s-2909-people-die-of-c.htmlRating: 1.31
S. Korea to loosen social distancing amid virus slowdown
South Korea decided on Sunday to relax its strict social distancing moves this week as the number of new virus infections has stayed low for weeks.The country reported 13 new virus cases on Sunday, bringing the nation's total infections to 10,793, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC).South Korea said it will move on to what it calls an "everyday life quarantine" scheme starting Wednesday, giving the go-ahead to the normalization of schools and public facilities.Seoul believes it has virtually contained the domestic COVID-19 outbreak, although imported cases linger as a threat. Of 13 cases announced on Sunday, 10 were imported, raising the country's total number of such cases to 1,091. The nation's death toll remained at 250.In total, 9,183 people in South Korea have recovered from the virus, up 60 from a day earlier. So far, 85 percent of the patients have been cured. The overall fatality rate reached 2.32 percent. The country, with a population of around 50 million, has tested 630,973 people since Jan 3. including 3,411 carried out a day earlier.The number of relapse cases came to 340 as of Sunday.Daegu, the nation's worst virus-hit region located 300 kilometers southeast of Seoul, added four cases. The city accounts for 64 percent of the nation's total COVID-19 cases.Health authorities are remaining vigilant over the holiday that runs through Tuesday, as many citizens travel across the country."We have found around 10 patients in the past two weeks whose infection routes have not been identified," KCDC Director-General Jeong Eun-kyeong said. "This indicates that there are still sources of infections in communities.""Recently, the number of tests being carried out also decreased in sync with fewer suspected cases. It is worrisome that people's mindfulness over the COVID-19 virus could have loosened," Jeong added.Nevertheless, with clear signs of a slowdown, South Korea plans to loosen the country's social distancing campaign effective from Wednesday.Under the so-called everyday life quarantine scheme, schools and workplaces can go back to their normal routines with some basic guidelines.South Korea said it will still maintain the highest "red" alert for the COVID-19 pandemic for the time being, although it will consider lowering the level depending on developments. The government, however, reiterated that easing social distancing does not necessarily indicate that people are allowed go back to the period before the pandemic. "The new guidelines are more of a compromise amid rising social and economic burdens sparked by the pandemic," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said during a meeting on the government's response to COVID-19."People need to comply with basic guidelines, such as maintaining at least two meters of distance from each other, even after we move on to the everyday life quarantine," Jeong also said.Health authorities said they are closely watching the effectiveness of Remdesivir, an Ebola treatment that has emerged as a new hope in tackling the new coronavirus, although no decision on imports have been made yet. (Yonhap)
3 May 01:23 • Koreaherald • http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200503000037Rating: 1.56
Ghana’s COVID-19 cases climb to 2,169
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Ghana Health Service announced 95 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 2,169. GHS said 88 per cent of the confirmed cases have no clear travel history, adding that the country has recorded 229 recoveries, with 18 deaths. Despite having lifted a partial lockdown, Ghana has extended the closure of all entry points till the end of this month to further curb the spread of the pandemic. The country’s ban on public gatherings is still effective, while face masks in public places remain mandatory. Xinhua/NAN. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name * Email * Website Yes, add me to your mailing list
2 May 17:19 • The Eagle Online • https://theeagleonline.com.ng/ghanas-covid-19-cases-climb-to-2169/Rating: 0.39
Ghana’s COVID-19 cases climb to 2,169 - Premium Times Nigeria
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) announced 95 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 2,169. The GHS said 88 per cent of the confirmed cases have no clear travel history, adding that the country has recorded 229 recoveries, with 18 deaths. Despite having lifted a partial lockdown, Ghana has extended the closure of all entry points till the end of this month to further curb the spread of the pandemic. The country’s ban on public gatherings is still effective, while face masks in public places remain mandatory. (Xinhua/NAN)
2 May 16:43 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/coronavirus/391062-ghanas-covid-19-cases-climb-to-2169.htmlRating: 0.30
Ghana’s COVID-19 cases climb to 2,169 - The Nation
Ghana Health Service (GHS) announced 95 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 2,169. GHS said 88 per cent of the confirmed cases have no clear travel history, adding that the country has recorded 229 recoveries, with 18 deaths. Despite having lifted a partial lockdown, Ghana has extended the closure of all entry points till the end of this month to further curb the spread of the pandemic. The country’s ban on public gatherings is still effective, while face masks in public places remain mandatory. (NAN)
2 May 16:14 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/ghanas-covid-19-cases-climb-to-2169/Rating: 0.30
Italy reports 207,428 COVID-19 cases, cautious ahead of easing lockdown
The coronavirus pandemic has claimed 28,236 lives in locked-down Italy, bringing the total number of infections, fatalities, and recoveries to 207,428, latest data from the country's Civil Protection Department showed on Friday. Rome: The coronavirus pandemic has claimed 28,236 lives in locked-down Italy, bringing the total number of infections, fatalities, and recoveries to 207,428, latest data from the country's Civil Protection Department showed on Friday. Some 269 new fatalities were registered over the past 24 hours. There were also 2,304 new recoveries compared to Thursday, pushing to 78,249 the total number of recoveries since the pandemic broke out in the northern Lombardy region on February 21, Xinhua reported. The number of active infections dropped by 608 cases to a total of 100,943, according to the bulletin of the Civil Protection Department. Of all those actively infected, some 1,578 patients are in intensive care -- a decrease of 116 compared to Thursday, and 17,569 are hospitalized with symptoms -- down by 580. "Some 81,796 people, equal to 81 per cent of all those infected, are in isolation (at home) without symptoms or with mild symptoms," the Civil Protection Department noted. The latest data came as the country is preparing to ease the national lockdown put in place since March 10 and until May 3. The so-called "Phase Two" of the state of emergency will see the manufacturing, construction, and wholesale sectors resume their productive activities on May 4. The government's plan of gradual reopening would continue with retailers, museums, galleries, and libraries on May 18, and then bars, restaurants, hairdressers and beauty salons on June 1. Any of these businesses will be allowed to restart only on the condition that they are able to respect workplace safety protocols, which were outlined by the government, trade unions, and business groups together earlier this month. Such a schedule would be subject to change in case new outbreaks occur across the country. In this perspective, the Health Ministry issued late on Thursday a decree containing the specific rules and criteria for assessing the situation in "Phase Two." "In the absence of a vaccine or an effective drug treatment, and due to the still low level of immunity among the population, a rapid and robust resumption of the virus transmission is still possible," it stated. The Health Ministry was therefore tasked with monitoring the epidemiological situation together with each regional government and Italy's National Health Institute (ISS). On the base of daily data, they would evaluate whether any region (or smaller area, such a province) shows signs of an "uncontrolled and unmanageable" resurgence of COVID-19, and therefore needs to fall again under stricter containment measures. This risk evaluation would be based on two key criteria, according to the Health Ministry. The first aimed at "maintaining a stable number of new infections, or having a limited increase of infections that can be investigated adequately and contained with local control measures." The second criterion was to "maintain or reduce the number of transmission cases within nursing facilities hosting vulnerable people (including hospital clusters), and to avoid any signal of overloading of the health services," the decree said. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
2 May 03:57 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/international/italy-reports-207428-covid-19-cases-cautious-ahead-of-easing-lockdown-620338Rating: 1.10
Oman's COVID-19 infections slow to 36 new cases
Cairo: Oman Saturday recorded 36 new cases of the novel coronavirus on Saturday, a day after the sultanate reported 99 infections of the virus. The newly diagnosed cases comprise 22 Omanis and 14 foreigners, the Health Ministry said without giving a breakdown of the foreign patients' nationalities, according to Oman's news agency ONA. The new cases bring to 2,483 the total of the COVID-19 infections including 11 deaths registered in Oman, the ministry added. The overall recoveries in the country have climbed to 750 cases, the ministry said. Earlier this week, Oman eased some restrictions imposed in the country due to the coronavirus. Authorities ended control checkpoints earlier set up to restrict movement among Oman's provinces. Some businesses were also allowed to reopen.
2 May 09:23 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/oman/omans-covid-19-infections-slow-to-36-new-cases-1.1588412429330Rating: 3.21
Pompeo says 'significant' evidence that new coronavirus emerged from Chinese lab
3 May 23:12
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Pompeo says 'significant' evidence that new coronavirus emerged from Chinese lab
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday there was “a significant amount of evidence” that the new coronavirus emerged from a Chinese laboratory, but did not dispute U.S. intelligence agencies’ conclusion that it was not man-made. “There is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan,” Pompeo told ABC’s “This Week,” referring to the virus that emerged late last year in China and has killed about 240,000 people around the world, including more than 67,000 in the United States. Pompeo then briefly contradicted a statement issued last Thursday by the top U.S. spy agency that said the virus did not appear to be man-made or genetically modified. That statement undercut conspiracy theories promoted by anti-China activists and some supporters of President Donald Trump who suggest it was developed in a Chinese government biological weapons laboratory. “The best experts so far seem to think it was man-made. I have no reason to disbelieve that at this point,” Pompeo said. When the interviewer pointed out that was not the conclusion of U.S. intelligence agencies, Pompeo backtracked, saying: “I’ve seen what the intelligence community has said. I have no reasonto believe that they’ve got it wrong.” The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for clarification on Pompeo’s comments. China’s Global Times, run by the ruling Communist Party’s official People’s Daily, said in an editorial responding to Pompeo’s Sunday interview that he did not have any evidence the virus came from the lab in Wuhan and that he was “bluffing,” calling on the United States to present the evidence. “The Trump administration continues to engage in unprecedented propaganda warfare while trying to impede global efforts in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic,” the editorial said. Thursday’s report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said it concurred with “the wide scientific consensus” that the disease was not man-made. U.S. officials familiar with intelligence reporting and analysis have said for weeks that they do not believe Chinese scientists developed the coronavirus in a government biological weapons lab from which it then escaped. Rather, they have said they believe it was either introduced through human contact with wildlife at a meat market in the central city of Wuhan, or could have escaped from one of two Wuhan government laboratories believed to be conducting civilian research into possible biological hazards. Pompeo said on Thursday it was not known whether the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, a meat market, or somewhere else. Trump said the same day that he was confident it may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but he declined to describe the evidence.
3 May 23:12 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-usa-pompeo-idUSKBN22F0SCRating: 4.04
Pompeo says 'significant' evidence new coronavirus emerged from Chinese lab
WASHINGTON DC: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday there was “a significant amount of evidence” that the new coronavirus emerged from a Chinese laboratory, but did not dispute US intelligence agencies’ conclusion that it was not man-made. “There is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan,” Pompeo told ABC’s “This Week,” referring to the virus that emerged late last year in China and has killed about 240,000 people around the world, including more than 67,000 in the United States. Pompeo then briefly contradicted a statement issued this week by the top US spy agency that said the virus did not appear to be man-made or genetically modified. That statement undercut conspiracy theories promoted by anti-China activists and some supporters of President Donald Trump who suggest it was developed in a Chinese government biological weapons laboratory. “The best experts so far seem to think it was man-made. I have no reason to disbelieve that at this point,” Pompeo said. When the interviewer pointed out that was not the conclusion of US intelligence agencies, Pompeo backtracked, saying, “I’ve seen what the intelligence community has said. I have no reason to believe that they’ve got it wrong.” The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request for clarification on Pompeo’s comments. Thursday’s report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said it concurred with “the wide scientific consensus” that the disease was not man-made. US officials familiar with intelligence reporting and analysis have said for weeks that they do not believe Chinese scientists developed the coronavirus in a government biological weapons lab from which it then escaped. Rather, they have said they believe it was either introduced through human contact with animals at a meat market in the central city of Wuhan, or could have escaped from one of two Wuhan government laboratories believed to be conducting civilian research into possible biological hazards.
3 May 19:17 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213389/3-pompeo-says-significant-evidence-new-coronavirus-emerged-chinese-lab/Rating: 1.80
Pompeo says 'significant' evidence that new coronavirus emerged from Chinese lab
WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday there was “a significant amount of evidence” that the new coronavirus emerged from a Chinese laboratory, but did not dispute U.S. intelligence agencies’ conclusion that it was not man-made. “There is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan,” Pompeo told ABC’s “This Week,” referring to the virus that emerged late last year in China and has killed about 240,000 people around the world, including more than 67,000 in the United States. Pompeo then briefly contradicted a statement issued last Thursday by the top U.S. spy agency that said the virus did not appear to be man-made or genetically modified. That statement undercut conspiracy theories promoted by anti-China activists and some supporters of President Donald Trump who suggest it was developed in a Chinese government biological weapons laboratory. “The best experts so far seem to think it was man-made. I have no reason to disbelieve that at this point,” Pompeo said. When the interviewer pointed out that was not the conclusion of U.S. intelligence agencies, Pompeo backtracked, saying: “I’ve seen what the intelligence community has said. I have no reason to believe that they’ve got it wrong.” The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for clarification on Pompeo’s comments. China’s Global Times, run by the ruling Communist Party’s official People’s Daily, said in an editorial responding to Pompeo’s Sunday interview that he did not have any evidence the virus came from the lab in Wuhan and that he was “bluffing,” calling on the United States to present the evidence. “The Trump administration continues to engage in unprecedented propaganda warfare while trying to impede global efforts in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic,” the editorial said. Thursday’s report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said it concurred with “the wide scientific consensus” that the disease was not man-made. U.S. officials familiar with intelligence reporting and analysis have said for weeks that they do not believe Chinese scientists developed the coronavirus in a government biological weapons lab from which it then escaped. Rather, they have said they believe it was either introduced through human contact with wildlife at a meat market in the central city of Wuhan, or could have escaped from one of two Wuhan government laboratories believed to be conducting civilian research into possible biological hazards. Pompeo said on Thursday it was not known whether the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, a meat market, or somewhere else. Trump said the same day that he was confident it may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but he declined to describe the evidence. (Reporting by Daphne Psaledakis; Additional reporting by David Brunnstrom; Editing by Scott Malone, Daniel Wallis and Peter Cooney)
3 May 23:12 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/environment-pmn/pompeo-says-significant-evidence-that-new-coronavirus-emerged-from-chinese-labRating: 1.59
Pompeo says 'significant' evidence new coronavirus emerged from Chinese lab
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday there was "a significant amount of evidence" that the new coronavirus emerged from a Chinese laboratory, but did not dispute US intelligence agencies' conclusion that it was not man-made. "There is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan," Pompeo told ABC's "This Week," referring to the virus that emerged late last year in China and has killed about 240,000 people around the world, including more than 67,000 in the United States. Pompeo then briefly contradicted a statement issued this week by the top US spy agency that said the virus did not appear to be man-made or genetically modified. That statement undercut conspiracy theories promoted by anti-China activists and some supporters of President Donald Trump who suggest it was developed in a Chinese government biological weapons laboratory. "The best experts so far seem to think it was man-made. I have no reason to disbelieve that at this point," Pompeo said. When the interviewer pointed out that was not the conclusion of US intelligence agencies, Pompeo backtracked, saying, "I've seen what the intelligence community has said. I have no reason to believe that they've got it wrong." The US State Department did not immediately respond to a request for clarification on Pompeo's comments. Thursday's report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said it concurred with "the wide scientific consensus" that the disease was not man-made. US officials familiar with intelligence reporting and analysis have said for weeks that they do not believe Chinese scientists developed the coronavirus in a government biological weapons lab from which it then escaped. Rather, they have said they believe it was either introduced through human contact with animals at a meat market in the central city of Wuhan, or could have escaped from one of two Wuhan government laboratories believed to be conducting civilian research into possible biological hazards.
3 May 23:16 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/04/pompeo-says-significant-evidence-new-coronavirus-emerged-from-chinese-labRating: 2.85
Coronavirus | Pompeo says ‘significant’ evidence virus emerged from Chinese lab
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday there was “a significant amount of evidence” that COVID-19 emerged from a Chinese laboratory, but did not dispute U.S. intelligence agencies’ conclusion that it was not man-made. “There is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan,” Mr. Pompeo said, referring to the virus that emerged late last year in China and has killed about 240,000 people around the world, including more than 67,000 in the United States. Mr. Pompeo then briefly contradicted a statement issued this week by the top U.S. spy agency that said the virus did not appear to be man-made or genetically modified. That statement undercut conspiracy theories promoted by anti-China activists and some supporters of President Donald Trump who suggest it was developed in a Chinese government biological weapons laboratory. “The best experts so far seem to think it was man-made. I have no reason to disbelieve that at this point,” Mr. Pompeo said. When the interviewer pointed out that was not the conclusion of U.S. intelligence agencies, Mr. Pompeo backtracked, saying, “I’ve seen what the intelligence community has said. I have no reason to believe that they’ve got it wrong.” The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for clarification on Mr. Pompeo’s comments. Thursday’s report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said it concurred with “the wide scientific consensus” that the disease was not man-made. U.S. officials familiar with intelligence reporting and analysis have said for weeks that they do not believe Chinese scientists developed the coronavirus in a government biological weapons lab from which it then escaped. Rather, they have said they believe it was either introduced through human contact with wildlife at a meat market in the central city of Wuhan, or could have escaped from one of two Wuhan government laboratories believed to be conducting civilian research into possible biological hazards. Mr. Pompeo on Thursday said it was not known whether the virus came from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, a meat market, or somewhere else. Mr. Trump said the same day that he was confident it may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but he declined to describe the evidence.
3 May 23:20 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-pompeo-says-significant-evidence-virus-emerged-from-chinese-lab/article31496773.ece?utm_source=taboolaRating: 0.30
Pompeo Ties Coronavirus to China Lab, Despite Spy Agencies’ Uncertainty
WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday backed President Donald Trump’s assertion that the coronavirus originated in a research laboratory in Wuhan, China, though the nation’s intelligence agencies say they have reached no conclusion on the issue. Speaking on the ABC program “This Week,” Pompeo, a former CIA chief and one of the senior administration officials who is most hawkish on dealing with China, said that “there’s enormous evidence” that the coronavirus came from the lab, though he agreed with the intelligence assessment that there was no indication that the virus was man-made or genetically modified. The theories are not mutually exclusive: Some officials who have examined the intelligence reports, which remain classified, say it is possible an animal that was infected with the coronavirus in the laboratory was destroyed, and a lab worker was accidentally infected in the process. But that is just one of many theories still being examined. Senior U.S. officials, including those who have looked at intelligence and who favor the lab theory, have said in private that evidence pointing to a lab accident is mainly circumstantial and based on public material. Intelligence officers have told senior administration officials that they probably will not find proof of a lab accident. And among scientists and especially virologists, there is largely agreement that the chances that a lab accident sparked the outbreak are slim, while the probability that the new virus made the leap from an animal to a human in a non-lab setting in southern China is much higher. Pompeo repeatedly accused China’s Communist Party, led by President Xi Jinping, of covering up evidence and denying U.S. experts access to the research lab, the Wuhan Institute of Virology. “We’ve seen the fact that they kicked the journalists out,” Pompeo said, referring to orders that U.S. correspondents from The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal leave China. “We saw the fact that those who were trying to report on this, medical professionals inside of China, were silenced. They shut down reporting — all the kind of things that authoritarian regimes do, the way Communist parties operate.” Advertising Pompeo is among the small group of senior officials believed to be pushing U.S. spy agencies to find evidence to support the theory that the government laboratory in Wuhan was the origin of the outbreak. The Chinese government has vigorously denied that the virus leaked from the laboratory, and at one point suggested that the U.S. military created it. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence issued a statement Thursday saying it was continuing to “rigorously examine emerging information and intelligence” to determine whether the outbreak began with infected animals or whether “it was the result of an accident at a laboratory in Wuhan.” The same day, Trump said he had a high degree of confidence that the laboratory was the source of the outbreak, but when pressed for evidence said, “I’m not allowed to tell you that.” In a Sunday night interview on Fox News, he promised a report on the subject, which he said would be conclusive. “I think they made a horrible mistake, and they didn’t want to admit it,” he said of China. Some intelligence analysts are concerned that the pressure from administration officials could distort the final assessments about the virus’ origin, and that they could be used as a political weapon in an intensifying battle with China over a disease that has infected more than 3 million people across the globe. If the administration continues on the path that Pompeo and Trump have blazed in recent days, they will doubtless come under increasing pressure to make available some of the evidence that led them to their conclusions. But that could prove tricky, as it did for the Bush administration when, after the invasion of Iraq, it was under pressure to make public the assessments it received that Saddam Hussein was building weapons of mass destruction. That evidence turned out to be flawed — and some of the government agencies with the most expertise on the issue wrote dissents that were ignored or overruled. In the case of the coronavirus, declassifying the evidence about the Wuhan laboratory is more complex. Some evidence appears to be based on electronic intercepts of communications among Chinese officials, and revealing those could well expose details of how the U.S. keeps track of Chinese leadership. As a result, Trump and Pompeo are likely to fall back on the usual explanation that they cannot risk revealing sources and methods of intelligence collection. Advertising Some U.S. officials say even intercepts of Chinese officials in Beijing discussing questions surrounding the lab could be circumstantial, since central-level officials always suspect local officials of hiding information and so want to examine all possibilities as they investigate. And U.S. officials say they had little in the way of intelligence collection focused on Wuhan officials before the outbreak. They would also have to explain doubts within the government about the intelligence, which is not unusual in the case of a complex problem like decoding the origins of a virus. An April 7 meeting convened by Richard Grenell, the acting director of national intelligence, failed to gain a consensus among intelligence officials about how the outbreak occurred, suggesting that any evidence that gets released may not be conclusive. And some American allies also seem skeptical of the Wuhan laboratory theory. At the same time, Pompeo was correct in his assertions that Chinese government officials went to considerable lengths to cover up evidence about the outbreak and detained scientists who warned about it. They closed a laboratory in Shanghai after one of its lead scientists shared the genomic sequence of the virus with collaborators around the world. That data has been critical to medical research, including on possible vaccines, but Chinese authorities said the laboratory had to be closed down for “rectification.” This story was originally published at nytimes.com. Read it here.
3 May 18:06 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation-politics/pompeo-ties-coronavirus-to-china-lab-despite-spy-agencies-uncertainty/?utm_source=RSS&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=RSS_allRating: 0.74
Pompeo pushes coronavirus lab origin theory before intelligence community issues final assessment
Members of the Trump administration, including the president, have pushed a theory that the coronavirus originated not in a Wuhan, China, wet market, but a lab. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday there is "significant" evidence that is the case, even though the United States intelligence community has yet to release a formal assessment on the matter. Pompeo's stances on the location of origin, and China's purported efforts to cover up the epidemic's severity at early stages, were clear, but his responses about whether the virus was man-made waffled. At first, The Guardian notes, he told the host of ABC's This Week, Martha Raddatz, that he has "no reason to disbelieve" experts who think it was genetically modified. But when Raddatz pointed out the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said the scientific consensus is that the virus was not man-made, Pompeo agreed with that, too. Raddatz tried to clarify one last time, recalibrating the question a bit to see if Pompeo thinks the virus was intentionally released from the lab. The secretary said he doesn't "have anything to say about that." Critics have pointed out that by leaning into President Trump's rhetoric, Pompeo is setting a potentially worrisome precedent. Tim O'Donnell
3 May 16:38 • The Week • https://theweek.com/speedreads/912463/pompeo-pushes-coronavirus-lab-origin-theory-before-intelligence-community-issues-final-assessmentRating: 0.58
Pompeo pushes coronavirus lab origin theory before intelligence community issues final assessment
Members of the Trump administration, including the president, have pushed a theory that the coronavirus originated not in a Wuhan, China, wet market, but a lab. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday there is "significant" evidence that is the case, even though the United States intelligence community has yet to release a formal assessment on the matter. Pompeo's stances on the location of origin, and China's purported efforts to cover up the epidemic's severity at early stages, were clear, but his responses about whether the virus was man-made waffled. At first, The Guardian notes, he told the host of ABC's This Week, Martha Raddatz, that he has "no reason to disbelieve" experts who think it was genetically modified. But when Raddatz pointed out the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said the scientific consensus is that the virus was not man-made, Pompeo agreed with that, too. Raddatz tried to clarify one last time, recalibrating the question a bit to see if Pompeo thinks the virus was intentionally released from the lab. The secretary said he doesn't "have anything to say about that." Critics have pointed out that by leaning into President Trump's rhetoric, Pompeo is setting a potentially worrisome precedent. More stories from theweek.comTrump's rosy COVID-19 predictions were reportedly fed by faulty White House economic modelingTrump was the disaster we should have seen coming5 questions about how coronavirus will affect the 2020 election
3 May 16:38 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/pompeo-pushes-coronavirus-lab-origin-163800671.htmlRating: 0.30
Venezuelan Officials Claim to Have Stopped an Armed Incursion
3 May 20:23
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Venezuelan Officials Claim to Have Stopped an Armed Incursion
CARACAS — The Venezuelan government said security forces foiled an armed incursion Sunday morning near the capital, Caracas, killing eight men and capturing the remaining two. Néstor Reverol, the interior minister, said that the group of “mercenary terrorists” had come from Colombia by speedboat, intending to overthrow the government, but that it was stopped at the port of La Guaira, near Caracas. Responsibility for the attack was claimed by a retired American Green Beret, Jordan Goudreau, and a retired Venezuelan army captain, Javier Nieto. In a video posted on social media, the two men said that “Operation Gedeon” had been successfully launched “deep into the heart of Caracas” and that other armed cells had been activated throughout the country. “It is obvious that the electoral measures, the democratic and political ones of all kinds, have been exhausted,” Captain Nieto said in the video, defending the decision to try to topple the Venezuelan government with arms. There was no evidence of fighting in Caracas or elsewhere in the country, but Venezuela’s Defense Minister, Vladimir Padrino López, announced a sweep operation in the capital shortly after authorities said they repulsed the raid. President Nicolás Maduro and his officials have denounced dozens of what they said were coup and assassination attempts in recent years as the economy has sunk deeper into crisis and millions of Venezuelans have fled the country. Some of the assertions proved to be true, while others were never independently verified. The uprisings denounced by the government often have their roots in real discontent among Venezuelan officials and military officers but are almost always exaggerated to create a siege mentality among government supporters and to garner international sympathy, analysts say. The vice president of Venezuela’s governing party, Diosdado Cabello — who, like Mr. Reverol, has been linked by the United States to a drug conspiracy — said the plot thwarted on Sunday had been organized by Clíver Alcalá, a dissident retired Venezuelan general who recently surrendered to United States law enforcement to face drug charges. Before being taken into custody, General Alcalá said in March from his exile in Colombia that he was organizing a military incursion into neighboring Venezuela to overthrow Mr. Maduro. His plan was dismantled by the Colombian authorities, he said. The Associated Press reported on Friday that General Alcalá was working on the plot with Mr. Goudreau, who, it said, was drawn to the cause of Venezuela by the prospect of big payout for his private security firm and romantic desire to topple a repressive regime. Mr. Diosdado blamed the United States, Colombia and international drug cartels — the government’s usual scapegoats for the deep economic hardships facing Venezuela — for the most recent attack. He said that one of the detained men had confessed to being an agent for the Drug Enforcement Administration and that combat helmets with American flags were among the captured matériel. The State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs discounted the report of a coup attempt. “We have little reason to believe anything that comes out of the former regime,” a spokesperson said. “The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela.” The bureau went on to note human rights abuses, corruption and “thousands of murders of Venezuelans” by the Maduro government. Venezuela’s struggling economy went into a tailspin this year after a modest improvement in living conditions was derailed by the coronavirus pandemic, the collapse of the oil prices and a tightening of American sanctions. Mr. Maduro responded to the crisis by reverting to economic controls and printing more local currency, which sank local food production and unleashed a new bout of hyperinflation. Julie Turkewitz contributed reporting from Bogotá and Adriana Fernandez Loureiro from Caracas.
3 May 20:23 • NY Times • https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/03/world/americas/venezuela-coup.htmlRating: 5.38
Venezuela kills eight invaders in foiled attack by boat on main port city
CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuelan officials said they foiled an early morning attempt by a group of armed men to invade the country by boat on Sunday, killing eight attackers and arresting two more. Socialist party chief Diosdado Cabello said that two of the attackers were being interrogated by authorities. Cabello said it was carried out by neighboring Colombia with United States backing in a plot to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro. Both countries have repeatedly denied earlier Venezuelan allegations of backing for military plots against the socialist government. “Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action,” said Cabello, adding that one of the detained claimed to be an agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Authorities said they found Peruvian documents, high-caliber weapons, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Interior Minister Nestor Reverol described the attackers as “mercenary terrorists” bent on destabilizing Venezuela’s institutions and creating “chaos.” Officials said the attack took place on a beach in La Guaira, about 20 miles from Caracas and home to the nation’s largest airport. Authorities say the attackers had vehicles and heavy arms waiting for them in the port city. Venezuela has been in a deepening political and economic crisis in recent years under Maduro’s rule. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care has driven nearly 5 million to migrate. A coalition of nearly 60 nations back opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate leader, saying Maduro’s 2018 election was a sham because the most popular opposition candidates were banned from running. The United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a narcotrafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions, cutting off Venezuela’s oil sector to choke Maduro from a key source of hard cash. In addition to that pressure, Maduro’s government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone and Guaidó’s call for a military uprising, which was joined by few soldiers. Maduro and his allies say the Trump administration is determined to end Venezuela’s socialist government to exploit the South American nation’s vast underground oil reserves. The Associated Press reported on Friday that an apparently ill-founded attempt to amass an invasion force of 300 men in Colombia involving a former Venezuelan military officer and an ex-Green Beret, suffered setbacks in March when a main organizer was arrested, an arms cache was seized and some participants abandoned its camps. Cabello linked Sunday’s attack to key players in that alleged plot. Meanwhile, Cesar Omana, a businessman who participated in an unsuccessful plot against Maduro a year ago, said some 30 armed commandos from the Sebin intelligence police raided his Caracas home early Sunday. Omana is not in the country.
3 May 18:21 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/venezuela-says-it-killed-eight-invaders-in-foiled-boat-attack/?utm_medium=SocialFlow&utm_source=NYPTwitter&utm_campaign=SocialFlowRating: 2.55
Venezuela says it foiled attack by boat on main port city
CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuelan officials said they foiled an early morning attempt by a group of armed “mercenaries” to invade the country in a beach landing using speedboats Sunday, killing eight attackers and arresting two more. Socialist party chief Diosdado Cabello said that two of the attackers were interrogated by authorities. Cabello said it was carried out by neighbouring Colombia with the United States backing the plot to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro - a claim dismissed by U.S. and Colombian officials. “Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action," said Cabello, adding that one of the detained claimed to be an agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Authorities said they found Peruvian documents, high-calibre weapons, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Both Colombia and the United States have repeatedly denied previous Venezuelan allegations of backing military plots against the socialist government. “We have little reason to believe anything that comes out of the former regime,” said a spokesperson with the State Department Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, speaking Sunday on condition of anonymity, referring to Maduro’s government. “The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela.” Colombia's Foreign Affairs Ministry also rejected the claims made by what it called “Maduro's dictatorial regime.” Venezuelan Interior Minister Nestor Reverol described the attackers as “mercenary terrorists” bent on destabilizing Venezuela's institutions and creating "chaos." Officials said the attack took place on a beach in La Guaira, about 20 miles (32 kilometres) from Caracas and home to the nation's largest airport. Authorities say the attackers had vehicles and heavy arms waiting for them in the port city. Venezuela has been in a deepening political and economic crisis in recent years under Maduro's rule. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care has driven nearly 5 million to migrate. A coalition of nearly 60 nations backs opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate leader, saying Maduro's 2018 election was a sham because the most popular opposition candidates were banned from running. The United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a narco-trafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions, cutting off Venezuela's oil sector to choke Maduro from a key source of hard cash. Iván Simonovis, a former high-ranking Venezuelan police official who now advises opposition leaders on intelligence strategy from Washington, speculated on Twitter that there might have been a clash between security forces on Sunday and suggested Maduro’s government created the story of a plot to justify “repression against the interim government and any Venezuelan who opposes the dictatorship." But in addition to U.S. economic and diplomatic pressure, Maduro’s government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone and Guaidó’s call for a military uprising, which was joined by few soldiers. The Associated Press reported on Friday that an apparently ill-funded attempt to amass an invasion force of 300 men in Colombia involving a former Venezuelan military officer and an ex-Green Beret, suffered setbacks in March when a main organizer was arrested, an arms cache was seized and some participants abandoned its camps. Jordan Goudreau, the ex-Green Beret, said in a video posted Sunday on Twitter from undisclosed location that forces had entered Venezuela from other points and were “deep inside Caracas.” He didn’t take credit for the alleged pre-dawn beach invasion, but said “our units have been activated,” although no other signs of unrest surfaced throughout the day. Retired Venezuelan National Guard Capt. Javier Nieto Quintero appeared in the video with Goudreau, urging members of the armed forces to help liberate the nation in an action he called “Operation Gideon.” Nieto, when contacted by AP on a Miami telephone, declined to comment and hung up. Goudreau also declined to comment in a call from Caracas. Cabello linked Sunday’s attack to key players in that alleged plot. One of the men he said was killed, a man nicknamed “the Panther,” had been identified as involved in obtaining weapons for the force in Colombia. Maduro and his allies say the Trump administration is determined to end Venezuela’s socialist government to exploit the South American nation’s vast underground oil reserves. Maduro remains in power, backed by the military and with international support from Cuba, Russia, China and Iran. Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino López, speaking on state TV Sunday backed by armed soldiers and tanks units, called the attackers mercenaries who “don't have souls. They're cowards.” Guaidó accused Maduro’s government of seizing on this example of unrest to draw the world’s attention away from embarrassing bloodshed in other parts of the country, including a prison riot days earlier that left at least 40 dead. “Of course, there are patriotic members of the military willing to fight for Venezuela,” Guaidó said. “But it’s clear that what happened in Vargas is another distraction ploy." ___ Associated Press writer Joshua Goodman contributed to this report from Miami, Florida. Scott Smith, The Associated Press
3 May 23:26 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/world-news/venezuela-says-it-foiled-attack-by-boat-on-main-port-city-2320372Rating: 0.30
Venezuela Says It Foiled Boat Attack by 'Mercenaries' on Main Port City
Venezuelan officials said they foiled an early morning attempt by a group of armed “mercenaries” to invade the country in a beach landing using speedboats Sunday, killing eight attackers and arresting two more. Socialist party chief Diosdado Cabello said that two of the attackers were interrogated by authorities. Cabello said it was carried out by neighboring Colombia with the United States backing the plot to overthrow President Nicolás Maduro - a claim dismissed by U.S. officials. “Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action," said Cabello, adding that one of the detained claimed to be an agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Both Colombia and the United States have repeatedly denied Venezuela previous Venezuelan allegations of backing military plots against the socialist government. “We have little reason to believe anything that comes out of the former regime,” said a spokesperson with the State Department Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, speaking Sunday on condition of anonymity, referring to Maduro’s government. “The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela.” Venezuelan authorities said they found Peruvian documents, high-caliber weapons, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Interior Minister Nestor Reverol described the attackers as “mercenary terrorists” bent on destabilizing Venezuela's institutions and creating "chaos." Officials said the attack took place on a beach in La Guaira, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Caracas and home to the nation's largest airport. Authorities say the attackers had vehicles and heavy arms waiting for them in the port city. Venezuela has been in a deepening political and economic crisis in recent years under Maduro's rule. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care has driven nearly 5 million to migrate. A coalition of nearly 60 nations back opposition leader Juan Guaidó as Venezuela’s legitimate leader, saying Maduro's 2018 election was a sham because the most popular opposition candidates were banned from running. The United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a narco-trafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions, cutting off Venezuela's oil sector to choke Maduro from a key source of hard cash. Iván Simonovis, a former high-ranking Venezuelan police official who now advises opposition leaders on intelligence strategy from Washington, speculated on Twitter that there might have been a clash between security forces on Sunday and suggested Maduro’s government created the story of a plot to justify “repression against the interim government and any Venezuelan who opposes the dictatorship." But in addition to U.S. economic and diplomatic pressure, Maduro’s government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone and Guaidó’s call for a military uprising, which was joined by few soldiers. The Associated Press reported on Friday that an apparently ill-funded attempt to amass an invasion force of 300 men in Colombia involving a former Venezuelan military officer and an ex-Green Beret, suffered setbacks in March when a main organizer was arrested, an arms cache was seized and some participants abandoned its camps. Cabello linked Sunday’s attack to key players in that alleged plot. One of the men he said was killed, a man nicknamed “the Panther,” had been identified as involved in obtaining weapons for the force in Colombia. Maduro and his allies say the Trump administration is determined to end Venezuela’s socialist government to exploit the South American nation’s vast underground oil reserves. Maduro remains in power, backed by the military and with international support from Cuba, Russia, China and Iran. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, speaking on state TV Sunday backed by armed soldiers and tanks units, called the attackers mercenaries who “don't have souls. They're cowards.” Guaidó accused Maduro’s government of seizing on this example of unrest to draw the world’s attention away from embarrassing bloodshed in other parts of the country, including a prison riot days earlier that left at least 40 dead. “Of course, there are patriotic members of the military willing to fight for Venezuela,” Guaidó said. “But it’s clear that what happened in Vargas is another distraction ploy." Meanwhile, Cesar Omana, a businessman who participated in an unsuccessful plot against Maduro a year ago, said some 30 armed commandos from the Sebin intelligence police raided his Caracas home early Sunday. Omana is not in the country.
3 May 23:43 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/world-news/americas/venezuela-says-it-foiled-boat-attack-by-mercenaries-on-main-port-city-1.8817863Rating: 1.13
Venezuelan Military on High Alert After Foiling Boat Invasion
Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said the attackers tried to invade the northern state of La Guaira on high-speed boats. Eight militants were killed and two others captured in the counteroperation. One of those detained was an agent of the US Drug Enforcement Administration, Reverol said. The Defence Ministry said it had seized the type of weapons used in a failed coup attempt on 30 April. The military is combing the sea bottom near the beach where the attack took place for more weapons after one of the boats capsized. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has repeatedly denounced groups receiving support from Colombia and the US, accusing them of seeking “to undermine the stability of our homeland with violent actions”. Last month, Maduro announced the mobilization of artillery in strategic areas to protect the country from incursion. The latest escalation in tensions between Venezuela, the US and its allies comes after Washington slapped Maduro with “narco-terrorism” charges in March, and posted a $15 million reward for his capture or prosecution.
3 May 21:36 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/latam/202005031079185377-venezuelan-military-on-high-alert-after-foiling-boat-invasion/Rating: 3.96
Venezuela says it foiled attempt by group of armed men to invade the country
CARACAS, VENEZUELA -- Venezuelan officials said they foiled an early morning attempt by a group of armed "mercenaries" to invade the country in a beach landing using speedboats Sunday, killing eight attackers and arresting two more. Socialist party chief Diosdado Cabello said that two of the attackers were interrogated by authorities. Cabello said it was carried out by neighbouring Colombia with the United States backing the plot to overthrow President Nicolas Maduro - a claim dismissed by U.S. officials. "Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action," said Cabello, adding that one of the detained claimed to be an agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Both Colombia and the United States have repeatedly denied previous Venezuelan allegations of backing military plots against the socialist government. "We have little reason to believe anything that comes out of the former regime," said a spokesperson with the State Department Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, speaking Sunday on condition of anonymity, referring to Maduro's government. "The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela." Venezuelan authorities said they found Peruvian documents, high-calibre weapons, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Interior Minister Nestor Reverol described the attackers as "mercenary terrorists" bent on destabilizing Venezuela's institutions and creating "chaos." Officials said the attack took place on a beach in La Guaira, about 20 miles (32 kilometres) from Caracas and home to the nation's largest airport. Authorities say the attackers had vehicles and heavy arms waiting for them in the port city. Venezuela has been in a deepening political and economic crisis in recent years under Maduro's rule. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care has driven nearly 5 million to migrate. A coalition of nearly 60 nations back opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate leader, saying Maduro's 2018 election was a sham because the most popular opposition candidates were banned from running. The United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a narco-trafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions, cutting off Venezuela's oil sector to choke Maduro from a key source of hard cash. Ivan Simonovis, a former high-ranking Venezuelan police official who now advises opposition leaders on intelligence strategy from Washington, speculated on Twitter that there might have been a clash between security forces on Sunday and suggested Maduro's government created the story of a plot to justify "repression against the interim government and any Venezuelan who opposes the dictatorship." But in addition to U.S. economic and diplomatic pressure, Maduro's government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone and Guaido's call for a military uprising, which was joined by few soldiers. The Associated Press reported on Friday that an apparently ill-funded attempt to amass an invasion force of 300 men in Colombia involving a former Venezuelan military officer and an ex-Green Beret, suffered setbacks in March when a main organizer was arrested, an arms cache was seized and some participants abandoned its camps. Cabello linked Sunday's attack to key players in that alleged plot. One of the men he said was killed, a man nicknamed "the Panther," had been identified as involved in obtaining weapons for the force in Colombia. Maduro and his allies say the Trump administration is determined to end Venezuela's socialist government to exploit the South American nation's vast underground oil reserves. Maduro remains in power, backed by the military and with international support from Cuba, Russia, China and Iran. Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez, speaking on state TV Sunday backed by armed soldiers and tanks units, called the attackers mercenaries who "don't have souls. They're cowards." Guaido accused Maduro's government of seizing on this example of unrest to draw the world's attention away from embarrassing bloodshed in other parts of the country, including a prison riot days earlier that left at least 40 dead. "Of course, there are patriotic members of the military willing to fight for Venezuela," Guaido said. "But it's clear that what happened in Vargas is another distraction ploy." Meanwhile, Cesar Omana, a businessman who participated in an unsuccessful plot against Maduro a year ago, said some 30 armed commandos from the Sebin intelligence police raided his Caracas home early Sunday. Omana is not in the country. ------ Associated Press writer Joshua Goodman contributed to this report from Miami, Florida.
3 May 16:43 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/venezuela-says-it-foiled-attempt-by-group-of-armed-men-to-invade-the-country-1.4922830Rating: 2.87
Venezuela says eight killed in foiled 'invasion by sea'
Venezuela's government has said it foiled a marine incursion by "terrorist mercenaries" who attempted to enter the country on speedboats from neighbouring Colombia, adding security forces killed eight of the fighters. The group landed early on Sunday on a beach in the port city of La Guaira, about 20 miles (32km) from the capital Caracas, Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said in a televised address. More: "They tried to carry out an invasion by sea, a group of terrorist mercenaries from Colombia, in order to commit terrorist acts in the country, murdering leaders of the revolutionary government," he said. Socialist Party leader Diosdado Cabello said eight people were killed and two were detained. "We have deactivated an attempted incursion of our territory, thanks to intelligence efforts," Cabello told reporters. President Nicolas Maduro frequently accuses political adversaries of attempting to overthrow his administration with the support of the United States, which has promised to force him from office through sanctions that have crippled the OPEC nations' oil exports. Critics of the governing Socialist Party often dismiss such accusations as stunts used as an excuse to detain opponents of the government. Maduro has overseen a six-year economic crisis that has left many citizens unable to obtain basic food and medicine and forced nearly five million people to emigrate. The US and more than 50 other countries disavowed Maduro after his disputed 2018 election, which they say was rigged, and instead have recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the nation's legitimate interim leader. But Maduro retains the backing of the country's armed forces as well as countries including China and Russia, which have harshly criticised the US sanctions. The US has led a campaign to remove Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a drug trafficker and offering a $15m reward for his arrest. The US has also increased sanctions, cutting off Venezuela's oil sector to choke Maduro from a key source of hard cash. In addition to that pressure, Maduro's government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone and Guaido's call for a military uprising, which was joined by few soldiers. Maduro and his allies say the Trump administration is determined to end Venezuela's socialist government to exploit the South American nation's vast underground oil reserves.
3 May 17:57 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/venezuela-killed-foiled-invasion-sea-200503162349161.htmlRating: 2.44
Venezuela reports attempted naval invasion from Colombia
The Venezuelan armed forces and police have thwarted an attempted naval invasion by mercenaries attempting to enter the country by sea from neighbouring Colombia, Venezuelan Interior Minister Nestor Reverol has announced. “We would like to inform and denounce to the national and international community that early this morning, May 3, 2020, a group of terrorist mercenaries coming from Colombia attempted a sea invasion, with the objective to commit terrorist attacks in our country, assassinate leaders of the revolutionary government and to increase the spiral of violence, generate chaos and confusion among the population, and with this, to attempt a new coup d’état,” Reverol said, speaking on Venezuelan television Sunday morning. According to the interior minister, the mercenaries “attempted to come into the country through fast boats on the coast of Ojeda. But thanks to the fast and effective actions of our armed forces, and of the police task force, some were brought down, and others are now imprisoned,” he added. According to the official, weapons belonging to the mercenaries have also been confiscated. An investigation is now said to be ongoing into the incident. Local media have reported that as many as 8 mercenaries have been killed, with two others captured. Unauthenticated photo evidence has appeared online, purportedly showing some of the mercenaries’ equipment, weapons and vehicles. Video footage in the area where the landing attempt was made shows an increased security forces presence, with other footage apparently taken from a local urban area featuring the sound of gunfire and flares lighting up the night sky. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has repeatedly denounced groups receiving support from Colombia and the US, accusing them of seeking “to undermine the stability of our homeland with violent actions.” Last month, Maduro announced the mobilization of artillery in strategic areas to protect the country from incursion. The latest escalation in tensions between Venezuela, the US and its allies comes after Washington slapped Maduro with “narco-terrorism” charges in March, and posted a $15 million reward for his capture or prosecution. The long-running Venezuelan crisis escalated in early 2019, when opposition lawmaker Juan Guaido proclaimed himself ‘interim president’ and called on the democratically elected Maduro government to step down. Maduro has refused to do so, accusing Guiado of trying to carry out a botched coup with the aim of robbing Venezuela of its vast oil and mineral resources. Source: Sputnik
3 May 15:43 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/venezuela-reports-attempted-naval-invasion-from-colombia/Rating: 0.63
Venezuela says it thwarted armed ‘invasion’ by sea
The Venezuelan government said it thwarted an armed invasion by sea in the early hours of Sunday, killing eight assailants and arresting two others in response to what it said was a plot orchestrated by the US and launched from neighbouring Colombia. Interior Minister Néstor Reverol told state television the attackers tried to land under cover of darkness in speedboats near the port city of La Guaira, close to Caracas. Describing them as “terrorist mercenaries”, he said they had planned “to assassinate leaders of the revolutionary government” and spark a coup. He said the operation was continuing and there might be further arrests. Speaking later, the powerful no. 2 of Venezuela’s ruling socialist party, Diosdado Cabello, said eight people had been killed, including a former army captain who he said was an associate of Clíver Alcalá, a former Venezuelan general who fled to Colombia two years ago and recently admitted he was planning an invasion of Venezuela. Mr Cabello said one of the two men arrested was a Venezuelan who admitted to working for the US Drug Enforcement Administration. The incident comes a month after Mr Alcalá handed himself to US authorities after saying he was planning “a military operation against the Maduro dictatorship” from camps on the La Guajira peninsula, which Colombia and Venezuela share. The plot collapsed after Colombian police found semi-automatic rifles, helmets, night-vision goggles and flak jackets in the back of a van. The US denied the plot existed. Mr Cabello said Sunday’s attempted invasion was part of the same plan. “The rest of the group continued with their plan this morning,” he said. The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions between the US and Venezuela, as the Trump administration steps up efforts to force President Nicolás Maduro from power. In March, the US Department of Justice charged Mr Maduro and a dozen associates in connection with “narco-terrorism” and other crimes, offering $15m for information leading to Mr Maduro’s arrest. Last month, the US sent warships closer to the Venezuelan coast to stop what President Donald Trump described as “cartels, criminals, terrorists and other malign actors” exploiting the coronavirus pandemic to smuggle drugs to the US.
3 May 16:35 • Ft • https://www.ft.com/content/f7ed9f92-f69d-401b-a8fa-20f93cf09bdcRating: 2.96
Venezuela says eight killed in alleged invasion
May 3 (UPI) -- Venezuelan officials said eight people were killed and two were arrested by security forces that thwarted an alleged invasion on Sunday, prompting skepticism from opposition leaders and the United States. Nestor Reverol, Venezuela's interior minister, said boats arrived from Colombia with the intent of assassinating leaders in the Venezuelan government to spur chaos. "The plan was to commit terrorist acts in the country, assassinate leaders of the revolutionary government and add to the spiral of violence while generating chaos and confusion in the population and attempt a new coup d'etat," said Reverol. Diosdado Cabello, president of the Constituent Assembly said that a large cache of weapons and some vehicles were also seized by security forces. "Behind all of this is the United States, the Colombian oligarchy and narcotrafficking," National Assembly head and opposition leader Juan Guaido, who led a rally to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro last year, said the government's description of the event was "riddled with inconsistencies, doubts and contradictions." He also said the "alleged event" may have been staged to frame the opposition or cover up state killings. The U.S. State Department also issued a statement skeptical of the report from the Venezuelan government. "The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela," the agency said.
3 May 23:08 • UPI • https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2020/05/03/Venezuela-says-eight-killed-in-alleged-invasion/6421588544038/Rating: 0.76
Ex-Green Beret claims he led foiled raid into Venezuela | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
CARACAS, Venezuela >> A former Green Beret has taken responsibility for what he claimed was a failed attack Sunday aimed at overthrowing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and that the socialist government said ended with eight dead. Jordan Goudreau’s comments in an interview with an exiled Venezuelan journalist capped a bizarre day that started with reports of a predawn amphibious raid near the South American country’s heavily guarded capital. An AP investigation published Friday found that Goudreau had been working with a retired Venezuelan army general now facing U.S. narcotics charges to train dozens of deserters from Venezuela’s security forces at secret camps inside neighboring Colombia. The goal was to mount a cross-border raid that would end in Maduro’s arrest. But from the outset the ragtag army lacked funding and U.S. government support, all but guaranteeing defeat against Maduro’s sizable-if-demoralized military. It also appears to have been penetrated by Maduro’s extensive Cuban-backed intelligence network. Both Goudreau and retired Venezuelan Capt. Javier Nieto declined to speak to the AP today when contacted after posting a video from an undisclosed location saying they had launched an anti-Maduro putsch called “Operation Gideon.” Both men live in Florida. “A daring amphibious raid was launched from the border of Colombia deep into the heart of Caracas,” Goudreau, in a New York Yankees ball cap, said in the video standing next to Nieto who was dressed in armored vest with a rolled-up Venezuelan flag pinned to his shoulder. “Our units have been activated in the south, west and east of Venezuela.” Goudreau said 60 of his men were still on the ground and calls were being activated inside Venezuela, some of them fighting under the command of Venezuelan National Guardsman Capt. Antonio Sequea, who participated in a barracks revolt against Maduro a year ago. None of their claims of an ongoing operation could be independently verified. But Goudreau said he hoped to join the rebels soon and invited Venezuelans and Maduro’s troops to join the would-be insurgency although there was no sign of any fighting in the capital or elsewhere as night fell. In an interview later with Miami-based journalist Patricia Poleo, he provided a contradictory account of his activities and the support he claims to have once had — and then lost — from Juan Guaidó, the opposition leader recognized as Venezuela’s interim president by the U.S. and some 60 countries. He provided to Poleo what he said was an 8-page contract signed by Guaidó and two political advisers in Miami in October for $213 million. The alleged “general services” contract doesn’t specify what work his company, Silvercorp USA, was to undertake. He also released via Poleo a four-minute audio recording, made on a hidden cellphone, in the moment when he purportedly signed the contract as Guaidó participated via videoconference. In the recording, a person he claims is Guaido can be heard giving vague encouragement in broken English but not discussing any military plans. “Let’s get to work!,” said the man who is purportedly Guaido. The AP was unable to confirm the veracity of the recording. There was no immediate comment from Guaidó on Goudreau’s claim that the two had signed a contract. Previously, Guaidó has said he hadn’t signed any contract for a military incursion. Goudreau said he never received a penny from the Guaidó team and instead the Venezuelan soldiers he was advising had to scrounge for donations from Venezuelan migrants driving for car share service Uber in Colombia. “It’s almost like crowdfunded the liberating of a country,” he said. Goudreau said everything he did was legal but in any case he’s prepared to pay the cost for anything he did if it saves the lives of Venezuelans trying to restore their democracy. “I’ve been a freedom fighter my whole life. This is all I know,” said Goudreau, who is a decorated three-time Bronze Star recipient for courage in deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as a special forces medic. Asked about why his troops would land at one of Venezuela’s most fortified coastlines — some 20 miles from Caracas next to the country’s biggest airport — he cited the example set by Alexander the Great, who had “struck deep into the heart of the enemy” at the Battle of Guagamela. The government’s claims that it had foiled a beach landing today triggered a frenzy of confusing claims and counterclaims about the alleged plot. While Maduro’s allies said it had been backed by Guaidó, Colombia and the U.S., the opposition accused Maduro of fabricating the whole episode to distract attention from the country’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. “Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action,” said socialist party boss Diosdado Cabello, adding that one of two captured insurgents claimed to be an agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Authorities said they found Peruvian documents, high-caliber weapons, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Both U.S. and Colombian officials dismissed the Venezuelan allegations. “We have little reason to believe anything that comes out of the former regime,” said a State Department spokesperson, referring to Maduro’s government. “The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela.” Venezuela has been in a deepening political and economic crisis under Maduro’s rule. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care have driven nearly 5 million to migrate. The United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a drug trafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions. In addition to U.S. economic and diplomatic pressure, Maduro’s government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone in 2018 and Guaidó’s call for a military uprising a year ago. Cabello linked today’s attack to key players in the alleged plot led by Goudreau and Ret. Maj. Gen. Cliver Alcala, who is now in U.S. custody awaiting trial after being indicted alongside Maduro on narcoterrorist charges. One of the men he said was killed, nicknamed “the Panther,” had been identified as involved in obtaining weapons for the covert force in Colombia. Guaidó accused Maduro’s government of seizing on the incident to draw the world’s attention away from the country’s problems. “Of course, there are patriotic members of the military willing to fight for Venezuela,” Guaidó said. “But it’s clear that what happened in Vargas is another distraction ploy.”
3 May 16:05 • Star-Advertiser • https://www.staradvertiser.com/2020/05/03/breaking-news/venezuela-says-it-foiled-attack-by-boat-on-main-port-city/Rating: 0.30
Venezuela claims it 'foiled' attack backed by US, Colombia
Venezuelan officials claimed they stopped a team of attackers, backed by the United States and Colombia, who tried storming the country from sea early Sunday morning. Socialist party chief Diosdado Cabello told local reporters that his forces killed eight men who tried to enter the port city of La Guaira, and arrested two more. One of the men in custody supposedly claimed to be a DEA agent, but Fox News could not verify those claims. “One of the detainees claimed to be a [Drug Enforcement Administration] official. He participated in DEA operations in America. He is Venezuelan, said by himself,” Cabello said. “It is sad that those who call themselves Venezuelans are financed by drug trafficking and drug money.” CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE He continued, “Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action.” Investigators claimed the men arrived by boat from Colombia and had supplies waiting for them, including vehicles, heavy arms, Peruvian documents, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Both Colombia and the United States previously have denied allegations by the Maduro government of backing military plots against the government. VENEZUELA PRISON RIOT KILLS AT LEAST 40, INCLUDING WARDEN Interior Minister Nestor Reverol described the would-be attackers as “mercenary terrorists” bent on destabilizing Venezuela’s institutions and creating “chaos.” Cabello went on to claim that the attack was backed by the United States in an attempt to overthrow disputed President Nicolás Maduro. Journalist Érika Ortega Sanoja reported that fishermen in La Guaira will help the security forces patrol the city’s coast in the face of the attempted incursion. Venezuela has suffered from a severe economic crisis, which has driven up crime rates and deepened political divides within the country. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care have driven nearly 5 million people to leave. A similar attack was planned earlier this year, but it fell apart after the Venezuelan government seized a bulk of the group’s weapons and arrested one of the central conspirators. An ex-Green Beret supposedly was involved with the attempt, though, the U.S. denied any support of the plot, which did not materialize. CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP Instead of backing direct conflicts, the United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro by indicting the socialist leader as a narcotrafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions, cutting off Venezuela’s oil sector to choke Maduro from a key source of hard cash. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
3 May 18:43 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/world/venezuela-claims-us-colombia-supported-attack-foiledRating: 3.32
Venezuelan military stifles militant infiltration attempt from Colombia
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:40 P.M.) – The Venezuelan Armed Forces announced on Sunday that their troops confronted a group of ‘terrorists’ that attempted to infiltrate their territorial waters from Colombia. According to the Venezuelan Ministry of Interior, the unknown group attempted to infiltrate into their territory using a gunboat from Colombia. The Venezuelan military engaged the unknown group in a brief firefight, resulting in the death of some of these militants and the confiscation of their weapons, the Ministry of Interior said. The Ministry of Interior did not provide any information about the infiltrators, but said these militants were heavily armed and preparing to carry out assassinations and other crimes in the Bolivarian Republic. They would add that the Venezuelan Armed Forces will continue to investigate this latest infiltration attempt, as they believe some of the others involved are living inside the South American country.
3 May 14:00 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/venezuelan-military-stifles-militant-infiltration-attempt-from-colombia/Rating: 0.63
Venezuela
1 / 9Security forces patrol near the shore in the port city of La Guaira, Venezuela, Sunday, May 3, 2020. Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said on state television that security forces overcame before dawn Sunday an armed maritime incursion with speedboats from neighboring Colombia in which several attackers were killed and others detained. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix) CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — A former Green Beret has taken responsibility for what he claimed was a failed attack Sunday aimed at overthrowing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and that the socialist government said ended with eight dead. Jordan Goudreau’s comments in an interview with an exiled Venezuelan journalist capped a bizarre day that started with reports of a predawn amphibious raid near the South American country's heavily guarded capital. An AP investigation published Friday found that Goudreau had been working with a retired Venezuelan army general now facing U.S. narcotics charges to train dozens of deserters from Venezuela's security forces at secret camps inside neighboring Colombia. The goal was to mount a cross-border raid that would end in Maduro’s arrest. But from the outset the ragtag army lacked funding and U.S. government support, all but guaranteeing defeat against Maduro’s sizable-if-demoralized military. It also appears to have been penetrated by Maduro's extensive Cuban-backed intelligence network. Both Goudreau and retired Venezuelan Capt. Javier Nieto declined to speak to the AP on Sunday when contacted after posting a video from an undisclosed location saying they had launched an anti-Maduro putsch called “Operation Gideon.” Both men live in Florida. “A daring amphibious raid was launched from the border of Colombia deep into the heart of Caracas,” Goudreau, in a New York Yankees ball cap, said in the video standing next to Nieto who was dressed in armored vest with a rolled-up Venezuelan flag pinned to his shoulder. “Our units have been activated in the south, west and east of Venezuela.” Goudreau said 60 of his men were still on the ground and calls were being activated inside Venezuela, some of them fighting under the command of Venezuelan National Guardsman Capt. Antonio Sequea, who participated in a barracks revolt against Maduro a year ago. None of their claims of an ongoing operation could be independently verified. But Goudreau said he hoped to join the rebels soon and invited Venezuelans and Maduro's troops to join the would-be insurgency although there was no sign of any fighting in the capital or elsewhere as night fell. In an interview later with Miami-based journalist Patricia Poleo, he provided a contradictory account of his activities and the support he claims to have once had — and then lost — from Juan Guaidó, the opposition leader recognized as Venezuela’s interim president by the U.S. and some 60 countries. He provided to Poleo what he said was an 8-page contract signed by Guaidó and two political advisers in Miami in October for $213 million. The alleged “general services” contract doesn’t specify what work his company, Silvercorp USA, was to undertake. He also released via Poleo a four-minute audio recording, made on a hidden cellphone, in the moment when he purportedly signed the contract as Guaidó participated via videoconference. In the recording, a person he claims is Guaido can be heard giving vague encouragement in broken English but not discussing any military plans. “Let’s get to work!,” said the man who is purportedly Guaido. The AP was unable to confirm the veracity of the recording. There was no immediate comment from Guaidó on Goudreau’s claim that the two had signed a contract. Previously, Guaidó has said he hadn’t signed any contract for a military incursion. Goudreau said he never received a penny from the Guaidó team and instead the Venezuelan soldiers he was advising had to scrounge for donations from Venezuelan migrants driving for car share service Uber in Colombia. “It’s almost like crowdfunded the liberating of a country," he said. Goudreau said everything he did was legal but in any case he's prepared to pay the cost for anything he did if it saves the lives of Venezuelans trying to restore their democracy. “I’ve been a freedom fighter my whole life. This is all I know,” said Goudreau, who is a decorated three-time Bronze Star recipient for courage in deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan as a special forces medic. Asked about why his troops would land at one of Venezuela's most fortified coastlines — some 20 miles from Caracas next to the country's biggest airport — he cited the example set by Alexander the Great, who had “struck deep into the heart of the enemy” at the Battle of Guagamela. The government’s claims that it had foiled a beach landing Sunday triggered a frenzy of confusing claims and counterclaims about the alleged plot. While Maduro's allies said it had been backed by Guaidó, Colombia and the U.S., the opposition accused Maduro of fabricating the whole episode to distract attention from the country's ongoing humanitarian crisis. “Those who assume they can attack the institutional framework in Venezuela will have to assume the consequences of their action,” said socialist party boss Diosdado Cabello, adding that one of two captured insurgents claimed to be an agent of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Authorities said they found Peruvian documents, high-caliber weapons, satellite phones, uniforms and helmets adorned with the U.S. flag. Both U.S. and Colombian officials dismissed the Venezuelan allegations. “We have little reason to believe anything that comes out of the former regime,” said a State Department spokesperson, referring to Maduro's government. “The Maduro regime has been consistent in its use of misinformation in order to shift focus from its mismanagement of Venezuela.” Venezuela has been in a deepening political and economic crisis under Maduro's rule. Crumbling public services such as running water, electricity and medical care have driven nearly 5 million to migrate. The United States has led a campaign to oust Maduro, increasing pressure in recent weeks by indicting the socialist leader as a drug trafficker and offering a $15 million reward for his arrest. The U.S. also has increased stiff sanctions. In addition to U.S. economic and diplomatic pressure, Maduro’s government has faced several small-scale military threats, including an attempt to assassinate Maduro with a drone in 2018 and Guaidó’s call for a military uprising a year ago. Cabello linked Sunday’s attack to key players in the alleged plot led by Goudreau and Ret. Maj. Gen. Cliver Alcala, who is now in U.S. custody awaiting trial after being indicted alongside Maduro on narcoterrorist charges. One of the men he said was killed, nicknamed “the Panther,” had been identified as involved in obtaining weapons for the covert force in Colombia. Guaidó accused Maduro’s government of seizing on the incident to draw the world’s attention away from the country's problems. “Of course, there are patriotic members of the military willing to fight for Venezuela,” Guaidó said. “But it’s clear that what happened in Vargas is another distraction ploy." ___ Goodman reported from Miami.
3 May 12:55 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/venezuela-says-foiled-attack-boat-125553161.htmlRating: 0.30
Taliban reacts to Iranian forces move for throwing 57 Afghans into river
The Taliban group reacted to Iran border guards’ move for allegedly throwing 57 Afghan migrants into river, killing at least 23 of them. The Taliban group in a statement said the group will share its deep concerns regarding the ‘martyrdom’ of the Afghan migrants, with the Iranian authorities. The statement further added that the Iranian authorities must consider kindness, Islamic brotherhood and the principles of neighborhood in their behavior with the Afghans considering the ongoing situation in Afghanistan. This comes as some of the Afghan migrants accused the Iranian forces, border guards, of throwing 57 people into a river which resulted in the killing of at least 23 of them, it has been reported. Certain of the survivors of the incident have claimed that the Iranian border guards initially arrested the migrants from a bordering region and later threw them in to Harirod River. According to reports, the incident took place earlier last week as the migrants were on their way to Iran, apparently for work opportunities.
3 May 09:51 • The Khaama Press News Agency • https://www.khaama.com/taliban-reacts-to-iranian-forces-move-for-throwing-57-afghans-into-river-04762/Rating: 1.51
Intrigues plaguing multinational force’s battle against Boko Haram
For years, Nigeria has been caught in the web of terrorism. Regrettably, the nation’s military, which has won many accolades at the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations and at the regional level, has not been able to restore peace especially to the North-East where the terror groups operate. Book Haram launched a full-scale attacks on Nigeria following the killing/death of its commander, Mohammed Yusuf, in a controversial circumstance. The dreaded Boko Haram which was regarded as a ragtag army of youths has continued to give the Nigerian military as well as the military of some neighbouring nations a serious headache, killing scores of troops and carting away their weapons on some occasions. Although the insurgents have also had many casualties, their ability to recruit more fighters, resilience, arms cache and capability to get intelligence reports, which they often deploy in attacking the soldiers, have been worrisome despite many claims that they have been technically defeated. The terrorists became very emboldened before the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), came to power in 2015 to the extent that the United Nations Office in Abuja was bombed while the Police headquarters was also bombarded, among other places. However, the devious attacks were not limited to Nigeria as the terror group also carried out attacks in Chad, Niger and Cameroon. These deadly attacks and the push by the insurgents to establish their government in these countries accounted for the reorganisation of the Multi-National Joint Task Force in 2015. This was why the headquarters of the regional force was moved from Baga, Borno State, to N’Djamena, Chad Republic, and their mandate was to end the Boko Haram insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin. Despite the reorganisation, the terrorists have continued to carry out attacks especially on military bases just to show that their alleged ‘technical defeat’ as claimed by the Federal Government was a ruse. In March, Boko Haram inflicted a heavy blow on the Nigerian military by killing about 47 troops in a deadly ambush while the troops were moving around Alagarno in Yobe State. The insurgents also killed 92 Chadian troops when they carried out an attack on a base in Bohoma, Chad. The attack is still being regarded as the worst military loss in the history of Chad. Infuriated by the heavy defeat, the Chadian President, Idriss Deby, vowed that Chadian troops would deal with the insurgents. A few days after and in a surprise move, he actualised the threat as his troops launched a full-scale attack on the stronghold of Boko Haram killing hundreds of them and taking control of their arms store. However, after the onslaught, the president who is a retired military officer, was quoted by Aljazeera as saying that Chad would no longer be part of any regional force in the Lake Chad region and the Sahel. He said, “Our troops have died for Lake Chad and the Sahel. From today, no Chadian soldier will take part in a military mission outside Chad. Chad is alone in shouldering all the burden of the war against Boko Haram.” But the Nigerian military downplayed the statement, saying Chad had not pulled out of the regional force. Nonetheless, investigations by our correspondents revealed that rivalry, lack of commitment and underfunding of the regional force were some of the reasons the MNJTF had not been able to defeat the insurgents completely. Military sources noted that some of these reasons were also responsible for the inability of the Nigerian armed forces to end the Boko Haram terrorism within the states of Borno, Yobe and Adamawa since 2009. A top military source in Borno, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said chief among the reasons for the slowdown over the years was an unwritten rivalry and controversy over funding among the countries, with Nigeria and Chad in the forefront. The source said, “When the MNJTF was in Baga, Borno State, between 2009 and 2015, Nigeria provided much of the funding and supplied the most troops with little or no contributions from the three other countries. Nigeria still does. But then, the Boko Haram struck Baga and ruined the MNJTF headquarters in one of the most devastating attacks of that year on our troops. “There was suspicion that the attack on Baga came because of unspoken bitterness from the other countries. So, the headquarters was moved to Chad in 2015. Yet, it was agreed that a Nigerian officer would be the Force Commander, a Cameroonian as a Deputy Commander and a Chadian as the Chief of Staff. Again, the Commander position was not rotational and this is another problem. “It is difficult, even if I become the commander, to get the allegiance of the Chadian troops, where the MNJTF is headquartered, to commit more to the MNJTF than to their nation. They will naturally owe allegiance first to their army chief and the President than to a Nigerian commander. Chad just feels they are not in charge and that in a way affects the military cooperation.” Despite operating from Chad and being a regional force, the choice of who becomes the MNJTF commander has always been done almost solely by the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff (currently Lt Gen Tukur Buratai), whom military sources believe should not be making such decision without the input of other army chiefs in the joint military force. In the latest appointment in November 2019, Buratai in a press release named Maj Gen Ibrahim Yusuf as the MNJTF commander, replacing Maj Gen Chikeze Ude, the hitherto head of the force. “This kind of choice of the MNJTF leadership is very faulty, if you ask me. The four countries have Chiefs of Defence Staff and at worst, the Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff is supposed to make such appointment and seek approval from the other three countries’ heads of military to show they are in the decision making channel,” a captain in the Nigerian Army explained. It was not surprising therefore when Chad, in the first week of April 2020, hinted that it might no longer be taking part in any regional force. Although the announcement looked unclear as it houses the MNJTF, the Chadian president lamented that the country’s troops had died in droves for Lake Chad and the Sahel and they might no longer be taking part in a military mission outside his country. Analysts believe that the message was subtly targeted at Nigeria to show that Chad wanted some more leverage in the force, than for its troops to await orders from Nigerian commanders. It was learnt that Niger Republic and Cameroon were not in contention for such prominence in the MNJTF with their troops not being able to stop the terrorists from coming into their respective territories, most times after escaping heat from Nigeria and Chad. “The funding of the MNJTF has therefore been a major challenge, with most resources lopsided and coming from Nigeria and Chad, which again limits the penetration of the regional force into the two other countries,” a top military source in Abuja said. On April 10, 2020, the operations of the MNJTF were reviewed at the Ministry of Defence building in Abuja, but only the Ministers of Defence from Nigeria and Chad, Maj Gen Bashir Magashi (retd.), and Mahamat Salah, respectively were at that meeting where tactical decisions were taken. The Chadian defence minister had come to Abuja to review the MNJTF. He came in company with the Chief of Staff to the Chadian President, the Chadian Ambassador to Nigeria and the Chadian Director of Military Cooperation. Meanwhile, Boko Haram has managed to keep its fangs alive in the Lake Chad region, partly due to the emergence of its deadlier faction, the Islamic State West African Province, and the recruitment and indoctrination of thousands of youths across the four countries to fight in the sect under the guise of religious and ideological war. On April 27, the MNJTF itself raised the alarm that it had obtained information regarding a plot by the insurgents to carry out an “aggressive recruitment in the coming weeks.” It said the forced recruitment was expected to target young and adult males. However, the sect’s backup plan was to kidnap unwilling targets. The MNJTF Chief of Military Public Information, Col Timothy Antigha, therefore urged youths in the North-Eastern states of Nigeria, Lake Province of Chad, Diffa Region of Niger and Extreme North Region of Cameroon to be vigilant and shun all promises of opportunities for quick money and misguided teachings about jihad. On the whole, military sources agree that the MNJTF needs to first win the confidence and trust of its four member countries and their armed forces before tangible successes can be recorded against the Boko Haram and its affiliates. A former Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Prof Bola Akinterinwa, in an interview with Sunday PUNCH, identified poor funding, poor equipment and logistical problems as some of the factors incapacitating the MNJTF. Akinterinwa said the MNJTF was established in the 1990s for economic reasons but its mandate was changed to security when it was reorganised. He said, “You know the countries funding the MNJTF but you don’t know the financiers of the Boko Haram. I will like to remind you of what late Muammar Gaddafi of Libya said and what a former President of Ghana, Jerry Rawlings, also said and you will know why the task will be very difficult for any joint task force whether national or multinational. “Gaddafi made it abundantly clear that Nigeria could not have peace unless the country was divided into Muslim North and Christian South. Now the Boko Haram wants to establish an Islamic State particularly in the North. “In this case, the powerful Muslim states appear to be funding them, aiding and abetting them. Nobody is talking about which countries are involved but accusing finger is pointing at Iran for supporting the Shiite; accusing fingers are pointing at Saudi Arabia and other countries. But the issue is that Boko Haram cannot have the kind of sophisticated weapons they are using if they are not being supplied from outside the country. “In this case, when you have an opposition like Boko Haram that is heavily funded and equipped fighting against the MNJTF that is poorly equipped, how can they succeed? “Also, some Nigerians went to protest at the French Embassy in Abuja accusing France of aiding and abetting Boko Haram. Jerry Rawling said the solution to Nigeria problems was to kick out all new-colonialist leaders in Nigeria. When you look at this also, you will see that it is very difficult for the joint task force because there may be colonial support for Boko Haram as well. This is a fundamental issue. “Multi-national joint task force means the troops there are from different countries with different cultures. They do not use the same type of weapons and their military training and doctrines are not the same. Yet they are brought together under one commander who is expected to harmonise their activities. In terms of signal and strategies, they may not be the same. There is logistical problem and above all who is the leader? “ A former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, said in February at the first public lecture in honour of the late founder of Oodu’a Peoples Congress, Dr Fredrick Fasehun, that Nigeria had not been able to defeat Boko Haram because the terror group was getting support from outside. He, however, did not reveal where the external support for the jihadists was coming from. But, a fellow of the International Institute of Professional Security, Mr Jackson Ojo, in an interview with Sunday PUNCH, said despite the fact that the terror group’s activities affected Nigeria more than the other three nations in the region, Nigeria had been lackadaisical in its approach to the force. Ojo said, “There is a lot of unserious mess on the side of Nigeria despite the fact the counrty can be regarded as the epicentre of Boko Haram activities. Apart from this, I believe there are many saboteurs in Nigeria and even in the military. Boko Haram has a lot of sympathisers even among those in government. Some are sympathetic to the group based on ethnic, religious or just emotional sympathy. “Boko Haram fighters do not fly to their bases, they come through our land borders with their supplies and security agents are supposed to be there. Nigeria has not queried that. These are some of the signs that we are not very serious about it. Our Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Tukur Buratai, just relocated to the North-East after the Chadian troops led by their President had routed the Boko Haram in an offensive battle.” Proffering solution to the challenges, Akinterinwa said the MNJTF should re-strategise to end the insurgency. He explained that the troops of all the countries in the regional force should fix a particular day and a particular time of the day and encircle the whole area where “the Boko Haram fighters are and advance.” He said with this, they would be able to neutralise the insurgents and there would be no need for the Joint Task Force to continue to play preventive role. Copyright PUNCH.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH. Contact: theeditor@punchng.com
2 May 23:30 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/intrigues-plaguing-multinational-forces-battle-against-boko-haram/Rating: 0.30
Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
3 May 12:15
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Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
DHAKA, BANGLADESH -- At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating for weeks in the Bay of Bengal have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, the chief local government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh's Refugee Commissioner's office in Cox's Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups said recently that hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. The United Nations, the British government and Human Rights Watch have recently urged Bangladesh to shelter all the refugees floating at sea, but the government had a lukewarm response, saying all other nations in the Bay of Bengal region should also share the responsibility of sheltering them. Bhasan Char was previously submerged by monsoon rains but Bangladesh's government said in January that it was ready to house up to 100,000 Rohingya refugees from the crowded and squalid camps where they've lived for years in Cox's Bazar. Bangladesh's navy was involved with a multimillion-dollar project under which flood protection embankments, houses, hospitals and mosques have been built on the island. But no refugees have agreed so far to move to the island, and the UN and other international agencies did not show much optimism about the relocation to the newly built island. The UN's refugee agency said Sunday that it was concerned about the refugees. "The UN's longstanding position is that comprehensive technical and protection assessments to evaluate the safety and sustainability of life on Bhasan Char are essential before any relocations to the island take place. The UN has long been prepared to proceed with onsite assessment work," Louise Donovan, a spokeswoman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, or UNHCR, said in an email. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims came to Bangladesh starting in August 2017, when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar began a harsh crackdown against them in response to an attack by insurgents. Global rights groups and the UN have called the campaign ethnic cleansing involving rapes, killings and torching of thousands of homes. Currently more than 1 million Rohingya live in Bangladesh. The Rohingya are not recognized as citizens in Myanmar, rendering them stateless, and face other forms of state-sanctioned discrimination.
3 May 12:15 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-land-on-bangladesh-island-1.4922686Rating: 2.87
Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
DHAKA, Bangladesh — At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating in the Bay of Bengal for weeks have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, local chief government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh’s Refugee Commissioner’s office in Cox’s Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups say hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims came to Bangladesh starting in August 2017, when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar began a harsh crackdown against them in response to an attack by insurgents. Global rights groups and the U.N. have called the campaign ethnic cleansing involving rapes, killings and torching of thousands of homes. Currently more than 1 million Rohingya live in Bangladesh. Julhas Alam, The Associated Press
3 May 10:23 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-land-on-bangladesh-island/Rating: 0.77
Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating for weeks in the Bay of Bengal have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, the chief local government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh’s Refugee Commissioner’s office in Cox’s Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups said recently that hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. The United Nations, the British government and Human Rights Watch have recently urged Bangladesh to shelter all the refugees floating at sea, but the government had a lukewarm response, saying all other nations in the Bay of Bengal region should also share the responsibility of sheltering them. Bhasan Char was previously submerged by monsoon rains but Bangladesh’s government said in January that it was ready to house up to 100,000 Rohingya refugees from the crowded and squalid camps where they’ve lived for years in Cox’s Bazar. Bangladesh’s navy was involved with a multimillion-dollar project under which flood protection embankments, houses, hospitals and mosques have been built on the island. But no refugees have agreed so far to move to the island, and the U.N. and other international agencies did not show much optimism about the relocation to the newly built island. The U.N.’s refugee agency said Sunday that it was concerned about the refugees. “The U.N.’s long-standing position is that comprehensive technical and protection assessments to evaluate the safety and sustainability of life on Bhasan Char are essential before any relocations to the island take place. The U.N. has long been prepared to proceed with on-site assessment work,” Louise Donovan, a spokeswoman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, or UNHCR, said in an e-mail. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims came to Bangladesh starting in August 2017, when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar began a harsh crackdown against them in response to an attack by insurgents. Global rights groups and the U.N. have called the campaign ethnic cleansing involving rapes, killings and torching of thousands of homes. Currently more than 1 million Rohingya live in Bangladesh. The Rohingya are not recognized as citizens in Myanmar, rendering them stateless, and face other forms of state-sanctioned discrimination. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 13:18 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-land-on-bangladesh-island-2/Rating: 2.18
Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
DHAKA, Bangladesh — At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating in the Bay of Bengal for weeks have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, local chief government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh’s Refugee Commissioner’s office in Cox’s Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups say hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims came to Bangladesh starting in August 2017, when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar began a harsh crackdown against them in response to an attack by insurgents. Global rights groups and the U.N. have called the campaign ethnic cleansing involving rapes, killings and torching of thousands of homes. Currently more than 1 million Rohingya live in Bangladesh. Julhas Alam, The Associated Press
3 May 09:23 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-land-on-bangladesh-island/Rating: 0.61
Rohingya refugees floating at sea for weeks land on Bangladesh island
At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating in the Bay of Bengal for weeks have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, local chief government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh’s Refugee Commissioner’s office in Cox’s Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups say hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims came to Bangladesh starting in August 2017, when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar began a harsh crackdown against them in response to an attack by insurgents. Global rights groups and the U.N. have called the campaign ethnic cleansing involving rapes, killings and torching of thousands of homes. Currently more than 1 million Rohingya live in Bangladesh.
3 May 09:52 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-for-weeks-land-on-bangladesh-island/story-cfzFb8BZykBNtUXG9LZJMM.htmlRating: 0.30
Rohingya refugees relocated to controversial Bangladesh island after weeks at sea
Dozens of Rohingya refugees stranded at sea for weeks have been relocated to a controversial flood-prone island in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh officials said Sunday. Bangladesh last year constructed facilities for 100,000 people on Bhashan Char, a muddy silt islet in the cyclone-prone coastal belt, saying they needed to take pressure off crowded border camps that are home to almost one million Rohingya. The 28 Rohingya were taken to the island late Saturday instead of the camps as authorities were afraid they might be infected with the coronavirus, Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen told AFP. "Most likely they will stay there until they return to Myanmar." They are the first group of Rohingya to be sent to the island, local government administrator Tanmoy Das told AFP, adding they were being looked after by navy personnel who had built the facilities. Officials said the group -- including 15 women and five children -- were detained after coming ashore on Saturday from one of two boats suck at sea while trying to reach Malaysia. Some 250 other refugees who also left the boat in six or seven dinghies have not been found, he added. Bangladesh had refused to let the two trawlers carrying about 500 people land on its territory despite UN calls to allow them in as a powerful storm bears down on the region. So far, no coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the sprawling camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar that house Rohingya who fled a 2017 military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar. The plan to move the refugees to Bhashan Char has been staunchly opposed by the Rohingya community. The UN refugee agency UNHCR said Sunday that comprehensive assessments were needed before anyone is moved to the island, spokeswoman Louise Donovan told AFP. "UNHCR has all preparations in place to ensure the safe quarantine of any refugees arriving by boat to Cox's Bazar, as a precautionary measure related to the COVID-19 pandemic," she added. Human Rights Watch South Asia chief Meenakshi Ganguly said the relocation would place the refugees "at further risk after the suffering that they have already endured". In mid-April, 396 starving refugees were rescued from a trawler stranded in the Bay of Bengal for more than two months. At least 60 people died on the boat. The survivors were moved to transit centres near the border camps where they were quarantined. Thousands of Rohingya try every year to reach other countries, making the perilous journey on crowded, rickety boats.
3 May 15:21 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/rohingya-refugees-relocated-controversial-bangladesh-island-weeks-sea-152116893.htmlRating: 0.30
Rohingya refugees relocated to controversial Bangladesh island after weeks at sea
Dozens of Rohingya refugees stranded at sea for weeks have been relocated to a controversial flood-prone island in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh officials said Sunday. Bangladesh last year constructed facilities for 100,000 people on Bhashan Char, a muddy silt islet in the cyclone-prone coastal belt, saying they needed to take pressure off crowded border camps that are home to almost one million Rohingya. The 28 Rohingya were taken to the island late Saturday instead of the camps as authorities were afraid they might be infected with the coronavirus, Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen told AFP. “Most likely they will stay there until they return to Myanmar.” They are the first group of Rohingya to be sent to the island, local government administrator Tanmoy Das told AFP, adding they were being looked after by navy personnel who had built the facilities. Officials said the group — including 15 women and five children — were detained after coming ashore on Saturday from one of two boats suck at sea while trying to reach Malaysia. Some 250 other refugees who also left the boat in six or seven dinghies have not been found, he added. Bangladesh had refused to let the two trawlers carrying about 500 people land on its territory despite UN calls to allow them in as a powerful storm bears down on the region. So far, no coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the sprawling camps in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar that house Rohingya who fled a 2017 military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar. The plan to move the refugees to Bhashan Char has been staunchly opposed by the Rohingya community. The UN refugee agency UNHCR said Sunday that comprehensive assessments were needed before anyone is moved to the island, spokeswoman Louise Donovan told AFP. “UNHCR has all preparations in place to ensure the safe quarantine of any refugees arriving by boat to Cox’s Bazar, as a precautionary measure related to the COVID-19 pandemic,” she added. Human Rights Watch South Asia chief Meenakshi Ganguly said the relocation would place the refugees “at further risk after the suffering that they have already endured”. In mid-April, 396 starving refugees were rescued from a trawler stranded in the Bay of Bengal for more than two months. At least 60 people died on the boat. The survivors were moved to transit centres near the border camps where they were quarantined. Thousands of Rohingya try every year to reach other countries, making the perilous journey on crowded, rickety boats.
3 May 15:54 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/rohingya-refugees-relocated-to-controversial-bangladesh-island-after-weeks-at-sea/Rating: 0.30
Dozens of stranded Rohingya refugees land in Bangladesh
Dozens of Rohingya believed to be from one of several boats floating in the Bay of Bengal for weeks have landed on the coast of southern Bangladesh, according to officials, as fears grow over hundreds of people stuck at sea on vessels because of coronavirus restrictions. Security officials quoted by news agencies said on Sunday that a small boat carrying about 40 people, including "starving" women and children, had come ashore the previous day. Local people tipped off the coastguard and 29 people were arrested and about 10 fled, police and security officials said. Chris Lewa, director of the Arakan Project monitoring group, said the group that landed on Saturday had likely come on a small boat from one of the larger vessels still at sea, believed to be carrying hundreds of people. The two trawlers - carrying an estimated 500 Rohingya women, men and children - were stuck in the Bay of Bengal after being rejected by Malaysia, which has imposed restrictions on all boats in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Bangladesh has refused to let the fishing boats land on its territory despite United Nations calls to allow them in as a powerful storm bears down on the region. Shobbir Ahmed, a Rohingya at one of the refugee camps in southeast Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar told AFP news agency that two of his daughters who had been on the stranded boats were among those who landed on Saturday. He said the women, aged 19 and 17, had boarded a trawler two months ago trying to get to Malaysia. Ahmed said he paid a Rohingya intermediary about $2,230 for them to make the trip. Rohingya refugees walk to the shore with his belongings after crossing the Bangladesh-Myanmar border by boat through the Bay of Bengal in Teknaf, Bangladesh [File: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters] Security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the rescued Rohingya would be sent to the island of Bhashan Char in the Bay of Bengal where Bangladesh has built shelters for some 100,000 refugees. The proposed relocation to the island in the cyclone-prone coastal belt has drawn criticism from rights groups and sparked protests by the Rohingya. There are about one million Rohingya in camps in Bangladesh, the majority of whom fled a brutal military crackdown in Myanmar in 2017. Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said last month that the country would not allow the Rohingya boats into its territory. His declaration came after more than 60 Rohingya died on a boat that waited at sea for two months before it could dock. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea.
3 May 11:00 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/dozens-stranded-rohingya-refugees-land-bangladesh-200503095818980.htmlRating: 2.44
Rohingya refugees relocated to controversial Bangladesh island after weeks at sea
DHAKA, May 3 — Dozens of Rohingya refugees stranded at sea for weeks have been relocated to a controversial flood-prone island in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh officials said today. Bangladesh last year constructed facilities for 100,000 people on Bhashan Char, a muddy silt islet in the cyclone-prone coastal belt, saying they needed to take pressure off crowded border camps that are home to almost one million Rohingya. The 28 Rohingya were taken to the island late yesterday instead of the camps as authorities were afraid they might be infected with the coronavirus, Foreign Minister A.K. Abdul Momen told AFP. “Most likely they will stay there until they return to Myanmar.” They are the first group of Rohingya to be sent to the island, local government administrator Tanmoy Das told AFP, adding they were being looked after by navy personnel who had built the facilities. Officials said the group—including 15 women and five children—were detained after coming ashore yesterrday from one of two boats suck at sea while trying to reach Malaysia. Some 250 other refugees who also left the boat in six or seven dinghies have not been found, he added. Bangladesh had refused to let the two trawlers carrying about 500 people land on its territory despite UN calls to allow them in as a powerful storm bears down on the region. So far, no coronavirus cases have been confirmed in the sprawling camps in Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar that house Rohingya who fled a 2017 military crackdown in neighbouring Myanmar. The plan to move the refugees to Bhashan Char has been staunchly opposed by the Rohingya community. The UN refugee agency UNHCR said today that comprehensive assessments were needed before anyone is moved to the island, spokeswoman Louise Donovan told AFP. “UNHCR has all preparations in place to ensure the safe quarantine of any refugees arriving by boat to Cox’s Bazar, as a precautionary measure related to the Covid-19 pandemic,” she added. Human Rights Watch South Asia chief Meenakshi Ganguly said the relocation would place the refugees “at further risk after the suffering that they have already endured”. In mid-April, 396 starving refugees were rescued from a trawler stranded in the Bay of Bengal for more than two months. At least 60 people died on the boat. The survivors were moved to transit centres near the border camps where they were quarantined. Thousands of Rohingya try every year to reach other countries, making the perilous journey on crowded, rickety boats. — AFP
3 May 15:48 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/rohingya-refugees-relocated-to-controversial-bangladesh-island-after-weeks/1862707Rating: 1.42
Dozens of Rohingya from stranded boat land in southern Bangladesh
DHAKA: Dozens of Rohingya believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea landed on the coast of southern Bangladesh on Saturday (May 2), an official said, as concerns grew over hundreds stranded for weeks on trawlers because of coronavirus restrictions. “A small boat carrying 43 people came to shore today,” the government official said, declining to be named because they were not authorised to speak to media. Some of the arrivals were sent to Bhasan Char, a remote island off the coast where authorities previously planned to house Rohingya, the official said. Chris Lewa, director of the Arakan Project monitoring group, said the group that landed on Saturday had likely come on a small boat from one the larger vessels still at sea, believed to be carrying hundreds of people. Hundreds of Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, are stranded on at least two trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus. Another boat, carrying hundreds of Rohingya who were starving and emaciated after weeks at sea, landed in Bangladesh in mid-April. Survivors said several dozen died on board. The United Nations has urged authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea.
3 May 11:26 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/dozens-of-rohingya-from-stranded-boat-land-in-southern-12697694Rating: 3.25
Dozens of Rohingyas from stranded boat land in southern Bangladesh: official
Dozens of Rohingya believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea landed on the coast of southern Bangladesh on Saturday, an official said, as concerns grew over hundreds stranded for weeks on trawlers because of coronavirus restrictions. “A small boat carrying 43 people came to shore today,” the government official said, declining to be named because they were not authorised to speak to media. Some of the arrivals were sent to Bhasan Char, a remote island off the coast where authorities previously planned to house Rohingya, the official said. Chris Lewa, director of the Arakan Project monitoring group, said the group that landed on Saturday had likely come on a small boat from one the larger vessels still at sea, believed to be carrying hundreds of people. Hundreds of Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, are stranded on at least two trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus. Another boat, carrying hundreds of Rohingya who were starving and emaciated after weeks at sea, landed in Bangladesh in mid-April. Survivors said several dozen died on board. The United Nations has urged authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea.
3 May 08:29 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2020/05/03/dozens-of-rohingyas-from-stranded-boat-land-in-southern-bangladesh-officialRating: 2.85
Trump says up to 100,000 Americans may die from coronavirus
DHAKA: A group of Rohingya became the first refugees to be sent to the Bangladeshi island of Bhasan Char on Sunday after being rescued from the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh has spent around $300 million to make the island habitable for 100,000 Rohingya in a bid to decongest overcrowded camps in Cox's Bazar, with a total of 120 cluster villages to accommodate refugees fleeing persecution. Most fled from Myanmar’s northern Rakhine State following a brutal military crackdown. Police Superintendent Mohammad Alamgir Hossain told Arab News that a group of 29 Rohingya were ferried to Bhasan Char at around 2.30 a.m, but said there were no further details about them as the island was still under naval supervision. Foreign Minister Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen said the refugees had been brought to Bangladesh on small boats after locals informed the coast guard that they had seen them floating at sea. “The rescued Rohingya were sent to Bhasan Char,” Momen told Arab News. “We rescued them only on humanitarian grounds. We don't want a single more Rohingya. Instead of putting Bangladesh under pressure, the international community should create more pressure on Myanmar to create favorable living conditions for them in their own land.” He added that UN authorities “should look after” the well-being of the refugees who had been moved to Bhasan Char, and that Bangladesh would discuss the matter with them. The UN’s refugee agency (UNHCR) had no official information of the whereabouts of the rescued Rohingya as of Sunday afternoon, according to its Cox’s Bazaar spokesperson Louise Donovan. “We are seeking further information from the relevant authorities at this time, following reports that a group of newly arrived refugees may be transferred to Bhasan Char,” she told Arab News. Each Bhasan Char house has concrete rooms measuring 2m x 2.5m, with small windows and a toilet, for 11 people. The current ratio in Cox’s Bazar camps stands at 1:22, and there are around 1.5 million refugees living there. A plan to relocate the first batch of Rohingya was postponed last November after the UN raised questions about the safety measures and living conditions on the island. Bhasan Char is located in the Bay of Bengal and was formed with Himalayan silt in 2006. Several international rights organizations urged Bangladesh not to relocate the Rohingya to the island due to it being in an area prone to cyclones. There are 120 cyclone shelters that have been built 4ft above ground, and these will be used as hospitals, schools, and community centers throughout the year. “The UN’s long-standing position is that comprehensive technical and protection assessments to evaluate the safety and sustainability of life on Bhasan Char are essential before any relocations to the island take place. The UN has long been prepared to proceed with onsite assessment work,” Donovan said. Momen said the island was a “safe place” and that even “resorts can be built there to attract tourists” in the future. Buddhist-majority Myanmar considers the Rohingya to be “Bengalis” from Bangladesh even though their families have lived in the country for generations. Nearly all of them have been denied citizenship for decades, and they are also denied freedom of movement and other basic rights.
3 May 11:37 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1668971/worldRating: 1.72
Virus Outbreak Border Limbo
1 / 10This March 22, 2020 provided by migrant Tayeb Saleh shows fellow migrants resting in the sand while they await help getting out in the Libyan Sahara near the border with Sudan. The Kufra detention center in southern Libya has accelerated expulsions of migrants during the coronavirus pandemic to Sudan and Chad. The drive under the harsh Sahara sun takes three to four days in open-air trucks, which often break down in the soft sand. (Tayeb Saleh via AP) Thousands of desperate migrants are trapped in limbo and even at risk of death without food, water or shelter in scorching deserts and at sea, as governments close off borders and ports in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. Migrants have been dropped by the truckload in the Sahara or bused to Mexico’s border with Guatemala and beyond. Others are drifting in the Mediterranean after European and Libyan authorities declared their ports unsafe. And around 100 Rohingya refugees from Myanmar are believed to have died in the Bay of Bengal, as country after country pushed them back out to sea. Many governments say that a public health crisis requires extraordinary measures. However, these measures are just the latest steps taken to clamp down on migrants. “They just dumped us,” said Fanny Jacqueline Ortiz, a 37-year-old Honduran who was abandoned March 26 with her two young daughters at the lonely El Ceibo border crossing with Guatemala, expelled first by the U.S. and then by Mexico. ___ This story was produced with the support of the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. ___ Since the aftermath of World War II, international and some national laws have protected refugees and asylum-seekers. Nations have the right to close themselves off for national security, but cannot forcibly return migrants to danger, according to Dr. Violeta Moreno-Lax, professor of migration law at Queen Mary University of London. Yet that is exactly what is happening. “The pandemic provides the perfect excuse,” said Moreno-Lax. The desert deportations have been happening for years in North Africa and beyond, and Europe has been deadlocked on how to handle migration on the Mediterranean since the 2015 migration crisis. In the United States, President Donald Trump made migration a central issue of his winning 2016 campaign. But this year, coronavirus has shifted the dynamic and allowed governments to crack down even harder, even as the desperation of those on the move remains unchanged. In the United States, Trump is using a little-known 1944 public health law to set aside decades-old American immigration law. Nearly 10,000 Mexicans and Central Americans were “expelled” to Mexico less than three weeks after the new rules took effect March 21, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. U.S. authorities say the decision was not about immigration but about public health. Mexico then pushes the migrants further south. Mexico denies that it leaves migrants to fend for themselves, saying it coordinates with their home governments. Migrants have also been left stranded in similarly makeshift conditions in the Sahara Desert, after being expelled from Algeria and Libya. Groups of dozens are walking 10 to 15 kilometers (6 to 10 miles) through the desert from a no-man’s-land called Point Zero to the dusty frontier village of Assamaka in neighboring Niger. There, new arrivals remain in makeshift quarantine for 14 days. More than 2,300 foreign migrants are stranded in Niger, unable to return home or go anywhere else, according to the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration. In Libya, the migrant detention center in Kufra expelled nearly 900 men and women from April 11 to 15, taking them by truck or bus across hundreds of miles of sand and leaving them either in a remote town in Chad or at a Sahara border post in Sudan, according to Lt. Mohamed Ali al-Fadil, the center’s director. Hundreds more came the following week. Al-Fadil said the center is “deporting more people faster than ever before.” He said the expulsions are an attempt to shield migrants from the coronavirus. Yet the large groups of migrants forced out are in danger not only of the coronavirus but of midday temperatures that can rise to 50 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) this time of year. Hundreds of other migrants are stuck at sea in the Mediterranean and the Bay of Bengal. The Mediterranean has been unpatrolled by rescue boats for two weeks. The last two such vessels are lashed together off the coast of Italy along with a ferry holding 180 migrants rescued in April, all of them in a 14-day waterborne quarantine. The boats will ultimately dock. But no country has agreed to take in the migrants, who will stay on the ferry until their fate is decided. Any others who try to leave Libya's squalid coastal detention centers or cramped smuggler's warehouses will face an equally uncertain future, either pushed back to Libya or adrift at sea. Half a world away, hundreds of Rohingya refugees are also stranded at sea in the Bay of Bengal. Weeks ago, they boarded at least two fishing trawlers, and are now marooned off the coast of Bangladesh. Fishermen spotted the boats on April 20, and the United Nations refugee agency said they may have been at sea for weeks without enough food and water. A group of 29 made it to an island in southern Bangladesh on Saturday. The aid group Médecins Sans Frontières said survivors on another boat that ultimately made it to shore estimated around 100 had died waiting. The Bangladeshi government said it cannot sustain more refugees and still keep a handle on the coronavirus crisis. Malaysia has also denied entry to several other boats, each with dozens on board. In her tiny bamboo home in the Rohingya refugee camp at Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh, Rahima Khatun has been sleepless since losing contact with her daughter, who went to sea with her grandchildren more than 50 days ago to join her son-in-law in Malaysia. Khatun is not sure which boat they are on but she has heard about the stranded trawlers. “If I had wings I would fly and go see where they are,” Khatun said. “They are not being allowed to enter either Bangladesh or Malaysia – just floating in the middle with no one to help them out.” ___ Lori Hinnant reported from Paris, and Isabel Debre from Los Angeles. Maria Verza in Mexico City, Elliot Spagat in San Diego, Shafiqur Rahman in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, and Julhas Alam in Dhaka, Bangladesh, contributed to this report.
3 May 09:13 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/desert-sea-virus-traps-migrants-091358060.html/Rating: 0.30
Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) — At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating for weeks in the Bay of Bengal have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, the chief local government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh’s Refugee Commissioner’s office in Cox’s Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups said recently that hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. The United Nations, the British government and Human Rights Watch have recently urged Bangladesh to shelter all the refugees floating at sea, but the government had a lukewarm response, saying all other nations in the Bay of Bengal region should also share the responsibility of sheltering them. Advertising Bhasan Char was previously submerged by monsoon rains but Bangladesh’s government said in January that it was ready to house up to 100,000 Rohingya refugees from the crowded and squalid camps where they’ve lived for years in Cox’s Bazar. Bangladesh’s navy was involved with a multimillion-dollar project under which flood protection embankments, houses, hospitals and mosques have been built on the island. But no refugees have agreed so far to move to the island, and the U.N. and other international agencies did not show much optimism about the relocation to the newly built island. More than 700,000 Rohingya Muslims came to Bangladesh starting in August 2017, when the military in Buddhist-majority Myanmar began a harsh crackdown against them in response to an attack by insurgents. Global rights groups and the U.N. have called the campaign ethnic cleansing involving rapes, killings and torching of thousands of homes. Currently more than 1 million Rohingya live in Bangladesh. The Rohingya are not recognized as citizens in Myanmar, rendering them stateless, and face other forms of state-sanctioned discrimination. JULHAS ALAM
3 May 02:22 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-land-on-bangladesh-island/Rating: 0.74
Rohingya refugees floating at sea land on Bangladesh island
DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP) - At least 29 Rohingya refugees from a fishing boat floating for weeks in the Bay of Bengal have landed on an island in southern Bangladesh, officials said Sunday. The refugees, including 15 women and six children, landed on Bhasan Char island on Saturday and are believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea, said Tonmoy Das, the chief local government official in Noakhali district. Das said food, doctors and a team of 10 policemen were sent to the island to take care of the refugees. An official from Bangladesh’s Refugee Commissioner’s office in Cox’s Bazar district said the office was aware of the development. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. Rights groups said recently that hundreds of Rohingya are stranded on at least two fishing trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia. The refugees reportedly attempted to illegally reach Malaysia, but failed because of strict patrols to keep out the coronavirus. The United Nations, the British government and Human Rights Watch have recently urged Bangladesh to shelter all the refugees floating at sea, but the government had a lukewarm response, saying all other nations in the Bay of Bengal region should also share the responsibility of sheltering them. Bhasan Char was previously submerged by monsoon rains but Bangladesh’s government said in January that it was ready to house up to 100,000 Rohingya refugees from the crowded and squalid camps where they’ve lived for years in Cox’s Bazar. Bangladesh’s navy was involved with a multimillion-dollar project under which flood protection embankments, houses, hospitals and mosques have been built on the island. But no refugees have agreed so far to move to the island, and the U.N. and other international agencies did not show much optimism about the relocation to the newly built island.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/rohingya-refugees-floating-at-sea-land-on-banglade/Rating: 0.79
Desert or sea: Virus traps migrants in mid-route danger zone
Thousands of desperate migrants are trapped in limbo and even at risk of death without food, water or shelter in scorching deserts and at sea, as governments close off borders and ports in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. Migrants have been dropped by the truckload in the Sahara or bused to Mexico’s border with Guatemala and beyond. Others are drifting in the Mediterranean after European and Libyan authorities declared their ports unsafe. And around 100 Rohingya refugees from Myanmar are believed to have died in the Bay of Bengal, as country after country pushed them back out to sea. Many governments say that a public health crisis requires extraordinary measures. However, these measures are just the latest steps taken to clamp down on migrants. “They just dumped us,” said Fanny Jacqueline Ortiz, a 37-year-old Honduran who was abandoned March 26 with her two young daughters at the lonely El Ceibo border crossing with Guatemala, expelled first by the U.S. and then by Mexico. This story was produced with the support of the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting. Since the aftermath of World War II, international and some national laws have protected refugees and asylum-seekers. Nations have the right to close themselves off for national security, but cannot forcibly return migrants to danger, according to Dr. Violeta Moreno-Lax, professor of migration law at Queen Mary University of London. Yet that is exactly what is happening.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/desert-or-sea-virus-traps-migrants-in-mid-route-da/Rating: 0.79
Dozens of Rohingya from stranded boat land in southern Bangladesh: official says
DHAKA (Reuters) - Dozens of Rohingya believed to be from one of several boats stuck at sea landed on the coast of southern Bangladesh on Saturday, an official said, as concerns grew over hundreds stranded for weeks on trawlers because of coronavirus restrictions. “A small boat carrying 43 people came to shore today,” the government official said, declining to be named because they were not authorized to speak to media. Some of the arrivals were sent to Bhasan Char, a remote island off the coast where authorities previously planned to house Rohingya, the official said. Chris Lewa, director of the Arakan Project monitoring group, said the group that landed on Saturday had likely come on a small boat from one the larger vessels still at sea, believed to be carrying hundreds of people. Hundreds of Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, are stranded on at least two trawlers between Bangladesh and Malaysia, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus. Another boat, carrying hundreds of Rohingya who were starving and emaciated after weeks at sea, landed in Bangladesh in mid-April. Survivors said several dozen died on board. The United Nations has urged authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea.
2 May 17:49 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-bangladesh-rohingya-idUSKBN22E0QDRating: 4.04
'Stranded' Rohingyas land on Bangladesh coast
COX'S BAZAR: Dozens of Rohingya refugees believed to have come from two boats stranded at sea for weeks as they tried to reach Malaysia landed on the Bangladesh coast on Saturday, Rohingya community leaders said. Bangladesh has refused to let the two trawlers carrying about 500 people land on its territory despite UN calls to allow them in as a powerful storm bears down on the region. Security officials said a small boat carrying about 40 people, including “starving” women and children, had come ashore. Local people tipped off the coast guard and 29 people were detained and about 10 fled, police and security officials said. Bangladesh officials would not confirm the Rohingya were from the boats stranded at sea. But Mr Shobbir Ahmed, a Rohingya at one of the refugee camps in south-eastern Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar told AFP that two of his daughters who had been on the stranded boats were among those who landed Saturday. He said the women, aged 19 and 17, had boarded a trawler two months ago trying to get to Malaysia. Mr Ahmed said he paid a Rohingya intermediary about US$2,230 (S$3,156) for them to make the trip. Security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the rescued Rohingya would be sent to the island of Bhashan Char in the Bay of Bengal where Bangladesh has built shelters for some 100,000 refugees. The proposed relocation to the island in the cyclone-prone coastal belt has drawn criticism from rights groups and sparked protests by the Rohingya. There are about one million Rohingya in camps in Bangladesh. Most fled a 2017 military crackdown in Myanmar and many favour going to Muslim-majority Malaysia where there are more work opportunities. Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said last month that Bangladesh would not allow the Rohingya boats into its territory. His declaration came after more than 60 Rohingya died on a boat that waited at sea for two months before it could land. UN human rights commissioner Michelle Bachelet has made an urgent plea to Bangladesh to change its stance. Thousands of refugees died in the Andaman Sea in 2015 on rickety fishing vessels that tried to reach Malaysia and Thailand.
2 May 17:43 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2212620/3-stranded-rohingyas-land-bangladesh-coast/Rating: 1.80
North Korea's Kim did not have surgery, South says, as shots fired at DMZ
4 May 09:20
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Weight: 3.86
Importance: 3.98
Age penalty: 0.97
Best date: 3 May 10:35
Average US: 25.86344827586206
Weighted average US: 25.33275512300328
Average GB: 3.9210344827586203
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Average IN: 5.599655172413794
Weighted average IN: 7.324661774758126
North Korea's Kim did not have surgery, South says, as shots fired at DMZ
SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during almost three weeks of absence from public life, a South Korean official said on Sunday, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two sides. The government official declined to provide reasons, but said speculative reports that Kim had had an operation, citing some differences in his leg movements, were untrue. “Our assessment is that (Kim) did not undergo surgery,” the official, who declined to be identified, told reporters. Asked if media reports of Kim having undergone a simple medical treatment were also untrue, the official simply said: “Yes.” North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea towards a guard post in South Korea, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, the JCS said. No casualties were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Reclusive North Korea for years pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions. Talks between North Korea and the United States, highlighted by three meetings between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump, are at a standstill. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation. The U.S.-led U.N. Command, which oversees affairs in the heavily fortified DMZ, said it was working with the JCS to assess the situation. “The UNC will conduct a thorough investigation tomorrow to determine if there was an Armistice Agreement violation, and will provide the report to the appropriate authorities once completed.” Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, ‘yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power’.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military.
4 May 09:20 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-northkorea-southorea-idUSKBN22F03NRating: 4.04
South Korea says Kim Jong Un did not have surgery
Kindly Share This Story: A top South Korean official on Sunday said Kim Jong Un did not have surgery or any other medical procedure after a video of his first public appearance in weeks shows the North Korean leader with a strange mark on his wrist, according to a report. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters that the government determined that Kim did not have surgery, the Associated Press reported, noting that the presidential Blue House refused to provide how the intelligence assessment was made. North Korea state media said the rotund leader attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday and released a video Saturday showing Kim cutting a red ribbon – his first public appearance in about 20 days. The video also showed Kim with a mysterious mark on his wrist that some speculated might be a scar from a recent cardiovascular procedure. Kim missed the commemoration of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder Kim Il Sung on April 15 and North Korea has not explained his absence – an event he hasn’t missed since taking power in 2011 after his father Kim Jong Il’s death. NY Post Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 23:40 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/south-korea-says-kim-jong-un-did-not-have-surgery-report/Rating: 2.43
South Korea says Kim Jong Un did not have surgery after some note 'difference to his walk'
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery, according to a South Korean official. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the country's assessment is that Kim did not have surgery, as has been reported recently while the dictator was absent from the public eye for weeks. Video released by North Korea showed Kim reemerged for the first time since early April on Saturday, visiting a factory near Pyongyang. Prior to his appearance, reports circulated indicating that his health was in "grave danger" after he underwent heart surgery. After footage of his reemergence was released, some still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked off at the factory. "There were speculative reports that Chairman Kim underwent a surgery citing some difference to his walk," the Blue House official was cited as saying. “We have reasons to believe that there was no surgery, but cannot disclose such details.” South Korea has continued to pour cold water on speculation that Kim's health was failing, insisting that he was "alive and well" in the Wonsan area and suggesting that he was simply hiding out during the coronavirus pandemic. Some U.S. officials have been investigating reports that Kim was unwell, but Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was mum on Sunday when pressed on the matter. "We've seen the same images from yesterday that the world saw. It looks like Chairman Kim is alive and well. Regardless of any of that, our mission has remained the same. To convince the North Koreans to give up their nuclear weapons," he said on ABC's This Week. "I just can’t say anything about that," he added when asked if he knew whether Kim was ever "gravely ill."
3 May 21:12 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/south-korea-says-kim-jong-un-did-not-have-surgery-after-some-note-difference-to-his-walkRating: 0.51
South Korea: Kim Jong Un did not have surgery amid lingering rumors
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While North Korean video showing a smiling Kim moving around, cutting a red ribbon and smoking quelled intense rumors that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government had determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. The official, whose name wasn’t disclosed by the Blue House, refused to provide the basis for the intelligence assessment. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries. But when rumors about Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn’t the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumors about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn’t explained Kim’s absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung. It’s the North’s most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn’t skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il’s death.
3 May 18:38 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-rumors/Rating: 0.77
Kim Jong-un didn't have surgery while out of public eye - South Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un did not undergo surgery during his almost three week absence from public life, South Korean news outlet Yonhap says, citing a senior government official. The news came as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire around the border on Sunday (local time). The South Korean official declined to provide reasons for believing that Kim did not undergo surgery, but said speculative reports that he may have had surgery, citing some differences in his leg movements, were not true, Yonhap reported. Kim Jong-un receives cheers in first public appearance in weeks - report Who might replace Kim Jong-un? Earlier on Sunday, North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7.41am local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim's leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. US President Donald Trump, who met Kim three times in 2018 and 2019 in unsuccessful attempts to persuade him to give up his nuclear weapons, tweeted on Saturday: "I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!" The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it occurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asian Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the 'grey area' provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military," Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I'm healthy and I'm still in power'." Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. Reuters
3 May 17:54 • Newshub • https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/world/2020/05/kim-jong-un-didn-t-have-surgery-while-out-of-public-eye-south-korea.htmlRating: 1.12
Kim did not have surgery amid lingering rumours, says South Korean official
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While Kim's re-emergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about Kim's health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government has determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world's most secretive countries. But when rumours about Kim's health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn't the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn't publicly anointed his successor, and rumours about his health triggered worries about the North's political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn't explained Kim's absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea's founder, Kim Il Sung. It's the North's most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn't skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il's death.
3 May 17:39 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingering-rumours-says-south-korean-official-833054.htmlRating: 2.25
Kim did not undergo any surgery, says Seoul
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un did not undergo surgery during almost three weeks of absence from public life, a South Korean official said on Sunday, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two sides. The government official declined to provide reasons, but said speculative reports that Mr. Kim had had an operation, citing some differences in his leg movements, were untrue. “Our assessment is that (Kim) did not undergo surgery,” the official, who declined to be identified, told reporters. Asked if media reports of Mr. Kim having undergone a simple medical treatment were also untrue, the official simply said: “Yes.” North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Mr. Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea towards a guard post in South Korea, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, the JCS said. No casualties were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Mr. Kim’s health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Mr. Kim had attended the completion of a fertilizer plant. Mr. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Mr. Kims leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Reclusive North Korea for years pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions. Talks between North Korea and the United States, highlighted by three meetings between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump, are at a standstill. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation. The U.S.-led UN Command, which oversees affairs in the heavily fortified DMZ, said it was working with the JCS to assess the situation. “The UNC will conduct a thorough investigation tomorrow to determine if there was an Armistice Agreement violation, and will provide the report to the appropriate authorities once completed.” Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Mr. Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Mr. Kim was trying to show that he is perfectly healthy, and today, Mr. Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Mr. Choi said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Mr. Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'. Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military.
3 May 17:10 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/kim-did-not-undergo-any-surgery-says-seoul/article31495732.eceRating: 0.30
No indication Kim Jong Un had surgery during absence, South Korean official says
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. As speculation still lingers over North Korean leader Kim Jong Un after he reappeared publicly on Saturday for the first time in 20 days, an official in South Korea says it doesn't appear the dictator had any medical procedure. Video released by North Korea showed a smiling Kim moving around during the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang, with some observers still raising questions on whether he looked a bit stiff as he walked around the facility. A South Korean government official told Fox News on Sunday that "our government believes" there was no indication that a medical procedure occurred on the leader of the Hermit Kingdom, who is believed to be 36, despite speculation he may have had a heart procedure. NORTH KOREA, SOUTH KOREA TROOPS EXCHANGE GUNFIRE ALONG BORDER, SOUTH SAYS North Korea still hasn't explained Kim's absence, including why he missed an April 15 commemoration that celebrated the 108th birthday of his late grandfather, North Korea founder Kim Il Sung. Unverified reports then emerged about a possible illness. Kim is the third generation of his family to rule North Korea, and he hadn’t missed the April 15 event, one of the year's most important for the North, since assuming power after his father Kim Jong Il’s death in late 2011. The Hermit Kingdom leader's health is of crucial importance because of worries that a serious illness or death could cause instability in the impoverished, nuclear-armed country. North Korea exerts extremely tight control over information about its leadership, making it virtually impossible for outsiders to find out what’s going on at senior levels. But the South Korean government official told Fox News on Sunday that the images released of Kim at the plant "are authentic and a 'proof of life.'" The South Korean government has insisted since Kim was missing that he was "alive and well," telling Fox News last Sunday that the dictator was staying in the Wonsan area since April 13 with "no suspicious movements" having been detected. Satellite photos afterward echoed South Korean government intelligence that Kim was staying outside of the capital, Pyongyang. KIM JONG UN’S BERLIN MONEYMAKER TO BE SHUT DOWN AFTER COURT ORDER, SIGNALING VICTORY FOR TRUMP, OTTO WARMBIER’S FAMILY While he has ruled with an iron fist, the North Korean leader has had health issues in the past. In 2014, he vanished from the public eye for nearly six weeks before reappearing with a cane and using an electric cart. South Korea’s spy agency said days later that he had a cyst removed from his ankle. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014 when he was reported to have the ankle injury. Kim hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumors about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP On Sunday, North and South Korean troops exchanged fire along their tense border, the first such incident since the rivals took unprecedented steps to lower front-line animosities. The Joint Chiefs of Staff in Seoul said in a statement that North Korean troops fired several bullets at a South Korean guard post inside the border zone. South Korea responded with a total of 20 rounds of warning shots on two occasions before issuing a warning broadcast, it said. South Korea suffered no casualties, the military said. Defense officials said it’s unlikely for North Korea to have any casualties either as the South Korean warning shots were fired at uninhabited North Korean territory. The North’s official Korean Central News Agency hasn’t reported the incident. The South Korean government official told Fox News on Sunday that officials believe "the firing (by the North Koreans) was not intentional or 'in anger.'" The Associated Press contributed to this report.
3 May 17:05 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/world/kim-jong-un-surgery-south-korea-no-indication-medical-procedure-absence-north-koreaRating: 3.32
South Korea: Kim did not have surgery amid lingering rumors
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While North Korean video showing a smiling Kim moving around, cutting a red ribbon and smoking quelled intense rumors that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government had determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. The official, whose name wasn’t disclosed by the Blue House, refused to provide the basis for the intelligence assessment. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries. But when rumors about Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn’t the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumors about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn’t explained Kim’s absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung. It’s the North’s most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn’t skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il’s death.
3 May 14:36 • WSVN 7News • https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/south-korea-kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingering-rumors/Rating: 0.30
South Korea says Kim Jong Un did not have surgery: report
A top South Korean official on Sunday said Kim Jong Un did not have surgery or any other medical procedure after a video of his first public appearance in weeks shows the North Korean leader with a strange mark on his wrist, according to a report. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters that the government determined that Kim did not have surgery, the Associated Press reported, noting that the presidential Blue House refused to provide how the intelligence assessment was made. North Korea state media said the rotund leader attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday and released a video Saturday showing Kim cutting a red ribbon – his first public appearance in about 20 days. The video also showed Kim with a mysterious mark on his wrist that some speculated might be a scar from a recent cardiovascular procedure. Kim missed the commemoration of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder Kim Il Sung on April 15 and North Korea has not explained his absence – an event he hasn’t missed since taking power in 2011 after his father Kim Jong Il’s death.
3 May 13:44 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/south-korea-says-kim-jong-un-did-not-have-surgery-report/Rating: 2.55
North Korea's Kim did not have surgery, South says, as shots fired at DMZ
SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during almost three weeks of absence from public life, a South Korean official said on Sunday, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) separating the two sides. The government official declined to provide reasons, but said speculative reports that Kim had had an operation, citing some differences in his leg movements, were untrue. “Our assessment is that (Kim) did not undergo surgery,” the official, who declined to be identified, told reporters. Asked if media reports of Kim having undergone a simple medical treatment were also untrue, the official simply said: “Yes.” North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea towards a guard post in South Korea, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, the JCS said. No casualties were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Reclusive North Korea for years pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of UN Security Council sanctions. Talks between North Korea and the United States, highlighted by three meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump, are at a standstill. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation. The US-led UN Command, which oversees affairs in the heavily fortified DMZ, said it was working with the JCS to assess the situation. “The UNC will conduct a thorough investigation tomorrow to determine if there was an Armistice Agreement violation, and will provide the report to the appropriate authorities once completed.” Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, ‘yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power’.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military.
3 May 13:35 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213209/3-north-koreas-kim-not-surgery-south-says-shots-fired-dmz/Rating: 1.80
S.Korea says Kim Jong Un did not have surgery, as two Koreas exchange gunfire
SEOUL - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during his almost three week absence from public life, South Korean news outlet Yonhap said citing a senior government official, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire around the border on Sunday. The Soth Korean official declined to provide reasons for believing that Kim did not undergo surgery, but said speculative reports that he may have had surgery, citing some differences in his leg movements, is not true, Yonhap reported. Earlier on Sunday, North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it ocurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. "In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?" the official said. 'MESSAGE KIM STILL CONTROLS MILITARY' Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the 'grey area' provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements." Read MoreAustralia fights virus clusters as parts of country ease restrictions "What I'm worried about is the unknown unknowns," Victoria's Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said at a televised briefing, urging more people to get tested. Read MoreUK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19 -The Sun Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. "I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time," he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. Read MoreMore people hit China roads in first major holiday since coronavirus easing The country recorded more than 23 million domestic tourists on May 1, according to China's culture and tourism ministry.
3 May 13:27 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/S.Korea-says-Kim-Jong-Un-did-not-have-surgery,-as-two-Koreas-exchange-gunfireRating: 3.14
North Korea’s Kim Jong-un did not have surgery, South says, as shots fired at DMZ
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un did not undergo surgery during almost three weeks of absence from public life, a South Korean official said on Sunday, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two sides. The government official declined to provide reasons, but said speculative reports that Kim had had an operation, citing some differences in his leg movements, were untrue. “Our assessment is that (Kim) did not undergo surgery,” the official, who declined to be identified, told reporters. Asked if media reports of Kim having undergone a simple medical treatment were also untrue, the official simply said: “Yes.” North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea towards a guard post in South Korea, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, the JCS said. No casualties were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertilizer plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Reclusive North Korea for years pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions. Talks between North Korea and the United States, highlighted by three meetings between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump, are at a standstill. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation. The U.S.-led U.N. Command, which oversees affairs in the heavily fortified DMZ, said it was working with the JCS to assess the situation. “The UNC will conduct a thorough investigation tomorrow to determine if there was an Armistice Agreement violation, and will provide the report to the appropriate authorities once completed.” Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, ‘yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power’.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 12:48 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-did-not-have-surgery-south-says-as-shots/Rating: 2.18
Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery, South Korean officials claim
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official has said amid continued speculation about his health. North Korea had said on Saturday that Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While his re-emergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters on Sunday that the government has determined that Mr Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. When rumours about Mr Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed the 36-year-old riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. In 2018, Mr Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Mr Trump tweeted on Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!”
3 May 12:40 • Jersey Evening Post • https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-south-korean-officials-claim/Rating: 0.38
Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery, South Korean officials claim
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official has said amid continued speculation about his health. North Korea had said on Saturday that Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While his re-emergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters today that the government has determined that Mr Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. When rumours about Mr Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. Shots fired on Korean border It is not the first time Mr Kim has disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed the 36-year-old riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. In 2018, Mr Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Mr Trump tweeted on Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” [social=twitter] UK Prime Minister says doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled Covid-19
3 May 11:38 • Irishexaminer • https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/world/kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-south-korean-officials-claim-997412.htmlRating: 0.69
South Korea says Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery
SEOUL, KOREA, REPUBLIC OF -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While North Korean video showing a smiling Kim moving around, cutting a red ribbon and smoking quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government had determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. The official, whose name wasn't disclosed by the Blue House, refused to provide the basis for the intelligence assessment. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world's most secretive countries. But when rumours about Kim's health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn't the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn't publicly anointed his successor, and rumours about his health triggered worries about the North's political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that "I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!" North Korea hasn't explained Kim's absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea's founder, Kim Il Sung. It's the North's most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn't skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il's death.
3 May 11:37 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/south-korea-says-kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-1.4922677Rating: 2.87
South Korea: Kim did not have surgery amid lingering rumors
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While North Korean video showing a smiling Kim moving around, cutting a red ribbon and smoking quelled intense rumors that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government had determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. The official, whose name wasn't disclosed by the Blue House, refused to provide the basis for the intelligence assessment. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries. But when rumors about Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn't the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumors about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn’t explained Kim's absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea's founder, Kim Il Sung. It’s the North’s most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn’t skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il’s death.
3 May 10:57 • WVLT • https://www.wvlt.tv/content/news/South-Korea-Kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingering-rumors-570155331.htmlRating: 0.30
Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery, South Korean officials claim
Rumours have been circulating that the North Korean leader was seriously ill or may even have died. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official has said amid continued speculation about his health. North Korea had said on Saturday that Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While his re-emergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters on Sunday that the government has determined that Mr Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. When rumours about Mr Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It is not the first time Mr Kim has disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed the 36-year-old riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. In 2018, Mr Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Mr Trump tweeted on Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!”
3 May 10:37 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-south-korean-officials-claim/Rating: 0.30
Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery, South Korean officials claim
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official has said amid continued speculation about his health. North Korea had said on Saturday that Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While his re-emergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters on Sunday that the government has determined that Mr Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. When rumours about Mr Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It is not the first time Mr Kim has disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed the 36-year-old riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. In 2018, Mr Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Mr Trump tweeted on Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!”
3 May 10:37 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-south-korean-officials-claim/Rating: 0.30
Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery, South Korean officials claim
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official has said amid continued speculation about his health. North Korea had said on Saturday that Mr Kim attended the completion of a fertiliser factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While his re-emergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters on Sunday that the government has determined that Mr Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. When rumours about Mr Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It is not the first time Mr Kim has disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed the 36-year-old riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. In 2018, Mr Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Mr Trump tweeted on Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!”
3 May 10:35 • independent • https://www.independent.ie/world-news/kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-south-korean-officials-claim-39177037.htmlRating: 1.21
North Korea's Kim did not have surgery, South says, as shots fired at DMZ
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during almost three weeks of absence from public life, a South Korean official said on Sunday, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) separating the two sides. The government official declined to provide reasons, but said speculative reports that Kim had an operation, citing some differences in his leg movements, were untrue. "Our assessment is that (Kim) did not undergo surgery," the official, who declined to be identified, told reporters. Asked if media reports of Kim having undergone a simple medical treatment were also untrue, the official simply said: "Yes." North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea towards a guard post in South Korea, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, the JCS said. No casualties were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Reclusive North Korea for years pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of UN Security Council sanctions. Talks between North Korea and the United States, highlighted by three meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump, are at a standstill. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation. The US-led UN Command, which oversees affairs in the heavily fortified DMZ, said it was working with the JCS to assess the situation. "The UNC will conduct a thorough investigation tomorrow to determine if there was an Armistice Agreement violation, and will provide the report to the appropriate authorities once completed.” Choi Kang, vice president of the Asian Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military.
3 May 10:37 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/03/north-korea-s-kim-did-not-have-surgery-south-says-as-shots-fired-at-dmzRating: 2.85
South Korea: Kim did not have surgery amid lingering rumours
SEOUL, Korea, Republic Of — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While Kim’s reemergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about Kim’s health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government has determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries. But when rumours about Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn’t the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumours about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn’t explained Kim’s absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung. It’s the North’s most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn’t skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il’s death. Hyung-Jin Kim, The Associated Press
3 May 10:06 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/south-korea-kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingering-rumours/Rating: 0.61
S.Korea Says Kim Jong Un Did Not Have Surgery, as Two Koreas Exchange Gunfire
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during his almost three week absence from public life, South Korean news outlet Yonhap said citing a senior government official, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire around the border on Sunday. The South Korean official declined to provide reasons for believing that Kim did not undergo surgery, but said speculative reports that he may have had surgery, citing some differences in his leg movements, is not true, Yonhap reported. Earlier on Sunday, North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim's leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it ocurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. "In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?" the official said. 'MESSAGE KIM STILL CONTROLS MILITARY' Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the 'grey area' provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military," Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I'm healthy and I'm still in power'." Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements."
3 May 07:42 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/world-news/asia-and-australia/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-at-guard-post-1.8816084Rating: 1.13
Kim Jong Un 'did not undergo surgery' — South Korea
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during his three-week absence from public life, a South Korean news outlet reported on Sunday. News outlet Yonhap cited a senior government official, hours after the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the border. The South Korean official said speculative reports on whether the North Korean leader had undergone surgery were not true. "There were media reports speculating about Kim's surgery, citing a change in the way he walks," the official said, saying Seoul had adequate information to draw the conclusion without giving more details. Some news outlets cited some difference in his leg movement and a red mark on his arm in video footage released by North Korea on Saturday. The photographs and video, which could not be verified, were the first images of Kim seen since April 11. Rumors intensified after Kim missed the birthday celebration of his grandfather Kim Jong Sun on April 15, the most important day in North Korea's calendar. Read more: North Korea's Kim Jong Un appears in video after 21-day absence Gunfire exchange effort to 'mute speculation' The gunfire exchange on Sunday morning may be an effort for Kim to regain credibility after his long absence, some experts have suggested. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, told Reuters news agency he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I'm healthy and I'm still in power'.” ed/aw (AFP, Reuters)
3 May 00:00 • Deutsche Welle • https://www.dw.com/en/kim-jong-un-did-not-undergo-surgery-south-korea/a-53316428Rating: 3.71
North Korea's Kim did not have surgery, South says, as shots fired at DMZ
By Cynthia Kim and Hyonhee Shin SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during almost three weeks of absence from public life, a South Korean official said on Sunday, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating the two sides. The government official declined to provide reasons, but said speculative reports that Kim had had an operation, citing some differences in his leg movements, were untrue. "Our assessment is that (Kim) did not undergo surgery," the official, who declined to be identified, told reporters. Asked if media reports of Kim having undergone a simple medical treatment were also untrue, the official simply said: "Yes." North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea towards a guard post in South Korea, the South's Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, the JCS said. No casualties were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Reclusive North Korea for years pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of U.N. Security Council sanctions. Talks between North Korea and the United States, highlighted by three meetings between Kim and U.S. President Donald Trump, are at a standstill. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain still at war after their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce, not a treaty. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation. The U.S.-led U.N. Command, which oversees affairs in the heavily fortified DMZ, said it was working with the JCS to assess the situation. "The UNC will conduct a thorough investigation tomorrow to determine if there was an Armistice Agreement violation, and will provide the report to the appropriate authorities once completed.” Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. (Reporting by Cynthia Kim, Hyonhee Shin, Josh Smith; Editing by Michael Perry and Nick Macfie)
3 May 03:06 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/north-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-030650711.htmlRating: 0.30
South Korea says Kim Jong Un did not have surgery, as two Koreas exchange gunfire
By Cynthia Kim and Hyonhee Shin SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery during his almost three week absence from public life, South Korean news outlet Yonhap said citing a senior government official, as the two Koreas exchanged gunfire around the border on Sunday. The South Korean official declined to provide reasons for believing that Kim did not undergo surgery, but said speculative reports that he may have had surgery, citing some differences in his leg movements, is not true, Yonhap reported. Earlier on Sunday, North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's Joint (NASDAQ:JYNT) Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. State TV footage showed Kim’s leg movements appearing stiff and jerky. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots on Sunday was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it ocurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. "In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?" the official said. 'MESSAGE KIM STILL CONTROLS MILITARY' Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the 'grey area' provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements."
3 May 00:00 • Investing.com • https://www.investing.com/news/world-news/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-boarder-at-guard-post-2158858Rating: 0.30
South Korea: Kim Jong Un did not have surgery amid lingering rumours
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While Kim's reemergence, captured on video footage released by North Korean state media, quelled intense rumours that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about Kim's health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government has determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world's most secretive countries. But when rumours about Kim's health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn't the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn't publicly anointed his successor, and rumours about his health triggered worries about the North's political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn't explained Kim's absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea's founder, Kim Il Sung. It's the North's most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn't skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il's death.Moneycontrol Ready ReckonerNow that payment deadlines have been relaxed due to COVID-19, the Moneycontrol Ready Reckoner will help keep your date with insurance premiums, tax-saving investments and EMIs, among others.Download a copy
3 May 00:00 • Moneycontrol • https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/world/south-korea-kim-jong-un-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingering-rumours-5216631.htmlRating: 0.30
South Korea: Kim did not have surgery amid lingering rumors
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While North Korean video showing a smiling Kim moving around, cutting a red ribbon and smoking quelled intense rumors that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government had determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. The official, whose name wasn’t disclosed by the Blue House, refused to provide the basis for the intelligence assessment. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries. But when rumors about Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn’t the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Advertising Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumors about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!” North Korea hasn’t explained Kim’s absence, including why he missed the April 15 commemoration of the birthday anniversary of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung. It’s the North’s most important state anniversary, and Kim hadn’t skipped the event since taking power in late 2011 upon his father Kim Jong Il’s death. HYUNG-JIN KIM
3 May 03:06 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/south-korea-kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingering-rumors/Rating: 0.74
South Korea: Kim did not have surgery amid lingering rumors
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not undergo surgery or any other medical procedure, a South Korean official said Sunday, amid speculation about his health that continues to linger even after he reappeared publicly in recent days. North Korea had said Saturday that Kim attended the completion of a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang on Friday, in his first public appearance in about 20 days. While North Korean video showing a smiling Kim moving around, cutting a red ribbon and smoking quelled intense rumors that he might be gravely ill or even have died, some media outlets and observers still raised questions about his health, citing moments when his walking looked a bit stiff at the factory. A senior South Korean presidential official told reporters Sunday that the government had determined that Kim did not have surgery or any other procedure, according to the presidential Blue House. The official, whose name wasn’t disclosed by the Blue House, refused to provide the basis for the intelligence assessment. South Korea has a spotty record in confirming developments in North Korea, one of the world’s most secretive countries. But when rumors about Kim’s health surfaced in recent weeks, the South Korean government steadfastly dismissed them as baseless and maintained there were no unusual activities in the North. It wasn’t the first time Kim had disappeared from public view for an extended period. In 2014, when he reappeared after a six-week absence, he walked with a cane and used an electric cart. The North Korea-provided footage on Saturday showed Kim riding an electric cart similar to the one he used in 2014, when he was reported to have an ankle injury. Kim, 36, is the third generation of his family to govern North Korea with an iron fist that tolerates no dissent. He hasn’t publicly anointed his successor, and rumors about his health triggered worries about the North’s political stability and its nuclear program. In 2018, Kim entered talks with President Donald Trump on the fate of his nuclear arsenal, but their diplomacy has been deadlocked in recent months. Trump tweeted Saturday that “I, for one, am glad to see he is back, and well!”
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/south-korea-kim-did-not-have-surgery-amid-lingerin/Rating: 0.79
'Devastatingly worrisome': Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home
3 May 16:42
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11 articles
Weight: 3.81
Importance: 3.81
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 14:29
Average US: 27.46363636363636
Weighted average US: 56.770525499505325
Average GB: 0.32727272727272727
Weighted average GB: 0.4904531620097774
Average IN: 1.0
Weighted average IN: 2.349693968308909
'Devastatingly worrisome': Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home
White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said protests against social distancing orders were “devastatingly worrisome” as demonstrators did not wear masks or practice social distancing while gathering in large groups. Dr. Birx said on “Fox News Sunday” that protestors who gather in groups with no protective practices could infect at-risk relatives at home after unknowingly being exposed to or carrying the virus. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives,” Birx told host Chris Wallace. “So we need to protect each other at the same time as we’re voicing our discontent.” Birx’s comment comes after a weekend marked by protests in at least 10 states across the country as frustration continues to grow with the economic implications of ongoing lockdown orders. Wallace also asked Birx if reopening businesses like hair salons and barbershops were safe, which the public health expert said were made “safer” if both customers and workers wore masks, but “we’ve made it clear that that’s not a good phase one activity,” referring to the White House’s proposed plan for a gradual reopening of normal life. “I think the president’s made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia,” Birx added, pointing to President Donald Trump’s slam of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp‘s surprise announcement that the state would lift coronavirus restrictions in late April. Birx also emphasized during the interview that reopening the country is based on federal guidelines that dictate states must have “gating criteria,” including a decline in cases or positive tests for a 14-day period before beginning “phase one,” which no state has currently.
3 May 16:42 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/birx-said-protesters-without-face-masks-is-devastatingly-worrisome-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
'It's Devastatingly Worrisome.' Dr. Birx Criticizes Anti-Lockdown Protesters in Michigan
On Sunday, Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus task force coordinator, warned anti-lockdown protesters who are not adhering to federal guidelines that their actions are unsafe from a public health standpoint. Birx was asked by host Chris Wallace on Fox News Sunday about “big crowds of protesters that went into the Michigan state capitol without masks, massing together in close quarters.” “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally, because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a co-morbid condition and they have a serious or an unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” Birx said. “So we need to protect each other at the same time as we’re voicing our discontent. Birx’s comments on the Michigan protests appeared to divert from those made by President Donald Trump who had previously seemed to tweet in support of the demonstrations on Friday. Birx on Sunday also addressed whether it was safe for people to flock to beaches, as well as whether states should be opening up beauty salons and spas. On beaches, she said, “if it’s done with social distancing, yes. If it’s not done with social distancing, no.” Wallace remarked that visuals in California showed crowds on beaches clearly not adhering to social distancing. Even if both parties at beauty salons and spas are wearing masks, it’s not enough to guarantee safety, Birx noted. “It’s safer but we’ve made it clear that that is not a good Phase One activity and I think the President’s made that clear when he discussed the case in Georgia,” she said, referring to the federal guidelines for reopening local and regional economies. Some states, including Georgia, have allowed non-essential businesses like beauty salons and spas, to reopen. Trump has said he told Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp that he “disagrees strongly” with the decision, noting that “it’s just too soon” to be opening up spas, beauty salons, tattoo parlors and barber shops in Phase One.
3 May 17:38 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/devastatingly-worrisome-dr-birx-criticizes-173848014.htmlRating: 0.30
Birx calls Michigan protests 'devastatingly worrisome,' says demonstrators will feel 'guilty' if they infect relatives
Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus task force coordinator, said on Fox News Sunday she is concerned that people who attended protests at Michigan's statehouse last week could have picked up the coronavirus and brought it back to their families. The participants were protesting a stay-at-home order by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D), and many were not wearing masks. Birx said that was "devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a co-morbid condition and they have a serious or unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives. So we need to protect each other at the same time we're voicing our discontent." Birx also reminded viewers to continue to social distance and "practice scrupulous hand-washing."
3 May 23:49 • The Week • https://theweek.com/speedreads/912472/birx-calls-michigan-protests-devastatingly-worrisome-says-demonstrators-feel-guilty-infect-relativesRating: 0.58
Birx calls Michigan protests 'devastatingly worrisome,' says demonstrators will feel 'guilty' if they infect relatives
Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House coronavirus task force coordinator, said on Fox News Sunday she is concerned that people who attended protests at Michigan's statehouse last week could have picked up the coronavirus and brought it back to their families. The participants were protesting a stay-at-home order by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D), and many were not wearing masks. Birx said that was "devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a co-morbid condition and they have a serious or unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives. So we need to protect each other at the same time we're voicing our discontent." Birx also reminded viewers to continue to social distance and "practice scrupulous hand-washing." More stories from theweek.com5 scathingly funny cartoons about Mike Pence's unmasked hospital visit5 scathing cartoons about Democrats' #MeToo hypocrisy60 Minutes correspondent Lesley Stahl says she battled coronavirus
3 May 23:49 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/birx-calls-michigan-protests-devastatingly-234900922.htmlRating: 0.30
'Devastatingly worrisome': Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home
White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said protests against social distancing orders were "devastatingly worrisome" as demonstrators did not wear masks or practice social distancing while gathering in large groups. Dr. Birx said on "Fox News Sunday" that protestors who gather in groups with no protective practices could infect at-risk relatives at home after unknowingly being exposed to or carrying the virus. "It's devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives," Birx told host Chris Wallace. "So we need to protect each other at the same time as we're voicing our discontent." LoadingSomething is loading. Birx's comment comes after a weekend marked by protests in at least 10 states across the country as frustration continues to grow with the economic implications of ongoing lockdown orders. Wallace also asked Birx if reopening businesses like hair salons and barbershops were safe, which the public health expert said were made "safer" if both customers and workers wore masks, but "we've made it clear that that's not a good phase one activity," referring to the White House's proposed plan for a gradual reopening of normal life. "I think the president's made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia," Birx added, pointing to President Donald Trump's slam of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp's surprise announcement that the state would lift coronavirus restrictions in late April. Birx also emphasized during the interview that reopening the country is based on federal guidelines that dictate states must have "gating criteria," including a decline in cases or positive tests for a 14-day period before beginning "phase one," which no state has currently. Watch the latest video at foxnews.com Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 14:29 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/birx-said-protesters-without-face-masks-is-devastatingly-worrisome-2020-5Rating: 4.40
'Devastatingly worrisome': Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home
White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said protests against social distancing orders were “devastatingly worrisome” as demonstrators did not wear masks or practice social distancing while gathering in large groups. Dr. Birx said on “Fox News Sunday” that protestors who gather in groups with no protective practices could infect at-risk relatives at home after unknowingly being exposed to or carrying the virus. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives,” Birx told host Chris Wallace. “So we need to protect each other at the same time as we’re voicing our discontent.” Birx’s comment comes after a weekend marked by protests in at least 10 states across the country as frustration continues to grow with the economic implications of ongoing lockdown orders. Wallace also asked Birx if reopening businesses like hair salons and barbershops were safe, which the public health expert said were made “safer” if both customers and workers wore masks, but “we’ve made it clear that that’s not a good phase one activity,” referring to the White House’s proposed plan for a gradual reopening of normal life. “I think the president’s made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia,” Birx added, pointing to President Donald Trump’s slam of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp‘s surprise announcement that the state would lift coronavirus restrictions in late April. Birx also emphasised during the interview that reopening the country is based on federal guidelines that dictate states must have “gating criteria,” including a decline in cases or positive tests for a 14-day period before beginning “phase one,” which no state has currently.
3 May 14:29 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/birx-said-protesters-without-face-masks-is-devastatingly-worrisome-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Deborah Birx calls protesters without masks ‘devastatingly worrisome’
Dr. Deborah Birx said protesters who gather without wearing masks and not practicing social distancing at rallies against states’ lockdown regulations are “devastatingly worrisome” because they could spread the coronavirus to at-risk family members. Birx, a member of the White House coronavirus task force, was asked by host Chris Wallace on “Fox News Sunday” about crowds that gathered at Michigan’s state capitol from a “public health standpoint.” “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and, in fact, their grandmother or their grandfather who has a co-morbid condition and they have a serious or a very or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” she responded. “So we need to protect each other at the same time we’re voicing our discontent.” Demonstrations against governors’ stay-at-home orders have ramped up in the past weeks as the economic effects caused by the pandemic worsen and more Americans apply for unemployment benefits. Crowds of protesters — many carrying guns — showed up at the statehouse in Michigan on Thursday. President Trump last week called on Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to “make a deal” with the protesters. Other pockets of unrest broke out in Wisconsin, Arizona and California. Birx was also asked about whether it was safe for businesses like nail salons, gyms and spas to reopen in states that have loosened lockdown restrictions. She said it was safer if both parties wore masks, “but we’ve made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity, and I think the president’s made that clear when he discussed the case in Georgia.” President Trump last month said he disagreed “strongly” with Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp’s decision to begin reopening businesses before meeting the criteria set out for phase one openings. The guidelines for phase one require a state to show that the number of coronavirus cases has been declining for 14 straight days. No state has yet met that qualification.
3 May 14:58 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/birx-calls-protesters-without-masks-devastatingly-worrisome/Rating: 2.55
'Devastatingly worrisome': Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home
Associated Press/Patrick Semansky White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said protests against social distancing orders were "devastatingly worrisome" as demonstrators did not wear masks or practice social distancing while gathering in large groups. Dr. Birx said on "Fox News Sunday" that protestors who gather in groups with no protective practices could infect at-risk relatives at home after unknowingly being exposed to or carrying the virus. "It's devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives," Birx told host Chris Wallace. "So we need to protect each other at the same time as we're voicing our discontent." Birx's comment comes after a weekend marked by protests in at least 10 states across the country as frustration continues to grow with the economic implications of ongoing lockdown orders. Wallace also asked Birx if reopening businesses like hair salons and barbershops were safe, which the public health expert said were made "safer" if both customers and workers wore masks, but "we've made it clear that that's not a good phase one activity," referring to the White House's proposed plan for a gradual reopening of normal life. "I think the president's made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia," Birx added, pointing to President Donald Trump's slam of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp's surprise announcement that the state would lift coronavirus restrictions in late April. Birx also emphasized during the interview that reopening the country is based on federal guidelines that dictate states must have "gating criteria," including a decline in cases or positive tests for a 14-day period before beginning "phase one," which no state has currently. Watch the latest video at foxnews.com Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 14:29 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/devastatingly-worrisome-birx-says-protesters-142950491.htmlRating: 0.30
‘Devastatingly worrisome’: Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home
White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said protests against social distancing orders were “devastatingly worrisome” as demonstrators did not wear masks or practice social distancing while gathering in large groups. Dr. Birx said on “Fox News Sunday” that protestors who gather in groups with no protective practices could infect at-risk relatives at home after unknowingly being exposed to or carrying the virus. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives,” Birx told host Chris Wallace. “So we need to protect each other at the same time as we’re voicing our discontent.” Birx’s comment comes after a weekend marked by protests in at least 10 states across the country as frustration continues to grow with the economic implications of ongoing lockdown orders. Wallace also asked Birx if reopening businesses like hair salons and barbershops were safe, which the public health expert said were made “safer” if both customers and workers wore masks, but “we’ve made it clear that that’s not a good phase one activity,” referring to the White House’s proposed plan for a gradual reopening of normal life. “I think the president’s made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia,” Birx added, pointing to President Donald Trump’s slam of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp‘s surprise announcement that the state would lift coronavirus restrictions in late April. Birx also emphasized during the interview that reopening the country is based on federal guidelines that dictate states must have “gating criteria,” including a decline in cases or positive tests for a 14-day period before beginning “phase one,” which no state has currently.
3 May 14:29 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/birx-said-protesters-without-face-masks-is-devastatingly-worrisome-2020-5Rating: 0.30
'Devastatingly worrisome': Birx says protesters gathering without face masks or social distancing could unknowingly infect high-risk relatives at home, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
White House coronavirus task force coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx said protests against social distancing orders were “devastatingly worrisome” as demonstrators did not wear masks or practice social distancing while gathering in large groups. Dr. Birx said on “Fox News Sunday” that protestors who gather in groups with no protective practices could infect at-risk relatives at home after unknowingly being exposed to or carrying the virus. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives,” Birx told host Chris Wallace. “So we need to protect each other at the same time as we’re voicing our discontent.” Birx’s comment comes after a weekend marked by protests in at least 10 states across the country as frustration continues to grow with the economic implications of ongoing lockdown orders. Wallace also asked Birx if reopening businesses like hair salons and barbershops were safe, which the public health expert said were made “safer” if both customers and workers wore masks, but “we’ve made it clear that that’s not a good phase one activity,” referring to the White House’s proposed plan for a gradual reopening of normal life. “I think the president’s made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia,” Birx added, pointing to President Donald Trump’s slam of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp‘s surprise announcement that the state would lift coronavirus restrictions in late April. Birx also emphasized during the interview that reopening the country is based on federal guidelines that dictate states must have “gating criteria,” including a decline in cases or positive tests for a 14-day period before beginning “phase one,” which no state has currently.
3 May 14:29 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/birx-said-protesters-without-face-masks-is-devastatingly-worrisome-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Birx: 'Devastatingly worrisome' that stay-at-home protesters aren't practicing social distancing
White House coronavirus task force coordinator Deborah Birx on Sunday said it was “devastatingly worrisome” that those protesting at state Capitols against stay-at-home orders did not wear masks or practice social distancing, warning that they could unknowingly transmit the novel coronavirus to at-risk relatives. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally because if they go home and they infect their grandmother or grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or very unfortunate outcome they will feel guilty for the rest of their lives. So we need to protect each other at the same time as we’re voicing our discontent,” Birx said on “Fox News Sunday.” Protests took place in at least 10 states over the weekend, with demonstrators calling on their governors to reopen businesses. Hundreds of protesters, some of them armed, demonstrated at the Michigan Statehouse on Thursday, eventually crowding inside to demand Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) allow public life to resume. President Trumptweeted his support for those protesters, calling on Whitmer to “talk to them” and “make a deal.” Birx, asked by Fox News’s Chris Wallace about whether reopening businesses such hair salons was safe, said it was "safer" if both parties wore masks but added that "we’ve made it clear that that’s not a good phase one activity, and I think the president's made it clear when he discussed the case in Georgia." Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp (R) was one of the first governors to announce coronavirus restrictions would be lifted in late April, prompting pushback from both President Trump and Rep. Doug Collins (R-Ga.), a close Trump ally who is running for Sen. Kelly Loeffler’s (R-Ga.) Senate seat. Since then, a number of states have also opted to include salons in the first wave of businesses to be allowed to reopen, with some safety requirements. Asked by Wallace whether the U.S. was “past the peak” or “on the downslope” when it comes to infections, Birx noted that “every single metro area and every single outbreak across the country is different.” “We are encouraged that the New York and New Jersey metro areas are starting to see a decline after a long flat curve,” she said. Federal guidelines call on states to wait for a 14-day period of continually declining cases before moving to phase one and then each subsequent stage of reopening, which no state has met as of Sunday.
3 May 13:40 • TheHill • https://thehill.com/homenews/sunday-talk-shows/495846-birx-stay-at-home-protesters-not-social-distancing-isRating: 1.94
Iran's OPEC governor in coma after brain haemorrhage
3 May 20:03
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3 articles
Weight: 3.72
Importance: 3.72
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:03
Average US: 10.433333333333334
Weighted average US: 11.06997875028857
Average GB: 0.39999999999999997
Weighted average GB: 0.4101763878588269
Average IN: 9.166666666666666
Weighted average IN: 8.632096775901486
Iran's OPEC governor in coma after brain haemorrhage
(Reuters) - Iran’s OPEC Governor Hossein Kazempour Ardebili is in a coma after a “severe brain haemorrhage”, SHANA, the news site of the Iranian oil ministry, reported on Sunday. He was hospitalized on Friday, SHANA said, without providing any additional details. Kazempour Ardebili is a key figure in Iran’s oil industry and served as the country’s deputy foreign minister and deputy oil minister in the 1980s. He was ambassador to Japan in the early 1990s, while at the same time serving as OPEC governor.
3 May 20:03 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-iran-oil-opec-governor-idUSKBN22F0UFRating: 4.04
Iran Opec Governor Ardebili in coma after 'severe brain haemorrhage'
Iran’s Opec Governor Hossein Kazempour Ardebili is in a coma after a “severe brain haemorrhage”, SHANA, the news site of the Iranian oil ministry, reported on Sunday. He was hospitalized on Friday, SHANA said, without providing any additional details. Kazempour Ardebili is a key figure in Iran's oil industry and served as the country's deputy foreign minister and deputy oil minister in the 1980s. He was ambassador to Japan in the early 1990s, while at the same time serving as OPEC governor.
3 May 23:10 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/mena/iran-opec-governor-ardebili-in-coma-after-severe-brain-haemorrhage-1.1588547707276Rating: 3.21
Iran's OPEC Governor Hossein Kazempour Ardebili in Coma Due to Brain Hemorrhage
Iran's OPEC Governor Hossein Kazempour Ardebili is in a coma, the Iranian Oil Ministry said in a statement on Sunday. He was earlier taken to hospital in Tehran after suffering a severe brain hemorrhage, it added. The ministry has not elaborated on the details. During his long career, Kazempour Ardebili served as Iran's deputy foreign minister and deputy oil minister in the 1980s. He also held the post of Iran's ambassador to Japan in the early 1990s, while also serving as OPEC governor during that period. In 2012, he was appointed ambassador to the OPEC again, by order of Bijan Namdar Zangeneh, Iran's oil minister.
3 May 20:28 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/202005031079185041-irans-opec-governor-hossein-kazempour-ardebiliin-coma-due-to-brain-hemorrhage/Rating: 3.96
Vietnam reports no new COVID-19 cases in 8 days
3 May 16:36
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33 articles
Weight: 3.70
Importance: 4.14
Age penalty: 0.89
Best date: 3 May 09:15
Average US: 11.120606060606065
Weighted average US: 15.9038528771025
Average GB: 0.519090909090909
Weighted average GB: 0.698119437425885
Average IN: 19.18363636363637
Weighted average IN: 19.317325585605158
Vietnam reports no new COVID-19 cases in 8 days
HANOI: Vietnam reported no new cases of COVID-19 infection on Saturday, the eighth day in a row, with its total confirmed cases remaining at 270, according to its Ministry of Health. The country has reported no new COVID-19 cases in the community for 16 consecutive days, Vietnam News Agency cited the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control as saying on Saturday. A total of 219 COVID-19 patients have recovered in the country, with no deaths reported, while there are 443 suspected cases and over 30,000 people being monitored and quarantined as of Saturday evening, according to the health ministry.
3 May 16:36 • Times of Oman • https://timesofoman.com/article/3014483/world/asia/vietnam-reports-no-new-covid-19-cases-in-8-daysRating: 1.06
Vietnam reports first new coronavirus infection in 9 days, taking its tally to 271
HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam reported its first new coronavirus infection in nine days on Sunday, a British oil expert who was quarantined on arrival, the health ministry said. The Southeast Asian country has registered a total of 271 coronavirus cases and has reported no deaths, the ministry said in a statement. Over 30,500 people have been quarantined, and 261,000 tests have been carried out.
3 May 12:09 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-vietnam-idUSKBN22F0HYRating: 4.04
One dies of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu; 266 fresh cases reported
A 44-year-old man died of coronavirus in Tamil Nadu, taking the toll in the state to 30 as the number of positive cases crossed the 3,000 mark with 266 more getting infected by the virus on Sunday. The man from Coimbatore became the latest victim to the contagion, a bulletin from the health department said. The state capital continued to contribute the major chunk of COVID-19 cases at 203, the bulletin said. As many as 266 fresh COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the state, taking the aggregate to 3,023, it said.
3 May 19:53 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/one-dies-of-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu-266-fresh-cases-reported-833110.htmlRating: 2.25
Rajasthan reports 3 coronavirus deaths, 60 new positive cases
Rajasthan reported three more coronavirus deaths on Sunday, while 60 people tested positive for the virus, officials said. Two deaths were reported in Jaipur and one in Pratapgarh, taking the total number of fatalities in the state to 71, including 40 alone in Jaipur. For latest updates on coronavirus outbreak, click here Of the 60 fresh cases, 27 are from Jodhpur, 17 from Jaipur, five from Udaipur, three from Chittorgarh, two each in Ajmer, Bharatpur and Pratapgarh and one each from Kota and Dungarpur, according to a state government official. With this, the total number of positive cases in the state has climbed to 2,832.
3 May 18:36 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/north-and-central/rajasthan-reports-3-coronavirus-deaths-60-new-positive-cases-833078.htmlRating: 2.25
Vietnam reports first new coronavirus infection in 9 days, taking its tally to 271
HANOI — Vietnam reported its first new coronavirus infection in nine days on Sunday, a British oil expert who was quarantined on arrival, the health ministry said. The Southeast Asian country has registered a total of 271 coronavirus cases and has reported no deaths, the ministry said in a statement. Over 30,500 people have been quarantined, and 261,000 tests have been carried out. (Reporting by Phuong Nguyen Editing by Frances Kerry)
3 May 11:52 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/vietnam-reports-first-new-coronavirus-infection-in-9-days-taking-its-tally-to-271Rating: 1.59
Punjab's COVID-19 tally crosses 1000-mark, 55 percent Maharashtra's Nanded pilgrims
CHANDIGARH: Punjab saw the steepest rise in the number of coronavirus cases on Sunday with 331 more persons, mostly pilgrims returning from Nanded, testing positive for the disease, officials said. With the fresh detections, the number of COVID-19 cases in the state now stands at 1,102. At least 609 of the 4,000 pilgrims who have returned from Hazur Sahib gurdwara in Maharashtra's Nanded in recent days have tested positive for coronavirus, a health official said. The pilgrims account for 55 percent of the total coronavirus cases in the state, he said. Of the fresh cases, 75 were reported in Amritsar, followed by 62 in SBS Nagar, 46 in Hoshiarpur, 43 in Muktsar, 33 in Bathinda, 24 in Gurdaspur, nine in Rupnagar, three in Mansa, four each in Sangrur, Jalandhar and Fatehgarh Sahib, two each in Mohali, Barnala, and Ferozepur and one each in Patiala and Ludhiana, according to a health bulletin. Meanwhile, a 40-year-old, who was undergoing treatment at the Faridkot hospital, died on Sunday. His test report confirming him to be coronavirus positive came after his death. This is the first COVID-19 related death in the district. The number of COVID-19 related deaths in the state now stands at 21. Amritsar topped the COVID-19 tally in the state with 218 cases, followed by 124 in Jalandhar, 111 in Ludhiana, 95 in Mohali, 88 in Hoshiarpur, 86 in Patiala, 85 in SBS Nagar, 50 in Muktsar, 35 in Bathinda, 30 in Gurdaspur, 29 in Ferozepur, 28 in Moga, 25 in Pathankot, 16 each in Mansa and Fatehgarh Sahib, 14 each in Tarn Taran and Rupnagar, 13 in Kapurthala, six in Faridkot and four each in Fazilka and Barnala, the bulletin said. Of the total 1,102 patients, 117 have been cured and 964 are undergoing treatment. Two patients are critical and on ventilator support, according to the bulletin. A total of 26,439 samples have been taken in the state so far, of which 20,197 are negative and reports of 5,140 awaited.
3 May 20:46 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/may/03/punjabs-covid-19-tally-crosses-1000-mark-55-percent--maharashtras-nanded-pilgrims-2138710.htmlRating: 2.04
Coronavirus global death toll hits 2,40,000
Paris: The novel coronavirus has killed at least 241,682 people since the outbreak first emerged in China in December, according to a tally from official sources compiled by AFP at 1900 GMT on Saturday. More than 3,398,390 cases were registered in 195 countries and territories. Of these, at least 1,023,900 are now considered recovered. The tallies, using data collected by AFP from national authorities and information from the World Health Organization (WHO), probably reflect only a fraction of the actual number of infections. Many countries are testing only the most serious cases. Over the past 24 hours, 6,167 new deaths have been recorded and 94,645 new infections around the world. The countries with the newest fatalities over the 24-hour period were the United States with 2,518, Britain with 621 and Italy with 474. The United States has the highest number of total deaths with 65,645 out of 1,121,414 cases. At least 164,015 have been declared recovered. Italy has the second-highest toll with 28,710 deaths out of 209,328 cases, followed by Britain with 28,131 deaths from 182,260 cases, Spain 25,100 deaths and 216,582 cases and France with 24,760 deaths and 168,396 cases. The country with the highest proportion of fatalities per population is Belgium, with 67 deaths per 100,000 people, followed by Spain with 54, Italy with 47, Britain with 41 and France with 38. China -- excluding Hong Kong and Macau -- has to date declared 4,633 deaths and 82,875 cases. It has 77,642 recovered cases. Europe has a total of 142,223 deaths from 1,521,847 cases, the United States and Canada have 69,278 deaths and 1,177,994 cases, Latin America and the Caribbean have 12,533 deaths and 234,032 cases, Asia has 8,919 deaths and 233,465 cases, the Middle East has 6,879 deaths and 180,721 cases, Africa has 1,730 deaths from 42,229 cases, and Oceania 120 deaths from 8,102 cases.
3 May 10:20 • Deccan Chronicle • https://www.deccanchronicle.com/world/america/030520/coronavirus-global-death-toll-hits-240000.htmlRating: 1.64
China reports 2 new COVID-19 cases
HONG KONG: China reported two new coronavirus cases for May 2, up from one the day before, data from the country's national health authority showed on Sunday (May 3). One case was imported and the other was local, the National Health Commission (NHC) said. This compares to one imported case and no domestic transmissions on May 1. The NHC also reported 12 asymptomatic cases for May 2, down from 20 the day before. The number of confirmed cases in China has reached 82,877. With no new deaths reported, the death toll remained at 4,633. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 09:58 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/china-reports-2-new-covid-19-cases-12697584Rating: 3.25
Indonesia reports 349 new coronavirus cases, 14 new deaths
JAKARTA, May 3 — Indonesia reported 349 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the Southeast Asian country to 11,192, health ministry official Achmad Yurianto said today. Yurianto said 14 new coronavirus-related deaths were confirmed, bringing the total to 845. More than 83,000 people have been tested for the virus, he added. — Reuters
3 May 09:47 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/indonesia-reports-349-new-coronavirus-cases-14-new-deaths/1862623Rating: 1.42
Philippines coronavirus cases surpass 9,000, death toll rises
MANILA, May 3 — The number of coronavirus cases in the Philippines climbed to 9,223 after the Health Ministry reported 295 new infections today. The ministry also recorded four more deaths related to Covid-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, bringing the tally to 607. Another 90 people recovered, it added, bringing total recoveries to 1,214. — Reuters
3 May 09:48 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/philippines-coronavirus-cases-surpass-9000-death-toll-rises/1862626Rating: 1.42
Indonesia reports 349 new coronavirus cases, 14 new deaths
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia reported 349 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number of infections in the Southeast Asian country to 11,192, health ministry official Achmad Yurianto said on Sunday. Yurianto said 14 new coronavirus-related deaths were confirmed, bringing the total to 845. More than 83,000 people have been tested for the virus, he added.
3 May 09:15 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-indonesia-idUSKBN22F0BKRating: 4.04
Malaysia reports 122 new coronavirus cases, two new deaths
KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Malaysia reported 122 new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus on Sunday, taking the cumulative total to 6,298 infections. The health ministry also reported two new deaths, raising the total number of fatalities from the outbreak to 105.
3 May 09:01 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-malaysia-idUSKBN22F0AWRating: 4.04
Philippines coronavirus cases surpass 9,000, death toll rises
MANILA (Reuters) - The number of coronavirus cases in the Philippines climbed to 9,223 after the Health Ministry reported 295 new infections on Sunday. The ministry also recorded four more deaths related to COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, bringing the tally to 607. Another 90 people recovered, it added, bringing total recoveries to 1,214.
3 May 08:24 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-philippines-cases-idUSKBN22F08MRating: 4.04
China reports two coronavirus cases for May 2
HONG KONG (Reuters) - China reported two new coronavirus cases for May 2, up from one the day before, data from the country’s national health authority showed on Sunday. One case was imported and the other was local, the National Health Commission (NHC) said. This compares to one imported case and no domestic transmissions on May 1. The NHC also reported 12 asymptomatic cases for May 2, down from 20 the day before. The number of confirmed cases in China has reached 82,877. With no new deaths reported, the death toll remained at 4,633.
3 May 01:41 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-china-toll-idUSKBN22F01LRating: 4.04
China reports two coronavirus cases for May 2
By Alexandra Harney HONG KONG (Reuters) - China reported two new coronavirus cases for May 2, up from one the day before, data from the country's national health authority showed on Sunday. One case was imported and the other was local, the National Health Commission (NHC) said. This compares to one imported case and no domestic transmissions on May 1. The NHC also reported 12 asymptomatic cases for May 2, down from 20 the day before. The number of confirmed cases in China has reached 82,877. With no new deaths reported, the death toll remained at 4,633. (Reporting By Alexandra Harney; Editing by Michael Perry)
3 May 01:41 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/china-reports-two-coronavirus-cases-014128269.htmlRating: 0.30
Brazil reports 4,970 new coronavirus cases, 421 deaths on Saturday
RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - There have been 4,970 new cases of the novel coronavirus in Brazil and 421 deaths over the last 24 hours, the health ministry said on Saturday. The nation has now registered 95,559 confirmed cases of the virus and 6,750 deaths. New cases increased roughly 5.4% on Saturday from the previous day, while deaths rose by roughly 6.7%.
2 May 21:52 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-brazil-idUSKBN22E0U7Rating: 4.04
COVID-19 Cases Dropped To One In China
China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday.The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality.As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said.One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said.China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition.The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday.Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei’s prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media.Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989.Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 06:32 • HUFFPOST • https://www.huffingtonpost.in/entry/covid19-cases-wuhan-china_in_5ead0fd8c5b6264c08f38a85Rating: 1.03
China reports one new coronavirus case versus 12 a day earlier
China reported one new coronavirus case for May 1, down from 12 a day earlier, data from the country’s health authority showed on Saturday. The new case was imported, the National Health Commission (NHC) said, down from six imported cases a day earlier. China reported no domestic transmission cases down from six the day before. The NHC also reported 20 new asymptomatic cases for May 1, down from 25 a day earlier. The total number of confirmed cases in the country has reached 82,875. With no new deaths on Friday, the toll remained at 4,633. If you want to help in the fight against COVID-19, we have compiled an up-to-date list of community initiatives designed to aid medical workers and low-income people in this article. Link: [UPDATED] Anti-COVID-19 initiatives: Helping Indonesia fight the outbreak
2 May 10:50 • The Jakarta Post • https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/05/02/china-reports-one-new-coronavirus-case-versus-12-a-day-earlier.htmlRating: 1.40
China reports one new coronavirus case versus 12 a day earlier
BEIJING, May 2 — China reported one new coronavirus case for May 1, down from 12 a day earlier, data from the country’s health authority showed today. The new case was imported, the National Health Commission (NHC) said, down from six imported cases a day earlier. China reported no domestic transmission cases down from six the day before. The NHC also reported 20 new asymptomatic cases for May 1, down from 25 a day earlier. The total number of confirmed cases in the country has reached 82,875. With no new deaths yesterday, the toll remained at 4,633. — Reuters
2 May 01:32 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/02/china-reports-one-new-coronavirus-case-versus-12-a-day-earlier/1862264Rating: 1.42
China reports one new coronavirus case versus 12 a day earlier
BEIJING/SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China reported one new coronavirus case for May 1, down from 12 a day earlier, data from the country’s health authority showed on Saturday. The new case was imported, the National Health Commission (NHC) said, down from six imported cases a day earlier. China reported no domestic transmission cases down from six the day before. The NHC also reported 20 new asymptomatic cases for May 1, down from 25 a day earlier. The total number of confirmed cases in the country has reached 82,875. With no new deaths on Friday, the toll remained at 4,633.
2 May 01:20 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-china-toll-idUSKBN22E01VRating: 4.04
China reports only 1 new COVID-19 case
China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday. The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei's prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 00:00 • Rediff • https://www.rediff.com/news/report/coronavirus-china-reports-only-1-new-covid-19-case/20200502.htmRating: 0.30
China's coronavirus cases drop to one
BEIJING: China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday. The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei's prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 12:28 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2020/may/02/chinas-coronavirus-cases-drop-to-one-2138241.htmlRating: 2.04
China's coronavirus cases drop to one
BEIJING:China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday. The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei's prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 07:38 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/chinas-coronavirus-cases-drop-to-one/articleshow/75502945.cmsRating: 0.30
China’s Covid-19 cases drop to one; no cases reported in epicentre Hubei for almost a month
China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday. The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei’s prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 06:45 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-s-covid-19-cases-drop-to-one-no-cases-reported-in-epicentre-hubei-for-almost-a-month/story-EPsU7JjFWjYXTXy8B2JFaM.htmlRating: 0.30
China’s reports one coronavirus case yesterday, death toll stands at 4,633
China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday. The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei’s prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 08:28 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/chinas-coronavirus-cases-drop-to-one-6390258/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus pandemic | China's coronavirus cases drop to one
China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December last, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on Saturday. The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of Friday, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on Friday with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. The Hubei province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on Saturday. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on Saturday. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei's prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on Friday, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.Moneycontrol Ready ReckonerNow that payment deadlines have been relaxed due to COVID-19, the Moneycontrol Ready Reckoner will help keep your date with insurance premiums, tax-saving investments and EMIs, among others.Download a copy
2 May 00:00 • Moneycontrol • https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/world/coronavirus-pandemic-chinas-coronavirus-cases-drop-to-one-5214351.htmlRating: 0.30
Coronavirus | China reports single case on May 2
China, where the deadly coronavirus first emerged in December 2019, reported just one COVID-19 case, the National Health Commission (NHC) said on May 2. Watch | What is PPE? The death toll remained at 4,633 with no new fatality. As of May 1, the total confirmed cases on the mainland were 82,875. As many as 77,685 patients have been recovered, the NHC said. One new imported coronavirus case was reported on May 1 with no new local infection, it said. China has reported a total of 1,671 imported COVID-19 cases, including seven in critical condition. Watch | What is hydroxychloroquine? The Hubei Province and its capital Wuhan, the epicentre of the virus, have not reported any coronavirus case for 28 consecutive days since April 4, local health commission said on May 2. Hubei also lowered its COVID-19 emergency response from the highest level to the second-highest on May 2. The lowering of the emergency level shows a major breakthrough in Hubei’s prevention and control against the coronavirus, Hubei Vice-Governor Yang Yunyan told media. Meanwhile, 20 new asymptomatic cases were reported on May 1, taking the total number of such patients to 989. Watch | What is contact tracing? Asymptomatic cases refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.
2 May 12:05 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-china-reports-single-case-on-may-2/article31489410.eceRating: 0.30
Coronavirus: China reports no new deaths for fifth straight day
May 2 (UPI) -- China on Saturday reported no new coronavirus deaths for the fifth day in a row as the global death toll reached over 239,000. The country also reported one new COVID-19 case in five days. Since the virus outbreak began, the number of cases in China has reached 83,959, with 4,637 deaths, Johns Hopkins University global tracker data shows. The rate of cases and deaths has slowed since lockdown measures in the country began in January, leading the country to start easing restrictions. China's National Health Commission said Friday that 43 patients were released from hospitals, bringing the total number of people recovered from the virus to 77,685 people, leaving 557 hospitalized. Chinese authorities first identified a cluster of pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China, in December as a novel coronavirus outbreak in January. Evidence suggests the initial outbreak was associated with a seafood market in Wuhan, China, according to the World Health Organization. As of Saturday, the number of cases worldwide has reached more than 3 million with more than 239,000 deaths, the global tracker shows. Across the world, some countries are taking new measures to control the virus as some lockdown measures ease and migrant detention has become more controversial. The Spanish government lifted its restriction on adult participation in nonessential outdoor activities for adults Saturday, giving adults the first chance to exercise outdoors since imposing a lockdown in mid-March and following an announcement earlier this week that children under 14 are now allowed to play outdoors. In an attempt to contain one of the worst outbreaks in Europe -- with 213,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and a death toll of more than 24,500 -- the Spanish government imposed a fine of $1,000 to anyone who left their homes for any trips except those deemed essential, like visits to grocery stores or pharmacies. The number of new cases and reported deaths in the country have both begun to taper. Under the relaxed rules, children can be outdoors between noon and 7 p.m., adults from 6 to 10 a.m. and 8 to 11 p.m., with vulnerable adults and seniors able to exercise outdoors between those windows. In France, the numbers of new cases and deaths have also continued to decline, but the French government introduced a bill Saturday that would its state of emergency until July 24. The bill includes provisions for the obligatory wearing of masks on public transport and a 14-day quarantine requirement for those arriving in France from abroad. In Malaysia, Security Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob struck back at criticism over Friday's arrest of 586 undocumented migrants, including young children and ethnic Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. Yaakob said that those detained had been screened for COVID-19 and tested negative. "Even though the migrants were living under lockdown, their presence here is still illegal," Yaakob said. Malaysia has 6,176 cases and 103 deaths from the pandemic, the global tracker shows. Indian officials mandated that all public and private sector employees use a contact-tracing app using Bluetooth, the country's Ministry of Home Affairs said late Friday. The app is designed to help workers follow social distancing in offices and officials said it will not infringe on privacy because data is collected anonymously. Meanwhile, the country's capital New Delhi has started to ease lockdown measures in lower-risk areas. India has reported 37,336 cases and 1,223 deaths as of Saturday. South Korea reported six new cases Saturday, continuing a monthlong streak of daily cases below 100. WHO and individual nations have praised the country for largely managing to bring the virus under control with extensive testing and contact tracing. South Korea has reported 10,780 cases and 250 deaths since the outbreak began. The United States, which has six times the population of South Korea, has the most confirmed cases at 1,104,161 and more than 65,000 deaths. Italy has the second-highest number of deaths at 28,236 deaths, the tracker shows, with 207,428 cases.
2 May 14:04 • UPI • https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2020/05/02/Coronavirus-China-reports-no-new-deaths-for-fifth-straight-day/7091588420656/Rating: 0.76
Coronavirus: Global death toll nears 240,000 with 3.3m cases
Some countries are beginning to ease lockdown conditions amid signs the coronavirus outbreak is stabilising. Almost 240,000 people have died of coronavirus, also known as Covid-19, according to figures collected by Johns Hopkins University in the US. Worldwide, more than 3.3 million people have been infected. Here are the latest updates from around the world: China, where the pandemic began in December, reported one new infection and no deaths in the 24 hours until midnight on Friday. The country has reported a total of 82,875 confirmed cases and 4,633 deaths. The National Health Commission reported 43 people were released from hospitals on Friday after being declared recovered, raising the total to 77,685. There were a total 557 people still in hospital on the mainland. The easing of restrictions continues in China, with the country’s most populous cities experiencing a spike in outbound travellers, tourists and day-trippers on May 1st, the first day of a long holiday weekend. The number of people travelling outside their home cities jumped 40 per cent at the start of the weekend, compared with the first day of the previous holiday weekend on April 4th, according to data from China’s internet giant Baidu. Joggers, cyclists and surfers across Spain left their homes on Saturday, allowed to exercise outdoors for the first time in seven weeks as the government began easing tough coronavirus restrictions. In Madrid, cyclists and skateboarders streamed along the city’s wide boulevards. Barcelona’s beachside was packed with runners, while surfers and paddle-boarders were out enjoying the waves. The crowds could be a matter of concern for the authorities, who have stressed that the easing of restrictions must be cautious and for exercise, not socialising. Hit by one of the world’s worst Covid-19 outbreaks, Spain imposed a strict lockdown in March, confining most of the population to their homes for all but essential trips. Sports and recreational walks were banned. The World Health Organisation said on Friday that countries must lift lockdowns gradually, while being ready to restore restrictions if the virus jumps back. Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sánchez announced a four-phase plan this week to return the country to what he termed “the new normality” by the end of June. On Saturday, Mr Sanchez said his government would approve a €16 billion reconstruction fund to help regional authorities deal with the social and economic damage from the coronavirus. Speaking at a press conference, Mr Sánchez also announced that the use of masks on public transport would be compulsory from Monday. Spain has recorded a coronavirus death toll of 25,100, according to health ministry data on Saturday, and more than 216,582 cases. The lockdown has hammered the economy and the government expects gross domestic product (GDP) to contract 9.2 per cent in 2020. Confronting Coronavirus · The reopening of Ireland - a phased approach Britain’s coronavirus death toll rose 621 to 28,131, housing minister Robert Jenrick said on Saturday, making it the highest death toll in any European country apart from Italy. British prime minister Boris Johnson said this week that Britain had passed the peak of coronavirus infections and his government will next week outline the next stage in its strategy, although the lockdown is expected to remain. Commuters in Britain could be asked to check their temperature at home before travelling under plans to ease the lockdown. The number of people who have died from coronavirus infections in France rose by 166 to 24,760 on Saturday while hospitalisations for the disease and people in intensive care units continued to decline, according to the French health ministry. Saturday’s daily tally was markedly lower than the 218 recorded on Friday. The number of people in hospital with Covid-19 fell to 25,827 from 25,887 on Friday, and the number of people in intensive care with the virus fell to 3,827 from 3,878. Both numbers have been on a downward trend for more than two weeks. Travellers to France, including French citizens returning home, will face a compulsory two-week quarantine and possible isolation when they arrive in the country to help slow the spread of coronavirus, the health minister said on Saturday. Gilead Science Inc’s antiviral drug remdesivir was granted emergency use authorisation by the US Food and Drug Administration for coronavirus on Friday, clearing the way for broader use of the drug in more hospitals around the United States. The United States has the most cases and fatalities at more than 1 million and at least 63,200 respectively, with much of the country in lockdown to contain the spread of the virus. Americans in about half of US states, led by Texas and Georgia, began emerging on Friday from home confinement while California and New York held fast to business closures and other restrictions. Texas on Friday began a phased-in reopening of businesses shuttered more than a month ago, with restaurants, retail stores and malls allowed to open at 25 per cent capacity. A second phase is planned for May 18th if infection rates continue to decline. Malaysian authorities are rounding up undocumented migrants as part of efforts to contain the spread of coronavirus, officials said, after hundreds of migrants and refugees were detained in the capital Kuala Lumpur. Authorities said 586 undocumented migrants were arrested during a Friday raid in a downtown area where many foreigners live, a move the United Nations said could push vulnerable groups into hiding and prevent them from seeking treatment. Those detained included young children and ethnic Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, rights groups had said. Police said the operation was aimed at preventing undocumented migrants from travelling to other areas amid movement curbs imposed to contain the spread of the outbreak, state news agency Bernama reported. The United Nations urged Malaysia to avoid detaining migrants and release all children and their caregivers, warning that overcrowded detention centres carried a high risk of increasing the spread of the virus, also known as Covid-19. Authorities on Saturday defended plans to ease coronavirus lockdown measures next week even as the number of new infections jumped to a two-week high. The number of new infections with the novel coronavirus rose by 105 on Saturday, the highest daily increase since April 16th. The number of known infections totalled 6,176 while fatalities stood at 103. Russia reported 9,623 new cases of coronavirus on Saturday, its highest daily rise since the start of the pandemic, bringing the total to 124,054, mostly in the capital Moscow, where the mayor threatened to cut the number of travel permits. The death toll nationwide rose to 1,222 after 57 people died in the last 24 hours, Russia’s coronavirus crisis response centre said, after revising the previous day’s tally. Russia has been in partial lockdown since the end of March. In Moscow, people who have not obtained a special permit for free movement, are only able to leave their homes to shop, walk their dogs and dispose of garbage. Russian president Vladimir Putin has ordered the restrictive measures, called non-working days, to continue until May 11th inclusive, when the country finishes celebrating the Labour Day and Victory Day holidays. Selected businesses will be allowed to reopen from May 12th in a cautious rollback of Singapore’s two-month partial lockdown to curb the virus spread. The city-state has seen a sharp rise in infections, with 932 new cases on Saturday to take its total to 17,101. About 85 per cent of its infections are linked to foreign workers living in crowded dormitories. Despite this, the health ministry said cases in the local community have declined. It said the average daily infections in the community has dropped by more than half to 12 in the past week, while cases with unknown sources have also fallen to an average of six a day. Pakistan recorded its highest single day increase in new Covid-19 infections with 1,297 cases reported to bring the total in the country of 220 million people to 18,114. The increase also coincides with a a growing number of daily tests being carried out. In the last 24 hours Pakistan conducted more than 9,000 tests, also its largest single day testing as it struggles to climb to daily testing of 20,000 promised nearly two weeks ago by prime minister Imran Khan. Even as the number of new cases increase pictures in local newspapers showed large numbers of the faithful attending some of Pakistan’s mosques with only sporadic signs of the social distancing rules imposed by the government when it refused to shut down mosques during Ramadan, Islam’s fasting month. Mr Khan’s government has also suggested it might ease lockdown rules governing retail shops ahead of the holiday of Eid-ul Fitr that marks the end of Ramadan, later this month. South Korea has reported six fresh cases of coronavirus, continuing a month-long streak of below 100. Infections continue to wane in the hardest-hit city of Daegu, where no new cases were detected. Figures released by South Korea’s Centres for Disease Control and Prevention on Saturday brought national figures to 10,780 cases and 250 virus-related deaths. At least 1,081 cases have been linked to international arrivals, but these cases have also declined in recent weeks as the government strengthened border controls, such as enforcing 14-day quarantines on all passengers coming from overseas.–AP/Reuters/PA Stay on top of the latest newsSIGN UP HERE
2 May 10:39 • The Irish Times • https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-nears-240-000-with-3-3m-cases-1.4243773Rating: 1.99
Indonesia reports 292 new coronavirus cases, 31 new deaths
Indonesia recorded 292 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, taking the total number of infections to 10,843, said health ministry official, Achmad Yurianto. JAKARTA: Indonesia recorded 292 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, taking the total number of infections to 10,843, said health ministry official, Achmad Yurianto. Yurianto also reported 31 new deaths, taking the total number of fatalities to 831. The number of people who have recovered from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, rose by 74 to 1,665, he said. The country has tested more than 79,800 people for the virus, he said. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
2 May 17:25 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/indonesia-reports-292-new-coronavirus-cases--31-new-deaths-12696660Rating: 3.25
Mainland China reports one new COVID-19 case
BEIJING: China reported one new COVID-19 case on Friday (May 1), down from 12 a day earlier, data from the country’s health authority showed on Saturday. The new case was imported, the National Health Commission (NHC) said, down from six imported cases a day earlier. China reported no domestic transmission cases down from six the day before. The NHC also reported 20 new asymptomatic cases for May 1, down from 25 a day earlier. The total number of confirmed cases in the country has reached 82,875. With no new deaths on Friday, the toll remained at 4,633. Companies, schools and individuals across China are lining up to be tested for the virus as the country rises back to normal life after largely taming the epidemic. Biotech firms are ramping up production of test kits with demand growing despite lingering questions over their accuracy, while the government is pushing for more testing. Where most testing had previously focused on those with symptoms, especially in the central city of Wuhan where the virus first emerged, demand is now soaring across China. Beijing has seen some of the most strident demand, with many taking the test before business trips, and a drive-through service set up in one of the capital's districts. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
2 May 10:16 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/mainland-china-covid-19-coronavirus-one-case-12696244Rating: 3.25
Thailand reports six new coronavirus cases, no new deaths
BANGKOK, May 2 — Thailand reported six new coronavirus cases and no new deaths today, bringing the total number of cases to 2,966. New daily infections have stayed in the single digits for six consecutive days, prompting the government to allow some businesses and public parks to reopen starting tomorrow. Three of the new cases were found on the southern resort island of Phuket, said Taweesin Wisanuyothin, a spokesman of the government’s Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration. While more than half of Thailand’s nearly 3,000 cases were concentrated in Bangkok, Phuket has the highest rate of infection per population, Taweesin said. Since Thailand first detected the coronavirus in January, a total of 54 patients have died, 2,732 have recovered and 180 are still hospitalised, according to official figures. — Reuters
2 May 06:26 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/02/thailand-reports-six-new-coronavirus-cases-no-new-deaths/1862352Rating: 1.42
Thailand reports six new coronavirus cases, no new deaths
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand reported six new coronavirus cases and no new deaths on Saturday, bringing the total number of cases to 2,966. New daily infections have stayed in the single digits for six consecutive days, prompting the government to allow some businesses and public parks to reopen starting on Sunday. Three of the new cases were found on the southern resort island of Phuket, said Taweesin Wisanuyothin, a spokesman of the government’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration. While more than half of Thailand’s nearly 3,000 cases were concentrated in Bangkok, Phuket has the highest rate of infection per population, Taweesin said. Since Thailand first detected the coronavirus in January, a total of 54 patients have died, 2,732 have recovered and 180 are still hospitalised, according to official figures.
2 May 05:10 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-thailand-idUSKBN22E05PRating: 4.04
UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19: The Sun
3 May 12:44
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UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19: The Sun
LONDON (Reuters) - The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as he battled COVID-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson was quoted as saying in Sunday’s edition of The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson said that during the period when he was self-isolating in Downing Street, he had resisted going to hospital. “I was in denial because I was working and I kept doing these meetings by video-link,” he said. “But I was really feeling pretty groggy ... I was feeling pretty wasted, not in an intoxicated way, but just, you know, pretty rough.” “Then I was told I had to go into St Thomas’. I said I really didn’t want to go into hospital. It didn’t seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go.” Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. “I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. At one point, doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong ... The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two intensive care doctors called Nicholas who they said had saved Johnson’s life.
3 May 12:44 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-johnson-il-idUSKBN22E0UBRating: 4.04
UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19: The Sun
LONDON (Reuters) - The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as he battled COVID-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson was quoted as saying in Sunday’s edition of The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson said that during the period when he was self-isolating in Downing Street, he had resisted going to hospital. “I was in denial because I was working and I kept doing these meetings by video-link,” he said. “But I was really feeling pretty groggy ... I was feeling pretty wasted, not in an intoxicated way, but just, you know, pretty rough.” “Then I was told I had to go into St Thomas’. I said I really didn’t want to go into hospital. It didn’t seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go.” Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. “I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. At one point, doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong ... The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two intensive care doctors called Nicholas who they said had saved Johnson’s life.
3 May 12:44 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-johnson-il-idUSKBN22E0UBRating: 4.04
UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19: The Sun
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson's death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. "They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario," Johnson, 55, was quoted as saying by The Sun. "It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it." After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas' said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved Johnson's life. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong," Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. "The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction." He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. "The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe," he said. "That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." If you want to help in the fight against COVID-19, we have compiled an up-to-date list of community initiatives designed to aid medical workers and low-income people in this article. Link: [UPDATED] Anti-COVID-19 initiatives: Helping Indonesia fight the outbreak
3 May 14:32 • The Jakarta Post • https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/05/03/uk-had-contingency-plan-for-pm-johnsons-death-as-he-battled-covid-19-the-sun.htmlRating: 1.40
'UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled coronavirus'
LONDON: The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as he battled Covid-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for Covid-19. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson was quoted as saying in Sunday’s edition of The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson said that during the period when he was self-isolating in Downing Street, he had resisted going to hospital. “I was in denial because I was working and I kept doing these meetings by video-link,” he said. “But I was really feeling pretty groggy … I was feeling pretty wasted, not in an intoxicated way, but just, you know, pretty rough.” “Then I was told I had to go into St Thomas’. I said I really didn’t want to go into hospital. It didn’t seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go.” Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. “I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. At one point, doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong … The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two intensive care doctors called Nicholas who they said had saved Johnson’s life.
3 May 13:24 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213197/3-uk-contingency-plan-pm-johnsons-death-battled-coronavirus/Rating: 1.80
UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care. "They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario," Johnson was quoted as saying in Sunday's edition of The Sun. "It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it." Johnson said that during the period when he was self-isolating in Downing Street, he had resisted going to hospital. "I was in denial because I was working and I kept doing these meetings by video-link," he said. "But I was really feeling pretty groggy ... I was feeling pretty wasted, not in an intoxicated way, but just, you know, pretty rough." "Then I was told I had to go into St Thomas’. I said I really didn’t want to go into hospital. It didn’t seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go." Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. "I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time," he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. At one point, doctors discussed invasive ventilation. "The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe," he said. "That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong ... The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction." After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas' said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two intensive care doctors called Nicholas who they said had saved Johnson's life.
3 May 17:21 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/03/uk-had-contingency-plan-for-pm-johnson-s-death-as-he-battled-covid-19Rating: 2.85
Coronavirus | U.K. had contingency plan for PM’s death
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as he battled COVID-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Mr. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a death of Stalin-type scenario,” Mr. Johnson was quoted as saying in Sunday’s edition of The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Mr. Johnson said that during the period when he was self-isolating in Downing Street, he had resisted going to hospital. “I was in denial because I was working and I kept doing these meetings by video-link,” he said. “But I was really feeling pretty groggy... I was feeling pretty wasted, not in an intoxicated way, but just, you know, pretty rough.” “Then I was told I had to go into St Thomas. I said I really didn’t want to go into hospital. It didn’t seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go.” Mr. Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. “I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. At one point, doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong... The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” After Mr. Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the Prime Minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Mr. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two intensive care doctors who they said had saved Mr. Johnson’s life.
3 May 17:02 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-uk-had-contingency-plan-for-pms-death/article31495677.eceRating: 0.30
UK had contingency plans for Boris Johnson's death
London: The British government had a contingency plan for prime minister Boris Johnson’s death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson, 55, was quoted as saying by The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved Johnson’s life. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. “The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.”
3 May 09:45 • Deccan Chronicle • https://www.deccanchronicle.com/world/europe/030520/uk-had-contingency-plans-for-boris-johnsons-death.htmlRating: 1.64
UK had contingency plan for PM Johnson's death as he battled COVID-19 -The Sun
LONDON — The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as he battled COVID-19 in intensive care last month, he said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street before he was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson was quoted as saying in Sunday’s edition of The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson said that during the period when he was self-isolating in Downing Street, he had resisted going to hospital. “I was in denial because I was working and I kept doing these meetings by video-link,” he said. “But I was really feeling pretty groggy … I was feeling pretty wasted, not in an intoxicated way, but just, you know, pretty rough.” “Then I was told I had to go into St Thomas’. I said I really didn’t want to go into hospital. It didn’t seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go.” Johnson was admitted to a ward on April 5 and given oxygen via a face mask and a tube in his nose. “I was going through liters and liters of oxygen for a long time,” he said. He was moved to intensive care on April 6. At one point, doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong … The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two intensive care doctors called Nicholas who they said had saved Johnson’s life. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge and Estelle Shirbon;Editing by Elaine Hardcastle)
3 May 09:00 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/uk-had-contingency-plan-for-pm-johnsons-death-as-he-battled-covid-19-the-sun-2Rating: 1.59
Boris Johnson reveals 'contingency plans' were made to announce his death
British Prime Minsiter Boris Johnson has revealed 'contingency plans' were made while he was in hospital with COVID-19. Mr Johnson spent three nights in Intensive Care Unit in a London hospital after he contracted coronavirus and his condition rapidly deteriorated. He told the Sun on Sunday that plans were made to announce his death as he battled the illness is hospital. Mr Johnson said that he was given "litres and litres of oxygen" to keep him alive. "It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it," he said. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." In his newspaper interview, the prime minister describes being wired up to monitors and finding the "indicators kept going in the wrong direction". "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he's quoted as saying, adding that he kept asking himself: "How am I going to get out of this?" Yesterday, his fiancee, Carrie Symonds, revealed they had named their new baby boy Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. The names are a tribute to their grandfathers and two doctors who treated Mr Johnson while he was in hospital with coronavirus, Ms Symonds wrote in an Instagram post. Johnson is expected to take a "short period" of paternity leave at some point later this year.
3 May 10:38 • Buzz.ie • https://www.buzz.ie/news/boris-johnson-contingency-plans-announce-death-366888Rating: 0.30
Johnson Says U.K. Had Contingency Plan for His Death as He Battled COVID-19
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson's death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," Johnson, 55, was quoted as saying by The Sun. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it." After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas' said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancיe, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved Johnson's life. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong," Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. "The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction." He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. "The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe," he said. "That was when it got a bit?.?.?.?they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally."
3 May 12:44 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/world-news/johnson-says-u-k-had-contingency-plan-for-his-death-as-he-battled-covid-19-1.8815669Rating: 1.13
Doctors arranged for my death if things went wrong, says Boris Johnson on his coronavirus treatment
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed for the first time on Sunday that there were "contingency plans" in place in case things went “badly wrong” and he died during his treatment for COVID-19 in a hospital here last month. The 55-year-old leader, who returned to work at 10 Downing Street after his recovery last week, told ‘The Sun On Sunday’ that he was given "litres and litres of oxygen" after going into intensive care at St Thomas’ Hospital on April 7. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario,” he told the newspaper. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie," he said as the country reported over 28,000 deaths due to the coronavirus outbreak as on Saturday. The interview comes a day after his fiancée Carrie Symonds shared a picture on Instagram with the couple’s newborn son, who they have named Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson – with the name Nicholas chosen in a nod to the two doctors who saved the British premier's life. Johnson admitted that he was "in denial" about how serious his condition was after testing positive for coronavirus and that he really did not want to go to hospital. “I said I really didn't want to go into hospital. It didn't seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. “It was hard to believe that in just a few days my health had deteriorated to this extent. I remember feeling frustrated. I couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting better," he said during an emotional interview from the Downing Street. “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." In reference to his time in intensive care, he added: "Because the bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction and I thought, 'There's no medicine for this thing and there's no cure'. That was the stage when I was thinking, 'How am I going to get out of this?'" Johnson admits he was coming to terms - probably for the first time - with his own mortality. He had been in hospital several times before, usually with rugby injuries, but nothing quite like this. He said: “I’ve broken my nose, I’ve broken my finger, I’ve broken my wrist, I’ve broken my rib. I’ve broken just about everything. I’ve broken all sorts of things, several times in some cases. But I’ve never had anything as serious as this.” Johnson had been diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 26 and was admitted to the hospital 10 days later. The following day, he was moved to intensive care. He said his recovery was due to the "wonderful, wonderful nursing" and felt "lucky" to have come out of the deadly disease, given so many others were still suffering. "And so if you ask me, 'Am I driven by a desire to stop other people suffering?' Yes, I absolutely am. But I am also driven by an overwhelming desire to get our country as a whole back on its feet, healthy again, going forward in a way that we can and I'm very confident we'll get there," he said. The prime minister is expected to unveil the UK's approach to tackling "phase two" of the virus now the peak of infections has passed and lay out a “comprehensive” plan for unlocking the economy. So far, over 28,000 COVID-19 related deaths have been registered in hospitals and the wider community across the UK, which remains under strict social distancing lockdown measures to curb the spread of the deadly virus.
3 May 15:49 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/doctors-arranged-for-my-death-if-things-went-wrong-says-boris-johnson-on-his-coronavirus-treatment-833015.htmlRating: 2.25
Boris Johnson reveals doctors were preparing for his death in emotional interview
Boris Johnson has revealed how doctors were making preparations to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital. The Prime Minister told the Sun on Sunday that his time in hospital was a 'tough old moment.' He said he received 'litres and litres of oxygen' to help him fight the deadly virus and described how a 'death of Stalin'-style scenario was prepared in case he passed away. Mr Johnson also admitted his doctors 'forced' him to go to hospital as he was reluctant to leave Downing Street. He told the Sun On Sunday: "It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. "It was hard to believe that in just a few days my health had deteriorated to this extent." The Prime Minister added that at one point doctors were considering putting a tube down his throat. He suggested it was at this moment they started to think about how to 'handle' his death 'professionally'. Mr Johnson had a face mask and a 'little nose jobbie' providing him with oxygen in hospital. He recalls that as he was rushed to intensive care he asked himself 'how am I going to get out of this?' He felt frustrated and confused about his inability to recover from the disease. Mr Johnson announced on March 27 that he had tested positive for coronavirus and was self-isolating in Downing Street. At that time, he said he had suffered mild symptoms, including a fever and cough, but would continue to lead the Government. The Prime Minister has now revealed he was feeling 'pretty wasted'. He was admitted to St Thomas' Hospital, a short drive from Downing Street, on April 5 after his condition deteriorated. He spent three nights in intensive care before returning to a ward. After a week in hospital he was released on April 12 to continue his recovery at Chequers. On Wednesday, just over two weeks after leaving hospital, Mr Johnson oversaw the birth of his son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. He was with his fiancée Carrie Symonds as she gave birth to their boy, in a moment he has described as 'extraordinary'. The couple named their child Nicholas after Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart, who cared for Mr Johnson while he was recovering. The 55-year-old was initially reluctant to go to hospital, however his doctors insisted as his symptoms became worse. Despite being taken to intensive care, Mr Johnson refused to even consider the idea that the disease could kill him. He said a 'terrible buoyancy' within him meant he felt he would be fine in the end.
3 May 09:19 • birminghammail • https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/uk-news/boris-johnson-reveals-doctors-were-18191156Rating: 0.34
Boris Johnson says the British government had a contingency plan in place for his death
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper published Saturday night. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson, 55, told The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson did not detail what the contingency plans were, but said he was aware that they existed. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place,” he told the newspaper. The Sun reported that Johnson grew emotional in the interview from 10 Downing Street, tearing up as he described the quality of the care he received from hospital staff. “It was thanks to some wonderful, wonderful nursing that I made it. They really did it and they made a huge difference,” he said. “I get emotional about it… but it was an extraordinary thing.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson has previously said he owed the hospital staff his life. In his interview with The Sun, Johnson said his condition deteriorated and became “a bit scary” shortly after he was moved to intensive care. “They gave me a face mask and my intake became really quite substantial. I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors – Nicholas Price and Nicholas Hart – who they said had saved Johnson’s life. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. “The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
3 May 05:55 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/boris-johnson-says-government-had-contingency-plan-for-his-death-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
"Contingency plans" in place for UK PM in case of coronavirus death
In an interview with British newspaper The Sun On Sunday, UK prime minister Boris Johnson said doctors had "contingency plans" ready in case he died while in intensive care after contracting coronavirus. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he told the newspaper, speaking for the first time in detail about his illness. "They had a strategy to deal with a death of Stalin-type scenario". “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong". Boris Johnson, 55, announced on March 27 that he had contracted Covid-19, saying he had only mild symptoms. He was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital in London on April 5 for precautionary testing, but within 24 hours got transferred to the intensive care unit. The leader of UK's Conservative Party spent three days on oxygen assistance. When he was finally discharged, on April 12, he said his fight against the virus "could have gone both ways." He also sent a heartfelt message to the UK's national health service (NHS) for saving his life. The UK prime minister returned to work on April 27. Two days before, his fiancée Carrie Symonds gave birth to their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. His third name is a tribute to two of the doctors who took care of him in hospital - Nick Price and Nick Hart. Emotionally describing his recovery as an "extraordinary thing," Johnson said he was in "denial" at the outset regarding the severity of his condition. He admitted not wanting to go hospital at first, but added that doctors were "right" to force him. He said that this experience made him even more determined to fight Covid-19. British authorities announced yesterday (May 2) 621 additional deaths in 24 hours, bringing the total to over 28,100 and making the UK Europe's second worst-hit country behind Italy for coronavirus-related deaths. However, Boris Johnson stated this week that the country was 'past the peak' and promised to lay out a lockdown exit plan in the coming days.
3 May 16:18 • euronews • https://www.euronews.com/2020/05/03/uk-pm-says-contingency-plans-for-his-death-were-ready-as-he-recalls-coronavirus-ordealRating: 3.04
UK made contingency plans in case Johnson died in COVID-19 battle
Boris Johnson, the United Kingdom's prime minister, has revealed that the British government made contingency plans for his death as his condition deteriorated while battling COVID-19 in hospital last month. In an interview with The Sun newspaper on Sunday, Johnson said doctors gave him "litres and litres of oxygen" to keep him alive. Johnson, 55, returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus. He spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," Johnson told The Sun. "It was a tough old moment; I won't deny it." He added: "I was not in particularly brilliant shape, and I was aware there were contingency plans in place." After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas' said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancee, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved Johnson's life. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong," Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. "The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction." He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. "The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe," he said. "That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." Johnson described feeling "frustrated" as his health worsened and became emotional as he described the ordeal, according to The Sun. He put down his recovery to "wonderful, wonderful nursing", adding: "it was an extraordinary thing". The experience made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal, Johnson said, adding that he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week. The prime minister's comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 - just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy.
3 May 05:16 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/uk-contingency-plans-case-johnson-died-covid-19-battle-200503035844750.htmlRating: 2.44
Boris Johnson says the British government had a contingency plan in place for his death
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson's death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper published Saturday night. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London's St Thomas' Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," Johnson, 55, told The Sun. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it." Johnson did not detail what the contingency plans were, but said he was aware that they existed. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place," he told the newspaper. The Sun reported that Johnson grew emotional in the interview from 10 Downing Street, tearing up as he described the quality of the care he received from hospital staff. "It was thanks to some wonderful, wonderful nursing that I made it. They really did it and they made a huge difference," he said. "I get emotional about it... but it was an extraordinary thing." After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas' said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson has previously said he owed the hospital staff his life. In his interview with The Sun, Johnson said his condition deteriorated and became "a bit scary" shortly after he was moved to intensive care. "They gave me a face mask and my intake became really quite substantial. I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time," he said. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors — Nicholas Price and Nicholas Hart — who they said had saved Johnson's life. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong," Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. "The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction." He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. "The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe," he said. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 03:52 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/boris-johnson-says-government-had-contingency-plan-for-his-death-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Boris Johnson says the British government had a contingency plan in place for his death
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper published Saturday night. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson, 55, told The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson did not detail what the contingency plans were, but said he was aware that they existed. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place,” he told the newspaper. The Sun reported that Johnson grew emotional in the interview from 10 Downing Street, tearing up as he described the quality of the care he received from hospital staff. “It was thanks to some wonderful, wonderful nursing that I made it. They really did it and they made a huge difference,” he said. “I get emotional about it… but it was an extraordinary thing.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson has previously said he owed the hospital staff his life. In his interview with The Sun, Johnson said his condition deteriorated and became “a bit scary” shortly after he was moved to intensive care. “They gave me a face mask and my intake became really quite substantial. I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors – Nicholas Price and Nicholas Hart – who they said had saved Johnson’s life. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. “The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
3 May 03:52 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/boris-johnson-says-government-had-contingency-plan-for-his-death-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Boris Johnson says the British government had a contingency plan in place for his death, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper published Saturday night. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson, 55, told The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.” Johnson did not detail what the contingency plans were, but said he was aware that they existed. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place,” he told the newspaper. The Sun reported that Johnson grew emotional in the interview from 10 Downing Street, tearing up as he described the quality of the care he received from hospital staff. “It was thanks to some wonderful, wonderful nursing that I made it. They really did it and they made a huge difference,” he said. “I get emotional about it… but it was an extraordinary thing.” After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson has previously said he owed the hospital staff his life. In his interview with The Sun, Johnson said his condition deteriorated and became “a bit scary” shortly after he was moved to intensive care. “They gave me a face mask and my intake became really quite substantial. I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he said. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors – Nicholas Price and Nicholas Hart – who they said had saved Johnson’s life. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. “The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
3 May 03:52 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/boris-johnson-says-government-had-contingency-plan-for-his-death-2020-5Rating: 0.30
UK had plan to deal with ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario: Johnson as he battled Covid-19
The British government had a contingency plan for Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s death as his condition deteriorated while he battled COVID-19 last month in intensive care, Johnson said in an interview with The Sun newspaper. Johnson returned to work on Monday, a month after testing positive for COVID-19. Johnson, 55, spent 10 days in isolation in Downing Street from late March, but was then was taken to London’s St Thomas’ Hospital where he received oxygen treatment and spent three nights in intensive care. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” Johnson, 55, was quoted as saying by The Sun. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it.”After Johnson was discharged, St Thomas’ said it was glad to have cared for the prime minister, but the hospital has given no details about the gravity of his illness beyond stating that he was treated in intensive care. Johnson and his fiancée, Carrie Symonds, on Saturday announced the name of their newly born son as Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas, partly as a tribute to two of the intensive care doctors who they said had saved Johnson’s life. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” Johnson said of his COVID-19 battle. “The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” He said doctors discussed invasive ventilation.”The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he said. “That was when it got a bit, they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.”
3 May 03:12 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/uk-had-contingency-plan-for-pm-johnson-death-as-he-battled-covid-19-6391330/Rating: 0.30
UK PM says doctors prepared for his death in COVID-19 battle
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed for the first time on Sunday that there were "contingency plans" in place in case things went "badly wrong" and he died during his treatment for COVID-19 in a hospital in London last month. IMAGE: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Photograph: Courtesy @BorisJohnson/Twitter The 55-year-old leader, who returned to work at 10 Downing Street after his recovery last week, told The Sun On Sunday that he was given "litres and litres of oxygen" after going into intensive care at St Thomas' Hospital on April 7. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," he told the newspaper. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie," he said as the country reported over 28,000 deaths due to the coronavirus outbreak as on Saturday. The interview comes a day after his fiancée Carrie Symonds shared a picture on Instagram with the couple's newborn son, who they have named Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson -- with the name Nicholas chosen in a nod to the two doctors who saved the British premier's life. Johnson admitted that he was "in denial" about how serious his condition was after testing positive for coronavirus and that he really did not want to go to hospital. "I said I really didn't want to go into hospital. It didn't seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. "It was hard to believe that in just a few days my health had deteriorated to this extent. I remember feeling frustrated. I couldn't understand why I wasn't getting better," he said during an emotional interview from the Downing Street. "But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." In reference to his time in intensive care, he added: "Because the bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction and I thought, 'There's no medicine for this thing and there's no cure'. That was the stage when I was thinking, 'How am I going to get out of this?'" Johnson admits he was coming to terms -- probably for the first time -- with his own mortality. He had been in hospital several times before, usually with rugby injuries, but nothing quite like this. He said: “I've broken my nose, I've broken my finger, I've broken my wrist, I've broken my rib. I've broken just about everything. I've broken all sorts of things, several times in some cases. But I've never had anything as serious as this.” Johnson had been diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 26 and was admitted to the hospital 10 days later. The following day, he was moved to intensive care. He said his recovery was due to the "wonderful, wonderful nursing" and felt "lucky" to have come out of the deadly disease, given so many others were still suffering. "And so if you ask me, 'Am I driven by a desire to stop other people suffering?' Yes, I absolutely am. But I am also driven by an overwhelming desire to get our country as a whole back on its feet, healthy again, going forward in a way that we can and I'm very confident we'll get there," he said. The prime minister is expected to unveil the UK's approach to tackling "phase two" of the virus now the peak of infections has passed and lay out a “comprehensive” plan for unlocking the economy. So far, over 28,000 COVID-19 related deaths have been registered in hospitals and the wider community across the UK, which remains under strict social distancing lockdown measures to curb the spread of the deadly virus.
3 May 00:00 • Rediff • https://www.rediff.com/news/report/covid-19-uk-pm-says-doctors-prepared-for-his-death/20200503.htmRating: 0.30
DHS report: China hid coronavirus’ severity to hoard supplies
3 May 21:16
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DHS report: China hid coronavirus’ severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government's response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump's political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked "for official use only," the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by "denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data," the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus "was a contagion" for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China's changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. China informed the WHO of the outbreak on Dec. 31. It contacted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Jan. 3 and publicly identified the pathogen as a novel coronavirus on Jan. 8. Chinese officials muffled doctors who warned about the virus early on and repeatedly downplayed the threat of the outbreak. However, many of the Chinese government's missteps appear to have been due to bureaucratic hurdles, tight controls on information, and officials hesitant to report bad news. There is no public evidence to suggest it was an intentional plot to buy up the world's medical supplies. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. "Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the U.S.," Trump wrote without citing specifics. "Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner." Trump had previously speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible "mistake." His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC's "This Week," Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories." "These are not the first times that we've had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab," Pompeo said. "And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan." The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Experts say the virus arose naturally in bats, and make it clear that they believe it wasn't man-made. Many virologists say the chance that the outbreak was caused by a lab accident is very low, though scientists are still working to determine a point at which it may have jumped from animals to humans. Beijing has repeatedly pushed back on U.S. accusations that the outbreak was China's fault, pointing to many missteps made by American officials in their own fight against the outbreak. China's public announcement on Jan. 20 that the virus was transmissible from person to person left the U.S. nearly two months to prepare for the pandemic, during which the U.S. government failed to bolster medical supplies and deployed flawed testing kits. “The U.S. government has ignored the facts, diverted public attention and engaged in buck-passing in an attempt to shirk its responsibility for incompetence in the fight against the epidemic,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said Friday. Copyright 2020 Associated Press. All rights reserved.
3 May 21:16 • Hawaii News Now • https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2020/05/03/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-hoard-supplies/Rating: 0.30
DHS report: China hid coronavirus’ severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government's response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump's political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked "for official use only," the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by "denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data," the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus "was a contagion" for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China's changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. China informed the WHO of the outbreak on Dec. 31. It contacted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Jan. 3 and publicly identified the pathogen as a novel coronavirus on Jan. 8. Chinese officials muffled doctors who warned about the virus early on and repeatedly downplayed the threat of the outbreak. However, many of the Chinese government's missteps appear to have been due to bureaucratic hurdles, tight controls on information, and officials hesitant to report bad news. There is no public evidence to suggest it was an intentional plot to buy up the world's medical supplies. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. "Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the U.S.," Trump wrote without citing specifics. "Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner." Trump had previously speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible "mistake." His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC's "This Week," Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories." "These are not the first times that we've had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab," Pompeo said. "And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan." The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Experts say the virus arose naturally in bats, and make it clear that they believe it wasn't man-made. Many virologists say the chance that the outbreak was caused by a lab accident is very low, though scientists are still working to determine a point at which it may have jumped from animals to humans. Beijing has repeatedly pushed back on U.S. accusations that the outbreak was China's fault, pointing to many missteps made by American officials in their own fight against the outbreak. China's public announcement on Jan. 20 that the virus was transmissible from person to person left the U.S. nearly two months to prepare for the pandemic, during which the U.S. government failed to bolster medical supplies and deployed flawed testing kits. “The U.S. government has ignored the facts, diverted public attention and engaged in buck-passing in an attempt to shirk its responsibility for incompetence in the fight against the epidemic,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said Friday.
3 May 21:16 • NewsChannel 10 • https://www.newschannel10.com/2020/05/03/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-hoard-supplies/Rating: 0.30
DHS report: China hid coronavirus' severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government's response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump's political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked "for official use only," the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by "denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data," the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus "was a contagion" for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China's changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. China informed the WHO of the outbreak on Dec. 31. It contacted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Jan. 3 and publicly identified the pathogen as a novel coronavirus on Jan. 8. Chinese officials muffled doctors who warned about the virus early on and repeatedly downplayed the threat of the outbreak. However, many of the Chinese government's missteps appear to have been due to bureaucratic hurdles, tight controls on information, and officials hesitant to report bad news. There is no public evidence to suggest it was an intentional plot to buy up the world's medical supplies. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. "Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the U.S.," Trump wrote without citing specifics. "Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner." Trump had previously speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible "mistake." His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC's "This Week," Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories." "These are not the first times that we've had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab," Pompeo said. "And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan." The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Experts say the virus arose naturally in bats, and make it clear that they believe it wasn't man-made. Many virologists say the chance that the outbreak was caused by a lab accident is very low, though scientists are still working to determine a point at which it may have jumped from animals to humans. Beijing has repeatedly pushed back on U.S. accusations that the outbreak was China's fault, pointing to many missteps made by American officials in their own fight against the outbreak. China's public announcement on Jan. 20 that the virus was transmissible from person to person left the U.S. nearly two months to prepare for the pandemic, during which the U.S. government failed to bolster medical supplies and deployed flawed testing kits. “The U.S. government has ignored the facts, diverted public attention and engaged in buck-passing in an attempt to shirk its responsibility for incompetence in the fight against the epidemic,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said Friday.
3 May 21:16 • WVLT • https://www.wvlt.tv/content/news/Report-China-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-supplies-570160041.htmlRating: 0.30
DHS Report: China Hid Virus’ Severity to Hoard Supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked “for official use only,” the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. “Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the U.S.,” Trump wrote without citing specifics. “Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner.” Trump had previously speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake.” His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.” “These are not the first times that we’ve had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab,” Pompeo said. “And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan.” The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Speaking Sunday on Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures,” Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, echoed that sentiment, saying he believes China “is the most significant geopolitical threat to the United States for the next century.” “The communist government in China bears enormous responsibility, enormous direct culpability for this pandemic. We know they covered it up,” Cruz said. “Had they behaved responsibly and sent in health professionals and quarantined those infected, there’s a real possibility this could have been a regional outbreak, and not a global pandemic. And the hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide are in a very real sense the direct responsibility of the communist Chinese government’s lies.” By Will Weissert and Matthew Lee
3 May 23:07 • Courthouse News Service • https://www.courthousenews.com/dhs-report-china-hid-virus-severity-to-hoard-supplies/Rating: 0.30
China ‘stocked up on medical supplies after coronavirus cover-up’
US intelligence documents suggest China ‘intentionally concealed the severity’ of the outbreak. US officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by the Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying on Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was inadequate and slow. Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical US trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data”, the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organisation that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame US intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Mr Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. “Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the US,” Mr Trump wrote without citing specifics. “Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner.” Mr Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake”. His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking on Sunday on ABC’s This Week, Mr Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added: “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.”
3 May 20:47 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/china-stocked-up-on-medical-supplies-after-coronavirus-cover-up/Rating: 0.30
Report: China hid coronavirus' severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was inadequate and slow. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake.” His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.” ___ AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report. Will Weissert, The Associated Press
3 May 20:28 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-supplies/Rating: 0.61
New DHS Report Claims China Hid Virus’ Severity To Hoard Supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked “for official use only,” the analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report.Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake.” His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.”“These are not the first times that we’ve had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab,” Pompeo said. “And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan.” The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion virtually word for word hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Speaking Sunday on Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures,” Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, echoed that sentiment, saying he believes China “is the most significant geopolitical threat to the United States for the next century.” “The communist government in China bears enormous responsibility, enormous direct culpability for this pandemic. We know they covered it up,” Cruz said. “Had they behaved responsibly and sent in health professionals and quarantined those infected, there’s a real possibility this could have been a regional outbreak, and not a global pandemic. And the hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide are in a very real sense the direct responsibility of the communist Chinese government’s lies.”___AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
3 May 21:30 • Talking Points Memo • https://talkingpointsmemo.com/news/dhs-report-china-virus-severity-suppliesRating: 0.30
China hid virus’ severity to hoard supplies, agency says
WASHINGTON — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked “for official use only,” the analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake.” His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.” “These are not the first times that we’ve had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab,” Pompeo said. “And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan.” The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion virtually word for word hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Speaking Sunday on Fox News Channel’s “Sunday Morning Futures,” Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, echoed that sentiment, saying he believes China “is the most significant geopolitical threat to the United States for the next century.” “The communist government in China bears enormous responsibility, enormous direct culpability for this pandemic. We know they covered it up,” Cruz said. “Had they behaved responsibly and sent in health professionals and quarantined those infected, there’s a real possibility this could have been a regional outbreak, and not a global pandemic. And the hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide are in a very real sense the direct responsibility of the communist Chinese government’s lies.” AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.
3 May 21:25 • Las Vegas Review-Journal • https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/politics-and-government/china-hid-virus-severity-to-hoard-supplies-agency-says-2020373/Rating: 0.30
DHS report: China hid coronavirus' severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government's response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump's political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked "for official use only," the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by "denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data," the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus "was a contagion" for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China's changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. China informed the WHO of the outbreak on Dec. 31. It contacted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Jan. 3 and publicly identified the pathogen as a novel coronavirus on Jan. 8. Chinese officials muffled doctors who warned about the virus early on and repeatedly downplayed the threat of the outbreak. However, many of the Chinese government's missteps appear to have been due to bureaucratic hurdles, tight controls on information, and officials hesitant to report bad news. There is no public evidence to suggest it was an intentional plot to buy up the world's medical supplies. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. "Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the U.S.," Trump wrote without citing specifics. "Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner." Trump had previously speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible "mistake." His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC's "This Week," Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories." "These are not the first times that we've had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab," Pompeo said. "And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan." The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Experts say the virus arose naturally in bats, and make it clear that they believe it wasn't man-made. Many virologists say the chance that the outbreak was caused by a lab accident is very low, though scientists are still working to determine a point at which it may have jumped from animals to humans. Beijing has repeatedly pushed back on U.S. accusations that the outbreak was China's fault, pointing to many missteps made by American officials in their own fight against the outbreak. China's public announcement on Jan. 20 that the virus was transmissible from person to person left the U.S. nearly two months to prepare for the pandemic, during which the U.S. government failed to bolster medical supplies and deployed flawed testing kits. “The U.S. government has ignored the facts, diverted public attention and engaged in buck-passing in an attempt to shirk its responsibility for incompetence in the fight against the epidemic,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said Friday. Copyright 2020 Associated Press. All rights reserved.
3 May 16:16 • KNOE 8 News • https://www.knoe.com/content/news/Report-China-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-supplies-570160041.htmlRating: 0.30
Report: China hid coronavirus' severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON -- U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak -- and how contagious the disease is -- to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders "intentionally concealed the severity" of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government's response to the virus was inadequate and slow. President Donald Trump's political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by "denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data," the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus "was a contagion" for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad -- and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China's changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible "mistake." His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC's "This Week," Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, "Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories."
3 May 20:45 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-supplies-1.4922967Rating: 2.87
China ‘stocked up on medical supplies after coronavirus cover-up’
US officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by the Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying on Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was inadequate and slow. Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical US trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data”, the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organisation that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame US intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Mr Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. “Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the US,” Mr Trump wrote without citing specifics. “Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner.” Mr Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake”. His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking on Sunday on ABC’s This Week, Mr Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added: “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.”
3 May 20:48 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/china-stocked-up-on-medical-supplies-after-coronavirus-cover-up/Rating: 0.30
China ‘stocked up on medical supplies after coronavirus cover-up’
US officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by the Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying on Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was inadequate and slow. Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical US trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data”, the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organisation that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame US intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Mr Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. “Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the US,” Mr Trump wrote without citing specifics. “Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner.” Mr Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake”. His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking on Sunday on ABC’s This Week, Mr Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added: “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.”
3 May 20:45 • Irishexaminer • https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/world/china-stocked-up-on-medical-supplies-after-coronavirus-cover-up-997484.htmlRating: 0.69
China ‘stocked up on medical supplies after coronavirus cover-up’
US officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by the Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying on Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was inadequate and slow. Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical US trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data”, the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organisation that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. Mr Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake”. His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking on Sunday on ABC’s This Week, Mr Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added: “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.”
3 May 20:45 • independent • https://www.independent.ie/world-news/china-stocked-up-on-medical-supplies-after-coronavirus-cover-up-39177736.htmlRating: 1.21
DHS report: China hid virus' severity to hoard supplies
U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it. That's according to U.S. intelligence documents obtained by The Associated Press. They say Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January. Word of the Department of Homeland Security analysis dated May 1 comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable.
3 May 21:19 • ABC15 Arizona • https://www.abc15.com/news/national/coronavirus/dhs-report-china-hid-virus-severity-to-hoard-suppliesRating: 0.30
DHS report: China hid virus' severity to hoard supplies
U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it. That's according to U.S. intelligence documents obtained by The Associated Press. They say Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January. Word of the Department of Homeland Security analysis dated May 1 comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable.
3 May 21:19 • ABC Action News - WFTS - Tampa Bay • https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/national/coronavirus/dhs-report-china-hid-virus-severity-to-hoard-suppliesRating: 0.30
DHS report: China hid virus' severity to hoard supplies
U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it. That's according to U.S. intelligence documents obtained by The Associated Press. They say Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January. Word of the Department of Homeland Security analysis dated May 1 comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable.
3 May 16:19 • Fox 4 • https://www.fox4now.com/news/national/coronavirus/dhs-report-china-hid-virus-severity-to-hoard-suppliesRating: 0.30
China 'intentionally concealed the severity' of coronavirus outbreak to hoard supplies: DHS report
China downplayed its coronavirus outbreak in order to buy time to hoard medical supplies needed to respond to the pandemic, according to intelligence documents. A four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by the Associated Press on Sunday showed that U.S. officials believe Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the virus, including how contagious it is and how large the country's outbreak was, from the rest of the world in January. The report strongly suggested that China did this while knowing how contagious and deadly the coronavirus was during the crucial weeks before it became a global pandemic. The DHS analysis indicated that China increased imports of medical supplies and decreased exports while it was hiding the extent of the coronavirus and even attempted to cover up doing so by "denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data." The report also stated that China failed to notify the World Health Organization that the coronavirus "was a contagion" for most of January so it could purchase medical supplies abroad. Officials noted that the country's trade data “shows that China likely stockpiled medical supplies for domestic use before its official notification to the World Health Organization that COVID-19 was contagious."The intelligence report stated that China increased its imports and decreased its exports of medical supplies beginning in early January. During that time, the nation increased its imports of surgical face masks by 278%, of surgical gowns by 72%, and of surgical gloves by 32%, according to detailsfrom ABC News and Politico. China also decreased its exports of medical supplies at the same time, including 45% fewer ventilators, 56% fewer intubator kits, 53% fewer thermometers, 58% fewer cotton balls and swabs, 48% fewer surgical gloves, 71% fewer surgical gowns, and 48% fewer surgical face masks. The conclusions of the report were based on a 95% chance that China’s changes in imports and export behavior were not within the normal range. China has faced criticism from President Trump, lawmakers, and public health experts for its coronavirus response and for failing to alert the world of the virus when it was first identified in Wuhan late last year. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro claimed last month that the country spent six weeks concealing the virus from the WHO while cornering the personal protective equipment market. “During that period of time, that six-week interval when they were hiding this virus from the world, China went from a net exporter of personal protective equipment, they are the largest producer of that in the world, to a large net importer,” he said. “They basically went around and vacuumed up virtually all of the PPE around the world ... and what that did was leave people in New York, Milan, and everywhere in-between defenseless when it came time to have that PPE.” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo confirmed elements of the DHS report on Sunday during an interview with Martha Raddatz on This Week on ABC. "I want to turn to China, with intelligence officials... saying that the Chinese government intentionally concealed the severity of COVID-19 from the international community in early January, while it stockpiled medical supplies. In terms of international concealing, I assume you think they did that intentionally to keep as many masks for themselves as possible," Raddatz said. "Will there be some sort of retaliation?" Pompeo replied that "you've got the facts just about right" and "we can confirm that the Chinese Communist Party did all that it could to make sure that the world didn't learn in a timely fashion about what was taking place. There's lots of evidence of that. "It’s the way Communist parties operate," he continued. "This is a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk, and now you can see hundreds of thousands of people around the world, tens of thousands in the United States, have been harmed. President Trump is very clear. We're going to hold those responsible accountable, and we'll do so on a timeline that is our own." Trump has speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to a “mistake" and said he has seen evidence to give him a high degree of confidence that the coronavirus originated in a Wuhan laboratory. Pompeo said Sunday there is "enormous evidence" connecting the coronavirus to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. A senior intelligence official told the Washington Examiner that a majority of the U.S. Intelligence Community's 17 spy agencies believe COVID-19 originated through an accidental escape from the lab. As of Sunday, the world had seen nearly 3,500,000 cases of the COVID-19 virus and more than 246,000 related deaths.
3 May 21:48 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/china-intentionally-concealed-the-severity-of-coronavirus-outbreak-to-hoard-supplies-dhs-reportRating: 0.51
DHS report: China hid virus’ severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked “for official use only,” the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. Advertising China informed the WHO of the outbreak on Dec. 31. It contacted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Jan. 3 and publicly identified the pathogen as a novel coronavirus on Jan. 8. Chinese officials muffled doctors who warned about the virus early on and repeatedly downplayed the threat of the outbreak. However, many of the Chinese government’s missteps appear to have been due to bureaucratic hurdles, tight controls on information, and officials hesitant to report bad news. There is no public evidence to suggest it was an intentional plot to buy up the world’s medical supplies. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact. “Intelligence has just reported to me that I was correct, and that they did NOT bring up the CoronaVirus subject matter until late into January, just prior to my banning China from the U.S.,” Trump wrote without citing specifics. “Also, they only spoke of the Virus in a very non-threatening, or matter of fact, manner.” Trump had previously speculated that China may have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake.” His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.” Advertising “These are not the first times that we’ve had a world exposed to viruses as a result of failures in a Chinese lab,” Pompeo said. “And so, while the intelligence community continues to do its work, they should continue to do that, and verify so that we are certain, I can tell you that there is a significant amount of evidence that this came from that laboratory in Wuhan.” The secretary of state appeared to be referring to previous outbreaks of respiratory viruses, like SARS, which started in China. His remark may be seen as offensive in China. Still, Pompeo repeated the same assertion hours later, via a tweet Sunday afternoon. Experts say the virus arose naturally in bats, and make it clear that they believe it wasn’t man-made. Many virologists say the chance that the outbreak was caused by a lab accident is very low, though scientists are still working to determine a point at which it may have jumped from animals to humans. Beijing has repeatedly pushed back on U.S. accusations that the outbreak was China’s fault, pointing to many missteps made by American officials in their own fight against the outbreak. China’s public announcement on Jan. 20 that the virus was transmissible from person to person left the U.S. nearly two months to prepare for the pandemic, during which the U.S. government failed to bolster medical supplies and deployed flawed testing kits. “The U.S. government has ignored the facts, diverted public attention and engaged in buck-passing in an attempt to shirk its responsibility for incompetence in the fight against the epidemic,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Geng Shuang said Friday. WILL WEISSERT
3 May 13:28 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/nation/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-supplies/Rating: 0.74
US intel report: China hid dangers of coronavirus, hoarded supplies
ABC News has obtained a U.S. intelligence report that suggests China hid the extent of the coronavirus epidemic from the rest of the world as it hoarded crucial medical supplies. The Department of Homeland Security report said the country "intentionally concealed the severity of COVID-19" in early January. During that time, officials said China was also building out its own stockpile of medical supplies and took steps to protect it. The virus was first identified outside of the Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019, and by mid-January, and the surrounding Hubai providence became the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak. At that time, China reported to the World Health organization that the virus showed "no clear evidence of human-to-human transmission," according to a Jan. 14 WHO tweet. But according to the intelligence report, exports from China dropped significantly as the country cornered off supplies, disrupting the global supply chain for nations that needed those essential items most. "We further assess the Chinese government attempted to hide its actions by denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data ... trade data shows that China likely stockpiled medical supplies for domestic use before its official notification to the World Health Organization that COVID-19 was contagious," the report said. A Homeland Security analysis shows china produces about 80% of the world's surgical face masks but 48% fewer were shipped out during that time period. Exports on gloves dropped 48% and ventilator exports dropped 45%. This report comes as the rift between the U.S. and China deepens. President Donald Trump once praised China's handling of the outbreak, saying President Xi Jinping was "doing a very good job with a very, very tough situation." Now, the president is stepping up on attacks, placing blame for the virus on China. "We are not happy with China. We are not happy with that whole situation because we believe it could have been stopped at the source, it could have been stopped quickly, and it wouldn't have spread all over the world," he said last week.
3 May 15:02 • ABC7 New York • https://abc7ny.com/intel-report-china-hid-dangers-of-covid-19-hoarded-supplies/6147033/Rating: 0.30
Report: China hid coronavirus' severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON — U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak — and how contagious the disease is — to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that China was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric against China coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was inadequate and slow. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused the president and his administration of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. The analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad — and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behaviour were not within normal range, according to the report. Trump has speculated that China could have unleashed the coronavirus due to some kind of horrible “mistake.” His intelligence agencies say they are still examining a notion put forward by the president and aides that the pandemic may have resulted from an accident at a Chinese lab. Speaking Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” Pompeo said he had no reason to believe that the virus was deliberately spread. But he added, “Remember, China has a history of infecting the world, and they have a history of running substandard laboratories.” AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report. Will Weissert, The Associated Press
3 May 09:28 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-supplies/Rating: 0.77
DHS report: China hid virus' severity to hoard supplies
WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. officials believe China covered up the extent of the coronavirus outbreak - and how contagious the disease is - to stock up on medical supplies needed to respond to it, intelligence documents show. Chinese leaders “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic from the world in early January, according to a four-page Department of Homeland Security intelligence report dated May 1 and obtained by The Associated Press. The revelation comes as the Trump administration has intensified its criticism of China, with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo saying Sunday that that country was responsible for the spread of disease and must be held accountable. The sharper rhetoric coincides with administration critics saying the government’s response to the virus was slow and inadequate. President Donald Trump’s political opponents have accused him of lashing out at China, a geopolitical foe but critical U.S. trade partner, in an attempt to deflect criticism at home. Not classified but marked “for official use only,” the DHS analysis states that, while downplaying the severity of the coronavirus, China increased imports and decreased exports of medical supplies. It attempted to cover up doing so by “denying there were export restrictions and obfuscating and delaying provision of its trade data,” the analysis states. The report also says China held off informing the World Health Organization that the coronavirus “was a contagion” for much of January so it could order medical supplies from abroad - and that its imports of face masks and surgical gowns and gloves increased sharply. Those conclusions are based on the 95% probability that China’s changes in imports and export behavior were not within normal range, according to the report. China informed the WHO of the outbreak on Dec. 31. It contacted the U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Jan. 3 and publicly identified the pathogen as a novel coronavirus on Jan. 8. Chinese officials muffled doctors who warned about the virus early on and repeatedly downplayed the threat of the outbreak. However, many of the Chinese government’s missteps appear to have been due to bureaucratic hurdles, tight controls on information, and officials hesitant to report bad news. There is no public evidence to suggest it was an intentional plot to buy up the world’s medical supplies. In a tweet on Sunday, the president appeared to blame U.S. intelligence officials for not making clearer sooner just how dangerous a potential coronavirus outbreak could be. Trump has been defensive over whether he failed to act after receiving early warnings from intelligence officials and others about the coronavirus and its potential impact.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/report-china-hid-coronavirus-severity-to-hoard-sup/Rating: 0.79
Greens enter Irish coalition talks with climate on agenda
3 May 17:29
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11 articles
Weight: 3.59
Importance: 3.59
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 15:29
Average US: 19.781818181818185
Weighted average US: 22.185754343865774
Average GB: 1.1272727272727272
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Weighted average IN: 4.559509240400029
Greens enter Irish coalition talks with climate on agenda
DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland’s Green Party agreed to enter talks about forming a government with the centre-right Fianna Fail and Fine Gael parties on Sunday, but said it would withdraw if it could not agree a policy programme with climate action at its core. Ireland has been in political deadlock since an inconclusive election in February, with the caretaker government of Prime Minister Leo Varadkar forced to implement costly and extensive fiscal and political policies by the coronavirus crisis. Varadkar’s Fine Gael and traditional rival Fianna Fail reached an initial broad agreement last month to govern together for the first time, but need more support to control parliament and cannot pass any laws until a new prime minister is elected. If they can get the backing of the Green’s 12 lawmakers they would have a majority, which would allow the them to pass laws including those needed to uphold a 6.5 billion euro package to support businesses shuttered by Ireland’s lockdown. Measures to allow affected firms to defer tax liabilities for 12 months and to use a 2 billion euro ($2.2 billion) credit guarantee scheme will require legislation to be passed by June or early July, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said on Sunday. “We are conscious of the huge challenges facing any government in the Covid-19 crisis,” the Green Party said in a statement, after days of talks among its lawmakers. “Any proposal must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society. If this is not the case Green Party representatives will withdraw from negotiations,” it added. Some Green Party members are sceptical that the two larger parties will pursue ambitious enough environmental policies, with the main sticking point being a commitment to a 7% average annual cut in greenhouse gas emissions. Even if its lawmakers agree to enter a coalition, any deal must be approved by 66% of the Green Party’s grassroots members. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, which both draw support from parts of the agricultural sector opposed to the Greens’ target, require the backing of a majority of their wider membership. “We are absolutely committed to seeing are there ways in which we can significantly improve the ability of our country to reduce emissions,” Donohoe told the Newstalk radio station. “But we do need to understand how that is going to be done and how that will be funded, given all that we have going on in our country,” he added.
3 May 17:29 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-ireland-politics-idUSKBN22F0PTRating: 4.04
Ireland Moves Closer to New Government With Green Party Talks
Ireland’s Green Party agreed to enter formal talks with the country’s two traditional major parties on forming a government, moving a step closer to a new administration almost three months after the general election. The Green Party will start negotiations with the governing Fine Gael and main opposition Fianna Fail, it said in a statement on Sunday, citing “the huge challenges facing any government in the Covid-19 crisis.” “The party will now work with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael to develop a deal that respects our mandate with a view to presenting that agreement to Green Party members for approval,” it added. The moves comes after the Feb. 8 election didn’t return a clear winner. Traditional rivals Fine Gael and Fianna Fail agreed to try to form a government together last month, but progress has been slow as the country grapples with the coronavirus crisis, and the two parties don’t have enough seats to command a parliamentary majority, making a third coalition member vital. Talks with the Green Party may still break down. A new government may still be some way away, and is unlikely to be formed this month, Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Friday. While Sinn Fein won the largest vote share at the election, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail refuse to govern with Sinn Fein because of its former links to the IRA and its left-wing politics.
3 May 16:38 • Bloomberg.com • https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-03/ireland-moves-closer-to-new-government-with-green-party-talksRating: 4.04
Greens to enter government formation talks with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael
The Green Party is to enter government formation talks with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael. The talks have been described as aimed at developing a programme for government. Green Party leader Eamon Ryan is set to seek a meeting with the Fianna Fail and Fine Gael leadership to start the process Following February’s inconclusive election, Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are courting the Greens, Labour and the Social Democrats as potential junior partners in a three or four-party coalition. The Greens’ pre-condition of only entering a government committed to a 7% reduction in carbon emissions has emerged as a potential deal breaker. In a statement on Sunday the Greens said they will work to develop a deal that “respects our mandate”. The party said any potential programme for government will require the support of two thirds of their voting membership. “We are conscious of the huge challenges facing any government in the Covid-19 crisis,” the statement said. “The party will now work with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael to develop a deal that respects our mandate with a view to presenting that agreement to Green Party members for approval. “Green Party approval of any programme for government will require support of two thirds of the Green Party voting membership. “Any proposal must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society. “If this is not the case, Green Party representatives will withdraw from negotiations and pursue their mandate in opposition and work to hold the Government to account.” Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin and Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar both welcomed the announcement. Sinn Fein TD Matt Carthy described a Government comprising Fianna Fail and Fine Gael as “not representing change” while People Before Profit TD Bríd Smith claimed the Greens decision was a “historic mistake that would lead to the betrayal of the Climate Action movement”. Mr Martin said he is confident the three parties will be able to “negotiate and agree a Programme for Government that protects people and ensures that the country’s economic recovery after Covid-19 is commenced as soon as possible and built on fairness”. “There is important legislation that needs to be passed to allow Irish businesses to access finance and there needs to be a government in place to do this,” he said. Mr Varadkar, who remains in place as Taoiseach until a new Government is formed, said his party looks forward to “constructive discussions” in the coming days. “Ireland needs a stable Government to manage the remainder of the Covid emergency and to rebuild and renew our society and economy over the next five years,” he said. “We are also very aware that a hard Brexit within six months is a distinct possibility with all the challenges that would bring. “We look forward to the forthcoming Programme for Government negotiations and believe that together our three parties can develop a programme that will deliver for the Irish people.”
3 May 16:20 • independent • https://www.independent.ie/breaking-news/irish-news/greens-to-enter-government-formation-talks-with-fianna-fail-and-fine-gael-39177449.htmlRating: 1.21
Green Party to enter formal talks to form a government
The Green Party is to enter formal talks with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, with a view to developing a programme for government. Its Parliamentary Party made the decision after a meeting on Sunday. Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have agreed to enter government together - but need a third party to make up numbers in the Dáil. During the week The Green Party set out its demands - however a key target of reducing carbon emissions by 7% was not agreed in a response. On Friday, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said it was something he would like to work towards. Mr Varadkar has also said he is hopeful a new government can be in place by June. In a statement on Sunday, The Green Party said: "We are conscious of the huge challenges facing any Government in the COVID-19 crisis. "The party will now work with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to develop a deal that respects our mandate with a view to presenting that agreement to Green Party members for approval." It added: "Green Party approval of any programme for government will require support of 2/3 of the Green Party voting membership. "Any proposal must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society. "If this is not the case Green Party representatives will withdraw from negotiations and pursue their mandate in opposition and work to hold the government to account." Green Party leader Eamon Ryan says he will seek a meeting with the Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael leadership to start the process. An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has welcomed the statement from the Greens. He said: "We look forward to constructive discussions on a programme for government commencing in the coming days. "This is a very welcome decision by the Green Party. "Ireland needs a stable government to manage the remainder of the COVID emergency and to rebuild and renew our society and economy over the next five years. "Working together we can help to deal with the challenges facing Ireland, including getting people back to work, re-opening businesses, investing in and transforming our health service, housing system, childcare, climate action, balanced regional development and enlivening communities in rural Ireland. And Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said: "As the country faces into a very uncertain future, it is critically important that we have a solid and stable Government in place. "I am confident that working with Fine Gael and the Green Party we will be able to negotiate and agree a programme for government that protects people and ensures that the country’s economic recovery after COVID-19 is commenced as soon as possible and built on fairness. "I am also confident that together, with an agreed progressive programme for government we will have the opportunity to tackle, in a fundamental way, the biggest issues that are facing our people - COVID-19 ,the housing emergency, access to health services, child care and climate change. "We must also not forget that a hard Brexit in six months is still looming." He added that Fianna Fáil "will be approaching the forthcoming programme for government negotiations constructively and confidently, determined to deliver on the mandate we have been given."
3 May 17:55 • Newstalk • https://www.newstalk.com/news/green-party-enter-formal-talks-form-government-1009803Rating: 0.30
Greens, FF, FG to hold formal talks on three-party coalition
The leaders of the Green Party, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil will meet on Tuesday to arrange formal negotiations between the three parties, following a vote at the Greens’ parliamentary party on Sunday to join talks on a three-party coalition government. Talks on a programme for government which would underpin a new coalition are expected to begin later this week, and are likely to continue until later this month. If a programme for government is agreed, the three parties will seek the approval of the members. This will be a particular challenge for the Green Party, which must secure a two-thirds majority if it is to enter government. Green Party TDs who opposed the move remained silent on Sunday night though sources who backed leader Eamon Ryan said the members had all agreed to the statement issued by the party after the meeting. The statement warned that the programme for government “must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society”. If this is not the case, it says, “Green Party representatives will withdraw from negotiations and pursue their mandate in opposition and work to hold the government to account”. Mr Ryan, who has been in contact with the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and the Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin in recent days, sought clarifications and additional commitments from the two parties to help secure the assent of his parliamentary party to enter talks on a new government. It is understood that these involved stronger commitments on some issues, and technical clarifications on others. Mr Ryan received another letter from the two party leaders this weekend, which he brought to the parliamentary party and tabled the proposal to enter talks. Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil issued statements welcoming the move by the Greens. Pressure is building on the parties to form a government ahead of votes required on spending in the Dáil in June. Government sources briefed on the situation say spending ceilings will be reached in the Department of Social Protection and the Department of Health in June, and Dáil votes will be required by law to enable further spending. In addition, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe has warned that legislation will be needed to provide for some of the supports for businesses which were announced on Saturday. He said authority for tax breaks for businesses and a credit guarantee scheme would require legislation to be passed, which he said would need to happen by the end of June or early July. Mr Donohoe also signalled that the social welfare supports and extra spending introduced to tackle the pandemic would need to be phased out over a period of time by the new government. “We cannot afford to take on massive commitments indefinitely,” he told RTÉ’s This Week programme. “Over time, we will need to reduce our deficit and balance our books again.”
3 May 23:30 • The Irish Times • https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/greens-ff-fg-to-hold-formal-talks-on-three-party-coalition-1.4244158Rating: 1.99
Greens enter Irish coalition talks with climate on agenda
DUBLIN — Ireland’s Green Party agreed to enter talks about forming a government with the center-right Fianna Fail and Fine Gael parties on Sunday, but said it would withdraw if it could not agree a policy program with climate action at its core. Ireland has been in political deadlock since an inconclusive election in February, with the caretaker government of Prime Minister Leo Varadkar forced to implement costly and extensive fiscal and political policies by the coronavirus crisis. Varadkar’s Fine Gael and traditional rival Fianna Fail reached an initial broad agreement last month to govern together for the first time, but need more support to control parliament and cannot pass any laws until a new prime minister is elected. If they can get the backing of the Green’s 12 lawmakers they would have a majority, which would allow the them to pass laws including those needed to uphold a 6.5 billion euro package to support businesses shuttered by Ireland’s lockdown. Measures to allow affected firms to defer tax liabilities for 12 months and to use a 2 billion euro ($2.2 billion) credit guarantee scheme will require legislation to be passed by June or early July, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe said on Sunday. “We are conscious of the huge challenges facing any government in the Covid-19 crisis,” the Green Party said in a statement, after days of talks among its lawmakers. “Any proposal must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society. If this is not the case Green Party representatives will withdraw from negotiations,” it added. Some Green Party members are skeptical that the two larger parties will pursue ambitious enough environmental policies, with the main sticking point being a commitment to a 7% average annual cut in greenhouse gas emissions. Even if its lawmakers agree to enter a coalition, any deal must be approved by 66% of the Green Party’s grassroots members. Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, which both draw support from parts of the agricultural sector opposed to the Greens’ target, require the backing of a majority of their wider membership. “We are absolutely committed to seeing are there ways in which we can significantly improve the ability of our country to reduce emissions,” Donohoe told the Newstalk radio station. “But we do need to understand how that is going to be done and how that will be funded, given all that we have going on in our country,” he added. ($1 = 0.9105 euros) (Reporting by Padraic Halpin, Editing by Timothy Heritage and Alexander Smith)
3 May 17:28 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/greens-enter-irish-coalition-talks-with-climate-on-agendaRating: 0.94
Green Party will enter coalition talks with Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil
THE GREEN PARTY has confirmed it will enter talks with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael with a view to forming a coalition government. The party – which won 12 seats in February – had held talks among its TDs earlier today on the prospect of forming the next government. It said in a statement that it is conscious of the huge challenges facing any government during the Covid-19 crisis. It said: “Green Party approval of any programme for government will require support of 2/3 of the Green Party voting membership. “Any proposal must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said his party looks forward to “constructive discussions” between the parties in the coming days. “Working together we can help to deal with the challenges facing Ireland, including getting people back to work, re-opening businesses, investing in and transforming our health service, housing system, childcare, climate action, balanced regional development and enlivening communities in rural Ireland,” Varadkar said in a statement. Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin said he is “confident” the three parties will be able to agree a programme for government. “I am confident that working with Fine Gael and the Green Party we will be able to negotiate and agree a programme for government that protects people and ensures that the country’s economic recovery after Covid-19 is commenced as soon as possible and built on fairness,” he said in a statement. “There is important legislation that needs to be passed to allow Irish businesses to access finance and there needs to be a government in place to do this.” The party leader said Fianna Fáil will approach these negotiations “constructively and confidently”. Fine Gael, in particular, has been attempting to court the Greens in recent days with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar saying on RTÉ’s The Late Late Show he was keen on meeting one of the party’s redline targets – a 7% reduction in carbon emissions. The party currently in power during the Covid-19 crisis has also sought to emphasise that it is urgent a new government is formed, given that emergency legislation aimed at supporting businesses affected by the pandemic needs a new government in place for that to be enacted. Health Minister Simon Harris told TheJournal.ie: “I do hope we can form a new government in this country. The current government is working as hard as it possibly can, but it’s not a sustainable position for an awful lot longer. In a statement this evening, the youth wing of the Green Party said it noted the development with “disappointment”. It said: “In 2007, the Green Party campaigned to remove Fianna Fáil from office, before making the historic mistake to enter government with them – their ‘deal with the devil’. We now see history repeating itself.” With Fianna Fáil (37 seats), Fine Gael (35) and the Greens (12) together, they would exceed the 80 seats required for a majority in the Dáil. The Green Party last entered government a decade ago, when in 2007 it formed a coalition with Fianna Fáil. Sinn Féin – which won 37 seats at the last election – have been ruled out as coalition partners by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael on numerous occasions. Varadkar told The Late Late Show that a new government could be in place by June. Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy has accused Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil of “working to a plan to exclude Sinn Féin from government and to ignore our mandate for some time”. “Both of them in government together – no matter who they are propped up by – is not what people voted for and will not deliver the change that people voted for in February’s general election,” Carthy said today, responding to the Green Party’s decision. With reporting from Christina Finn #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
3 May 15:36 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/green-party-government-2-5090847-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Green Party to enter government formation talks with Fine Gael & Fianna Fáil
The Green Party is set to enter government formation talks with Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil. The move comes after weeks of talks within the Green Party. There were a number of Green Party TDs against the move, however, an agreement has now been reached for them to consult with Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil on the formation of the next government. The Greens have been meeting every day via video link to discuss their stance on the talks. A number of questions were put to Fianna Fail and Fine Gael over their policy framework document. The two parties agreed with the majority of the Green Party demands but there was a clash over the proposal for a 7% per year reduction in carbon emissions. Talks will now go ahead involving the three parties.
3 May 15:54 • Buzz.ie • https://www.buzz.ie/news/green-party-to-enter-government-formation-talks-with-fine-gael-fianna-fail-366916Rating: 0.30
Green Party to enter government talks with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael
The Green Party is to enter negotiations on a programme for government with Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil. The Greens held a parliamentary party meeting by teleconference this afternoon which approved the move, clearing the way for formal negotiations to begin later this week. In a statement the party confirmed the move saying it would “now work with Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to develop a deal that respects our mandate with a view to presenting that agreement to Green Party members for approval. It notes that a two-thirds majority among members is needed for approval. “Any proposal must be transformative on climate action and commit to strong progress towards a more sustainable and fairer society,” it said. Can you form a government? If this is not the case, it says, “Green Party representatives will withdraw from negotiations and pursue their mandate in opposition and work to hold the government to account.” Green Party leader Eamon Ryan will now seek a meeting with the Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael leadership to start the process. Mr Ryan, who has been in constant contact with the Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Leo Varadkar and the Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, sought clarifications and additional commitments from the two parties to help secure the assent of his parliamentary party to enter talks on a new government. It is understood that these involved stronger commitments on some issues, and technical clarifications on others. The Irish Times understands that Mr Ryan received another letter from the two party leaders this weekend, which he brought to the parliamentary party and tabled the proposal to enter talks. Mr Ryan had the support of a clear majority of the parliamentary party for the move, but there was significant opposition expressed. There were fears in the party this weekend of a split over the question of government. Negotiations are likely to commence between representatives of the three parties in the coming days on a programme for government. Sources say these are likely to take much of the rest of the month, with the party leaders then seeking the endorsement of their parties to enter government on the basis of the document. This would mean – if the parties approve – that a new government formed in mid-June at the earliest.
3 May 15:29 • The Irish Times • https://www.irishtimes.com/news/politics/green-party-to-enter-government-talks-with-fianna-f%C3%A1il-and-fine-gael-1.4244053Rating: 1.99
Greens split over government plans, as Taoiseach hopeful of June deadline
The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar says he is hopeful a new government can be in place by June. Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have agreed to enter government together - but need a third party to make up numbers in the Dáil. The Green Party has been discussing the prospect in recent days. However it is understood its TDs are split on the move. While members of the Green Party are meeting this weekend to discuss it. During the week the party set out its demands - however a key target of reducing carbon emissions by 7% was not agreed in a response. On Friday Mr Varadkar said it was something he would like to work towards. But Newstalk's political correspondent, Sean Defoe, believes the Greens are still a way off entering formal discussions with the other parties. "They've had three meetings since the Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael reply to their requests came earlier on in the week. "Those are going to continue over the weekend. "But at the moment it looks a very, very long way from the two-third majority of Greens you would need to approve any sort of deal - let alone even start the talks". "[The Green Party] effectively have two different camps: one that is saying we have 10 years to save the planet, we have been given the biggest mandate we've ever been given - it's going to be difficult to get everything done in economically uncertain times and with these two parties - but the best thing to do is go in and try to do it. "And the other side are arguing that really Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil aren't very serious about these climate targets, it's going to be what happened in 2007 - we'll be destroyed electorally and nothing is going to get done for the climate". Reporting by Sean Defoe
2 May 12:07 • Newstalk • https://www.newstalk.com/news/greens-split-government-plans-taoiseach-hopeful-june-deadline-1009448Rating: 0.30
Taoiseach 'keen' to meet Green's 7% emissions demand
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he is keen to meet an annual 7% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, which is a key demand of the Green Party in relation to any formation of a government. Speaking on the Late Late Show last night, Mr Varadkar also said he "really hopes" the Green Party will agree to enter government formation talks. Last night, the Green Party's parliamentary party concluded a third round of discussions on proposals from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael on government formation. A spokesman subsequently said the party’s ten TDs, two Senators, and two MEPs would resume talks over the weekend, after requesting further clarification from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. On the party’s key demand for a 7% reduction in greenhouse gases, Mr Varadkar said: "I am someone who believes and accepts that we need to be more ambitious when it comes to climate action. We are very keen to meet that 7% target" "We want to sit down with them and work out how that can be done," he said. Mr Varadkar said he really wanted to sit down with the Green Party and work out how that can be done. Read more:Greens still pondering response to 'baseline' questions The Taoiseach said he hopes there can be a new Government by June, adding that "the country actually needs it". "The current government is functioning well but cannot go on like this forever. We are making decisions at the moment without a parliamentary mandate," he said. He also said he understand there are a lot of people in rural Ireland who are anxious about what such climate action might mean for them and their business, but he said it also presents an opportunity. He said he felt in the last few days that the Green Party was "coming to a point where they would enter talks" and that "I hope they do." However, he said it was very unlikely that a Government could be formed this month. "Even if we do agree a Programme for Government most of the parties including my own have to have it ratified by membership," he said. Asked why he would not consider a coalition with Sinn Féin, he said he had promised during the election that he would not do so, while promising he would only enter a coalition with Fianna Fáil as a last resort. "So I am being true to my word. Sometimes in politics you have to go back on your word because of circumstances out of your control. This isn't one of those occasions."
2 May 07:06 • RTE.ie • https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2020/0502/1136221-politics-government-formation/Rating: 2.47
French quarantine rules to spare travellers from Schengen area and Britain
3 May 20:55
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French quarantine rules to spare travellers from Schengen area and Britain
France is preparing to ease lockdown measures from May 11, though the government has decided to extend a “state of health emergency” until July 24 to combat the spread of Covid-19. Announcing the extension on Saturday, the government had said that anyone entering France would have to remain in isolation for two weeks, French nationals included. However, the quarantine rules will not apply to "anyone arriving from the European Union, the Schengen zone or Britain, regardless of their nationality", the presidency said on Sunday. For French and EU citizens arriving in France from other regions outside the EU, the Schengen area and Britain, "the rules will be announced in the coming days", the presidency added. The French consulate in Britain had made a similar announcement earlier in the day. "People entering the French territory from countries in the European area (EU/Schengen and United Kingdom) will NOT be affected by the quarantine measure announced in France, the details of which will be specified shortly," the consulate said on Twitter. The number of new deaths from COVID-19 in France has been declining in recent days, with 135 fatalities reported over the past 24 hours on Sunday — the lowest daily tally since March 22. The national health service said the increase brought France's total death toll to 24,895, the world's fifth highest figure after the United States, Italy, Britain and Spain. France plans to start lifting the coronavirus lockdown from May 11, when children are to return to school in stages, some businesses will reopen and people will be able to travel within 100 kilometres (60 miles) of their homes without a signed justification for their movement. But Health Minister Olivier Veran warned Sunday that this would depend on further declines in COVID-19 infections, especially in hard-hit areas like the Paris region and northeast France. The government has said the number of new coronavirus cases must stabilise at fewer than 3,000 per day as it expands testing, otherwise doctors and nurses could face another wave of patients that have tested hospitals since March. "If the number of new cases proves too high, we'll have to reconsider the date for lifting the lockdown, and decide according to the situation in each department," Veran told the Journal du Dimanche newspaper. He also cautioned against planning summer holidays for now, saying "it's unlikely that this virus is going to go on vacation". Officials are scrambling to ramp up testing capacities to 700,000 people each week by May 11, which health experts say is essential for containing the outbreak. (FRANCE 24 with AFP)
3 May 20:55 • France 24 • https://www.france24.com/en/20200503-french-quarantine-rules-to-spare-travellers-from-schengen-area-and-britainRating: 2.48
French coronavirus quarantine to spare travellers from Schengen area and UK
PARIS (Reuters) - Travellers to France who arrive from a country in Europe’s Schengen open-border area or Britain will be exempt from a planned compulsory two-week quarantine, the French consulate in Britain said on Sunday. The new quarantine rules will apply to travellers, whether French or foreigners, as part of the fight against the new coronavirus. Details will be provided in a decree specifying measures laid out in a bill extending a state of emergency until July 24. The move allows the government to restrict freedom of movement to try to curb the spread of the coronavirus. “People entering the French territory from countries in the European area (EU/Schengen and United Kingdom) will NOT be affected by the quarantine measure announced in France, the details of which will be specified shortly,” the French consulate in Britain said on Twitter on a verified account. France, which has been the fifth-hardest hit country with 24,895 deaths from COVID-19, is preparing to gradually lift lockdown measures from May 11. The French presidency did not immediately respond to a request for comment. French government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye said earlier on Sunday that a list of “countries at risk” would soon be issued, without giving details. “We’ll establish a list of countries at risk and... when people come from risk areas, whether they are French or foreigners, we’ll have mandatory quarantine measures,” she said on France Inter radio station.
3 May 20:19 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-france-quarantine-idUSKBN22F0URRating: 4.04
France says won't quarantine EU, Schengen area citizens
France said Sunday that it would not quarantine anyone arriving from the EU, the Schengen area or Britain due to the coronavirus, as it prepares to start easing confinement measures after two months of lockdown. On Saturday, the government had said it would extend the state of emergency to contain the crisis until at least July 24, and anyone entering France would have to remain in isolation for two weeks. But the quarantine rules would not apply to "anyone arriving from the European Union, the Schengen zone or Britain, regardless of their nationality", the presidency said on Sunday. And for French and EU citizens arriving in France from other regions outside the EU, the Schengen area and Britain, "the rules will be announced in the coming days", the presidency said. Nevertheless, the tougher border controls introduced by France in mid-March to limit coronavirus contagion, particularly at the border with Germany, will continue, the interior ministry told AFP. "The travel restrictions currently in place at our borders will continue to apply," the ministry said. "Nothing has changed." The number of new deaths from COVID-19 in France has been declining in recent days, with 135 fatalities reported over the past 24 hours on Sunday. The national health service said the increase brought France's total death toll to 24,895, the world's fifth highest figure after the United States, Italy, Britain and Spain. The last time the number of daily reported deaths was below 135 was on March 22, when it represented only those reported by hospitals. The current figure also includes deaths reported by elderly care homes and other medicalised care facilities. France plans to start lifting the coronavirus lockdown from May 11, when children are to return to school in stages, some businesses will reopen and people will be able to travel within 100 kilometres (60 miles) of their homes without a signed justification for their movement. But Health Minister Olivier Veran warned Sunday that this would depend on further declines in COVID-19 infections, especially in hard-hit areas like the Paris region and northeast France. The government has said the number of new coronavirus cases must stabilise at fewer than 3,000 per day as it expands testing, otherwise doctors and nurses could face another wave of patients that have tested hospitals since March. "If the number of new cases proves too high, we'll have to reconsider the date for lifting the lockdown, and decide according to the situation in each department," Veran told the Journal du Dimanche newspaper. He also cautioned against planning summer holidays for now, saying "it's unlikely that this virus is going to go on vacation". Officials are scrambling to ramp up testing capacities to 700,000 people each week by May 11, which health experts say is essential for containing the outbreak.
3 May 22:20 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/france-says-won-t-quarantine-eu-schengen-area-citizens/article/571148Rating: 0.78
French coronavirus quarantine to spare travelers from Schengen area and UK
PARIS — Travelers to France who arrive from a country in Europe’s Schengen open-border area or Britain will be exempt from a planned compulsory two-week quarantine, the French consulate in Britain said on Sunday. The new quarantine rules will apply to travelers, whether French or foreigners, as part of the fight against the new coronavirus. Details will be provided in a decree specifying measures laid out in a bill extending a state of emergency until July 24. The move allows the government to restrict freedom of movement to try to curb the spread of the coronavirus. “People entering the French territory from countries in the European area (EU/Schengen and United Kingdom) will NOT be affected by the quarantine measure announced in France, the details of which will be specified shortly,” the French consulate in Britain said on Twitter on a verified account. France, which has been the fifth-hardest hit country with 24,895 deaths from COVID-19, is preparing to gradually lift lockdown measures from May 11. The French presidency did not immediately respond to a request for comment. French government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye said earlier on Sunday that a list of “countries at risk” would soon be issued, without giving details. “We’ll establish a list of countries at risk and… when people come from risk areas, whether they are French or foreigners, we’ll have mandatory quarantine measures,” she said on France Inter radio station. (Reporting by Michel Rose and Mathieu Rosemain, Editing by Timothy Heritage)
3 May 20:10 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/french-coronavirus-quarantine-to-spare-travelers-from-schengen-area-and-ukRating: 1.59
COVID-19: France extends virus emergency until July 24
Paris: The French government said on Saturday it will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus by two months, allowing it to keep stringent anti-virus measures in place even after a partial lifting of the country's lockdown. As part of the planned measures anybody entering France, foreign or French, will have to remain confined for two weeks, Health Minister Olivier Veran told a news conference. This would typically concern "French people who travelled abroad and who want to come home", he said. He did not say whether there would be any distinction made between travellers according to country of provenance. Anyone arriving from abroad and infected with the virus would be obliged by law to be quarantined, he said. Those developing symptoms while in isolation would also need to go into quarantine. Details of the measures are expected in the coming days. Infected people already in France will, however, not be forced to accept isolation and treatment, as "we trust French people's sense of responsibility", Veran said. Once approved by lawmakers, the emergency period will last until July 24, Veran said. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. Veran said, however, that to lift the health emergency, which began on March 24, at the same time would be premature and carry the risk of a resurgence of the outbreak. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for "colossal efforts" in the fight against the virus. "We are going to have to live with the virus for a while," Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting decided on the extension. "Learning to live with the virus, that's what's at stake in the coming months." The new proposals also cover an "information system" for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. On May 11, people in France will be allowed to leave their homes without the current obligation to carry a written justification for the movements. They will have to wear protection masks when using public transport. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic impact of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the financial costs involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said Saturday that his company had already lost two billion euros ($2.2 billion) during the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers. Meanwhile, the number of daily deaths in France from the coronavirus fell to 166, the health ministry said Saturday, the lowest number in more than five weeks. This takes the total number of reported COVID-19 deaths in France since March 1 to 24,760, the fourth highest in Europe.
3 May 04:30 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/europe/covid-19-france-extends-virus-emergency-until-july-24-1.1588480443716Rating: 3.21
France set to impose 14-day coronavirus quarantine for travellers
PARIS: Travellers to France, including French citizens returning home, will face a compulsory two-week quarantine and possible isolation when they arrive in the country to help slow the spread of coronavirus, the health minister said on Saturday (May 2). France, which has been the fifth-hardest hit country with 24,594 deaths from COVID-19, is preparing to gradually lift lockdown measures from May 11. The new quarantine rules, however, will be included in a decree specifying measures laid out in a bill extending a state of emergency until Jul 24, a move that allows the government to restrict freedom of movement. "This quarantine will be imposed on any person returning on French soil," Health Minister Olivier Veran told a press briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting. He said the duration and conditions of both quarantine for asymptomatic people and isolation for those showing symptoms of COVID-19, the flu-like disease caused by the new coronavirus, would be defined in a decree to be published. Decisions to isolate people would be scrutinised by judges to ensure they are justified and fair, he added. It was not immediately clear whether the quarantine would only apply to people arriving from outside Europe's open-border Schengen area, whether they would need to self-isolate at home or in hotels, and for how long the measures would be in place. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 01:54 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/france-set-to-impose-14-day-coronavirus-quarantine-for-travellers-12697006Rating: 3.25
France extends coronavirus emergency until Jul 24
PARIS: France will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus for another two months until Jul 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Saturday (May 2). A draft law says a lifting this month of the emergency, which began on Mar 24, would be premature and carry the risk of an intensifying outbreak. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for "colossal efforts" in the fight against the virus. The new emergency Bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. "We are going to have to live with the virus for a while," Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting. "Learning to live with the virus, that's what's at stake in the coming months." The proposals cover an "information system" for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The Bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. France is one of the European countries most impacted by the virus and lists 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic impact of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the losses involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said Saturday that his company had already lost two billion euros (US$2.2 billion) during the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
2 May 23:05 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/france-extends-coronavirus-emergency-until-july-24-12696990Rating: 3.25
Coronavirus | France extends virus emergency until July 24
The French government said on Saturday it will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the COVID-19 by two months, allowing it to keep stringent anti-virus measures in place even after a partial lifting of the country’s lockdown. As part of the planned measures anybody entering France, foreign or French, will have to remain confined for two weeks, Health Minister Olivier Veran told a news conference. This would typically concern “French people who travelled abroad and who want to come home”, he said. He did not say whether there would be any distinction made between travellers according to country of provenance. Anyone arriving from abroad and infected with the virus would be obliged by law to be quarantined, he said. Those developing symptoms while in isolation would also need to go into quarantine. Details of the measures are expected in the coming days. Infected people already in France will, however, not be forced to accept isolation and treatment, as “we trust French people’s sense of responsibility”, Mr. Veran said. Once approved by lawmakers, the emergency period will last until July 24, Mr. Veran said. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. Mr. Veran said, however, that to lift the health emergency, which began on March 24, at the same time would be premature and carry the risk of a resurgence of the outbreak. “We are going to have to perform a long-distance run,” Mr. Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for “colossal efforts” in the fight against the virus. “We are going to have to live with the virus for a while,” Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting decided on the extension. “Learning to live with the virus, that’s what’s at stake in the coming months.” The new proposals also cover an “information system” for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. On May 11, people in France will be allowed to leave their homes without the current obligation to carry a written justification for the movements. They will have to wear protection masks when using public transport. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic impact of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the financial costs involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said Saturday that his company had already lost two billion euros ($2.2 billion) during the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers. Meanwhile, the number of daily deaths in France from the coronavirus fell to 166, the health ministry said Saturday, the lowest number in more than five weeks. This takes the total number of reported COVID-19 deaths in France since March 1 to 24,760, the fourth highest in Europe.
2 May 21:38 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-france-extends-virus-emergency-until-july-24/article31492550.eceRating: 0.30
Covid-19: France extends health emergency until July 24
France on Saturday decided to extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus for another two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran said. A proposal to go before parliament from Monday says the lifting this month of the emergency, which began on March 24, would “be premature” and “could see a risk of the outbreak” intensifying. The bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. “We are going to have to live with the virus for a while,” Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting. “Learning to live with the virus, that’s what’s at stake in the coming months.” The proposals cover an “information system” for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. France is one of the European countries most impacted by the virus and lists 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the reopening of primary schools. The bill will also cover aspects of the lifting of the lockdown, Veran said.
2 May 13:53 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/covid-19-france-extends-health-emergency-until-july-24/story-wtGThfJD2jkAGAPgcmpXNK.htmlRating: 0.30
France extends virus emergency until July 24
Kindly Share This Story: The French government said on Saturday it will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus by two months, allowing it to keep stringent anti-virus measures in place even after a partial lifting of the country’s lockdown. Once approved by lawmakers, the emergency period will last until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran told a news conference. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. Veran said, however, that to lift the health emergency, which began on March 24, at the same time would be premature and carry the risk of a resurgence of the outbreak. “We are going to have to perform a long-distance run,” Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for “colossal efforts” in the fight against the virus. As part of the planned measures, Veran said anybody entering France will have to remain confined for two weeks. This would typically concern “French people who travelled abroad and who want to come home”, he said. Anyone arriving from abroad and infected with the virus would be obliged by law to be quarantined. Infected people already in France will, however, not be forced to accept isolation and treatment, as “we trust French people’s sense of responsibility”, Veran said. “We are going to have to live with the virus for a while,” Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after Saturday’s cabinet meeting deciding the extension. “Learning to live with the virus, that’s what’s at stake in the coming months.” The new proposals also cover an “information system” for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. France is one of the European countries most impacted by the virus and lists 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. On May 11, people in France will be allowed to leave their homes without the current obligation to carry a written justification for the movements. They will have to wear protection masks when using public transport. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic impact of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the losses involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said Saturday that his company had already lost two billion euros ($2.2 billion) during the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers. [AFP] Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
2 May 19:26 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/france-extends-virus-emergency-until-july-24/Rating: 2.43
France extends virus emergency until July 24
PARIS, May 2 — France will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus for another two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran said on Saturday. A draft law says a lifting this month of the emergency, which began on March 24, would be premature and carry the risk of an intensifying outbreak. “We are going to have to perform a long-distance run,” Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for “colossal efforts” in the fight against the virus. The new emergency bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. “We are going to have to live with the virus for a while,” Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting. “Learning to live with the virus, that's what's at stake in the coming months.” The proposals cover an “information system” for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. France is one of the European countries most impacted by the virus and lists 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic impact of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the losses involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said Saturday that his company had already lost €2 billion (RM9.5billion) during the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers. — AFP
2 May 15:41 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/02/france-extends-virus-emergency-until-july-24/1862498Rating: 1.42
France extends virus emergency until July 24
PARIS, France – France on Saturday, May 2, decided to extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus for another two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran said. A proposal to go before parliament from Monday says the lifting this month of the emergency, which began on March 24, would "be premature" and "could see a risk of the outbreak" intensifying. The bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. "We are going to have to live with the virus for a while," Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting. "Learning to live with the virus, that's what's at stake in the coming months." The proposals cover an "information system" for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. (READ: France in recession as virus-hit economy shrinks 5.8%) France is one of the European countries most impacted by the virus and lists 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. The bill will also cover aspects of the lifting of the lockdown, Veran said. – Rappler.com
2 May 15:16 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/europe/259752-france-extends-virus-emergency-july-24-2020Rating: 1.64
France extends virus emergency until July 24
France on Saturday decided to extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus for another two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran said. A proposal to go before parliament from Monday says the lifting this month of the emergency, which began on March 24, would “be premature” and “could see a risk of the outbreak” intensifying. The bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. “We are going to have to live with the virus for a while,” Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting. “Learning to live with the virus, that’s what’s at stake in the coming months.” The proposals cover an “information system” for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. France is one of the European countries most impacted by the virus and lists 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. The bill will also cover aspects of the lifting of the lockdown, Veran said.
2 May 14:30 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/world/france-extends-virus-emergency-until-july-24/Rating: 0.30
France set to impose 14-day coronavirus quarantine for travellers
PARIS (Reuters) - Travellers to France, including French citizens returning home, will face a compulsory two-week quarantine and possible isolation when they arrive in the country to help slow the spread of coronavirus, the health minister said on Saturday. France, which has been the fifth-hardest hit country with 24,594 deaths from COVID-19, is preparing to gradually lift lockdown measures from May 11. The new quarantine rules, however, will be included in a decree specifying measures laid out in a bill extending a state of emergency until July 24, a move that allows the government to restrict freedom of movement. “This quarantine will be imposed on any person returning on French soil,” Health Minister Olivier Veran told a press briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting. He said the duration and conditions of both quarantine for asymptomatic people and isolation for those showing symptoms of COVID-19, the flu-like disease caused by the new coronavirus, would be defined in a decree to be published. Decisions to isolate people would be scrutinised by judges to ensure they are justified and fair, he added. It was not immediately clear whether the quarantine would only apply to people arriving from outside Europe’s open-border Schengen area, whether they would need to self-isolate at home or in hotels, and for how long the measures would be in place.
2 May 19:43 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-france-quarantine-idUSKBN22E0KXRating: 4.04
France set to impose 14-day coronavirus quarantine for travellers
PARIS — Travellers to France, including French citizens returning home, will face a compulsory two-week quarantine and possible isolation when they arrive in the country to help slow the spread of coronavirus, the health minister said on Saturday. France, which has been the fifth-hardest hit country with 24,594 deaths from COVID-19, is preparing to gradually lift lockdown measures from May 11. The new quarantine rules, however, will be included in a decree specifying measures laid out in a bill extending a state of emergency until July 24, a move that allows the government to restrict freedom of movement. "This quarantine will be imposed on any person returning on French soil," Health Minister Olivier Veran told a press briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting. He said the duration and conditions of both quarantine for asymptomatic people and isolation for those showing symptoms of COVID-19, the flu-like disease caused by the new coronavirus, would be defined in a decree to be published. Decisions to isolate people would be scrutinised by judges to ensure they are justified and fair, he added. It was not immediately clear whether the quarantine would only apply to people arriving from outside Europe's open-border Schengen area, whether they would need to self-isolate at home or in hotels, and for how long the measures would be in place. © (c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2020.
2 May 18:10 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/france-set-to-impose-14-day-coronavirus-quarantine-for-travellersRating: 2.09
France to extend coronavirus emergency for two months
France will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus pandemic for another two months until July 24, Minister of Health Olivier Veran has said. A draft law says a lifting this month of the emergency, which began on March 24, would be premature and carry the risk of an intensifying outbreak. More: "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Veran said on Saturday, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for "colossal efforts" in the fight against the virus. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. The new emergency bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. Veran said travellers to France, including French citizens returning home, will face a compulsory two-week quarantine and possible isolation when they arrive in the country. "This quarantine will be imposed on any person returning on French soil," Veran told a news briefing after the weekly cabinet meeting. He said the duration and conditions of quarantine for asymptomatic people and isolation for those showing symptoms of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus, would be defined in a decree to be published. Decisions to isolate people would be scrutinised by judges to ensure they are justified and fair, he added. It was not immediately clear whether the quarantine would only apply to people arriving from outside Europe's open-border Schengen area, whether they would need to self-isolate at home or in hotels, and for how long the measures would be in place. France is one of the European countries most affected by the virus and has reported 24,594 deaths from 167,346 confirmed cases. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the reopening of primary schools. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic effect of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the losses involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said on Saturday his company had already lost two billion euros ($2.2bn) in the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers.
2 May 17:11 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/france-extend-coronavirus-emergency-months-200502154301074.htmlRating: 2.44
It's not over
1 / 2It's not over (AFP Photo/VALERY HACHE) Paris (AFP) - The French government said on Saturday it will extend a health emergency imposed to fight the new coronavirus by two months, allowing it to keep stringent anti-virus measures in place even after a partial lifting of the country's lockdown. As part of the planned measures anybody entering France, foreign or French, will have to remain confined for two weeks, Health Minister Olivier Veran told a news conference. This would typically concern "French people who travelled abroad and who want to come home", he said. He did not say whether there would be any distinction made between travellers according to country of provenance. Anyone arriving from abroad and infected with the virus would be obliged by law to be quarantined, he said. Those developing symptoms while in isolation would also need to go into quarantine. Details of the measures are expected in the coming days. - 'Learning to live with the virus' - Infected people already in France will, however, not be forced to accept isolation and treatment, as "we trust French people's sense of responsibility", Veran said. Once approved by lawmakers, the emergency period will last until July 24, Veran said. The government has announced the gradual lifting of some lockdown measures from May 11, including the re-opening of primary schools. Veran said, however, that to lift the health emergency, which began on March 24, at the same time would be premature and carry the risk of a resurgence of the outbreak. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for "colossal efforts" in the fight against the virus. "We are going to have to live with the virus for a while," Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after a cabinet meeting decided on the extension. "Learning to live with the virus, that's what's at stake in the coming months." The new proposals also cover an "information system" for those have the virus and their entourage that would operate for up to a year. The bill will go before the Senate on Monday and the National Assembly most probably the day after, said government spokeswoman Sibeth Ndiaye. It is expected to become law by the end of the week. On May 11, people in France will be allowed to leave their homes without the current obligation to carry a written justification for the movements. They will have to wear protection masks when using public transport. Many shops will also reopen and remote-working staff will be able to return to offices as France battles the economic impact of the coronavirus that has already pushed the country into recession. In the latest example of the financial costs involved, the chairman of the national rail operator SNCF said Saturday that his company had already lost two billion euros ($2.2 billion) during the crisis, and would probably apply for state aid and cut staff numbers. Meanwhile, the number of daily deaths in France from the coronavirus fell to 166, the health ministry said Saturday, the lowest number in more than five weeks. This takes the total number of reported COVID-19 deaths in France since March 1 to 24,760, the fourth highest in Europe. burs/jh/har/spm
2 May 20:26 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/france-extends-virus-emergency-until-july-24-151608697.htmlRating: 0.30
Travellers face quarantine as France extends health emergency
A bill to be put to parliament on Monday says plans this month to lift the public health emergency, which began on March 24, would "be premature" and "could see a risk of the outbreak" intensifying. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Véran told a news conference, saying he was aware that the French people had already been asked for "colossal efforts" in the fight against the virus. The government's draft bill also lays out the quarantine conditions for people coming to France from abroad. Travellers to France, including French citizens returning home, will face a compulsory two-week quarantine and possible isolation when they arrive in the country to help slow the spread of coronavirus, the health minister told a news conference. Véran said the duration and conditions of the quarantine would be defined in a decree to be published. Decisions to isolate people would be scrutinised by judges to ensure they are justified and fair, he added. It was not immediately clear whether the quarantine would only apply to people arriving from outside Europe's open-border Schengen area, whether they would need to self-isolate at home or in hotels, and for how long the measures would be in place. More than 24,700 people have died of the Covid-19 disease so far in France. The country is preparing to ease restrictions on May 11 following a strict nationwide lockdown, which was imposed on March 17. In an address marking international Labour Day on Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the exit from lockdown would not signal a return to “normal life”. "There will be a recovery that will need to be reorganised," Macron said. "There will be several phases and May 11 will be one of them.” (FRANCE 24 with AFP)
2 May 12:53 • France 24 • https://www.france24.com/en/20200502-france-extends-covid-19-health-emergency-until-july-24Rating: 2.48
Qatar reports 679 new Covid-19 cases on May 3 as 130 people recover
3 May 14:59
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Qatar reports 679 new Covid-19 cases on May 3 as 130 people recover
Ministry of Public Health today announced the registration of 679 new confirmed cases of coronavirus (Covid-19), with 130 people having recovered from the disease in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases of recovery in the State of Qatar to 1664 cases. The total number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded in Qatar till now stands at 15551 and there are 13875 active cases under treatment. So far, 12 people died from the coronavirus in Qatar. Ministry conducted 2707 tests in last 24 hours taking the total tests done so far to 104435 tests. The Ministry explained that most of the new cases are due to expatriate workers who have been infected with the virus as a result of contact with individuals who have been previously infected – theses cases have been identified as a result of investigations carried out by the Ministry. The remainder of new cases infected with the virus have come from citizens and residents who have contracted the virus from members of their families, who in turn had contracted the virus through their workplaces or other places where they had been to exposed to infected people. All the new infected cases have been quarantined where they are receiving the necessary medical care. The Ministry of Public Health stated that during the current period it expects to see a fluctuation in the number of cases of infection. This is for several reasons including that the outbreak of the virus is considered to be at the peak stage before the numbers of infections start to descend gradually. The ministry has also recently stepped up efforts to track the transitional chains of the virus and expand the search for people infected by conducting extensive and proactive investigations of large numbers of contacts with people who have recently been confirmed with the disease. The Ministry has also recently stepped up efforts to track the transitional chains of the virus and expand the search for people infected by conducting extensive and proactive investigations of large numbers of contacts with people who have recently been confirmed with the disease. The Ministry of Public Health calls on all members of society to stay at home and not go out except in cases of necessity and to implement preventive measures and maintain physical distancing, including in the workplace and public places. The Ministry reminds people to use a face mask as recommended and avoid social visits to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. The Ministry also recommends that you visit its website regularly to view the latest information and instructions related to COVID-19. Read MoreQatar eyes new medicine showing positive results in COVID-19 treatment Qatar is eyeing to bring a new medicine which has shown potentially effective results in the treatment of COVID-19 patients during trials, said a health official.
3 May 14:59 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Qatar-reports-679-new-Covid-19-cases-on-May-3-as-130-people-recoverRating: 3.14
30 Test Positive as Kenya's Covid-19 Cases Jump to 465
30 more people have tested positive for Covid-19 in Kenya taking the country's total number of confirmed cases to 465. While issuing the daily Covid-19 presser at Afya House on Sunday, May 3, Health CAS Rashid Aman announced that 883 individuals had been tested for the virus over the last 24 hours. Of the 30 cases, 23 are men, seven are female with the youngest being 4 years old. He further revealed that two more patients had succumbed to the virus, taking the country's Covid-19 death toll to 24. Medical practitioners at a Coronavirus isolation and treatment facility in Mbagathi District Hospital on Friday, March 6, 2020.Simon KiraguKENYANS.CO.KE 15 more people recovered from the virus in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of recoveries to 152. He also warned religious leaders who had opened Mosques at night for prayers threatening action against them. In a test carried in Kawangware alone, 7 people tested positive with the latest coming from Bungoma increasing the total counties with confirmed cases to 16. "Yesterday. our testing team was in Kawangware for the targeted testing. From that activity, we have confirmed seven new cases. This is now a testament that the virus is now domiciled within us and circulating within the community," stated Aman. He also addressed the hotel industry, which was recently allowed to resume activities under a raft of conditions, noting that some hoteliers had not followed the laid down measures by the state. "We have observed that some eateries are not only operating without any regard to social distancing requirements but also deep into curfew hours. "The transport sector, particularly the matatu and boda boda operators have also gone back to the old normal days. There is a public outcry that some hoteliers are not following the protocols we have put in place," stated Aman. "The government will assess and determine whether these measures will continue or need to be reviewed," he added. He also pointed out that there was a low turnout in mass testing since, in Kawangware, only 800 people were tested against a target of 2,000 while in Eastleigh, only 493 people turned up against a target of 3,000.
3 May 14:10 • Kenyans.co.ke • https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/52793-15-recover-kenyas-covid-19-cases-jump-465Rating: 1.04
COVID-19: Qatar reports 679 new cases
Dubai: Qatar on Sunday announced 679 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total infections in the country to 15,551. The Ministry of Public Health also reported the recovery of 130 patients, pushing the total number of recoveries to 1,664, while 13,875 patients are still hospitalised and receiving treatment. The country’s death toll stands at 12 as no new fatalities have been reported. Health authorities have conducted more than 100,000 COVID-19 tests so far. The majority of the newly detected cases are related to expatriate labourers, while the other cases are linked to those who had been in contact with the previously diagnosed cases. COVID-19 patients are under quarantine receiving the necessary treatment. The ministry called on the public to adhere to quarantine measures and preventive procedures as well as to avoid social gatherings and keep safe distance to control the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
3 May 13:53 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/qatar/covid-19-qatar-reports-679-new-cases-1.71305601Rating: 3.21
158 New COVID-19 Cases Detected In UP; Total Count Rises To 2,645
General News Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 20:54 IST The number of coronavirus cases in Uttar Pradesh rose to 2,645 with 158 more people testing positive for the infection on Sunday, officials said. The virus has claimed 43 lives in the state so far. "The state has reported a total number of 2,645 coronavirus cases till now, of which 754 have recovered while 43 died. There are 1,848 active cases now," an official release issued here said. Coronavirus cases have so far been reported from 64 of the 75 districts in the state. Six among these 64 districts have no active case at present. Of the total cases in the state so far, 1,138 are linked to the Tablighi Jamaat. The maximum 14 deaths have been reported from Agra, followed by seven in Moradabad; six in Meerut; four in Kanpur; two in Firozabad and one each in Varanasi, Aligarh, Mathura, Shravasti, Ghaziabad, Amroha, Bareilly, Basti, Bulandshahar and Lucknow.
3 May 20:54 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/158-new-covid-19-cases-detected-in-up-total-count-2645.htmlRating: 2.30
Kenya registers 30 new coronavirus infections bringing total to 465
Kenya has registered 30 new coronavirus infections, the highest number of confirmed cases since the disease was first reported mid-March. The national tally is now at 465 cases. The Health Ministry said it had tested 883 samples in the last 24 hours, of which 30 turned positive. SEE ALSO:Kenyan man arrested for fake corona virus post on social media Twenty-three of the new cases are males and seven are females, and range between four and 64 years old. The country has also registered 15 new recoveries and two more deaths, bringing fatalities to 24. According to Health CAS Rashid Aman (pictured), 19 of the cases are from Mombasa County, eight in Nairobi, two in Bungoma, and one case in Kitui County. Bungoma now joins a growing list of counties in the country with confirmed cases of Covid-19, bringing the total to 16 counties. The Nairobi cases are distributed as follows: Kawangawre-2, Eastleigh-5, and Kibera-1 SEE ALSO:World Bank to give Kenya Sh8 Billion to counter coronavirus, locusts Mass testing The Health Ministry has expressed concern with low turnout of the mass testing exercise across the country. For instance, in Nairobi’s Kawangware area which has been identified as a hotspot, only 803 people were tested against a daily target of 2000. Aman advised that if the country is to flatten the curve and reduce infections, then Kenyans have to turn up in large numbers for testing, which is being conducted for free. “The Ministry of Health has acquired the capacity to undertake targeted testing but the willingness of the people to be tested is low. I want to appeal to Kenyans to willingly come forward to be tested,” the CAS said. SEE ALSO:Kids at home: Why radio lessons may fail Curfew/Quarantine He also warned of a worrying trend where some Kenyans have completely ignored the ministry’s guidelines in preventing the fast spread of the disease, and are returning to work, not wearing masks while in public places and disobeying curfew rules. “We have noted with dismay the casual attitude with which some of our people are not observing these measures. We have observed that some eateries are not only operating without any regard to the social distancing requirement but also deep into curfew hours,” Aman continued. This laxity has prompted the government to come up with more stringent measures that will ensure Kenyans obey the rules. As such, individuals arrested for breaking curfew rules will no longer be accommodated at government facilities, but at a curfew breakers holding facility, overseen by the Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai. SEE ALSO:Kenya Airways suspends all international flights The government has also extended schools closure for another month effective tomorrow (May 4) up to June 4, 2020. Are you suspecting that you have coronavirus? Before you rush to the hospital, do this quick easy self-assessment test. #StayHome #WashYourHandsHERE. * indicates requiredEmail Address * First Name Last Name
3 May 14:23 • The Standard • https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001369975/kenya-registers-30-new-coronavirus-infections-and-2-deathsRating: 0.30
30 New Covid-19 Cases Confirmed In Kenya, Toll Rises To 465
The government has confirmed 30 new cases of Covid-19 after testing 883 people, bringing the total number of cases to 465. Mombasa has had the biggest number at 19 followed by Nairobi at eight. Bungoma has two new cases while Kitui one. Of the cases, 23 are male while seven are female. The government has also confirmed 15 more recoveries, raising the total of recoveries to 167. Two patients from Mombasa have also succumbed to Covid-19, raising the number to 24. Announcing the updates today, Health CAS Dr Rashid Aman said that the government has moved to mass testing in places like Kawangware and Eastleigh, which have been perceived as Covid-19 hot spots in Nairobi.
3 May 14:21 • KahawaTungu • https://www.kahawatungu.com/30-new-covid-19-cases-confirmed-kenya-toll-rises-to-465/Rating: 0.41
Six Doctors At NDMC-run Hospitals, 3 Others Test Positive For Coronavirus
General News Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 21:58 IST Nine more people, including doctors and contacts of COVID-19 patients at NDMC-run hospitals, have tested positive for novel coronavirus, officials said on Sunday. Three doctors of Hindu Rao Hospital and as many doctors from Kasturba Hospital tested positive for COVID-19, an official of the North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC). Husbands of two nurses working at the NDMC-run Hindu Rao Hospital tested positive for coronavirus, he said. A patient, who was referred by the OPD of Hindu Rao Hospital, was also found infected with the dreaded virus, the official said. The total number of staffers who have tested positive for coronavirus at the Hindu Rao Hospital stands at six. At Kasturba Hospital, two postgraduate students had tested positive for the virus within a span of one week. The tally of infected staffers at the hospital stands at five. All the COVID-19 confirmed cases have been put under quarantine, the official added. Meanwhile, the NDMC said it will take strict action against its employee who violated quarantine protocols and came to work. A lab technician did not inform NDMC officials that his wife had tested positive for coronavirus on April 28. "Instead of being in quarantine, he did not tell us and kept coming to work till May 2. His own report came on May 1, and he didn't inform the authorities," the official said. An ambulance was sent to pick up his family members who were yet to be tested for COVID-19, he said. "While we will help him and his family in view of their current distress, he is also liable for action for having failed to inform us as per law," the official added.
3 May 21:58 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/six-doctors-at-ndmc-run-hospitals-3-others-test-positive-for-coronavirus.htmlRating: 2.30
92 New COVID-19 Cases Detected In UP; Total Count 2,579
General News Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 16:39 IST The number of coronavirus cases in Uttar Pradesh rose to 2,579 with 92 more people testing positive for the infection on Sunday, officials said. The virus has claimed 43 lives in the state so far. Coronavirus cases have so far been reported from 64 of the 75 districts in the state. Six among these 64 districts have no active case at present. Of the total cases in the state so far, 1,138 are linked to the Tablighi Jamaat. The maximum 14 deaths have been reported from Agra, followed by seven in Moradabad; six in Meerut; four in Kanpur; two in Firozabad and one each in Varanasi, Aligarh, Mathura, Shrawasti, Ghaziabad, Amroha, Bareilly, Basti, Bulandshahar and Lucknow.
3 May 16:39 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/92-new-covid-19-cases-detected-in-up-total-count-2579.htmlRating: 2.30
30 New people test positive for Covid-19 as number rises to 465
Just in The Ministry of Heath has confirmed 30 new cases of novel coronavirus infection as the number rises to 465 in Kenya. In an announcement made by Health CAS Rashid Aman, the 30 are spread across four Counties. “Our Coronavirus situation is as follows; in the last 24 hours we have tested 883 cases, out of this 30 people tested positive. Out of this number, 19 are from Mombasa, 8 from Nairobi, 2 from Bungoma and one from Kitui,” said CAS Rashid. The cases are distributed in various estates as follows; Nairobi 2 are from Kawangware, 5 Eastleigh, Kibra 1. In Mombasa, Mvita recorded 15 cases, Kisauni 3 and Likoni 1. In Kitui the one case was reported in Mwingi town while the two cases from Bungoma are from truck drivers. 15 people have been discharged.
3 May 14:06 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/30-new-people-test-positive-for-covid-19-as-number-rises-to-465/t86yx63Rating: 0.51
Bahrain reports 72 new coronavirus cases
Dubai: Bahrain reported 72 coronavirus new cases on Sunday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 2,810, according to the Ministry of Health. The ministry added that 67 expatriate workers were among the 72 new cases, with 5 of them getting the virus from direct contact with active cases. It added that 149 COVID-19 patients have recovered fully from the symptoms of the virus, pushing the total number of patients recovered so far to 1,717. The Kingdom has reported no new deaths from the virus, with the toll at 8. Currently, 143,030 people have been tested and the total number of confirmed active cases is 1,631, amongst which one patient is in critical condition. The Ministry of Health said that 211 individuals have been discharged from quarantine centres after completing the necessary quarantine period and undergoing testing to ensure they are free of COVID-19, raising the total to number of individuals discharged to 2040.
3 May 11:45 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/bahrain/bahrain-reports-72-new-coronavirus-cases-1.71304760Rating: 3.21
Filipinos abroad with coronavirus now at 1,751
MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported that the total number of coronavirus cases involving Filipinos abroad is now at 1,751 as of Sunday, May 3. The latest figure is 10 cases higher than the1,741 cases reported on Saturday, May 2. Out of the total cases, 1,070 are undergoing treatment while 471 have already recovered or been discharged. The Department of Health has verified 465 of the cases, based on the 2005 International Health Regulations of the World Health Organization. The DFA said the cases can be found across 46 countries – mostly in Europe with 522 cases and the Asia Pacific with 373 cases. Three new deaths have also been recorded, bringing the number of deaths to 210. More than half of the deaths are in the Americas, with 120 deaths as of Sunday. Below is a breakdown of cases per region: Asia Pacific (12 countries) Europe (16 countries) Middle East and Africa (12 countries) Americas (6 countries) As of Sunday, the Philippines has 9,223 cases of the coronavirus, with 607 deaths and 1,214 recoveries. Health experts have estimated that the number of cases may reach anywhere between 26,000 and 75,000. (READ: Ex-DOH chief: Actual number of virus cases could reach 75,000 in 2 weeks) – Rappler.com
3 May 11:55 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/nation/259786-filipinos-abroad-positive-coronavirus-may-3-2020Rating: 1.64
Only nine known coronavirus deaths on Saturday; N. Brabant no longer hardest hit province
The Netherlands reached a troubling milestone on Sunday, with over 5,000 confirmed fatal cases involving someone who tested positive for a coronavirus infection. Public health agency RIVM confirmed another 69 deaths in an update, including 9 who died on Saturday. As it stands now, the single-digit figure of coronavirus-related deaths was the first since March 13. Delays in data reporting and testing updates are likely to lead to an increase in all reported deaths. For example, the other deaths reported by the agency took place between March 25 and May 1, bringing the total up to 5,056. Since the pandemic began, 10,995 have required hospitalization after testing positive for the virus, an increase of 44. Twelve of those included in the total were known to have been hospitalized on Sunday, while the rest were scattered starting on March 16. Generally, the number of new patient admissions has been on a downward trend since May 24, while daily registered deaths have declined since May 31. The number of people with Covid-19 in intensive care has also fallen steadily since a peak on April 9, reaching a busy but more normal level on Saturday. To date, 40,571 people have tested positive for the viral infection, an increase of 335 since the last set of figures was reported on Saturday. By Friday nearly 226 thousand people had been tested for coronavirus. More tests were being carried out over the weekend, but the amount of tests was not likely to be known until Monday. The latest report from the RIVM also showed that the southern province of Noord-Brabant was no longer home to the most infections in the country, for the first time since reporting began. Zuid-Holland, the province which includes Rotterdam, The Hague, and Leiden, now had more infected residents than any of the 12 provinces. Some 8,416 residents in Zuid-Holland have tested positive for coronavirus since late February, compared to 8,404 in Noord-Brabant. Both provinces represent approximately 20.7 percent of all infected persons in the Netherlands. Noord-Brabant was home to the first person to have reported a positive coronavirus test in the Netherlands. Soon after, several members of the man's family tested positive, as did hundreds of others in the province, as the number of cases there surged between the end of February through the third week in March. Infections there began to slow as residents there were the first in the Netherlands to be advised to stay at home as much as possible, while keeping distance from others. At the same time, the number of cases in Zuid-Holland and Gelderland surged before finally beginning to taper off after Easter.
3 May 11:56 • NL Times • https://nltimes.nl/2020/05/03/nine-known-coronavirus-deaths-saturday-n-brabant-longer-hardest-hit-provinceRating: 0.33
UAE reports 8 new deaths, 561 infections
By Tuqa KhalidDUBAI -- The United Arab Emirates reported on Saturday eight new deaths and 561 new cases of COVID-19 infection, raising the total tally up to 13,599 confirmed coronavirus cases and the death toll up to 119 fatalities.The UAE also reported the recovery of 121 patients, bringing the total number of recovered coronavirus patients up to 2,664.The authorities have been conducting an average of 29,000 coronavirus tests per day during the past two weeks, said Dr. Amna Al-Shamsi, the official spokesperson for the UAE Government.Answering a question on why some people are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection, Dr. Alawi Al-Sheikh, the spokesman for the advanced science sector, said: “The human body have receptors that act like gates allowing certain material to enter human body.At the respiratory system, these receptors are called ACE2 which allow the virus to enter. The virus that causes COVID-19 can latch onto the ACE2 receptor undetected. The adaptive immune system – the part that creates antibodies that help identify pathogens quickly – hasn’t had a chance to learn what SARS-CoV-2 looks like yet.”“This means the virus can use a molecular phishing scam to sneak into the cell. The immunity system then doubles efforts to fight the virus, which in turn increases the infection symptoms and prolong the disease period.”Coronavirus researchA team of researchers from the Research Institute of Medical & Health Sciences (RIMHS) at the University of Sharjah in collaboration with the medical team at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University Of Medicine and Health Sciences, are studying this issue."The study is focused on why COVID-19 spreads less among children comparatively with the elderly people and those suffering from chronic diseases. The study concluded that the children’s lung and nose cells have less receptors than those in the body of the elderly and that the limited number of these cells limit the spread of the disease among the minors who only exhibit mild symptoms if they happen to be infected," Al-Sheikh said.The number of these receptors increase among smokers and those with respiratory diseases, the study found out."Another study by researchers from the Mohammed Bin Rashid University Of Medicine and Health Sciences and Al Jalila Children's Speciality Hospital along with Sharjah University have found out that these cells are larger in number among those suffering obesity," he added.Khalifa University along with relevant authorities are working on a project to detect the existence of the virus in the sanitary water."The scheme is aimed at detecting the virus in an early stage in a way that supports the efforts made by research and development departments to assess the percentage and direction of the virus spread in the country," he explained. -- Al Arabiya English
3 May 11:40 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592616/World/Mena/UAE-reports-8-new-deaths-561-infectionsRating: 0.30
COVID-19: 564 new cases in the UAE, 7 deaths
Abu Dhabi: The UAE confirmed 564 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, while seven COVID-19 patients have died and 99 others have fully recovered. According to the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), this brings the total number of COVID-19 infections in the country to 14,163, while there have been 126 deaths and 2,763 recoveries so far. The ministry said that the deceased, who are of various nationalities, suffered from pre-existing chronic illnesses coinciding with coronavirus, which resulted in complications leading to their deaths. The latest coronavirus patients, all of whom are in a stable condition and receiving necessary care, were identified after conducting more than 26,000 additional COVID-19 tests among UAE citizens and residents over the past few days, the ministry said. The ministry expressed its sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and wished all patients a speedy reovery. It called on the public to cooperate with health authorities and comply with all precautionary measures, particularly social distancing protocols, to ensure the safety and protection of the public. New cases: 564 Deaths: 7 Recoveries: 99
3 May 10:53 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/uae/covid-19-564-new-cases-in-the-uae-7-deaths-1.1588503580218Rating: 3.21
Coronavirus: 380 Bulawayo Covid-19 contacts traced – Mayor
The city has recorded 12 confirmed cases, while the country had a total of 34 positive cases as at Friday and four deaths. In his weekly update, the city’s Mayor, Councillor Solomon Mguni said 101 residents at Qalisa Retirement Village had all tested negative for the pandemic. Related Articles Chamisa donates Covid-19 equipment to Bulawayo City Council May 2, 2020 15,715 Malaysia rounds up migrants and refugees to contain… May 2, 2020 24,216 ZIMRA official tests positive for Covid-19 May 1, 2020 60,956 Trump says evidence ties virus to Wuhan lab, threatens… May 1, 2020 26,053 “A total of 380 contacts of all the positive cases have since been identified, classified and followed up. As it stands at least 11 cases are due to active local transmission. Efforts to prudently implement effective outbreak containment measures are ongoing. “The city has also conducted testing of at least 101 residents of the gated community and all the RT-PCR and RDT tested negative for the pandemic. In Event Based Surveillance the seven Rapid Response Teams activated on 27 February 2020 have been following up rumours of possible suspected cases of Covid-19 since then,” said Clr Mguni. He said teams have followed up 223 cases consisting of people complaining of Covid-19 related epidemiological link, signs and symptoms; and have submitted 661 specimens of people that fit the case definition to laboratories for testing. The mayor said council teams were being supported by members of the World Health Organisation, the Zimbabwe National Army and members of the Air Force of Zimbabwe will soon be joining them. “The number of travellers that came in through the various ports of entry destined for Bulawayo was 1 774. Of these at least 1 693 (95,4 percent) travellers had since been followed up by teams in Bulawayo. Follow up of the other travellers is in progress. “The area with the highest number of travellers under surveillance is Suburbs. The updated lists of travellers that came into the country during the month of April was from official Ports of Entry keeps being received and follow ups are ongoing,” said Clr Mguni. He said council teams were checking if sanitisers or hand washing facilities are available at entry points of all shops in the city to help curb the spread of the virus. “The shops have generally been compliant with the recommendations to combat the disease. Challenges are faced in supermarkets with mealie-meal which attract large numbers of customers resulting in chaos and failure to observe social distancing. “The banks and money agents also attract large numbers of people which has resulted in some teams being posted to man those sites all day,” said Clr Mguni. The mayor also paid gratitude to various stakeholders who are working with the council in the fight against the pandemic saying the local authority appreciates the donations, partnerships and great ideas that they continue to receive. Sunday News
3 May 10:10 • Nehanda Radio • https://nehandaradio.com/2020/05/03/coronavirus-380-bulawayo-covid-19-contacts-traced-mayor/Rating: 0.30
For first time in a month, patients discharged from hospitals outnumber new COVID-19 positive patients in Madhya Pradesh
BHOPAL: In what could be termed as an encouraging development, for the first time in over a month, the number of patients recovered from COVID-19 infection outnumbered the new positive patients reported in Madhya Pradesh on Saturday. The state, which has been reeling under the killer onslaught of the deadly virus since over a month, reported 73 new positive cases of novel Coronavirus over the last 24 hours. With this the total number of positive cases stood at 2788 in the state on Saturday. On the other hand, as many as 100 hospitalised patients, who had tested negative for the killer virus, were discharged. According to the state health bulletin, as many as 624 patients were discharged from hospitals till Saturday. Out of these 624 patients discharged so far, maximum 229 patients have been discharged from hospitals in Indore, while 212 patients have been discharged from hospitals in Bhopal. Importantly, Indore and Bhopal are among the prime COVID-19 hotspots not only in MP, but also in the country. In Bhopal, while six new Coronavirus positive patients were reported on Saturday, the patients discharged on the same day was 26, which was over four times more than new positive cases reported in the day. The discharged patients, included a 12 days old baby girl, who tested positive along with her mother some days back. If the figures released by state government are factored, then the total number of patients discharged so far from hospitals in the state are 22% of the current positive patients headcount that stood at 2788 on Saturday. Meanwhile, six more deaths of hospitalised COVID-19 patients were reported over the last 24 hours, including two each in Indore and Ujjain, taking the total death count so far in the state to 151 that was 5.40% of 2788 positive cases reported so far.
3 May 00:09 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/may/03/for-first-time-in-a-month-patients-discharged-from-hospitals-outnumber-new-covid-19-positive-patien-2138439.htmlRating: 2.04
Egypt records 272 coronavirus cases,14 deaths
CAIRO – 3 May 2020: Egypt recorded, Sunday 272 new coronavirus cases and 14 deaths, which raises the total infected patients of COVID-19 to 6465 and the total deaths to 429 according to Health Minister’s daily briefing. Health Ministry Spokesman Khaled Megahed added that 40 patients, were discharged from the hospital after being confirmed that they are completely recovered from the viruses, this also raises the number of recovered cases to 1562 out of 2041 who had been retested for the virus and had received negative results. The Egyptian Health Ministry will start injecting plasma of patients who have recovered from the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) into severely ill patients with the novel virus, Minister Hala Zayed previously said. Plasma from recovered cases has the antibodies required to battle the virus inside other patients and curb its replication. Zayed said that Egypt has the required experience in the convalescent plasma therapy and that the ministry is working hard through scientific research to find treatment for coronavirus patients. In the same context, sources affiliated with the Egyptian Ministry of Health also revealed the scenario set by the ministry to face the spread of the novel coronavirus as the number of cases exceeded 6 thousand cases. The ministry is planning to include and prepare other apparatuses such as social clubs, hotels, and Universities’ dormitories to become quarantine hospitals ready to receive new cases that have contracted the infectious virus. The step replaced equipping the existed quarantine hospitals, 17 hospitals, and will include other chest and fever hospitals all over Egypt to receive, sort, and diagnose any new cases. The sources said that the Ministry launched the new strategy on Thursday in response to the new rise in the number of cases contracted the virus, adding that the patients showing mild symptoms will be immediately transferred to the new quarantine hospitals- previously used as social clubs and dormitories- to receive a full medical treatment.
3 May 00:00 • Egypt Today • http://egypttoday.com/Article/1/85385/Egypt-records-272-coronavirus-cases-14-deathsRating: 0.67
24 New cases of Coronavirus confirmed, number shoots to 435- CAS Mwangangi
7 cases are from Kawangware, 10 Eastleigh, 5 Mombasa and 2 from Kuria West The Ministry of Health through Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Dr Mercy Mwangangi has confirmed 24 new cases of Coronavirus raising the number of those who have tested positive to 435. According to CAS Mwangangi, this is the highest number of positive cases to be recorded in Kenya since the first case of Covid-19 was reported. The 24 cases were recorded after testing 1196 samples in the last 24 hours. 7 of the cases are from Kawangware, 10 Eastleigh, 5 Mombasa and 2 from Kuria West in Migori County. At the same time, 2 more recoveries were confirmed bringing the number of those who have recovered from the novel Coronavirus to 152, with one person succumbing to the disease, raising COVID-19 deaths to 22.
2 May 12:45 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/24-more-test-positive-for-coronavirus-as-number-rises-to-435-cas-mwangangi/2dz0f6vRating: 0.51
776 new COVID-19 cases on May 2 as 98 recover
Ministry of Public Health today announced 776 confirmed new cases of COVID-19, and 98 new recovered cases, bringing the total number of recovered cases in Qatar to 1,534 The total number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded in Qatar till now stands at 14872 and there are 13326 active cases under treatment. So far, 12 people died from the coronavirus in Qatar. Ministry conducted 4002 tests in last 24 hours taking the total tests done so far to 101728 tests. The Ministry explained that most of the new cases are due to expatriate workers who have been infected with the virus as a result of contact with individuals who have been previously infected – theses cases have been identified as a result of investigations carried out by the Ministry. The remainder of new cases infected with the virus have come from citizens and residents who have contracted the virus from members of their families, who in turn had contracted the virus through their workplaces or other places where they had been to exposed to infected people. All the new infected cases have been quarantined where they are receiving the necessary medical care. The Ministry of Public Health stated that during the current period it expects to see a fluctuation in the number of cases of infection. This is for several reasons including that the outbreak of the virus is considered to be at the peak stage before the numbers of infections start to descend gradually. The Ministry has also recently stepped up efforts to track the transitional chains of the virus and expand the search for people infected by conducting extensive and proactive investigations of large numbers of contacts with people who have recently been confirmed with the disease. The number of tests carried out will always depend on the number of contacts a positive patient has had which therefore has an impact on the number of positive cases reported daily. The Ministry of Health stated that people with the virus do not show any symptoms of the disease, and their positive status is identified thanks to the early tests conducted by specialized ministry teams, in order to provide early care to them and reduce the risk of them transferring the virus to other people. Also, many of the recorded cases experience mild symptoms and do not require any medical intervention, but are quarantined and given access to medical care and support. However, it is important to continue to remember that COVID-19 can be severe for the elderly as well as those with chronic diseases. The Ministry of Public Health calls on all members of society to stay at home and not go out except in cases of necessity and to implement preventive measures and maintain physical distancing, including in the workplace and public places. The Ministry reminds people to use a face mask as recommended and avoid social visits to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. The Ministry also recommends that you visit its website regularly to view the latest information and instructions related to COVID-19. Read MoreTwo parked Qatar Airways planes collide due to strong winds on Thursday Qatar Airways announced through a statement posted on its account on Twitter, that due to the difficult weather conditions, with storms and high winds of 70 knots
2 May 13:41 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/02/05/2020/776-new-COVID-19-cases-on-May-2-as-98-recoverRating: 3.14
COVID-19: South Sudan confirms 10 new cases as total rises to 45
South Sudan’s Ministry of Health confirmed 10 new cases of COVID-19 late Friday, bringing the total number of infections to 45. Out of 138 samples tested, ten new cases were confirmed as positive, including two truck drivers at the Nimule border crossing and two domestic travellers. The other six cases are close contacts with previous infection cases in the country, according to a statement from South Sudan’s coronavirus taskforce. Angok Gordon Kuol, Manager of the coronavirus outbreak at the Ministry of Health, said a total of 1,247 tests have been performed since the country reported its first infection case. He said the ministry has intensified the tracing of individuals who had contact with COVID-19 patients. “The government urges the public to strictly observe the rules of social distancing and other public health measures declared by the High-Level Taskforce. “Report any suspected case to the nearest health facility or call the country’s toll-free number 6666,’’ Mr Kuol said. He also said the young nation has no cases in intensive care, noting that there has been no recovered case yet, and no death reported. South Sudan has closed all learning institutions, imposed a night curfew and introduced movement and transport restrictions as part of measures to contain the spread of the respiratory disease. (Xinhua/NAN)
2 May 13:39 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/coronavirus/391030-covid-19-south-sudan-confirms-10-new-cases-as-total-rises-to-45.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitterRating: 0.30
Coronavirus deaths in the Netherlands approaching 5,000; Over 40,000 test positive
New statistics from publish health agency RIVM showed that at least 4,987 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died since the pandemic began, including 17 who died on Friday. The agency updated its database to reflect 94 more deaths than were previously reported, with those deaths taking place between March 24 and May 2. Like cases with a fatal result, the number of new hospitalizations has generally declined since the end of March. The agency said it new of 97 new hospital admissions from March 25 and May 2, with 31 occurring on Friday. Overall, some 10,951 people have required hospital treatment after testing positive for the virus, including those who were being treated for respiratory illness Covid-19. Across the Netherlands, 40,236 have tested positive for the infection, an increase of 445. As of Friday afternoon nearly 226 thousand people had been tested. The agency does not release data about the number of tests administered on weekend days and holidays. Overall, Dutch labs are capable of processing 17,500 nasal swab tests per day to determine if a patient has an active coronavirus infection. Currently, these tests are mainly given to healthcare workers, other care workers, and patients with compromised immune systems. This will be expanded to include educators and childcare providers as primary schools and daycare facilities reopen on May 11. The Ministry of Health confirmed to NL Times that it also wants to conduct more blood tests, testing for antibodies to see if someone has or previously had an active infection, but they are still investigating how to do so efficiently. A German lab offered to conduct an additional five thousand coronavirus swab tests per day for the Netherlands, but the Dutch authorities have not yet made use of this offer because the extra testing capacity is not needed at this stage, a spokesperson for ministry told NL Times.
2 May 11:57 • NL Times • https://nltimes.nl/2020/05/02/coronavirus-deaths-netherlands-approaching-5000-40000-test-positiveRating: 0.33
Coronavirus: 11 more deaths in the north and 25 in the south
There have been 11 further deaths in Northern Ireland of patients who tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total fatalities in the region recorded so far by the Department of Health to 376. Six of the 11 deaths occurred in the last 24 hours, with five people's dealths outside of this period and only being recorded now. A further 66 people have test positive for the virus and 32 intensive care beds are currently occupied by patients with Covid-19. A total of 3,689 people have tested positive for coronavirus, with 24,429 tested overall. In the Republic, the number of deaths of people with Covid-19 has risen to 1,286 following an overnight rise of 25. Another 343 new confirmed cases were also reported. This brings the total number of cases to 21,176. There has been a tenfold increase in the number of people attending Northern Ireland’s Covid-19 testing centres, the regional manager has said. It follows the widening of those who can take the test by appointment at one of three centres across the region. They receive the result within 48 hours. A partnership involving Serco, Deloitte and the Public Health Agency has opened three centres in Belfast, Craigavon and Derry. According to the department, more than 5,000 samples had been taken at the three centres by May 1. However, overall there had been a total of 28,425 laboratory tests carried out by the same date, which could include tests carried out at other venues, including hospitals. Regional manager Chris Kelly said they have seen a significant uplift since testing was opened to all key workers. “Over the last week the numbers have increased tenfold from where we first started now that testing has been opened up to all key sectors and key workers who can go on to .gov site and register to get tested at one of the three sites in Northern Ireland,” he said. “It’s a self-testing site so everyone feels safe. What we have tried to do is understand that the people who are arriving there are probably a little bit nervous because they are going to get a self test, so we’ve tried to make sure the staff are able to reassure people and keep everyone nice and calm. “It supports people with businesses as well as key workers in getting back to work and making sure that when they get back to work they have their key staff in place, because they can come and get tested and get a result within 48 hours. Then they know whether they can go back to work or if they need to self isolate.” Mr Kelly is the manager of the Aurora Leisure Centre in Belfast, but volunteered his services to help in the pandemic. He manages the three testing centres in Northern Ireland, which also include the City of Derry Rugby Club and Craigavon MoT centre. Many of the staff volunteering have also come from Aurora. “All the staff at the Belfast centre have come from Aurora, they were staff that were to be furloughed and they then all volunteered to come over and work at the test centre because they thought they could contribute even in a small way in helping people,” he said. “It has been a significant change of pace and learning different processes but working with people whether it be in the SSE car park or whether it be in a leisure centre, it’s about making people feel at ease, and that’s what the staff have been really good at.” The number of deaths of patients who had tested positive for Covid-19 had risen to 376 on Saturday, an overnight increase of 11, recorded so far by the Department of Health.
2 May 19:47 • The Irish News • http://www.irishnews.com/news/northernirelandnews/2020/05/02/news/coronavirus-36-more-deaths-across-ireland-1924398/Rating: 0.30
Egypt records 298 COVID-19 cases, 9 deaths
CAIRO – 2 May 2020: Egypt recorded, Saturday 298 new coronavirus cases and 9 deaths, which raises the total infected patients of COVID-19 to 6193 and the total deaths to 415 according to Health Minster’s daily briefing. Health Ministry Spokesman Khaled Megahed added that 62 patients, were discharged from the hospital after being confirmed that they are completely recovered from the viruses, this also raises the number of recovered cases to 1522 out of 1970 who had been retested for the virus and had received negative results. The Egyptian Health Ministry will start injecting plasma of patients who have recovered from the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) into severely ill patients with the novel virus, Minister Hala Zayed previously said. Plasma from recovered cases has the antibodies required to battle the virus inside other patients and curb its replication. Zayed said that Egypt has the required experience in the convalescent plasma therapy and that the ministry is working hard through scientific research to find treatment for coronavirus patients.
2 May 00:00 • Egypt Today • http://egypttoday.com/Article/1/85343/Egypt-records-298-COVID-19-cases-9-deathsRating: 0.67
GCS: 165 new cases of novel coronavirus infection take total number of cases to 12,732
As many as 165 new cases of persons infected with the novel coronavirus have been registered in Romania since the latest information, the total number of cases thus reaching 12,732, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS) informed on Saturday. From among the persons who tested positive for the novel coronavirus, 4,547 were declared recovered and were discharged.265 patients are admitted to ICUs.According to the source, as many as 755 people diagnosed with COVID-19 have died.
2 May 13:41 • Stiri pe surse • https://www.stiripesurse.ro/gcs-165-new-cases-of-novel-coronavirus-infection-take-total-number-of-cases-to-12732_1460005.htmlRating: 1.18
Kenya Records Highest Number Of Coronavirus Cases As Toll Jumps To 435
Kenya has recorded 24 new Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the last 24 hours total now stands at 435. This was confirmed by Health CAS Mercy Mwangangi through the daily COVID-19 briefings adding that 1195 samples have been tested in the last 24 hours. Out of the 24 new cases, 14 are female while 10 are male. Two more people have recovered bringing the total of recoveries to 152. Further, one more patient has succumbed to the deadly virus bringing the total fatalities to 22. Read: Kenya’s COVID-19 Cases Jump To 411 After 15 Persons Tested Positive The fatality is a 51-year-old woman from Mombasa who had underlying health conditions. The 24 new cases are distributed as follows: 7 from Kawangware, 10 from Eastleigh, 5 from Mombasa and 2 from Kuria West, Migori county. The cases in Kuria West, Migori had a history of travel from Tanzania. Read Also: Kenya’s COVID-19 Cases Hit 320 As 17 More Tested Positive According to the Health CAS, the surge in COVID-19 cases in Kawangware is worrying thus she called upon people to be more vigilant and adhere to the set directives to combat a further spread. Further, the CAS urged business owners to work hand in hand with the Health Ministry in enforcing the containment measures so as to regain a new normal. “The Ministry of Health is reviewing home-based care quarantine mechanisms and we shall soon be able to issue specific guidelines to how this will be undertaken,” said CAS Mercy Mwangangi.
2 May 12:53 • KahawaTungu • https://www.kahawatungu.com/kenya-records-highest-number-of-coronavirus-cases-as-toll-jumps-to-435/Rating: 0.41
Kenya Records Highest Number of New Covid-19 Cases in 24 Hours [VIDEO]
Twenty-four more people have tested positive for Covid-19, taking the country's total number of confirmed cases to 435. While issuing the daily Covid-19 presser at Afya House on Saturday, May 2, Health CAS Dr Mercy Mwangangi announced that 1,925 individuals had been tested for the virus over the last 24 hours. Of the 24 cases,10 are men, 14 are female. Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe (Left) and his Chief Administrative Secretary Mercy Mwangangi during a press briefing in March 2020.File "7 cases are from Kawangware, 10 from Eastleigh, 5 from Mombasa and 2 from Kuria West (Migori County) who had recently travelled to Tanzania," the CAS stated. Mwangangi added that the number of those who had recovered were 2, bringing the total number to 152. Sadly, the CAS announced that one more person had lost her life bringing the number to 22. The new fatality a 51-year-old woman in Mombasa who was admitted to hospital on April 27, 2020. Mwangangi also stated that the ministry was also reviewing home-based care quarantine mechanisms. "We shall soon be able to issue specific guidelines as to how this shall be undertaken and it is important to note the success of home-based care is highly pegged on our discipline as Kenyans and corporation in ensuring that we adhere to this guidelines," she stated. The CAS further cautioned businesses that had resumed work saying that "the disease is still with us". She reminded Kenyans that businesses caught flouting government directives set to curb the spread of the disease risked having their licences revoked. Mwangangi noted that there had been a decline in the number of patients who sought medical help in hospitals for other illnesses. She asked citizens not to be afraid to seek medical help. Below is a video courtesy of Daily Nation;
2 May 12:50 • Kenyans.co.ke • https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/52758-kenya-records-highest-number-covid-19-casesRating: 1.04
No reported cases of Covid-19 in South for two weeks
As of today, active cases of Covid-19 in the South have dropped into single digits and the district has now gone 14 straight days without a new case of the virus being reported. The Ministry of Health announced there were 6 new cases of the virus nationally, two confirmed and four probable. Five of today's cases can be traced to a known source, the Ministry says. One case is still being investigated. The total of confirmed and probable cases is 1485. The ministry's update for today also reveled that the number of cases in the SDHB area has remained the same, at 216 cases, for the fourteenth consecutive day. There are now nine active cases of the virus in the South, while 205 have recovered. There have been two deaths in the district, both of them were from Invercargill. The SDHB has the highest total number of recoveries out of the nation's 20 district health board areas. There are five people in hospital due to the virus but none of them are in the Southern district The only person in hospital throughout the South Island is in South Canterbury. Today the ministry announced three of New Zealand's 16 clusters have been labelled as "closed". This means there is no longer transmission of the virus associated with the cluster. "A Covid-19 cluster is considered closed after a total of 28 consecutive days – or two incubation periods for the virus – since its most recent report date of a reported case." The three closed clusters are the Wellington wedding cluster (closed April 25) and the two clusters linked with group travel to the United States – one in Wellington and the other in Auckland – which were closed today. Both clusters associated with the South, the Bluff wedding cluster and the World Hereford Conference cluster, are still open. None of the new cases announced today were reported as being linked to either of those clusters. The Bluff wedding cluster remains the largest of the country's clusters as it is connected to 98 cases. There have been 80 recoveries so far. There are still 38 cases linked to the World Hereford Conference, which was held in Queenstown, and of those 37 have recovered.
2 May 00:00 • Otago Daily Times Online News • https://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/health/no-reported-cases-covid-19-south-two-weeksRating: 0.40
Number of Covid-19 patients in ICU falls below 100
The number of patients in intensive care with confirmed cases of Covid-19 has fallen below 100 for the first time in just over a month. There are 99 patients in Intensive Care Units in the country's 29 acute hospitals with Covid-19. There are also 21 patients with suspected cases of the virus. There are 184 patients in intensive care who do not have the virus and are suffering from other conditions. As of yesterday evening, there were 134 critical care beds available and just over 1,400 general beds. For the fourth day in a row, the rise in the number of new cases notified by the Department of Health was under 2%. As of yesterday evening there were just over 1,000 patients in hospital with suspected or confirmed cases of Covid-19, with 706 confirmed cases, and 304 suspected. The Mater Hospital in Dublin had the highest number of confirmed cases with 113, followed by St James' with 81, Tallaght with 70, Beaumont with 69, St Vincent's University Hospital, with 62, and Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown with 48. Read more:Latest coronavirus stories Outside Dublin, Limerick (41), Mayo (31), and Tullamore with 23 had the highest number of patients with confirmed cases of Covid-19. There was a slight rise in admissions to hospital between Thursday and Friday mornings. Data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, based on more than 20,000 cases as of midnight on Wednesday, shows that Cavan is the county with the highest incidence of the virus per 100,000 people, followed by Dublin. The data shows that two people aged between 15 and 24 years old with confirmed cases of Covid-19 have died. Four of the deaths were in people aged between 25-34, nine were people aged between 35-44, 20 were aged between 45-64, 46 between 55 and 64 and 952 of those who died were over 65 years of age. On Wednesday night, there were 218 clusters in nursing homes and 124 in other residential institutions. There were 83 linked to hospitals and 31 clusters were related to workplaces.
2 May 10:21 • RTE.ie • https://www.rte.ie/news/2020/0502/1136241-coronavirus-ireland/Rating: 2.47
South Sudan confirms 10 new cases of COVID-19 as total rises to 45
South Sudan’s Ministry of Health confirmed 10 new cases of COVID-19 late Friday, bringing the total number of infections to 45. Out of 138 samples tested, ten new cases were confirmed as positive, including two truck drivers at the Nimule border crossing and two domestic travellers. The other six cases are close contacts with previous infection cases in the country, according to a statement from South Sudan’s coronavirus taskforce. Angok Gordon Kuol, Manager of the coronavirus outbreak at the Ministry of Health, said a total of 1,247 tests have been performed since the country reported its first infection case. He said the ministry has intensified the tracing of individuals who had contact with COVID-19 patients. “The government urges the public to strictly observe the rules of social distancing and other public health measures declared by the High-Level Taskforce. “Report any suspected case to the nearest health facility or call the country’s toll-free number 6666,’’ Kuol said. He also said the young nation has no cases in intensive care, noting that there has been no recovered case yet, and no death reported. South Sudan has closed all learning institutions, imposed a night curfew and introduced movement and transport restrictions as part of measures to contain the spread of the respiratory disease. (Xinhua/NAN)
2 May 12:51 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/south-sudan-confirms-10-new-cases-of-covid-19-as-total-rises-to-45/Rating: 0.30
The Auschwitz slogan 'Work sets you free' seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent
3 May 13:28
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The Auschwitz slogan 'Work sets you free' seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent
The Auschwitz Memorial in Poland has condemned a photo of a sign from an anti-lockdown protest in Chicago that bore the Nazi slogan: "Arbeit Macht Frei, JB." The sign, which was held by an unidentified woman attending the "Re-Open Illinois" protest on May 1, is referring to Illinois governor JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. "Arbeit macht frei" is a German phrase which means "Work sets you free", and was placed above the gates of Auschwitz — the largest Nazi extermination camp during the Holocaust, where at least 1.1 million people died. On Saturday, the organization that runs the Auschwitz Memorial responded to the picture on Twitter, saying it was "painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate." The full tweet read: "'Arbeit macht frei' was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It's painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate. It's a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration." The photo was shared on Twitter by a registered nurse, Dennis Kosuth, who attended the same event on Friday as a counter-protester. It has since garnered more than 50,000 likes. Kosuth, who said he took the picture on his phone, told Buzzfeed that some protesters at the event were trying to provoke him by claiming he was an actor. According to Kosuth, when he confronted the woman holding the sign, she defended herself by saying she had Jewish friends. The protest in Chicago is the latest in a series of demonstrations around the country to reopen the economy. On April 30, hundreds of demonstrators, some armed, descended on Michigan's state capitol to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's extension of the state's stay-at-home order. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 13:28 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/auschwitz-arbeit-macht-frei-anti-lockdown-poster-at-chicago-rally-2020-5?utm_campaign=sf-bi-uk&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_medium=socialRating: 4.40
The Auschwitz slogan 'Work sets you free' seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent
The Auschwitz Memorial in Poland has condemned a photo of a sign from an anti-lockdown protest in Chicago that bore the Nazi slogan: “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB.” The sign, which was held by an unidentified woman attending the “Re-Open Illinois” protest on May 1, is referring to Illinois governor JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. “Arbeit macht frei” is a German phrase which means “Work sets you free”, and was placed above the gates of Auschwitz – the largest Nazi extermination camp during the Holocaust, where at least 1.1 million people died. On Saturday, the organization that runs the Auschwitz Memorial responded to the picture on Twitter, saying it was “painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate.” The full tweet read: “‘Arbeit macht frei’ was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It’s painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration.” The photo was shared on Twitter by a registered nurse, Dennis Kosuth, who attended the same event on Friday as a counter-protester. It has since garnered more than 50,000 likes. Kosuth, who said he took the picture on his phone, told Buzzfeed that some protesters at the event were trying to provoke him by claiming he was an actor. According to Kosuth, when he confronted the woman holding the sign, she defended herself by saying she had Jewish friends. The protest in Chicago is the latest in a series of demonstrations around the country to reopen the economy. On April 30, hundreds of demonstrators, some armed, descended on Michigan’s state capitol to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s extension of the state’s stay-at-home order.
3 May 17:21 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/auschwitz-arbeit-macht-frei-anti-lockdown-poster-at-chicago-rally-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
The Auschwitz slogan ‘Work sets you free’ seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent
The Auschwitz Memorial in Poland has condemned a photo of a sign from an anti-lockdown protest in Chicago that bore the Nazi slogan: “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB.” The sign, which was held by an unidentified woman attending the “Re-Open Illinois” protest on May 1, is referring to Illinois governor JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. “Arbeit macht frei” is a German phrase which means “Work sets you free”, and was placed above the gates of Auschwitz – the largest Nazi extermination camp during the Holocaust, where at least 1.1 million people died. On Saturday, the organization that runs the Auschwitz Memorial responded to the picture on Twitter, saying it was “painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate.” The full tweet read: “‘Arbeit macht frei’ was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It’s painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration.” The photo was shared on Twitter by a registered nurse, Dennis Kosuth, who attended the same event on Friday as a counter-protester. It has since garnered more than 50,000 likes. Kosuth, who said he took the picture on his phone, told Buzzfeed that some protesters at the event were trying to provoke him by claiming he was an actor. According to Kosuth, when he confronted the woman holding the sign, she defended herself by saying she had Jewish friends. The protest in Chicago is the latest in a series of demonstrations around the country to reopen the economy. On April 30, hundreds of demonstrators, some armed, descended on Michigan’s state capitol to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s extension of the state’s stay-at-home order.
3 May 13:28 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/auschwitz-arbeit-macht-frei-anti-lockdown-poster-at-chicago-rally-2020-5Rating: 0.30
The Auschwitz slogan 'Work sets you free' seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent
The Auschwitz Memorial in Poland has condemned a photo of a sign from an anti-lockdown protest in Chicago that bore the Nazi slogan: “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB.” The sign, which was held by an unidentified woman attending the “Re-Open Illinois” protest on May 1, is referring to Illinois governor JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. “Arbeit macht frei” is a German phrase which means “Work sets you free”, and was placed above the gates of Auschwitz – the largest Nazi extermination camp during the Holocaust, where at least 1.1 million people died. The font of the letter “B” used on the sign also bore a strong resemblance to that used in the sign above the gates of Auschwitz. On Saturday, the organisation that runs the Auschwitz Memorial responded on Twitter, saying it was “painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate.” The full tweet read: “‘Arbeit macht frei’ was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It’s painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration.” The photo was shared on Twitter by a registered nurse, Dennis Kosuth, who attended the same event on Friday as a counter-protester. It has since garnered more than 50,000 likes. Kosuth, who said he took the picture on his phone, told Buzzfeed that some protesters at the event were trying to provoke him by claiming he was an actor. According to Kosuth, when he confronted the woman holding the sign, she defended herself by saying she had Jewish friends. The protest in Chicago is the latest in a series of demonstrations around the country to reopen the economy. On April 30, hundreds of demonstrators, some armed, descended on Michigan’s state capitol to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s extension of the state’s stay-at-home order.
3 May 13:28 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/auschwitz-arbeit-macht-frei-anti-lockdown-poster-at-chicago-rally-2020-5Rating: 0.30
The Auschwitz slogan 'Work sets you free' seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent
Jim Vondruska/NurPhoto via Getty Images The Auschwitz Memorial in Poland has condemned a photo of a sign from an anti-lockdown protest in Chicago that bore the Nazi slogan: "Arbeit Macht Frei, JB." The sign, which was held by an unidentified woman attending the "Re-Open Illinois" protest on May 1, is referring to Illinois governor JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. "Arbeit macht frei" is a German phrase which means "Work sets you free", and was placed above the gates of Auschwitz — the largest Nazi extermination camp during the Holocaust, where at least 1.1 million people died. On Saturday, the organization that runs the Auschwitz Memorial responded to the picture on Twitter, saying it was "painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate." The full tweet read: "'Arbeit macht frei' was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It's painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate. It's a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration." The photo was shared on Twitter by a registered nurse, Dennis Kosuth, who attended the same event on Friday as a counter-protester. It has since garnered more than 50,000 likes. Kosuth, who said he took the picture on his phone, told Buzzfeed that some protesters at the event were trying to provoke him by claiming he was an actor. According to Kosuth, when he confronted the woman holding the sign, she defended herself by saying she had Jewish friends. Kacper Pempel/Reuters The protest in Chicago is the latest in a series of demonstrations around the country to reopen the economy. On April 30, hundreds of demonstrators, some armed, descended on Michigan's state capitol to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's extension of the state's stay-at-home order. Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 13:28 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/auschwitz-slogan-sets-free-seen-132803366.htmlRating: 0.30
The Auschwitz slogan 'Work sets you free' seen at the Re-Open Illinois protest aimed at governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
The Auschwitz Memorial in Poland has condemned a photo of a sign from an anti-lockdown protest in Chicago that bore the Nazi slogan: “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB.” The sign, which was held by an unidentified woman attending the “Re-Open Illinois” protest on May 1, is referring to Illinois governor JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. “Arbeit macht frei” is a German phrase which means “Work sets you free”, and was placed above the gates of Auschwitz – the largest Nazi extermination camp during the Holocaust, where at least 1.1 million people died. On Saturday, the organization that runs the Auschwitz Memorial responded to the picture on Twitter, saying it was “painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate.” The full tweet read: “‘Arbeit macht frei’ was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It’s painful to see this symbol instrumentalized and used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration.” The photo was shared on Twitter by a registered nurse, Dennis Kosuth, who attended the same event on Friday as a counter-protester. It has since garnered more than 50,000 likes. Kosuth, who said he took the picture on his phone, told Buzzfeed that some protesters at the event were trying to provoke him by claiming he was an actor. According to Kosuth, when he confronted the woman holding the sign, she defended herself by saying she had Jewish friends. The protest in Chicago is the latest in a series of demonstrations around the country to reopen the economy. On April 30, hundreds of demonstrators, some armed, descended on Michigan’s state capitol to protest Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s extension of the state’s stay-at-home order.
3 May 13:28 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/auschwitz-arbeit-macht-frei-anti-lockdown-poster-at-chicago-rally-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Illinois anti-lockdown protester waves Nazi slogan from Auschwitz concentration camp
An anti-lockdown protester in Illinois has been widely condemned for brandishing a sign bearing a Nazi slogan from the gates of Auschwitz concentration camp. The woman, who has not been identified, was part of a group protesting to "Re-Open Illinois' in Chicago on Friday. The sign, reading "Arbeit macht frei, JB" appeared to be addressed to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker - who is Jewish. The German words translate to "work will set you free", the phrase that was hung above the gates of Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland where more than 1m people died at the hands of the Nazis during the Holocaust. The sign was widely condemned including by representatives of the Auschwitz Memorial, who tweeted: "'Arbeit macht frei' was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of #Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It's painful to see this symbol instrumentalized & used again to spread hate. It's a symptom of moral & intellectual degeneration." The photograph of the sign was taken by nurse, Dennis Kosuth, on Friday afternoon, who was at the event as a counter-protester with other frontline medical workers who are battling the pandemic. Kosuth, who lost a friend and colleague from the coronavirus this week, told The Independent that he was disgusted by the sign. He said: "I don’t read German but I knew what that phrase meant and asked if she was a Nazi. She denied that she was and told me that she has Jewish friends, as if that was a legitimate argument." Mr Kosuth said that anti-lockdown protesters confronted him and other nurses, accusing them of being actors and claiming that the Covid-19 death toll was inaccurate. He added: "I’m glad this picture is out there because we must never forget history. I understand that people are suffering, losing their jobs, health insurance, struggling to pay bills and buy food. I am fortunate to still be working, and think those who cannot right now must be given more help then that have been." Man arrested at anti-lockdown protest outside police HQ in London Anti-vaccination activists a growing force at US coronavirus protests Lockdown protesters flock to California beach in their thousands The armed Michigan protests could just be the beginning
3 May 18:26 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/illinois-anti-lockdown-protester-waves-182600110.htmlRating: 0.30
Auschwitz Museum Schools Illinois Anti-Lockdown Protester Over Banner With Nazi Slogan
A woman brandished the controversial banner during a rally in Chicago. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker this week announced plans to start gradually reopening parts of the state where the infection rates and the occupancy of intensive care units have been falling steadily. The Auschwitz Memorial has condemned an American protester for using a Nazi slogan during a protest against the coronavirus-induced lockdown. A photo that surfaced on social media from Friday’s ‘Reopen Illinois’ rally in Chicago showed a woman holding out a banner reading, “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB”. “Arbeit Macht Frei” is a German phrase for “Work sets you free”; it has been infamously used at the entrance of several Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz, in present-day Poland, where over 1 million people were killed during WW2. “JB” was an apparent reference to JB Pritzker, the Jewish governor of Illinois. “Those words became one of the icons of human hatred,” the Auschwitz Memorial said of the slogan. “It's painful to see this symbol instrumentalised & used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral & intellectual degeneration.” According to Dennis Kosuth, the witness who took the photo, the protester assured him that she was not a Nazi, and had Jewish friends. The veracity of his photo was called into question after the Associated Press debunked an image from a similar protest in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as fake. In it, a person was waving a sign sporting the slogan in English.However, Kosuth insisted that his photo was genuine and tweeted a video from the scene to prove that was the case. Large protests against the lockdown, which contributed to an economic downturn and caused a historic spike in unemployment, have been happening across the country, from New York to California, since mid-April. President Donald Trump has left it up to governors to call the shots when it comes to reopening their states, with help from the federal government, and presented a phased-in plan which has already seen a dozen states reopen some businesses and ease social distancing restrictions. The US has registered more than 1.1 million COVID-19 cases and almost 66,400 deaths, according to a database kept by John Hopkins University.
3 May 15:06 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/us/202005031079183060-auschwitz-museum-schools-illinois-anti-lockdown-protester-over-banner-with-nazi-slogan/Rating: 3.96
Illinois’ Jewish Governor Condemns Nazi Slogan at Anti Coronavirus-Shutdown Protest
Illinois governor Jay Robert “J.B.” Pritzker on Saturday condemned the use of the Nazi slogan “Arbeit Macht Frei” (literally: work makes you free), which was hung over the entrance to the Auschwitz death camp in Poland, at Friday’s “Re-open Illinois” demonstration. The sign, which was carried by a woman wearing an American flag face mask, read “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB.” Governor Pritzker is a member of the Pritzker family, a Jewish family prominent in business and philanthropy, which has been near the top of the Forbes’ “America’s Richest Families” list since 1982. His sister, Penny Pritzker, served as President Obama’s Secretary of Commerce. The Nazi jab was clearly aimed at the governor’s Jewish heritage, although the woman who carried the sign told reporters she had many Jewish friends. Gov. Spitzer tweeted Saturday night: “Yesterday, there were quite a number of people protesting by carrying signs filled with hate. I’ll defend to the death their right to be wrong and to say it out loud. But if you look at the facts, the experts are trying to protect them.” Referring to the Nazi symbols at Friday’s rally, the governor said: “I’ve spent decades of my life fighting against bigotry & hatred. I helped build the Illinois Holocaust Museum by working with Holocaust survivors. The meaning of that swastika is apparently unknown to the people who are carrying it, or if it is known, it’s a demonstration of the hate that is among us.” “These were a few hundred demonstrators yesterday — but there are millions of people in the state who are doing the right thing, protecting each other during this extraordinary crisis. I am so grateful to live in a state with those millions of really good people,” the governor said. Illinois has been one of the hardest hit states, and on Saturday, Illinois health officials reported 2,450 additional known coronavirus cases, after Friday marked the first time more than 3,000 new cases were diagnosed in Illinois. This brings the total number of cases in the state to 58,505, with 105 new deaths, for a statewide total death toll of 2,559. Yet Illinois seems to be a strong hold of resistance to state-imposed restrictions on public gathering, and on Friday night Chicago Police broke up a number of house parties and more were expected Saturday night. Finally, we can’t run a story about Illinois Nazis without this immortal Blues Brothers clip:
3 May 09:04 • The Jewish Press • https://www.jewishpress.com/news/us-news/illinois-jewish-governor-condemns-nazi-slogan-at-anti-coronavirus-shutdown-protest/2020/05/03/Rating: 0.34
'Icons of human hatred': Auschwitz Museum condemns Nazi slogan at anti-quarantine Illinois protest
The Auschwitz Museum condemned the use of an old Nazi adage at the anti-quarantine protest in Illinois. A woman attending the "Re-open Illinois" protest on Friday was demonstrating with a sign that read, “Arbeit macht frei, JB.” The initials are likely denoting Democratic Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who is Jewish. The museum responded to a photo of the woman holding her sign hours later, condemning the usage of the German phrase meaning “work sets you free,” which was the Nazi slogan displayed at a number of Nazi concentration camps. "'Arbeit macht frei' was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of #Auschwitz," the museum tweeted. "Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It's painful to see this symbol instrumentalized & used again to spread hate. It's a symptom of moral & intellectual degeneration." Dennis Kosuth, a registered nurse who took the photo of the woman holding the sign, told the Hillthat he asked her if she was a Nazi and if she knew what the adage meant. The woman responded by claiming she wasn't a Nazi and that she has friends who are Jewish. “I couldn’t deal with her, I was so disturbed by it,” Kosuth said of the interaction. Pritzker has repeatedly expressed the importance for extensive test-and-trace capabilities statewide so the lockdown measures can be lifted. The stay-at-home order in the state has been extended to May 31, but it could be overturned by the courts after a Republican lawmaker filed a lawsuit claiming he did not have the legal authority to extend the order longer than 30 days.
2 May 17:22 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/icons-of-human-hatred-auschwitz-museum-condemns-nazi-slogan-at-anti-quarantine-illinois-protestRating: 0.51
Auschwitz Memorial condemns anti-lockdown protester 'with slogan from its gates'
The Auschwitz Memorial has condemned a ReOpen America protester accused of marching with the same slogan the Nazis erected above the concentration camp’s gates. It hit out after a masked woman was snapped apparently waving a banner saying ‘Arbeit macht frei JB’ in Chicago on Friday. The phrase is German for ‘Work sets you free’, with ‘JB’ a reference to Illinois State Governor JB Pritzker, who is Jewish. It notoriously appeared on the iron gates of the Polish concentration camp, where an estimated 1.1million people were murdered during World War Two. The Auschwitz Memorial tweeted: ‘Arbeit macht frei was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of #Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It’s painful to see this symbol instrumentalized & used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral & intellectual degeneration.’ Registered nurse Dennis Kosuth first shared the snap of the woman on his Twitter Friday, although it is unclear whether he took the photo himself. He wrote: ‘This was one of the signs at the “Re-open Illinois” event today. ‘She assured those that she was not a Nazi, and stated, “I have Jewish friends.” Thank you for representing yourself and your “movement” for what it is.’ Al Jazeera journalist Sana Saeed tweeted another photo she said came from the same protest of a woman holding a sign that said ‘Heil Pritzker’, a further reference to Illinois’ Jewish governor. The Associated Press debunked another similar protest photo with a fake slogan on Saturday, causing widespread confusion about the Illinois picture. That snap, taken by photographer Andrew Rush, shows a woman leaning out of a car sunroof with a board saying ‘Free small businesses.’ It was photoshopped to say ‘Work sets you free’ in English. Thousands of ReOpen America protesters have taken to the streets across the United States to protest ongoing lockdowns. Friday saw armed protesters storm the Michigan state capitol building in Lansing after State Governor Gretchen Whitmer said she would extend most lockdown measures until May 28. Large groups were also filmed gathering in Huntington Beach, California, days after unemployment in the United States hit 30 million. President Trump has been accused of stoking the protests, after sending three capped-up tweets calling on protesters to ‘LIBERATE’ Michigan, Minnesota and Virginia. Trump was accused of playing politics by targeting states with Democratic governors. Coronavirus is so far known to have infected 1.13 million Americans, and killed over 65,000.
2 May 16:23 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/02/auschwitz-memorial-condemns-reopen-america-protester-who-marched-nazi-sign-12645933/Rating: 2.18
Auschwitz memorial condemns presence of Nazi slogan at US anti-lockdown rally
The organisation that runs the Auschwitz memorial has condemned the appearance at a US anti-lockdown rally of a picket sign bearing a Nazi slogan displayed above the entrance of the concentration camp. A demonstrator attending a rally in Illinois, where hundreds of people protested against the state’s lockdown and social distancing measures, was photographed carrying a sign bearing the words “Arbeit macht frei, JB”. The German phrase translates as “work sets you free”, with JB referring to the Illinois governor, JB Pritzker, who is of Jewish descent. The font of both instances of the letter “B” on the picket sign bore a striking resemblance to the shape of the letter “B” on the sign above the gates of Auschwitz, the largest of the German Nazi concentration camps and extermination centres, where more than 1.1 million men, women and children were murdered. Another demonstrator at the same rally was reportedly seen holding up a picket sign bearing a swastika and the words: “Heil, Pritzker.” The official Auschwitz memorial Twitter account condemned the gesture, writing: “‘Arbeit macht frei’ was a false, cynical illusion the SS gave to prisoners of Auschwitz. Those words became one of the icons of human hatred. It’s painful to see this symbol instrumentalised and used again to spread hate. It’s a symptom of moral and intellectual degeneration.” Holocaust survivors often describe the slogan as a reminder of the many ways in which the Nazis tried to give their prisoners false hope, with the inscription suggesting to the people arriving at the camps that hard work would eventually secure their release, when their deaths were already certain. The long, curving iron sign spanning the gates of Auschwitz is perhaps the best known version of the slogan. It was stolen by thieves from the death camp’s memorial site in Poland in 2009, but recovered by police and returned a month later. Pritzker, a Democrat, has repeatedly emphasised the need for an extensive test-and-trace programme across the state before lockdown measures can be lifted, and ordered all Illinois residents to shelter in place from 21 March. He subsequently extended the order until at least 31 May, a decision that could be overruled by the courts after the Republican lawmaker Darren Bailey filed a lawsuit alleging Pritzker did not have the legal authority to extend it beyond 30 days. David Harris, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, said in a tweet: “Those words – Work Sets You Free – were a savage Nazi hoax for slave labor and gas chambers. JB in the sign refers to state’s Jewish governor. Shameful. Shocking. Sickening.”
2 May 14:27 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/02/auschwitz-memorial-condemns-nazi-slogan-illinois-coronavirus-rallyRating: 5.39
Nazi Slogans At Coronavirus Lockdown Protest Draws Rebuke From Auschwitz Museum
The Auschwitz Memorial Museum criticized Illinois residents who used Nazi slogans Friday to protest the state’s coronavirus lockdown orders—not the first time its happened at such a rally—calling it “a symptom of moral [and] intellectual degeneration.” At a Chicago rally where hundreds of protestors demanded a rollback on coronavirus restrictions, a woman was photographed carrying a sign bearing the words “Arbeit Macht Frei, JB,” apparently referring to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who comes from a prominent Jewish family. The Auschwitz Memorial Museum, the organization that maintains the former concentration camp in Poland, replied to the photo via Twitter, calling the phrase one of the “icons of human hatred,” and saying it was “painful to see this symbol instrumentalized [and] used again to spread hate.” The woman’s sign, with what appears to be a stylized, upside-down “B,” is startlingly similar to the phrase’s appearance on the sign at the entrance of Auschwitz, the most notorious of Nazi Germany’s concentration camps, where more than 1 million people were murdered. The photo quickly went rival and earned condemnation; Illinois native and the American ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro called the sign "disgusting" while the head of the American Jewish Committee David Harris said it was “shameful, shocking [and] sickening.” The first person to post a picture of the sign was nurse Dennis Kosuth, who told The Hill he had attended the Chicago rally as a counter protestor—he said he took the photo himself and that the woman holding the sign told him she was not a Nazi and “[has] Jewish friends,” according to Kosuth. Another protester at the Chicago rally reportedly held a poster that read: “Heil, Pritzker,” and included an image of a swastika. “Arbeit Macht Frei,” a German phrase translating to “work sets you free,” was a slogan displayed at Nazi concentration camps like Auschwitz and Dachau. Holocaust survivors say the display of the phrase was a way Nazis lied to concentration camp prisoners to give them false hope of being freed if they worked hard enough. In reality, about 85% of the prisoners sent to Auschwitz are estimated to have been murdered in the camp during its five years of operation. It’s not the first time anti-lockdown protesters have incorporated Nazi phrases and imagery into their rallies. A rally in Lansing, Michigan earlier last month drew in thousands to protest Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-at-home order. One protestor carried a sign that appears to have meant to read “Heil Whitmer,” though the governor’s name was misspelled. FURTHER READING Auschwitz memorial condemns presence of Nazi slogan at US anti-lockdown rally (The Guardian) 'Arbeit Macht Frei': Nazi Slogans Show Up at Illinois Rally Protesting Coronavirus Lockdown (Haaretz) Auschwitz Museum condemns Nazi slogan at 'Re-open Illinois' protest (The Hill) Full coverage and live updates on the Coronavirus
2 May 00:00 • Forbes • https://www.forbes.com/sites/carlieporterfield/2020/05/02/nazi-slogans-at-coronavirus-lockdown-protest-draws-rebuke-from-auschwitz-museum/Rating: 4.41
Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus and forced to miss Good Morning Britain
3 May 18:41
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Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus and forced to miss Good Morning Britain
Good Morning Britain host Piers Morgan has been forced to pull out of the show on Monday, after being tested for coronavirus. Piers confirmed on Twitter that in the past 48 hours he has suffered mild symptoms, amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, Piers will remain of the show until his test results confirm whether or not he has the virus. He told his followers: "UPDATE: On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in past 48hrs, I’ve had a test for COVID-19 and so won’t be working on @GMB until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow." Piers revealed he is still awaiting the test results, which should come in tomorrow. The host, alongside co-presenter Susanna Reid, has been keeping GMB viewers up to date with all the latest COVID-19 news. It's not yet confirmed when he will be back on the show. Piers didn't go into what symptoms he had experienced, but did reveal he was going by medical advice. His friend Susanna was forced to miss two weeks of GMB at the start of lockdown measures being introduced in March, after her son had a cough. She soon returned, and Piers upped his episodes to four a week and has been vowing to get the answers the public wants on COVID-19. After posting the news on Twitter, Piers was met with a huge response from his followers. One fan tweeted: "I hope you’re well Piers. We need you!" Another said: "Hope all is well Piers we need you." Others commented on the fact Piers had been in the GMB studio for weeks, so were concerned over whether he should have been there. But Piers had only began experiencing "mild symptoms" in the past 48 hours and wasn't on the show on Friday. It's not currently known who will cover for Piers on Monday morning. In recent weeks Piers has been praised by viewers amid heated interviews with those in government, amid the ongoing COVID crisis. Just last week, Piers called out MPs over the testing shortages after Matt Hancock's promise to hit 100,000 tests a day. As the number strayed from this amount for several days, Piers questioned how they planned to meet their promise. At the end of the week, it was claimed the government had met this number, but on Sunday the amount dropped again it was reported. Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV.
3 May 18:41 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/breaking-piers-morgan-forced-miss-21967859?utm_source=twitter.com&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=sharebarRating: 2.39
Piers Morgan to miss Good Morning Britain as he waits on coronavirus test results
Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan will not appear on the popular show after undergoing testing for Covid-19 on medical advice The divisive presenter told his 7.4 million Twitter followers he won't be returning to the ITV programme until he has been cleared by doctors. Piers announced he had taken a test "out of an abundance of caution" but reassured fans that his symptoms were "mild", reports Chronicle Live. Tonight (May 3), he tweeted: "UPDATE: On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in past 48hrs, I’ve had a test for COVID-19 and so won’t be working on @GMB until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow." Under new government guidelines, NHS Covid-19 tests are now available to all key workers and those who do work which cannot be done outside the home. As a broadcaster carrying out public service journalism work, Piers is among those classed as an "essential worker". BristolLive is running a unique nationwide survey aimed at capturing British life under lockdown. Help us record these historic times and tell us how the pandemic has affected your life - from food shopping to finances, home schooling to mental health. It only takes a few minutes and you'll be playing a part in how we look back on these times once the pandemic is over. Thank you. Click here to take the Great Big Lockdown Survey Public testing for the deadly virus has become a key issue for the government in recent weeks. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has claimed to have passed the target of 100,000 tests per day, although the figure includes testing kits posted to people's homes, whether or not they have been used yet. But on Sunday, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps admitted fewer people might have died if testing capacity had reached these levels earlier. More than 28,000 people have now died after testing positive for the virus in the UK - the third highest number in the world. While in Bristol, 160 have lost their lives after being diagnosed with the illness. Frequently controversial host Piers has been a vocal critic of both government policy and individuals breaking lockdown rules during the Covid-19 crisis. He recently divided opinion with a furious tirade at Care Minister, Helen Whately, who he accused of failing to answer important questions on deaths in care homes and of frontline NHS workers.
3 May 20:16 • BristolLive • https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/piers-morgan-coronavirus-gmb-television-4101522Rating: 0.30
Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus as he announces GMB absence
Piers Morgan has announced he will be absent from Good Morning Britain tomorrow, after being tested for coronavirus. The TV anchor announced that as a medical precaution, he has been advised to take the test after exhibiting a ‘mild symptom’ that is connected to the virus. Taking to Twitter, he wrote: ‘UPDATE: On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in past 48hrs, I’ve had a test for COVID-19 and so won’t be working on @GMB until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow.’ Piers did not state the symptoms he had started showing that were connected to coronavirus. Read the latest updates: Coronavirus news live Good Morning Britain, which Piers hosts alongside Susanna Reid, has been continuing to air every day amid the coronavirus crisis, giving updates and practical advice during the UK lockdown. Piers has also been a cheerleader for the NHS during their fight against the pandemic, which has seen more than 186,000 cases reported in hospitals. The reporter has on several occasions clashed with politicians on the show over their handling of the coronavirus spread, their lack of preparation for it, and the lack of PPE equipment. Thousands of viewers complained after a recent interview involving care minister MP Helen Whately, who appeared to snigger when talking about the possible 4000 coronavirus related care home deaths that had gone unreported. He was later cleared of being ‘combative’ by Ofcom and the complaints were not followed up. Another flood of complaints to watchdog Ofcom came after his interview with MP Victoria Atkins, the safeguarding minister. His line of questioning was later backed up by Susanna. Typically on the show on Mondays to Wednesdays, Piers announced he would also be present every Thursday as coverage of the crisis continued. At the beginning of April, he revealed his 19-year-old son Albert was believed to have had the virus, losing his sense of taste or smell, but was now OK. It’s not yet known who will replace Piers on the show. Metro.co.uk has contacted Good Morning Britain reps for comment. There are now more than 186,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK, with more than 28,000 deaths. Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV. Got A Story? If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
3 May 19:10 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/piers-morgan-tested-coronavirus-getting-mild-symptom-announces-hell-absent-good-morning-britain-12649250/Rating: 2.18
Piers Morgan to be replaced by Ben Shephard on GMB as he awaits covid-19 results
Piers Morgan will be replaced by Ben Shephard on Good Morning Britain as the star awaits test results to see if he has coronavirus. The TV host announced on Twitter today (Sunday) that he will be absent from Monday’s show after taking a precautionary test for the Covid-19 virus. Assuring fans that he was OK, Piers said that he was taking the test after showing a ‘very mild symptom’ over the weekend. A GMB spokesperson has now confirmed to Metro.co.uk that Ben will be stepping in for him during his absence. Despite the test, Piers said it was just an ‘abundance of caution’ to ensure any potential spread was stopped in its tracks. Read the latest updates: Coronavirus news live Taking to Twitter, he wrote: ‘UPDATE: On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in past 48hrs, I’ve had a test for COVID-19 and so won’t be working on @GMB until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow.’ The message has since been retweeted by Susanna Reid and his co-stars. Since coronavirus made its way to the UK, Piers has been praised for his no-nonsense approach to tackling government officials about their lack of preparation. He also has stood up for the NHS, and offered to pay all parking tickets for staff members who were being charged to park in the hospitals or while working. However, he’s also come under fire for being ‘too combative’ with those who have appeared on the show. Most recently, another flood of complaints to watchdog Ofcom were send after his interview with MP Victoria Atkins, the safeguarding minister. His line of questioning was later backed up by Susanna. Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV. Got A Story? If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
3 May 21:03 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/good-morning-britain-piers-morgan-replaced-ben-shephard-12341950/Rating: 2.18
Piers Morgan coronavirus fears: GMB host tweets he is taking time off 'out of an abundance of caution' while he awaits results of a Covid-19 test after feeling unwell
Piers Morgan will be taking some time off Good Morning Britain while he awaits the results of a coronavirus test. The presenter, 55, started feeling unwell over the weekend and will stay off the programme 'out of an abundance of caution'. He had been going into the west London studio every morning, doing his own make-up and sitting two metres away from co-host Susanna Reid. Mr Morgan tweeted on Sunday night: 'UPDATE: On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in past 48hrs, I've had a test for COVID-19 and so won't be working on @GMB until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow.' It comes after Ms Reid self-isolated at her London home for two weeks in March following a member of her household developing symptoms of the bug. Mr Morgan, who is usually on the show with Ms Reid from Monday to Wednesday, has been one of the strongest voices holding the government to account during the crisis. Since the country was put in lockdown on March 23, he has become the interviewer ministers fear most due to his ruthless scrutinising of the facts. He has spoken truth to power at every turn, including fiercely questioning decisions made by both the UK and US governments. In an article for MailOnline on Thursday, the columnist branded Prime Minister Boris Johnson's first press briefing back after beating Covid 'complete and utter bullsh*t'. He said Mr Johnson's speech had made US President Donald Trump seem credible and that his Brexit strategy cannot be used to beat the virus. Mr Morgan wrote: 'When Boris fans, the vast majority of them with union jack flags and Brexit slogans in their profiles, scream abuse at me all day long on Twitter for challenging their hero's coronavirus strategy, they do so because to them, any criticism of the government over this crisis is a re-run of the viciously toxic and partisan Brexit campaign.' He added: 'None of Boris Johnson's political skills that won him the Referendum and December's election are working like they did before the virus struck.' The journalist pointed to a chart that was shown at the end of the briefing on the 'Global Death Comparision'. He spotted how it showed the UK was trending to be the second worst hit country in the world for Covid-19 deaths. On Sunday the number of fatalities in Britain rose by 315 to 28,446, putting it on course to become the hardest hit in Europe. Its toll is now 264 behind Italy - the continent's original epicentre - which it will likely overtake tomorrow to suffer the second highest fatalities in the world after the US. Mr Johnson was not the only world leader Mr Morgan has targeted, with him going toe-to-toe with President Trump over the US's coronavirus strategy. The presenter has repeatedly called out Mr Trump's approach to the bug, which has rampaged across the US and killed more than 65,000 people. This culminating in him saying Mr Trump was 'batsh*t crazy' for his handling of the crisis. The US President faced widespread ridicule after he suggested tackling coronavirus with the use of 'powerful' UV light or even injecting patients with disinfectant. Starting his column by telling Mr Trump to 'shut the f*** up', Mr Morgan admonished the President for using his position to air the 'batsh*t crazy theories'. The presenter later announced Mr Trump had unfollowed him on Twitter. Mr Morgan's approach to politicians was vindicated last week when OFCOM cleared him for his 'combative' style. The GMB host attracted more than 3,000 complaints from two interviews with care minister Helen Whately on the show last month. Almost 600 viewers also complained about another interview with Health Secretary Matt Hancock on April 16. But Ofcom said: 'It is clearly in the public interest that broadcasters are able to hold those making political decisions to account.' Mr Morgan grilled Ms Whately about the number of NHS and care workers who have died from Covid-19 and accused her of 'massively understating' the effects of the virus. In the interview Mrs Whately claimed 76 NHS and care workers had died from the disease, to which the host replied: 'You see these numbers again, are completely wrong. 'The real figure of all the people who work in the NHS and care homes who have died is actually 111.' Mr Hancock was challenged by the MailOnline columnist on whether he would volunteer for a salary reduction. During the exchange on April 16, Morgan was also angered when the politician claimed the Government was prepared for the pandemic, telling him: 'Stop playing that game with me, Mr Hancock. You're buying yourself a bit of time.' Mr Morgan said he would have 'admired' Mr Hancock more if he would have just admitted that the Department of Health 'had not been prepared' for the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on the National Health Service. He added: 'Your resolute refusal to concede you made any mistakes here grates with me and misjudges the public mood'. The pair continued to clash as Morgan chastised Mr Hancock, reminding him he runs the show after the politician urged him to 'let him speak', during the interview. On Good Morning Britain Mr Morgan said of the watchdog investigation: 'They have not held up any of the complaints. I'm glad about that. 'Freedom of speech matters and journalists doing their job matters. Getting the government to think about every decision they are taking matters, holding them to account matters. 'We do our job they do theirs. But we are all on the same side here and we shouldn't mistake challenging government's with wanting government to fail. 'I want our government to succeed. We do this challenging everyday with ministers to help them make better decisions, so that fewer people die. 'We are on the same side against the same enemy. It's not a referendum, its not an election, its one virus against the world.' It is not clear who will step in for Mr Morgan while he is off.
3 May 18:01 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8282565/Piers-Morgan-coronavirus-fears-GMB-host-forced-ITV-morning-show.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
COVID-19: Jordan lifts all curbs on economic activity in latest easing of lockdown
3 May 16:59
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3 articles
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COVID-19: Jordan lifts all curbs on economic activity in latest easing of lockdown
Amman: Jordan said on Sunday it had lifted all restrictions on economic activity in the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown rules to help jump-start the cash-strapped economy. Jordan has in the last two weeks been lifting restrictions to allow businesses back to work, but with lower levels of staff and strict social distancing and hygiene guidelines. Minister of Industry and Trade Tariq Hammouri said businesses and industries would now be able to resume production. Public transport will be allowed to return to full normal service with safety guidelines following the outbreak, but universities and schools will remain closed and a night curfew will continue. Jordan has reported 460 confirmed coronavirus cases and nine deaths but says it has now contained the outbreak. The government of Prime Minister Omar al Razzaz won widespread praise for quick moves to curb the spread of the coronavirus. But as the economic impact deepened, the government faced criticism from business groups and there were fears of social unrest.
3 May 16:59 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/mena/covid-19-jordan-lifts-all-curbs-on-economic-activity-in-latest-easing-of-lockdown-1.1588525339512Rating: 3.21
Jordan lifts curbs on economy as coronavirus lockdown eases
Jordan says it has lifted all restrictions on economic activity in the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown rules to help jump-start the cash-strapped economy. Jordan has in the last two weeks been lifting restrictions to allow businesses back to work, but with lower levels of staff and strict social distancing and hygiene guidelines. Minister of Industry and Trade Tariq Hammouri said on Sunday businesses and industries would now be able to resume production. Public transport will be allowed to return to full normal service with safety guidelines following the outbreak, but universities and schools will remain closed and a night curfew will continue. Jordan has reported 460 confirmed coronavirus cases and nine deaths but says it has now contained the outbreak. The government of Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz won widespread praise for quick moves to curb the spread of the coronavirus. But as the economic impact deepened, the government faced criticism from business groups and there were fears of social unrest.
3 May 17:39 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/jordan-lifts-curbs-economy-coronavirus-lockdown-eases-200503165530904.htmlRating: 2.44
Jordan Lifts All Curbs on Economic Activity
Jordan said on Sunday it had lifted all restrictions on economic activity in the latest easing of coronavirus lockdown rules to help jump-start the economy. Jordan has in the last two weeks been lifting restrictions to allow businesses back to work, but with lower levels of staff and strict social distancing and hygiene guidelines. Reuters quoted Minister of Industry and Trade Tariq Hammouri as saying that businesses and industries would now be able to resume production. Public transport will be allowed to return to full normal service with safety guidelines following the outbreak, but universities and schools will remain closed and a night curfew will continue. Jordan has reported 460 confirmed coronavirus cases and nine deaths but says it has now contained the outbreak.
3 May 17:15 • Asharq AL-awsat • https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2265746/jordan-lifts-all-curbs-economic-activityRating: 2.10
Shots fired by North Korea likely 'accidental': Pompeo
3 May 23:28
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Weighted average IN: 11.041952136392045
Shots fired by North Korea likely 'accidental': Pompeo
WASHINGTON: Shots fired by North Korea across its border with South Korea were likely "accidental," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday (May 3) as speculation continues to swirl about the health of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. North and South Korea on Saturday exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since Apr 11. South Korea responded to shots fired from across the DMZ but no casualties were reported. "We think those are accidental. South Koreans did return fire. So far as we can tell, there was no loss of life on either side," Pompeo said on ABC This Week. Pompeo declined to discuss whether he knows whether Kim has been gravely ill over the last few weeks - which ratcheted up speculation as Kim missed a celebration of his late grandfather - but said based on video footage of him from state television at a recent event, "It looks like Chairman Kim is alive and well." "We know there have been other extended periods of time where Chairman Kim's been out of public view as well, so it's not unprecedented," Pompeo said.
3 May 23:28 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/shots-fired-north-korea-likely-accidental-pompeo-12698334Rating: 3.25
Shots fired by North Korea across border with South Korea accidental - US
Shots fired by North Korea across its border with South Korea were likely accidental, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says. North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post on Saturday (local time). The raising of tensions came a day after North Korean state media showed leader Kim Jong-un visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. Kim Jong-un receives cheers in first public appearance in weeks - report Who might replace Kim Jong-un? South Korea responded to shots fired from across the DMZ but no casualties were reported. "We think those are accidental. South Koreans did return fire. So far as we can tell, there was no loss of life on either side," Pompeo told the American Broadcasting Company on Sunday. Pompeo declined to discuss whether he knows if Kim has been gravely ill over the last few weeks. However he said based on video footage from state television at a recent event, "it looks like Chairman Kim is alive and well". "We know there have been other extended periods of time where Chairman Kim's been out of public view as well, so it's not unprecedented," Pompeo said. Reuters
3 May 17:34 • Newshub • https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/world/2020/05/shots-fired-by-north-korea-across-border-with-south-korea-accidental-us.htmlRating: 1.12
Shots fired by North Korea 'accidental': Mike Pompeo
Shots fired by North Korea across its border with South Korea were likely "accidental," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday as speculation continues to swirl about the health of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. North and South Korea on Saturday exchanged gunfire around a rural guard post, raising tension a day after North Korean state media showed Kim visiting a factory, the first report of him making a public appearance since April 11. South Korea responded to shots fired from across the DMZ but no casualties were reported. "We think those are accidental. South Koreans did return fire. So far as we can tell, there was no loss of life on either side," Pompeo said on ABC This Week. Pompeo declined to discuss whether he knows whether Kim has been gravely ill over the last few weeks - which ratcheted up speculation as Kim missed a celebration of his late grandfather - but said based on video footage of him from state television at a recent event, "It looks like Chairman Kim is alive and well." "We know there have been other extended periods of time where Chairman Kim's been out of public view as well, so it's not unprecedented," Pompeo said.
3 May 19:50 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/world-news-politics/shots-fired-by-north-korea-accidental-mike-pompeo-833108.htmlRating: 2.25
10 things you need to know today: May 3, 2020
North Korea, South Korea exchange gunfire across DMZ Gunshots were fired Sunday morning from the North Korean side of the Demilitarized Zone, striking a guard post in South Korea. South Korea, which reported no casualties, responded by firing two shots toward North Korea. The two countries are technically still in a state of war since their 1950-53 conflict ended in a truce rather than a peace treaty, and they've exchanged fire in similar fashion on occasion, but Seoul is reportedly perplexed by the timing of the latest incident. The gunfire comes one day after North Korea reported the first public appearance by its leader, Kim Jong Un, in three weeks, mostly squashing rumors that he was in ill heath or had died. [The New York Times, Reuters] Coronavirus trends continue to vary significantly by country Spain on Sunday recorded 164 coronavirus deaths in the previous 24 hours, the hard-hit country's lowest one day death total since March 18. South Korea, meanwhile, recorded just 13 new cases and no deaths. Both countries are beginning to ease some restrictions. But countries like Russia are just now seeing record increases — Moscow reported 10,000 new cases in the country for the first time Sunday, while India also recorded its largest single-day jump of 2,600 infections. World Health Organization data shows the United States suffered its largest daily fatality increase Friday after recording 2,909 deaths in 24 hours, and the United Kingdom's confirmed death toll is approaching that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe's outbreak. [Al Jazeera, The Associated Press] FDA grants Roche coronavirus antibody test emergency use approval The Food and Drug Administration cleared a coronavirus antibody test produced by Swiss diagnostics giant Roche for emergency use, the company said Sunday. The test identifies via blood samples antibodies made by the body to fight off the coronavirus. It could therefore determine whether a person had been infected with the virus in the past, even if the infection subsided. There are questions about the accuracy of many available commercial antibody tests so far, but they're considered crucial for better understanding both the true extant of the pandemic, as well as possible length of immunity to the virus. Roche says its test has proven 100 percent accurate at detecting antibodies in the blood and 99.8 percent accurate at ruling out the presence of those antibodies. [The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian] Reade says she isn't ready to respond to Biden's denial Tara Reade, the former Senate aide who has accused former Vice President Joe Biden of sexually assaulting her in 1993 while she was on his staff, said Saturday she isn't ready to respond to the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee's denial. Reade said she will eventually do so, but is "digesting and processing everything he said." Biden said the allegations are "unequivocally" false. Reade also said that while she did file a complaint about Biden following the incident, she is "not sure" about the explicit words she used on the form. Earlier, she said she did not mention the alleged assault. [The Hill, NBC News] Trump says he's 'glad' Kim is back President Trump on Saturday tweeted that he is "glad" to see North Korean leader Kim Jong Un "is back, and well" after a three week absence from public. During that span, rumors swirled that Kim was either gravely ill or dead, but North Korean state media showed he re-emerged Saturday for a tour of a newly-completed fertilizer plant. United States intelligence reportedly believes the footage of Kim at the plant is legitimate, and South Korea reportedly believes Kim never underwent surgery, or even a simple medical treatment, suggesting his health was never in jeopardy. After a rocky start to their relationship, Trump and Kim have shown they get along, meeting face to face on multiple occasions and exchanging friendly letters despite heightened tensions between the two countries due to Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs. [President Donald Trump, Reuters] Research suggests official coronavirus death toll in U.S. is far lower than reality An analysis of federal data conducted by a research team led by the Yale School of Public Health found the United States recorded an estimated 37,100 excess deaths during the coronavirus pandemic throughout March and the first two weeks of April. That's nearly 13,500 more than are attributed to COVID-19 during that same period, The Washington Post reports. The country passed 64,000 coronavirus deaths Friday, but Dan Weinberger, a Yale professor of epidemiology who led the analysis, said his team's estimates indicate the true toll could be "in the range of one and a half times higher." The analysis is based on death certificates compiled by states and sent to the National Center for Health Statistics, which often takes weeks to count a death. [The Washington Post] Maryland cancels $12.5 million mask order after waiting more than 30 days State officials said Maryland canceled a $12.5 million order of 1.5 million N95 masks and ventilators from Blue Flame Medical LLC, a company launched weeks ago by former Republican Party fundraiser Mike Gula, to help combat the coronavirus pandemic. The state waited more than 30 days for the shipment to arrive before taking action. Gula reportedly sent a letter to Maryland officials claiming the masks were seized by Chinese government officials. He apparently plans to deliver the order shortly after switching to a new supplier. Maryland, however, has referred the matter to the state's attorney general. [The Wall Street Journal] Berkshire Hathaway reports record net loss of $49.75 billion in the first quarter Berkshire Hathaway reporting a record net loss of $49.75 billion in the first quarter. The losses stem from investments in common stocks, including four major airlines — American, Delta, Southwest, and United — which have plummeted due to steep declines in travel during the pandemic. Berkshire went on to sell its shares in all four companies. CEO Warren Buffett considers the company's operating profit, which actually rose during the quarter, to be a better performance measure, however. He also said he is optimistic the U.S. economy will bounce back in the aftermath of the pandemic, but added that while "you can bet on America" investors should "be careful on how you bet." [CNBC, BBC] Coronavirus leads to violent threats in Oklahoma, altercation at Massachusetts ICE detention center Stillwater, Oklahoma, has had to amend an emergency proclamation requiring face coverings for entry into stores and restaurants during the coronavirus pandemic. Just hours after the order went into effect last week, store employees reported receiving verbal abuse and being threatened with physical violence in their attempts to enforce the rule, while Stillwater City Manager Norman McNickle said there has been one threat of violence using a firearm. The city subsequently pulled back the emergency order, but is still encouraging people to wear coverings. Meanwhile, at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Massachusetts, federal immigration detainees and officers were involved in an altercation after 10 detainees reportedly refused to undergo COVID-19 testing. The incident ended with three detainees being sent to a hospital and $25,000 in damage to the center. [NBC News, CNN] Invasive Asian giant hornet threatens U.S. bee population Researchers in Washington state are determined to track down colonies of invasive Asian giant hornets, which are believed to have arrived in the United States from across the Pacific Ocean for the first time. The Asian giant hornet, which is about the size of a human thumb, is the largest hornet in the world and repeated stings can prove fatal for humans, although the species most at risk from its presence is the European honeybee, which has no natural defenses against the larger insect. Scientists believe there is still time to prevent a full-force invasion since the new population is likely small, but quick action is necessary to protect the country's bee population from devastation. [The New York Times, The Guardian]
3 May 13:29 • The Week • https://theweek.com/10things/912441/10-things-need-know-today-may-3-2020Rating: 0.58
North Korea's DMZ gunfire could be a message from Kim that he's still in charge of the military, expert says
Gunshots were fired Sunday morning from the North Korean side of the Demilitarized Zone, striking a guard post in South Korea. South Korea, which reported no casualties, responded by firing two shots toward North Korea. The two countries are technically still in a state of war since their 1950-53 conflict ended in truce rather than a peace treaty, and they've exchanged fire in similar fashion on occasion, but Seoul is reportedly perplexed by the timing of the latest incident. Choi Kang, the vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, has one theory — it shows who's in charge of Pyongyang's military. The gunfire comes one day after North Korea reported the first public appearance by its leader, Kim Jong Un, in three weeks, mostly squashing rumors that he was in ill heath or had died. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he's perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military," Choi told Reuters. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I'm healthy and I'm still in power.'" Read more at The New York Times and Reuters.
3 May 11:51 • The Week • https://theweek.com/speedreads/912436/north-koreas-dmz-gunfire-could-message-from-kim-that-hes-still-charge-military-expert-saysRating: 0.58
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
SEOUL: North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post early on Sunday (May 3), raising tensions a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7.41am local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea. No injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, the country's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since Apr 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea's joint chiefs of staff said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it occurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. "In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?" the official said. Choi Kang, vice-president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the "grey area" provocation shows it could have been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumour-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements."
3 May 11:16 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/north-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-border-guard-post-12697682Rating: 3.25
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border
North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South’s guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7.41 am (11pm Saturday, Irish time) towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Mr Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that he had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11th. Mr Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it occurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. “In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?” the official said. Choi Kang, vice-president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the “grey area” provocation shows it could been planned to show that Mr Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” he said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us: ‘Yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power.’” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. “The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumour-filled weeks of the leader’s absence,” he said. “South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements.”-Reuters
3 May 11:04 • The Irish Times • https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/asia-pacific/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-1.4243881Rating: 1.99
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, the country's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asian Institute for Policy Studies, says the timing of the 'grey area' provocation shows Kim is still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements."
3 May 10:37 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/03/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-at-guard-postRating: 2.85
North Korea fires on South Korea one day after Kim Jong-un reappears
North Korea has fired gunshots on South Korea, raising tensions a day after leader Kim Jong-un finally reappeared. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7.41am local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it occurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. ‘In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?’ the official said. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the ‘grey area’ provocation shows it could been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. ‘Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,’ Choi said. ‘Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, ‘yes I am healthy and I am still in power’. Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. ‘The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumour-filled weeks of the leader’s absence,’ said Easley. ‘South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements.’ For our Coronavirus live blog click here. For all the latest news and updates on Coronavirus, click here.
3 May 08:57 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/north-korea-fires-south-korea-one-day-kim-jong-un-reappears-12647279/Rating: 2.18
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South’s guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s Joint Chiefs of Staffs (JCS) said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. Also Read: Donald Trump says ‘glad’ Kim Jong Un ‘is back, and well’ After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. Also Read: The art of re-emergence: North Korea leader Kim Jong Un appears after long gap The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. In a lengthy briefing held later on Sunday, an official at South Korea’s JCS said the gunshots did not seem a planned provocation, as the area where it occurred was farmland, but declined to provide a clear conclusion about the incident. “In absence of vision (for the target) and in the fog, would there be an accurate provocation?” the official said. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, said he believed the timing of the ‘grey area’ provocation shows it could been planned to show that Kim was still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, ‘yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power’.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military “The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader’s absence,” said Easley. “South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements.”
3 May 07:32 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-at-guard-post/story-IjNOqJ3ogQf6XMGklEFfFJ.htmlRating: 0.30
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
Seoul – North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time toward a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. The South Korean military later said the North Korean gunshots were "not deemed intentional," according to the Yonhap news agency. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, the country's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertilizer plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asian Institute for Policy Studies, says the timing of the "gray area" provocation shows Kim is still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power.'” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its front-line troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements."
3 May 06:43 • The Japan Times • https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/03/asia-pacific/south-korea-gunshots-north-korea-guard-post/Rating: 2.31
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
SEOUL — North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South’s guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertilizer plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asian Institute for Policy Studies, says the timing of the ‘grey area’ provocation shows Kim is still in charge of the North Korean military. “Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. “Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, ‘yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power’.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. “The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader’s absence,” said Easley. “South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements.” (Reporting by Cynthia Kim, Hyonhee Shin, Josh Smith; Editing by Michael Perry)
3 May 05:29 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/politics-news-pmn/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-at-guard-post-2Rating: 1.59
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South’s guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11.
3 May 04:04 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-at-guard-post-6391381/Rating: 0.30
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
SEOUL — North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South’s guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertilizer plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. (Reporting by Cynthia Kim, Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Michael Perry)
3 May 03:47 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/politics-news-pmn/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-border-at-guard-postRating: 1.59
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across boarder at guard post
SEOUL — North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South’s guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South’s joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim’s health and whereabouts, the country’s official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertilizer plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. (Reporting by Cynthia Kim, Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Michael Perry)
3 May 03:05 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/politics-news-pmn/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-across-boarder-at-guard-post?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=truncated_content&utm_content=pmn_pmn-news_pmn-politics&utm_term=reutersRating: 1.59
North and South Korea exchange gunfire across border at guard post
North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, the country's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11.
3 May 02:56 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/skorea-says-multiple-gunshots-fired-from-nkorea-towards-guard-post-near-border/article31493288.eceRating: 0.30
North and South Korea exchange gunfire at border
North and South Korea exchanged gunfire around the South's guard post early on Sunday, raising tension a day after North Korean leader Kim Jong Un ended an almost three-week absence from public life with state media showing him visiting a factory. Multiple gunshots were fired from North Korea at 7:41 a.m. local time towards a guard post in South Korea that borders the North, the South's joint chiefs of staffs said in a statement. South Korea responded by firing two shots towards North Korea, no injuries were reported. After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, the country's official media published photographs and a report on Saturday that Kim had attended the completion of a fertiliser plant, the first report of his appearance since April 11. Kim was seen in photographs smiling and talking to aides at the ribbon-cutting ceremony and touring the plant. The authenticity of the photos, published on the website of the official Rodong Sinmun newspaper, could not be verified. The exchange of gunshots was the latest confrontation between the rival Koreas that technically remain at war. Choi Kang, vice president of the Asian Institute for Policy Studies, says the timing of the 'grey area' provocation shows Kim is still in charge of the North Korean military. "Yesterday, Kim was trying to show he is perfectly healthy, and today, Kim is trying to mute all kinds of speculation that he may not have full control over the military,” Choi said. "Rather than going all the way by firing missiles and supervising a missile launch, Kim could be reminding us, 'yes I’m healthy and I’m still in power'.” Ewha University international affairs professor Leif-Eric Easley in Seoul said the shooting incident could be aimed at boosting morale in the North Korean military. "The Kim regime may be looking to raise morale of its frontline troops and to regain any negotiating leverage lost during the rumor-filled weeks of the leader's absence," said Easley. "South Korea and the United States should not take lightly such North Korean violations of existing military agreements."
3 May 00:00 • Otago Daily Times Online News • https://www.odt.co.nz/news/world/north-and-south-korea-exchange-gunfire-borderRating: 0.40
As Lockdowns Ease, Some Countries Report New Infection Peaks
3 May 21:46
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As Lockdowns Ease, Some Countries Report New Infection Peaks
ROME (AP) — While millions of people took advantage of easing coronavirus lockdowns to enjoy spring weather, some of the world’s most populous countries reported worrisome new peaks in infections Sunday, including India, which saw its biggest single-day jump yet. Second in population only to China, India reported more than 2,600 new infections. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed death toll in Britain climbed near that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s outbreak, even though the U.K. population is younger than Italy’s and Britain had more time to prepare before the pandemic hit. The United States continues to see tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 new deaths reported Saturday. Health experts warn that a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically once the lockdowns are relaxed. But pressure to reopen keeps building after the weeks-long shutdown of businesses worldwide plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. China, which reported only two new cases, saw a surge in visitors to newly reopened tourist spots after domestic travel restrictions were loosened ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 COVID deaths in the 24-hour period ending Sunday evening — the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens were set to reopen on Monday. In Spain, many ventured outside for the first time since the country’s lockdown began March 14, but social distancing rules remained in place. Masks are mandatory starting Monday on public transit. In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will lift its lockdown. The restrictions are due to last through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily — twice as many recently as Italy or Spain — it’s unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care while being treated for COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper that he knew his doctors were preparing for the worst. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,’’ he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario’’ if he succumbed to the virus. Another potentially troubling sign emerged in Afghanistan’s capital city of Kabul, where a third of the 500 people selected in random test came up positive for the virus. In the U.S., New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” White House coronavirus coordinator Deborah Birx expressed concern about protests by armed and mostly maskless crowds demanding an end to stay-at-home orders and a full reboot of the economy. President Donald Trump has encouraged people to “liberate” their states. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally, because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather … they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” she said. “So we need to protect each other at the same time we’re voicing our discontent.” If restrictions are lifted too soon, the virus could come back in “small waves in various places around the country,” said Dr. Tom Inglesby, director of the Center for Health Security of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Nothing has changed in the underlying dynamics of this virus,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that his state would join with six others to create a regional supply chain for masks, gowns, ventilators, testing supplies and other equipment for fighting the disease. “It will make us more competitive in the international marketplace, and I believe it will save taxpayers money,” Cuomo said. Meanwhile, the divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move more cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday in Washington. The Democrat-controlled House of Representatives is staying shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite the risks. Russia’s latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country’s number of confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the population of 1.3 billion marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown. The official death toll reached 1,323. Pope Francis called Sunday for international collaboration in the search for a vaccine and treatment for COVID-19 and invited faithful of all religions to spiritually unite in prayer, fasting and works of charity on May 14. The virus has infected 3.4 million people and killed more than 244,000 worldwide, including more than 66,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. All the numbers are considered to be undercounts, due to testing issues, the problems of counting deaths in a pandemic and deliberate concealment by some governments. —- Moritsugu reported from Beijing and Gorondi from Budapest, Hungary, and Kirka from London. Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.
3 May 21:46 • Talking Points Memo • https://talkingpointsmemo.com/news/lockdowns-ease-countries-new-infection-peaksRating: 0.30
As COVID-19 lockdowns ease, some countries report new infection peaks | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
ROME >> While millions of people took advantage of easing coronavirus lockdowns to enjoy spring weather, some of the world’s most populous countries reported worrisome new peaks in infections today, including India, which saw its biggest single-day jump yet. Second in population only to China, India reported more than 2,600 new infections. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed total death toll in Britain climbed near that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s outbreak, even though the U.K. population is younger than Italy’s and Britain had more time to prepare before the pandemic hit. The United States continues to see tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 additional deaths reported Saturday. Health experts have warned of a potential second wave of infections unless testing is expanded dramatically once the lockdowns are relaxed. But pressure to reopen keeps building after the weekslong shutdown of businesses worldwide plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. At a virtual town hall tonight, President Donald Trump acknowledged that some Americans are worried about getting sick while others are concerned about losing jobs. Though the administration’s handling of the pandemic, particularly the ability to conduct widespread testing, has come under criticism, the president defended the response and said the nation was ready to begin reopening. “We have to get it back open safely but as quickly as possible,” Trump said. China, which reported only two new cases, saw a surge in visitors to newly reopened tourist spots after domestic travel restrictions were loosened ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 COVID deaths in the 24-hour period ending this evening — the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens were set to reopen on Monday. In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will lift its lockdown. The restrictions are due to last through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily — twice as many recently as Italy or Spain — it’s unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care while being treated for COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper that he knew his doctors were preparing for the worst. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario” if he succumbed to the virus. Another potentially troubling sign emerged in Afghanistan’s capital city of Kabul, where a third of the 500 people selected in random test came up positive for the virus. In the U.S., New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” White House coronavirus coordinator Deborah Birx expressed concern about protests by armed and mostly maskless crowds demanding an end to stay-at-home orders and a full reboot of the economy. Trump has encouraged people to “liberate” their states. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally, because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather … they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” she said. “So we need to protect each other at the same time we’re voicing our discontent.” If restrictions are lifted too soon, the virus could come back in “small waves in various places around the country,” said Dr. Tom Inglesby, director of the Center for Health Security of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Nothing has changed in the underlying dynamics of this virus,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Meanwhile, the divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move more cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday in Washington. The Democrat-controlled House of Representatives is staying shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite the risks. Elsewhere, Russia’s latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country’s number of confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the population of 1.3 billion marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown. The official death toll reached 1,323. And in Mexico City, where authorities expect infections to peak next week, workers will turn the Hernandez Rodriguez Formula 1 racecourse into a temporary hospital for COVID-19 patients. The paddocks and suites along the front straightaway will have eight hospital modules with 24 beds each. The pits will be used as offices for consultations. Government have reported the virus has infected 3.5 million people and killed more than 247,000 worldwide, including more than 67,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. All the numbers are considered to be undercounts, due to testing issues, the problems of counting deaths in a pandemic and deliberate concealment by some governments.
3 May 16:15 • Star-Advertiser • https://www.staradvertiser.com/2020/05/03/breaking-news/as-covid-19-lockdowns-ease-some-countries-report-new-infection-peaks/Rating: 0.30
As lockdowns ease, some countries report new infection peaks
ROME (AP) — While millions of people took advantage of easing coronavirus lockdowns to enjoy the spring weather, some of the world’s most populous countries reported worrisome new peaks in infections Sunday, including India, which saw its biggest single-day jump yet. Second in population only to China, India reported more than 2,600 new infections. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed death toll in Britain climbed near that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s outbreak, even though the U.K. population is younger than Italy’s and Britain had more time to prepare before the pandemic hit. The United States continues to see tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 new deaths reported Saturday. Health experts warn that a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically once the lockdowns are relaxed. But pressure to reopen keeps building after the weeks-long shutdown of businesses worldwide plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. China, which reported only two new cases, saw a surge in visitors to newly reopened tourist spots after domestic travel restrictions were loosened ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 COVID deaths in the 24-hour period ending Sunday evening — the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens were set to reopen on Monday. In Spain, many ventured outside for the first time since the country’s lockdown began March 14, but social distancing rules remained in place. Masks are mandatory starting Monday on public transit. In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will lift its lockdown. The restrictions are due to last through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily — twice as many recently as Italy or Spain — it’s unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care while being treated for COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper that he knew his doctors were preparing for the worst. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,’’ he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario’’ if he succumbed to the virus. Another potentially troubling sign emerged in Afghanistan’s capital city of Kabul, where a third of the 500 people selected in random test came up positive for the virus. In the U.S., New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” White House coronavirus coordinator Deborah Birx expressed concern about protests by armed and mostly maskless crowds demanding an end to stay-at-home orders and a full reboot of the economy. President Donald Trump has encouraged people to “liberate” their states. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally, because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather … they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” she said. “So we need to protect each other at the same time we’re voicing our discontent.” If restrictions are lifted too soon, the virus could come back in “small waves in various places around the country,” said Dr. Tom Inglesby, director of the Center for Health Security of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Nothing has changed in the underlying dynamics of this virus,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Meanwhile, the divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move more cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday in Washington. The Democrat-controlled House of Representatives is staying shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite the risks. Russia’s latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country’s number of confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the population of 1.3 billion marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown. The official death toll reached 1,323. Pope Francis called Sunday for international collaboration in the search for a vaccine and treatment for COVID-19 and invited faithful of all religions to spiritually unite in prayer, fasting and works of charity on May 14. The virus has infected 3.4 million people and killed more than 244,000 worldwide, including more than 66,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. All the numbers are considered to be undercounted, due to testing issues, the problems of counting deaths in a pandemic and deliberate concealment by some governments.
3 May 18:01 • WSVN 7News • https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/as-lockdowns-ease-some-countries-report-new-infection-peaks/Rating: 0.30
As coronavirus lockdowns ease, some countries report new infection peaks
While millions of people took advantage of easing coronavirus lockdowns to enjoy the outdoors, some of the world’s most populous countries reported worrisome new peaks in infections Sunday, including India, which saw its biggest single-day jump yet. Second in population only to China, India reported more than 2,600 new infections. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed total death toll in Britain climbed near that of Italy, the epicentre of Europe’s outbreak, even though the British population is younger than Italy’s and Britain had more time to prepare. The United States continues to see tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 additional deaths reported Saturday. Health experts have warned of a potential second wave of infections unless testing is expanded dramatically once the lockdowns are relaxed. But pressure to reopen keeps building after the week-long shutdown of businesses plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. At a virtual town hall Sunday night, President Donald Trump acknowledged some Americans are worried about getting sick while others are concerned about losing jobs. Though the administration’s handling of the pandemic, particularly the ability to conduct widespread testing, has come under criticism, the president defended the response and said the nation was ready to begin reopening. “We have to get it back open safely but as quickly as possible,” Trump said. China, which reported only two new cases, saw a surge in visitors to tourist spots newly reopened ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 deaths in the 24-hour period ending Sunday evening – the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens were set to reopen on Monday. In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will lift its lockdown. The restrictions are due to last through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily, it’s unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care while being treated for COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper that he knew his doctors were preparing for the worst. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a `death of Stalin’-type scenario” if he succumbed to the virus. Another potentially troubling sign emerged in Afghanistan’s capital of Kabul, where a third of 500 people tested randomly were positive. In the U.S., New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. Speaking on Fox News Sunday, White House coronavirus co-ordinator Deborah Birx expressed concern about protests by armed and mostly maskless crowds demanding an end to stay-at-home orders and a full reboot of the economy. Trump has encouraged people to “liberate” their states. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally, because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather … they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” she said. “So we need to protect each other at the same time we’re voicing our discontent.” If restrictions are lifted too soon, the virus could come back in “small waves in various places around the country,” said Tom Inglesby, director of the Center for Health Security of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Nothing has changed in the underlying dynamics of this virus,” he said on NBC’s Meet the Press. Meanwhile, the divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move more cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday in Washington. The Democrat-controlled House of Representatives is staying shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite the risks. Elsewhere, Russia’s latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country’s confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the lockdown of its 1.3 billion people was extended two more weeks, but with some measures relaxed. The official death toll reached 1,323. And in Mexico City, where authorities expect infections to peak next week, workers will turn the Hernandez Rodriguez Formula 1 racecourse into a temporary hospital for COVID-19 patients. The paddocks and suites along the front straightaway will have eight hospital modules with 24 beds each. The pits will be used as offices for consultations. Governments have reported 3.5 million infections and more than 247,000 deaths, including more than 67,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. Deliberately concealed outbreaks, low testing rates and the severe strain the disease has placed on health care systems mean the true scale of the pandemic is undoubtedly much greater. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 12:42 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-some-countries-emerge-from-lockdown-as-coronavirus-restrictions-begin/Rating: 2.18
Many lockdowns ease but Russia, India, UK still struggling
ROME (AP) -- From the United States to Europe to Asia, the easing of some coronavirus lockdowns brought millions out of their homes to enjoy the outdoors and warm spring temperatures. Yet the global pandemic is still slicing through the defenses of other nations, causing infections and deaths to march relentlessly higher.India on Sunday reported more than 2,600 infections, its biggest single-day jump, and new coronavirus cases in Russia exceed 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed virus death toll in Britain was creeping up near that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe's outbreak, even though the UK population is younger than Italy's and Britain had more time than Italy to prepare before the pandemic hit.There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where nearly a third tested positive in a random test of 500 people in Kabul, the capital city. China, which reported two only new cases, is seeing a surge in visitors to newly reopened tourist spots after domestic travel restrictions were relaxed ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday.Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai's main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less to keep some social distancing in place.Italians are counting down the hours until Monday, when parks and public gardens were re-opening nationwide for strolling, jogging or bike riding. But with sunshine and warm temperatures across the country, many were outside in force Sunday, walking down streets and chatting on sidewalks. Many had masks, but in Rome, some lowered them to talk with friends or neighbors.Despite the easing, Italians will still have to stay a meter apart, picnics are not allowed and playgrounds will remain closed. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has warned that if the rate of contagion starts rising again, such freedoms will be curtailed.In Spain, many ventured out this weekend for the first time since its lockdown began on March 14."I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape," runner Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will leave the lockdown that began March 23. The restrictions are due to last at least until through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily, it's unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. Britain over the last two days reported double the number of deaths that both Spain and Italy reported.While Johnson has said Britain is past the peak of its coronavirus outbreak, his Conservative government is facing sharp criticism as it becomes clear that Britain will have one of the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 deaths in the world. British medical workers have also denounced what they call is a shortage of protective equipment.Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City's Central Park, joggers moved past each other and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards. "It's great to have an audience after all these weeks,'' saxophonist Julia Banholzer said. "All my dates have been canceled through September, and I don't know if any will come back this year."Neighboring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. "Forty-six days in the house was enough," she said.The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move more cautiously extended to Congress.The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday in Washington, DC, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives is staying shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing.In India, air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities Sunday to thank doctors, nurses and police who have been at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. US Navy and Air Force fighter jets flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington on Saturday in honor of health care workers. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives, cost millions of jobs and left millions of day laborers in a desperate search for food and shelter. The official death toll reached 1,323. Afghanistan's health ministry said Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 10,633 new infections on Sunday, nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia's new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital's medical facilities will be overwhelmed. A Russian epidemiologist, however, said the sharp increase in coronavirus cases reflected increased testing. Alexander Gintsburg of the Gamaleya Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology was quoted by the Interfax news agency as saying the increasing number of infections does not indicate a deepening pandemic, noting that testing has doubled over the past 10 days.Russia has reported 1,222 virus deaths among 124,000 infections, numbers that health experts widely believe undercount the true toll of its outbreak. The virus has infected 3.4 million people and killed more than 244,000 worldwide, including leaving more than 66,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has seen more than 139,00 confirmed virus deaths, with more than 28,000 each in Italy and Britain and around 25,000 each in France and Spain. Health experts warn that a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. But there are enormous pressures to ease lockdowns, since the weeks-long shutdown of businesses around the world has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and has wiped out millions of jobs. (AP)
3 May 12:55 • Koreaherald • http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200503000261Rating: 1.56
As lockdowns ease, some countries report new infection peaks
ROME -- While millions of people took advantage of easing coronavirus lockdowns to enjoy spring weather, some of the world's most populous countries reported worrisome new peaks in infections Sunday, including India, which saw its biggest single-day jump yet. India, second in population only to China, reported more than 2,600 new infections. And in Russia, new coronavirus cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed death toll in Britain climbed near that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe's outbreak, even though the U.K. population is younger than Italy's and Britain had more time to prepare before the pandemic hit. The United States continues to see tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 new deaths reported Saturday. Health experts warn that a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically after lockdowns are eased. But pressure to reopen economies keeps building after the weeks-long shutdown of businesses worldwide plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. China, which reported only two new cases, has seen a surge in visitors to newly reopened tourist spots after domestic travel restrictions were relaxed ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai's main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity. Meanwhile, Italians counted down the hours until Monday's reopening of parks and public gardens. With sunshine and warm temperatures across the country, many people went outdoors, walking down streets and chatting on sidewalks. Despite the easing, Italians will still have to stay a meter (3 feet) apart. Picnics are not allowed, and playgrounds will remain closed. In a sign that the disease still has a firm grip in some places, Rome's infectious diseases hospital admitted 28 confirmed COVID-19 patients from a nursing home. In Spain, many ventured outside for the first time since the country's lockdown began March 14, but social distancing rules remained in place. Masks are mandatory starting Monday on public transit. "There is highly probability that we will see new outbreaks," said Spanish health expert Fernando Simon. "That is what we must be prepared for and keep in mind over the following months." In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will lift the lockdown that began March 23. The restrictions are due to last through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily -- twice as many recently as Italy or Spain -- it's unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care while being treated for COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper that he knew his doctors were preparing for the worst. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he said. "They had a strategy to deal with a `death of Stalin'-type scenario" if he succumbed to the virus. Another potentially troubling sign emerged in Afghanistan's capital city of Kabul, where a third of the 500 people selected in random test came up positive for the virus. In the U.S., New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. "Forty-six days in the house was enough," she said. Speaking on "Fox News Sunday," White House coronavirus co-ordinator Deborah Birx expressed concern about protests by armed and mostly maskless crowds demanding an end to stay-at-home orders and a full reboot of the economy. President Donald Trump has encouraged people to "liberate" their states. "It's devastatingly worrisome to me personally, because if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather ... they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives," she said. "So we need to protect each other at the same time we're voicing our discontent." Meanwhile, the divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move more cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday in Washington. The Democrat-controlled House of Representatives is staying shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's decision to convene 100 senators gives President Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite the risks. Russia latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia's new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital's medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Russian epidemiologist Alexander Gintsburg told the Interfax news agency that the sharp increase in cases reflected increased testing, which has doubled over the past 10 days, and did not indicate a deepening pandemic. In all, Russia has reported 1,222 virus deaths among 124,000 infections, numbers that health experts widely believe undercount the true toll of its outbreak. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country's number of confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the population of 1.3 billion marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives, cost millions of jobs and left millions hungry and desperate. The official death toll reached 1,323. Pope Francis called Sunday for international collaboration in the search for a vaccine and treatment for COVID-19 and invited faithful of all religions to spiritually unite in prayer, fasting and works of charity on May 14. The virus has infected 3.4 million people and killed more than 244,000 worldwide, including more than 66,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has seen more than 139,00 confirmed virus deaths, with more than 28,000 each in Italy and Britain and around 25,000 each in France and Spain. All the numbers are considered to be undercounts, due to testing issues, the problems of counting deaths in a pandemic and deliberate concealment by some governments. --- Moritsugu reported from Beijing and Gorondi from Budapest, Hungary. AP journalists around the world contributed to this report.
3 May 12:10 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/as-lockdowns-ease-some-countries-report-new-infection-peaks-1.4922684Rating: 2.87
Thailand reports 3 new COVID-19 cases, as some restrictions ease
BANGKOK: Thailand reported three new COVID-19 cases and no deaths on Sunday (May 3), as the country started lifting restrictions on some businesses and aspects of life. The new infections marked the lowest number since early March, just before the country started reporting clusters and tolls started rising. Thailand has seen a total of 2,969 coronavirus cases and 54 deaths since the outbreak began in January. New daily infections have stayed in the single digits for a week. The government has allowed some businesses and public parks to reopen on Sunday, as well as resumed alcohol sales. Six types of activities and businesses will benefit from the partial relaxation. This includes markets, eateries outside department stores, retailers, sports and recreational activities, hair salons and barbershops, as well as pet grooming and boarding businesses. However, the government warned that it would reverse the relaxation if the number of new cases increase during a 14-day observation period. The nationwide curfew between 10pm and 4am will remain until the state of emergency ends on May 31. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 15:38 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-covid-19-new-cases-restrictions-ease-12697766Rating: 3.25
Coronavirus: More than 66,441 dead in U.S., 243,015 have died globally
“More than 3.44 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 243,015 have died,” Reuters calculated as of 0200 GMT on Sunday, based on public health data from around the world. At least 66,441 people in the U.S. are confirmed to have died of COVID-19, as of May 3. There is widespread understanding that the U.S. death toll undercounts coronavirus deaths, in part because of problems with access to testing. Does this look like a flattened curve? Does this look like a good time to lift restrictions?
3 May 12:03 • Boing Boing • https://boingboing.net/2020/05/03/coronavirus-more-than-66441.htmlRating: 1.31
More than 240,000 coronavirus deaths worldwide
PARIS (AFP) - More than 240,000 people have died of the new coronavirus worldwide with over 85 percent of the deaths in Europe and the United States, according to an AFP tally at 1530 GMT on Saturday based on official figures.There have been 240,231 deaths out of 3,371,435 global cases since the virus emerged in China in December. Europe is the worst-hit continent accounting for 141,475 deaths out of 1,516,635 cases. The United States has the highest number of deaths at 65,173, followed by Italy (28,236), Britain (28,131), Spain (25,100) and France (24,594).
3 May 10:58 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543822-More-than-240,000-coronavirus-deaths-worldwideRating: 1.71
People venture outside as virus restrictions ease and temperatures rise
The coronavirus pandemic has taken a turn for the worse in some countries, with India and Russia recording grim milestones. People in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as coronavirus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. The global pandemic took a turn for the worse in other places, however, with India reporting more than 2,600 new cases on Sunday, its biggest single-day jump. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. while the US continues to have tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 new deaths reported Saturday. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 Covid-19 deaths in the 24-hour period ending on Sunday evening – the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens are expected to reopen on Monday. In Spain, many ventured outside for the first time since the country’s lockdown began March 14 but social distancing rules remained in place and masks will be mandatory on public transport. New Jersey in the US reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Russia’s latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country’s number of confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the population of 1.3 billion marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown. The official death toll reached 1,323. Meanwhile, Pope Francis for international collaboration in the search for a vaccine and treatment for Covid-19 and invited people of all religions to spiritually unite in prayer, fasting and works of charity on May 14. The virus has infected 3.4 million people and killed more than 244,000 worldwide, including more than 66,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University.
3 May 08:31 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/people-venture-outside-as-virus-restrictions-ease-and-temperatures-rise/Rating: 0.30
People venture outside as virus restrictions ease and temperatures rise
People in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as coronavirus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. The global pandemic took a turn for the worse in other places, however, with India reporting more than 2,600 new cases on Sunday, its biggest single-day jump. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. while the US continues to have tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 new deaths reported Saturday. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 Covid-19 deaths in the 24-hour period ending on Sunday evening – the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens are expected to reopen on Monday. In Spain, many ventured outside for the first time since the country’s lockdown began March 14 but social distancing rules remained in place and masks will be mandatory on public transport. New Jersey in the US reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Russia’s latest tally of infections was nearly double the new cases reported a week ago. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, where concern is rising about whether the capital’s medical facilities will be overwhelmed. Indian air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities to thank doctors, nurses and police at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. The country’s number of confirmed cases neared 40,000 as the population of 1.3 billion marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown. The official death toll reached 1,323. Meanwhile, Pope Francis for international collaboration in the search for a vaccine and treatment for Covid-19 and invited people of all religions to spiritually unite in prayer, fasting and works of charity on May 14. The virus has infected 3.4 million people and killed more than 244,000 worldwide, including more than 66,000 dead in the United States, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University.
3 May 08:32 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/people-venture-outside-as-virus-restrictions-ease-and-temperatures-rise/Rating: 0.30
The burden of coronavirus: How does Covid-19 mortality rate differ across countries
With over a million Covid-19 patients and more than 60,000 deaths, the United States continues to bear the brunt of the coronavirus outbreak. Europe is the worst-hit continent accounting for more than 1 million cases. An analysis of the Covid-19 mortality rate among European nations suggests that Germany has considerably low numbers Covid-19 fatalities as compared to other countries in the continent like France, Italy, the UK, and Spain. While the UK, Spain, Italy and France have reported more than 25,000 coronavirus fatalities, for Germany the figure rounds up at over 6000 deaths. According to the latest data, Spain has reported 216,582 Covid-19 cases, Italy is at 209,328, followed by the United Kingdom (183,500), France (168,518) and Germany with 164,967 coronavirus cases. Johns Hopkins University suggests Covid-19 countries across the globe have reported very different coronavirus “case fatality ratios”. It is the number of deaths divided by the number of confirmed cases. Also read: What is Remdesivir? How can it help in Covid-19 treatment The University states that the number of fatalities can differ across regions owing to the following factors: - Differences in the number of people tested: With more testing, more people with milder cases are identified. This lowers the case-fatality ratio. - Demographics: For example, mortality tends to be higher in older populations. - Characteristics of the healthcare system: For example, mortality may rise as hospitals become overwhelmed and have fewer resources, among other factors. Going by ‘case fatality ratios’, the university data suggest the US to have 5.9% Covid-19 fatality ratio (over 65,000 deaths on more than one million cases) while Germany stands at 4.1%. India is projected to have over 3% Covid-19 mortality ratio with more than 1300 deaths of total 39,980 Covid-19 cases. Johns Hopkins ‘case fatality ratios’ exhibits the ‘burden’ of Covid-19 across various countries. “Countries at the top of the figure have the most deaths proportionally to their Covid-19 cases or population, not necessarily the most deaths overall,” it says. According to the data, the list of countries with highest Covid-19 fatality ratios - most deaths proportionally to their Covid-19 cases or population - has Belgium on top with 15% Covid-19 death rate. The country has around 50,000 coronavirus patients and nearly 8,000 fatalities. The United Kingdom comes second with over 15% fatality ratio followed by France (14.7%), Italy (13.6%) and the Netherlands (12.3%) (Inputs from Johns Hopkins University)
3 May 05:26 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/the-burden-of-coronavirus-how-does-covid-19-mortality-differ-across-countries/story-sZc59kQyoFxf00ppg1KupO.htmlRating: 0.30
Thailand reports three new coronavirus cases, as some restrictions ease
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand reported three new coronavirus cases and no new deaths on Sunday, as the country started lifting restrictions on some businesses and aspects of life. The new infections marked the lowest number since early March, just before the country started reporting clusters and tolls started rising. Thailand has seen a total of 2,969 coronavirus cases and 54 deaths since the outbreak began in January. New daily infections have stayed in the single digits for a week. The government has allowed some businesses and public parks to reopen on Sunday, as well as resumed alcohol sales.
3 May 04:56 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-thailand-idUSKBN22F050Rating: 4.04
Thailand reports three new coronavirus cases, as some restrictions ease
BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand reported three new coronavirus cases and no new deaths on Sunday, as the country started lifting restrictions on some businesses and aspects of life. The new infections marked the lowest number since early March, just before the country started reporting clusters and tolls started rising. Thailand has seen a total of 2,969 coronavirus cases and 54 deaths since the outbreak began in January. New daily infections have stayed in the single digits for a week. The government has allowed some businesses and public parks to reopen on Sunday, as well as resumed alcohol sales. (Reporting by Patpicha Tanakasempipat)
3 May 04:56 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/thailand-reports-three-coronavirus-cases-045639966.html/Rating: 0.30
As lockdowns ease, some countries report new infection peaks
ROME (AP) - While millions of people took advantage of easing coronavirus lockdowns to enjoy spring weather, some of the world’s most populous countries reported worrisome new peaks in infections Sunday, including India, which saw its biggest single-day jump yet. Second in population only to China, India reported more than 2,600 new infections. In Russia, new cases exceeded 10,000 for the first time. The confirmed death toll in Britain climbed near that of Italy, the epicenter of Europe’s outbreak, even though the U.K. population is younger than Italy’s and Britain had more time to prepare before the pandemic hit. The United States continues to see tens of thousands of new infections each day, with more than 1,400 new deaths reported Saturday. Health experts warn that a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically once the lockdowns are relaxed. But pressure to reopen keeps building after the weeks-long shutdown of businesses worldwide plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. China, which reported only two new cases, saw a surge in visitors to newly reopened tourist spots after domestic travel restrictions were loosened ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than 1 million visitors, according to Chinese media. Many spots limited daily visitors to 30% of capacity. On the eve of Italy’s first steps toward easing restrictions, the Health Ministry reported 174 COVID deaths in the 24-hour period ending Sunday evening - the lowest day-to-day number since the national lockdown began on March 10. Parks and public gardens were set to reopen on Monday. In Spain, many ventured outside for the first time since the country’s lockdown began March 14, but social distancing rules remained in place. Masks are mandatory starting Monday on public transit. In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under pressure to reveal how the country will lift its lockdown. The restrictions are due to last through Thursday, but with hundreds of deaths still being reported daily - twice as many recently as Italy or Spain - it’s unclear how the country can safely loosen the restrictions. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care while being treated for COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper that he knew his doctors were preparing for the worst.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/emerging-from-lockdown-46-days-in-the-house-was-en/Rating: 0.79
More than 240,000 coronavirus deaths worldwide: AFP tally
More than 240,000 people have died of the new coronavirus worldwide with over 85 percent of the deaths in Europe and the United States, according to an AFP tally at 1530 GMT on Saturday based on official figures. Follow live updates on the coronavirus pandemic here There have been 240,231 deaths out of 3,371,435 global cases since the virus emerged in China in December. Europe is the worst-hit continent accounting for 141,475 deaths out of 1,516,635 cases. The United States has the highest number of deaths at 65,173, followed by Italy (28,236), Britain (28,131), Spain (25,100) and France (24,594).
2 May 21:48 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/more-than-240000-coronavirus-deaths-worldwide-afp-tally-832842.htmlRating: 2.25
Global Coronavirus death toll crosses 2.4 lakh, over 85% of fatalities reported from Europe and US
Washington, May 02: More than 2,40,000 people have died of the new coronavirus worldwide with over 85% of the deaths in Europe and the United States, according to an AFP tally on Saturday based on official figures. There have been 2,40,231 deaths out of 33,71,435 global cases since the virus emerged in China in December. Europe is the worst-hit continent accounting for 1,41,475 deaths out of 15,16,635 cases. The US has the highest number of deaths at 65,173, followed by Italy (28,236), Britain (28,131), Spain (25,100) and France (24,594).
2 May 14:50 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/international/global-coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-2-4-lakh-over-85-of-fatalities-reported-from-us-europe-3081851.htmlRating: 0.30
More than 240,000 coronavirus deaths worldwide
PARIS, France – More than 240,000 people have died of the new coronavirus worldwide with over 85% of the deaths in Europe and the United States, according to an AFP tally at 1530 GMT on Saturday, May 2, based on official figures. There have been 240,231 deaths out of 3,371,435 global cases since the virus emerged in China in December. Europe is the worst-hit continent accounting for 141,475 deaths out of 1,516,635 cases. The United States has the highest number of deaths at 65,173, followed by Italy (28,236), Britain (28,131), Spain (25,100) and France (24,594). – Rappler.com
2 May 16:40 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/global-affairs/259754-coronavirus-deaths-worldwide-may-2-2020Rating: 1.64
More than 240,000 deaths reported due to Covid-19: Report
More than 240,000 people have died of the new coronavirus worldwide with over 85 percent of the deaths in Europe and the United States, according to an AFP tally at 1530 GMT on Saturday based on official figures. There have been 240,231 deaths out of 3,371,435 global cases since the virus emerged in China in December. Europe is the worst-hit continent accounting for 141,475 deaths out of 1,516,635 cases. The United States has the highest number of deaths at 65,173, followed by Italy (28,236), Britain (28,131), Spain (25,100) and France (24,594).
2 May 16:52 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/more-than-240-000-deaths-reported-due-to-covid-19-report/story-W0cLk8OLslVWXwJNFF3RbO.htmlRating: 0.30
More than 300,000 UK smokers may have quit owing to Covid-19 fears
3 May 23:01
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Weighted average IN: 3.1299971584006587
More than 300,000 UK smokers may have quit owing to Covid-19 fears
More than 300,000 in the UK may have quit smoking during the coronavirus crisis as evidence mounts that the habit makes them more vulnerable to Covid-19, a survey suggests. A further 550,000 have tried to quit, while 2.4 million have cut down, according to the joint study by YouGov and the campaign group Action on Smoking and Health (Ash). The survey of 1,004 people suggested 2% of smokers had quit because of concerns about coronavirus; 8% were trying to quit; 36% had cut down; and 27% were now more likely to quit. A quarter of former smokers said they were less likely to resume smoking, although 4% said the pandemic had made them more likely to relapse. The results of the survey were welcomed by several health and anti-smoking organisations in a statement released by #QuitforCOVID Twitter campaign. Dr Nick Hopkinson, the chairman of Ash who is also a respiratory specialist at Imperial College London, said: “Smoking harms the immune system and our ability to fight off infections. Evidence is growing that smoking is associated with worse outcomes in those admitted to hospital with Covid-19. “Quitting smoking also rapidly reduces people’s risk of other health problems such as heart attacks and strokes. Those are bad whenever they happen, so preventing them is an end in itself and is especially important at a time like now when everyone is keen to stay out of hospital.” Ruth Tennant, the tobacco lead for the Association of Directors of Public Health, said: “There are so many reasons to quit smoking but never a more important time than right now during the coronavirus pandemic.” The founder of the #QuitforCOVID campaign urged more people to stop smoking during the pandemic and beyond. “Stopping smoking remains the single biggest thing people can do to improve their overall health,” said Dr Charlie Kenward, a GP from Bristol. “It will improve heart and lung health as well as reducing the chances of developing cancer and even improve wound healing after surgery. There has never been a better time to quit.” Cllr Ian Hudspeth, the community wellbeing board chairman at the Local Government Association, said: “Councils can help the government to achieve its ambition of eliminating smoking in England by 2030, through their tobacco control and other public health and support services, but need certainty over their long-term funding to help do so.”
3 May 23:01 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/may/04/more-than-300000-uk-smokers-may-have-quit-owing-to-covid-19-fearsRating: 5.39
More than 300,000 Britons quit smoking over Covid-19 fears – survey
More than 300,000 Britons have quit smoking during the coronavirus crisis as evidence mounts that the habit leaves them more vulnerable to Covid-19, a survey suggests. A further 550,000 Britons have tried to quit, while 2.4 million have cut down, according to the joint study by the UK arm of YouGov’s international Covid-19 tracker in conjunction with anti-smoking group Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). The survey, of 1,004 people, suggested 2% of smokers had now quit due to Covid-19 concerns. In addition, 8% of smokers said they were trying to quit, 36% said they had cut down, and 27% said they were now more likely to quit. Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. A quarter of ex-smokers said they were now less likely to resume smoking, although 4% say the pandemic had made them more likely to relapse. The figures were welcomed by several health and anti-smoking bodies in a statement issued by the \#QuitforCOVID Twitter campaign. ASH chairman Nick Hopkinson, a respiratory specialist at Imperial College London, said: “Smoking harms the immune system and our ability to fight off infections. “Evidence is growing that smoking is associated with worse outcomes in those admitted to hospital with Covid-19. “Quitting smoking also rapidly reduces people’s risk of other health problems such as heart attacks and strokes – those are bad whenever they happen, so preventing them is an end in itself, but it’s especially important at a time like now when everyone is keen to stay out of hospital.” Ruth Tennant, tobacco lead for the Association of Directors of Public Health, said: “There are so many reasons to quit smoking but never a more important time than right now during the coronavirus pandemic.” The founder of the \#QuitforCOVID campaign on Twitter, Bristol GP Charlie Kenward, encouraged more people to stop smoking amid the pandemic and beyond. “Stopping smoking remains the single biggest thing people can do to improve their overall health,” he said. Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. “It will improve heart and lung health as well as reducing the chances of developing cancer and even improve wound healing after surgery. “There has never been a better time to quit.” The government is aiming to end smoking in England by 2030 as part of a range of measures to address preventable ill health. And the Local Government Association said councils will play a role in helping this happen. Community Wellbeing Board chairman Ian Hudspeth said: “Smokers are at particular risk of Covid-19 and it is encouraging that so many have quit the habit for good. “Councils can help the Government to achieve its ambition of eliminating smoking in England by 2030, through their tobacco control and other public health and support services, but need certainty over their long-term funding to help do so.”
3 May 23:03 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-04/more-than-300-000-britons-quit-smoking-over-covid-19-fears-survey/Rating: 0.88
More than 300,000 Britons quit smoking over Covid-19 fears – survey
The study comes as evidence grows that smokers with the disease run a greater risk of becoming severely ill than non-smokers. More than 300,000 Britons have quit smoking during the coronavirus crisis as evidence mounts that the habit leaves them more vulnerable to Covid-19, a survey suggests. A further 550,000 Britons have tried to quit, while 2.4 million have cut down, according to the joint study by the UK arm of YouGov’s international Covid-19 tracker in conjunction with anti-smoking group Action on Smoking and Health (ASH). The survey, of 1,004 people, suggested 2% of smokers had now quit due to Covid-19 concerns. In addition, 8% of smokers said they were trying to quit, 36% said they had cut down, and 27% said they were now more likely to quit. A quarter of ex-smokers said they were now less likely to resume smoking, although 4% say the pandemic had made them more likely to relapse. The figures were welcomed by several health and anti-smoking bodies in a statement issued by the #QuitforCOVID Twitter campaign. ASH chairman Nick Hopkinson, a respiratory specialist at Imperial College London, said: “Smoking harms the immune system and our ability to fight off infections. “Evidence is growing that smoking is associated with worse outcomes in those admitted to hospital with Covid-19. “Quitting smoking also rapidly reduces people’s risk of other health problems such as heart attacks and strokes – those are bad whenever they happen, so preventing them is an end in itself, but it’s especially important at a time like now when everyone is keen to stay out of hospital.” Ruth Tennant, tobacco lead for the Association of Directors of Public Health, said: “There are so many reasons to quit smoking but never a more important time than right now during the coronavirus pandemic.” The founder of the #QuitforCOVID campaign on Twitter, Bristol GP Charlie Kenward, encouraged more people to stop smoking amid the pandemic and beyond. “Stopping smoking remains the single biggest thing people can do to improve their overall health,” he said. “It will improve heart and lung health as well as reducing the chances of developing cancer and even improve wound healing after surgery. “There has never been a better time to quit.” The government is aiming to end smoking in England by 2030 as part of a range of measures to address preventable ill health. And the Local Government Association said councils will play a role in helping this happen. Community Wellbeing Board chairman Ian Hudspeth said: “Smokers are at particular risk of Covid-19 and it is encouraging that so many have quit the habit for good. “Councils can help the Government to achieve its ambition of eliminating smoking in England by 2030, through their tobacco control and other public health and support services, but need certainty over their long-term funding to help do so.”
3 May 23:03 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/more-than-300000-britons-quit-smoking-over-covid-19-fears-survey/Rating: 0.30
Joe Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting
3 May 18:09
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9 articles
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Weighted average GB: 0.13369247750896027
Average IN: 1.633333333333333
Weighted average IN: 2.8431534689496245
Joe Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting
TOPEKA, Kan. — Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice president had been expected to prevail in Saturday’s vote and capture a majority of the state’s delegates to the Democrats’ national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Biden won 29 delegates and Sanders got 10, inching Biden closer to the number of delegates he needs to clinch the Democratic nomination. He has a total of 1,435 delegates and needs 1,991 to win the nomination on the first ballot at the party’s national convention this summer, a threshold Biden is likely to reach in June after many states postponed their primaries. Sanders has 984 delegates, according to the count by the Associated Press released Sunday. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order, and the change nearly tripled participation over four years ago, with 34.7% of registered Democrats casting ballots. “Kansas Democrats made history in this election with record participation levels along with demonstrating how a vote-by-mail election can protect voters and our democracy, even in the most uncertain of times,” party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in a statement. “We are confident the enthusiasm and engagement seen during the 2020 Primary will only continue to grow and translate into Democratic victories up and down the ballot in November.” A Democratic presidential candidate hasn’t carried Kansas in November since Lyndon Johnson in 1964. Sanders easily won Kansas’ caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state’s 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. The lowest vote-getter — Gabbard in this case — was then eliminated, and her votes redistributed to the other choices in a second round if voters listed a second choice. That process continued until only candidates with at least 15% of the vote remained, eventually only Biden and Sanders.
3 May 18:09 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/joe-biden-wins-kansas-primary-conducted-with-all-mail-balloting/?utm_campaign=SocialFlow&utm_medium=SocialFlow&utm_source=NYPTwitterRating: 2.55
Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting
TOPEKA, KAN. -- Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice-president had been expected to prevail in Saturday's vote and capture a majority of the state's delegates to the Democrats' national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Biden won 29 delegates and Sanders got 10, inching Biden closer to the number of delegates he needs to clinch the Democratic nomination. He has a total of 1,435 delegates and needs 1,991 to win the nomination on the first ballot at the party's national convention this summer, a threshold Biden is likely to reach in June after many states postponed their primaries. Sanders has 984 delegates, according to the count by the Associated Press released Sunday. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order, and the change nearly tripled participation over four years ago, with 34.7% of registered Democrats casting ballots. "Kansas Democrats made history in this election with record participation levels along with demonstrating how a vote-by-mail election can protect voters and our democracy, even in the most uncertain of times," party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in a statement. "We are confident the enthusiasm and engagement seen during the 2020 Primary will only continue to grow and translate into Democratic victories up and down the ballot in November." A Democratic presidential candidate hasn't carried Kansas in November since Lyndon Johnson in 1964. Sanders easily won Kansas' caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state's 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. The lowest vote-getter -- Gabbard in this case -- was then eliminated, and her votes redistributed to the other choices in a second round if voters listed a second choice. That process continued until only candidates with at least 15% of the vote remained, eventually only Biden and Sanders. This story has been corrected to explain that in the ranked-choice voting, only the lowest vote-getter was knocked out after the first round, not all candidates with less than 15% of the vote.
3 May 18:37 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/biden-wins-kansas-primary-conducted-with-all-mail-balloting-1.4922904Rating: 2.87
Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice president had been expected to prevail in Saturday's vote and capture a majority of the state’s delegates to the Democrats’ national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Biden won 29 delegates and Sanders got 10, inching Biden closer to the number of delegates he needs to clinch the Democratic nomination. He has a total of 1,435 delegates and needs 1,991 to win the nomination on the first ballot at the party’s national convention this summer, a threshold Biden is likely to reach in June after many states postponed their primaries. Sanders has 984 delegates, according to the count by the Associated Press released Sunday. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order, and the change nearly tripled participation over four years ago, with 34.7% of registered Democrats casting ballots. “Kansas Democrats made history in this election with record participation levels along with demonstrating how a vote-by-mail election can protect voters and our democracy, even in the most uncertain of times," party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in a statement. “We are confident the enthusiasm and engagement seen during the 2020 Primary will only continue to grow and translate into Democratic victories up and down the ballot in November.” A Democratic presidential candidate hasn't carried Kansas in November since Lyndon Johnson in 1964. Sanders easily won Kansas’ caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state’s 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. The lowest vote-getter — Gabbard in this case — was then eliminated, and her votes redistributed to the other choices in a second round if voters listed a second choice. That process continued until only candidates with at least 15% of the vote remained, eventually only Biden and Sanders. ____ Editors: This story has been corrected to explain that in the ranked-choice voting, only the lowest vote-getter was knocked out after the first round, not all candidates with less than 15% of the vote. ___ Follow John Hanna on twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna
3 May 17:30 • THE OKLAHOMAN • https://oklahoman.com/article/feed/10046584/biden-wins-kansas-primary-conducted-with-all-mail-ballotingRating: 0.30
Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting
TOPEKA, Kan. — Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice-president had been expected to prevail in Saturday's vote and capture a majority of the state’s delegates to the Democrats’ national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Biden won 29 delegates and Sanders got 10, inching Biden closer to the number of delegates he needs to clinch the Democratic nomination. He has a total of 1,435 delegates and needs 1,991 to win the nomination on the first ballot at the party’s national convention this summer, a threshold Biden is likely to reach in June after many states postponed their primaries. Sanders has 984 delegates, according to the count by the Associated Press released Sunday. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order, and the change nearly tripled participation over four years ago, with 34.7% of registered Democrats casting ballots. “Kansas Democrats made history in this election with record participation levels along with demonstrating how a vote-by-mail election can protect voters and our democracy, even in the most uncertain of times," party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in a statement. “We are confident the enthusiasm and engagement seen during the 2020 Primary will only continue to grow and translate into Democratic victories up and down the ballot in November.” A Democratic presidential candidate hasn't carried Kansas in November since Lyndon Johnson in 1964. Sanders easily won Kansas’ caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state’s 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. The lowest vote-getter — Gabbard in this case — was then eliminated, and her votes redistributed to the other choices in a second round if voters listed a second choice. That process continued until only candidates with at least 15% of the vote remained, eventually only Biden and Sanders. ____ Editors: This story has been corrected to explain that in the ranked-choice voting, only the lowest vote-getter was knocked out after the first round, not all candidates with less than 15% of the vote. ___ Follow John Hanna on twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna John Hanna, The Associated Press
3 May 17:30 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/world-news/biden-wins-kansas-primary-conducted-with-all-mail-balloting-2320486Rating: 0.30
Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
TOPEKA, Kan. >> Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice president had been expected to prevail in Saturday’s vote and capture a majority of the state’s delegates to the Democrats’ national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Biden won 29 delegates and Sanders got 10, inching Biden closer to the number of delegates he needs to clinch the Democratic nomination. He has a total of 1,435 delegates and needs 1,991 to win the nomination on the first ballot at the party’s national convention this summer, a threshold Biden is likely to reach in June after many states postponed their primaries. Sanders has 984 delegates, according to the count by the Associated Press released Sunday. Sanders easily won Kansas’ caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state’s 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. A candidate who failed to get 15% in the first round of voting had his or her votes reallocated to voters’ second choices, and the process continued until the only remaining candidates all had at least 15%. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order. Many Democrats hoped a smooth primary would encourage greater reliance on mail balloting in Kansas’ regular primary in August and its November general election.
3 May 16:41 • Star-Advertiser • https://www.staradvertiser.com/2020/05/03/breaking-news/biden-wins-kansas-primary-conducted-with-all-mail-balloting/Rating: 0.30
Biden wins Kansas primary conducted with all-mail balloting
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice president had been expected to prevail in Saturday's vote and capture a majority of the state’s delegates to the Democrats’ national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Biden won 29 delegates and Sanders got 10, inching Biden closer to the number of delegates he needs to clinch the Democratic nomination. He has a total of 1,435 delegates and needs 1,991 to win the nomination on the first ballot at the party’s national convention this summer, a threshold Biden is likely to reach in June after many states postponed their primaries. Sanders has 984 delegates, according to the count by the Associated Press released Sunday. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order, and the change nearly tripled participation over four years ago, with 34.7% of registered Democrats casting ballots. “Kansas Democrats made history in this election with record participation levels along with demonstrating how a vote-by-mail election can protect voters and our democracy, even in the most uncertain of times," party chairwoman Vicki Hiatt said in a statement. “We are confident the enthusiasm and engagement seen during the 2020 Primary will only continue to grow and translate into Democratic victories up and down the ballot in November.” A Democratic presidential candidate hasn't carried Kansas in November since Lyndon Johnson in 1964. Sanders easily won Kansas’ caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state’s 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. The lowest vote-getter — Gabbard in this case — was then eliminated, and her votes redistributed to the other choices in a second round if voters listed a second choice. That process continued until only candidates with at least 15% of the vote remained, eventually only Biden and Sanders. ____ Editors: This story has been corrected to explain that in the ranked-choice voting, only the lowest vote-getter was knocked out after the first round, not all candidates with less than 15% of the vote. ___ Follow John Hanna on twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna
3 May 13:45 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/biden-wins-kansas-primary-conducted-134540974.htmlRating: 0.30
Joe Biden wins Kansas primary
Joe Biden has won the Kansas primary, and CBS News estimates he picked up another 29 delegates. That gives him a total of 1,424 out of the 1,991 delegates needed to clinch the Democratic nomination. Bernie Sanders was awarded 10 delegates. Sanders suspended his campaign in April, but has remained on the ballot in an effort to increase influence at the party's convention in August. As the coronavirus began spreading nationwide in March, Kansas reorganized its primary to be conducted entirely by mail. Ballots had to be received by Saturday, May 2 to be counted. The Kansas Democratic Party said Friday that it already had record turnout, and as of Friday, had triple the turnout of the 2016 caucuses. Sanders won the 2016 caucuses with more than 67% of the vote. "It is very exciting to see such a significant increase in voter turnout for the 2020 Presidential Primary and is testament to the Democratic enthusiasm building among Kansas voters for the last three years," Kansas Democratic Party chair Vicki Hiatt told CBS News on Friday. With a number of states postponing their primaries until June 2, that day is now shaping up to be the next Super Tuesday. Six states — Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island — delayed their primaries to June 2, joining the four states and the District of Columbia that were scheduled to already scheduled to hold primaries that day. Musadiq Bidar contributed reporting. Sen. Grassley: I tried to limit farm subsidy recipients U.S.-Canada border closure leaves families separated amid coronavirus pandemic How to cope with confinement during COVID-19
3 May 21:59 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/joe-biden-wins-kansas-primary-215943925.htmlRating: 0.30
Joe Biden Wins Kansas Primary Conducted Exclusively By Mail
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Joe Biden has overwhelmingly won a Democratic presidential primary in Kansas that the state party conducted exclusively by mail because of the coronavirus pandemic. The former vice president had been expected to prevail in Saturday’s vote and capture a majority of the state’s delegates to the Democrats’ national nominating commission. Biden took 77% of the vote. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders was still in the race when the Kansas party began mailing ballots at the end of March, but he suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. Sanders easily won Kansas’ caucuses in 2016 over former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, riding a surge of enthusiasm among liberal voters and first-time caucus-goers. But the state party mailed ballots this year to more than 400,000 registered Democrats to get a far larger turnout than the 39,000 who voted four years ago. The primary determined how 39 of the state’s 45 national convention delegates would be allocated. The remaining six are party leaders, including Gov. Laura Kelly and U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. Besides Biden and Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also were on the Kansas ballot. Voters also could choose to be uncommitted. The contest also featured ranked-choice voting, allowing voters to pick more than one candidate and rank them. A candidate who failed to get 15% in the first round of voting had his or her votes reallocated to voters’ second choices, and the process continued until the only remaining candidates all had at least 15%. Democratic leaders originally had planned to set up polling places across the state in addition to allowing mail balloting. But they scrapped plans for in-person voting at the end of March after Kelly issued a statewide stay-at-home order. Many Democrats hoped a smooth primary would encourage greater reliance on mail balloting in Kansas’ regular primary in August and its November general election.
3 May 14:01 • HuffPost • https://www.huffpost.com/entry/joe-biden-wins-kansas-primary_n_5eaecc11c5b69a7955193678?guccounter=1Rating: 2.48
Joe Biden Wins Democratic Primary in Kansas Conducted by Mail Ballot – Reports
Joe Biden had been likely to prevail in Saturday's vote and get a majority of the state's delegates to take forward to the Democrats' national nominating commission. He took 77% of the vote. The US presidential vote and congressional elections are scheduled to take place on 3 November. The Republican party is expected to propose Donald Trump for a second term. Earlier, Biden has become the presumptive Democratic nominee due to his victory in the primary elections after Bernie Sanders suspended his campaign and endorsed Biden. The parties are scheduled to officially nominate their candidates at party conventions in August.
3 May 13:46 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/us/202005031079182499-joe-biden-wins-democratic-primary-in-kansas-conducted-by-mail-ballot--reports/Rating: 3.96
Flypasts, showering petals, illuminating ships: How Armed forces thanked ‘Corona warriors’
3 May 14:56
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Flypasts, showering petals, illuminating ships: How Armed forces thanked ‘Corona warriors’
From Leh to Kochi and Mumbai to Guwahati, the Indian Air Force on Sunday carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns as helicopters showered petals on hospitals across the country to express gratitude to healthcare professionals, who are at the forefront of the battle against the coronaviruspandemic. In keeping with Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat’s Friday announcement, jets like Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar conducted fly-pasts in Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Patna, Lucknow, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Bhopal, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Thiruvananthapuram. The Army’s military bands also performed outside leading hospitals dedicated to Covid-19 treatment. The Indian Navy also deployed its choppers to shower flower petals on coastal states and its ships were seen displaying thank you messages saluting the “Covid warriors”. The Eastern Naval Command, Western Naval Command and Southern Naval Command also illuminated a few warships in the evening docked at major ports. In Delhi, the exercise started with laying of wreath at the police memorial, honouring the personnel deployed for enforcement of the nationwide lockdown. A fleet of military jets, including Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar, flew over Rajpath and then orbited over the city for around 30 minutes from 11 am to express gratitude towards medical professionals and all frontline workers. Premier transport aircraft C-130 also carried out a separate fly-past over Delhi-NCR region. The aircraft flew at an approximate height of 500 metres to 1,000 metres keeping in mind the aerospace safety. Air Force choppers showered flower petals on dedicated Covid-19 hospitals such as Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, Sir Gangaram Hospital, Safdarjung Hospital and AIIMS. A fleet of IAF aircraft SU-30 carried out flypasts over Marine Drive and the Governor’s house in Mumbai, thanking the medical staff and sanitation workers in Maharashtra, the worst-affected state with more than 11,000 positive cases and over 500 deaths. An aircraft of the Indian Air Force dropped flowers on J J Hospital, KEM Hospital and Kasturba Gandhi Hospital. Of the total number of coronavirus patients in the state, 200 have been cured so far. The India Navy and the Coast Guard also flew their Chetak helicopters to shower flowers on the J J Hospital and naval medical hospital Asvini in the state capital. IAF aircraft rained petals on hospitals in Ahmedabad and conducted a flypast over the city and the Gujarat Assembly complex in Gandhinagar as a gesture of gratitude towards medics and doctors. The Indian Navy also saluted them by illuminating its vessels along the Gujarat coast in the early hours of Sunday. An IAF helicopter showered petals on the Civil Hospital and civic-run Sardar Vallabhbhai Hospital in Ahmedabad — both treating Covid patients. Track top deveopments in coronavirus situation in India An IAF band also arrived at the two hospitals and played the tune of “Saare Jahaan Se Achcha, Hindustan Hamara”, a defence release said. The Sarang helicopter of the IAF flew past the Government Medical College Hospital and the General Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram as part the Army’s initiative to honour frontline workers battling coronavirus. The chopper hovered over a statue of ‘Mother and child’ at the medical college hospital and moved towards the main entrance to drop flower petals. It then left for General Hospital to honour the medics there. Southern Naval Command also displayed a message saluting the healthcare professionals. Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) deployed their aircraft to paid an aerial salute to frontline personnel in war against Covid-19. An IAF chopper showered flower petals on the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital and the Tamil Nadu Government Multi-Super Specialty Hospital in Chennai. Later, a Coast Guard helicopter carried out a similar activity honouring health workers at Chennai’s Government Stanley Medical College and Kilpauk Medical College In West Bengal too, the IAF showered flower petals on Chittaranjan Cancer Institute and Beliaghata ID hospital — both dealing with coronavirus patients — to express solidarity with the health staffers. Indian Navy’s INS Jalashwa saluted the corona warriors by displaying a ‘thank you’ message while sailing in Bay of Bengal. Armed forces acknowledged the efforts of “corona warriors” in Karnataka with Indian Air Force helicopters dropping flower petals on hospitals. IAF’s Mi-17 helicopter showered flower petals on doctors, nurses and staff at the Victoria Hospital, a designated Covid-19 hospital in Bengaluru. The workers in turn appreciated the efforts by clapping and several of them clicking photos. A similar activity was undertaken at the Command Hospital, defence officials told PTI. They said the INS Vikramaditya ship, which is at Anchorage off Karwar coast, will be illuminated at 7.30 pm and will remain lit till midnight.
3 May 14:56 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/indian-air-force-navy-army-coronavirus-covid-warriours-thank-you-flypast-6391648/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus: IAF chopper showers flower petals on Gandhi Hospital in Hyderabad
Expressing the gratitude of the Defence forces to the coronavirus frontline 'warriors', an Indian Air Force helicopter showered flower petals over the state-run Gandhi Hospital here on Sunday. It was part of the nation-wide thanksgiving effort by the armed forces to honour doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers battling coronavirus. At around 10.30 am, the Chetak helicopter hovered over the hospital and showered petals as doctors, nurses, paramedical, sanitation and other staff and police personnel assembled near the premises. The COVID-19 'warriors' were seen taking videos and photos from their mobile phones while some others clapped. The Gandhi Hospital is among the designated facilities in Telangana for treatment of COVID-19
3 May 11:16 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-iaf-chopper-showers-flower-petals-on-gandhi-hospital-in-hyderabad-832948.htmlRating: 2.25
West Bengal Govt Denies Permission To Indian Air Force To Shower Petals Over Dedicated Covid Hospitals In Kolkata
The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) plan for showering petals over two Kolkata hospitals engaged in fighting the coronavirus across the country on Sunday (3 May) morning was denied approval by the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government, reportsHindustan Times. The exercise is a part of military initiative to show gratitude to the country’s Covid-19 warriors. The hospitals chosen from the city were the ID&BG hospital and the Eastern Command Hospital. It should be noted that the IAF helicopters are showering petals at hospitals across 23 locations in the country which include Delhi, Leh, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Mumbai, Jaipur, Dispur, Itanagar, Trivandrum and Chennai. "The helicopters are planned to carry out petal shower on Police War Memorial at 9 a.m. followed by Delhi hospitals involved in providing relief to patients of COVID-19 between 10-10.30 a.m.," the Air Force said in statement. In Delhi and the National Capital Region, the list of hospitals includes AIIMS, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, GTB Hospital, Loknayak Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjang Hospital, Sri Ganga Ram Hospital, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Max Saket, Rohini Hospital, Apollo Indraprastha Hospital and Army Hospital Research and Referral. "Fighter aircraft formations, comprising of the Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar will be flying over Rajpath, and will orbit over Delhi and will be visible to the residents of Delhi from their roof tops," the force said. In addition, C-130 transport aircraft will follow a similar route as the fighters covering the entire Delhi and NCR region. The aircraft flew at an approximate height of 500 meters to 1000 meters keeping safety in mind especially in respect of bird activity. More than 600 tons of medical supplies and a large number of people have been airlifted including doctors, para-medics and equipment for setting up COVID testing labs. "IAF personnel will continue to contribute towards fight against Corona. As a gratitude to all the Corona Warriors in India, IAF along with sister services is planning to salute these brave warriors of India in its own unique way," the IAF said. With IANS Inputs
3 May 11:51 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/west-bengal-govt-denies-permission-to-indian-air-force-to-shower-petals-over-dedicated-covid-hospitals-in-kolkataRating: 1.22
India honours coronavirus responders with fly-pasts showering petals on hospitals
By Sanjay Jha, ITV News, Delhi India entered its 40th day of a nationwide lockdown having suffered its biggest one-day rise in coronavirus cases, as a further 2,600 were confirmed on Sunday. Indian’s defence forces showed their support for frontline Covid-19 responders with a fly-past across the country by military aircraft, while helicopters showered hospitals treating coronavirus patients with petals, in a show of gratitude to doctors, medical staff and other health workers battling the pandemic. "We (wish to) convey our gratitude to each and every corona warrior and all the citizens of our nation," said India’s General Bipin Rawat, chief of defence staff. The helicopters of the Indian Air Force and navy showered flower petals on hospitals treating Covid-19 patients in most districts across India. Confirmed infections in India have neared the 40,000 mark and the death toll is now 1,301, including 83 deaths in the last 24 hours, health officials said. In the India capital city of New Delhi, a helicopter showered flowers over Lok Narayan Jai Prakash hospital one of the main hospital treating Covid-19 patients, as doctors and other medical workers in gowns and masks cheered on. “It is wonderful gesture on the part of armed forces to recognise our hard work,” said Dr. Balvinder Singh, Medical Superintendent of Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital. “It would give message to people that doctors are doing a great work and showcase appreciation and support for the healthcare workers as first responders." The navy and Coast Guard moved ships in formations at sea and army bands will play tunes outside the hospitals where Covid-19 patients are admitted in an expression of gratitude to the corona warriors. Coronavirus: Everything you need to know
3 May 19:17 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/india-honours-coronavirus-responders-with-fly-pasts-showering-petals-on-hospitals/Rating: 0.88
Armed forces honour ‘corona warriors’
A Chetak helicopter from Eastern Naval Command hovered over GITAM Institute of Medical Science and Research (GIMSR) and Government Hospital for Chest and Communicable Diseases (GHCCD) on Sunday morning and showered flower petals on the doctors, staff nurses, paramedics and sanitation staff, who gathered at the premises. This was done as part of the armed forces gesture across the country to show solidarity with the ‘corona warriors’ in the frontline such as doctors, nurses, other health workers, hygiene and sanitation staff, police personnel and media personnel, who have been risking their lives and relentlessly fighting the COVID and containing the spread of the pandemic. Earlier, Cmde Sanjeev Issar Naval Officer-in-Charge (Andhra Pradesh) felicitated the ‘corona warriors’ at Visakhapatnam on behalf of Eastern Naval Command (ENC) . He presented a bouquet to P.V. Sudhakar, Principal, Andhra Medical College, K.V.V. Vijaya Kumar, Superintendent, Govt. Hospital for Chest and Communicable Diseases, and Surya Kumari, Covid Nodal Officer at GHCCD, and N. Dwarakanath, Medical Superintendent, GITAM Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. While GIMSR is the COVID hospital designated by the State government, GHCCD is an isolation centre. Later in the evening two ships from the ENC, INS Rana, a Rajput-class destroyer, and INS Kamorta, an anti-submarine stealth corvette, at the anchorage off RK Beach was illuminated from 7.30 p.m. to midnight. The ships also fired flares signifying good wishes for the health of the citizens. Speaking to The Hindu, C.V. Rao Pro-Vice Chancellor of GIMSR, and Dr. Sudhakar said that it was a honour and appreciated the gesture of the armed forces.
3 May 17:34 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/armed-forces-honour-corona-warriors/article31495859.eceRating: 0.30
Armed forces thank ‘Covid warriors’ LIVE updates: IAF holds flypasts, showers flower petals on hospitals
Armed forces thank ‘Covid warriors’ LIVE updates: In a thanksgiving exercise to laud the efforts of the country’s healthcare workers engaged in the fight against Covid-19, the Armed forces are holding several “special activities”, including military band displays and flypasts to shower flower petals on hospitals treating coronavirus patients. Later in the evening, the navy will light up its warships to express their gratitude towards the frontline workers. While briefing the media on Friday, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat said: “Air Force will conduct flypast from Srinagar to Trivandrum and another one starting from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kutch in Gujarat. It will include both transport and fighter aircraft.” The Army on its part will conduct mountain band displays along some of the Covid-19 hospitals in almost every district of the country, he said. The thanksgiving activities started with laying of wreaths at the police memorial in Delhi and in other cities honouring the police personnel deployed for enforcement of the nationwide lockdown.
3 May 10:17 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/coronavirus-warriors-air-force-indian-navy-army-flypasts-bands-live-updates-6391335/Rating: 0.30
India’s defence forces honour COVID-19 warriors across India
Indian Air Force deployed its aircraft and fighter helicopters on Sunday to shower petals on hospitals treating coronavirus patients across India. According to the government, this was done to thank healthcare workers and others involved in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. Home Minister Amit Shah shared a photo of an Indian Navy warship thanking corona warriors by a ‘thank you’ sign on its deck. In the photos shared by Shah, one helicopter could be seen showering rose petals at a COVID-19 hospital, believed to be in Ahmedabad, which has reported close to 200 deaths. According to a statement by the defence ministry, an IAF band also arrived at the two hospitals and played the tune of Saare Jahaan Se Achcha, Hindustan Hamara. A report by news agency PTI said that a group of IAF’s Sukhoi fighter jets (SU-30/3 fighter aircraft) carried out a fly-past over Ahmedabad city and the Legislative Assembly building in Gandhinagar in a formation at a low level, it said. In Karnataka, an Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter showered flower petals on doctors, nurses and staff at the Victoria Hospital, which has been designated a designated COVID-19 hospital. Fighter jets were also engaged in carrying out a flypast over the state assembly in Lucknow. Indian Air Force choppers were also deployed to fly over hospitals treating coronavirus patients in Jaipur as they showered petals as a tribute to corona warriors. Three Sukhoi-30 fighter jets flew over the state assembly to pay an aerial salute. Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat on Friday had held an extraordinary press conference on Friday to announce that the defences forces will carry out a series of activities to thank corona warriors. He was joined by the chiefs of all three services.
3 May 09:38 • Janta Ka Reporter • http://www.jantakareporter.com/india/indias-defence-forces-honour-covid-19-warriors-across-india/289482/Rating: 0.38
IAF, Navy salute corona warriors across the country, honour them with flypast
New Delhi: The Indian Air Force and Indian Navy demonstrated a symbolic show of thanks to front-line workers battling the Covid-19 pandemic, as helicopters from the IAF and the Indian Navy fly over hospitals treating coronavirus patients showering flower petals as a tribute. Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat on Friday announced that the three services will carry out a series of activities to thank the “corona warriors”. The thanks-giving activities started with laying of wreaths at the national police memorial in Delhi to honour the police personnel deployed in the enforcement of the nationwide lockdown, officials said. Besides Delhi, the Indian Air Force is carrying out fly-pasts in several other cities including Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Patna and Lucknow, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Bhopal, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Thiruvananthapuram, they said. Military bands are also playing “patriotic tunes” outside various civil hospitals treating coronavirus patients across the country. The Eastern Naval Command and the Western Naval Command are illuminating a number of ships at anchorage from 7.30 pm to midnight. A fleet of military jets on Sunday carried out a spectacular fly-past over the national capital as part of a nationwide exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers engaged in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The military jets, including Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar, flew over Rajpath, Delhi’s centrepiece boulevard, and then orbited over the city for around 30 minutes from 11 am. Premier transport aircraft C-130 also carried out a separate fly-past covering the Delhi and the NCR region. The aircraft flew at an approximate height of 500 metres to 1000 metres keeping aerospace safety in mind. At around 10 am, the Sarang helicopter of the IAF flew past the Government Medical College Hospital and the General Hospital in Thiruvananthapuram as part of the nation-wide initiative. It hovered over a statue of ‘motherand child’ at the medical college hospital and moved towards the main entrance showering petals. A Defence release said the “Indian Coast Guard will honour the front-line workers by illuminating the Coast Guard Ships (Dress Overall) at Shangumugom Area on May 2 and 3 from 6.15 p.m to 8.30 p.m.” An Indian Air Force helicopter showered flower petals at two hospitals in Bhopal on Sunday. The health staff members of the two hospitals, who were wearing the personal protecting equipment (PPE), cheered and clapped while looking at the aircraft in the sky. The MI17 helicopter of the IAF dropped petals at the government-run All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and the private Chirayu Hospital in the Madhya Pradesh capital between 10 am and 10.30 am, an official said. Wing Commander Abhishek Yadav, who was the co- ordinating officer for the exercise, said, “Usually people thank the armed forces, but this time we paid our gratitude to people at the forefront of the battle against COVID-19.” He said the petal showering activity was accomplished under the guidance of Group Captain Shreepath Tokekar. “Four quintals of sanitised flowers were dropped in the exercise,” he added. On the occasion, an Army band played musical tunes on the Chirayu Hospital campus. Police and revenue officials in Bhopal also clapped to thank the frontline health workers. Honouring the corona warriors, Defence forces on Sunday showered flower petals on four government hospitals treating the Covid-19 patients in Chennai. An IAF chopper strew flower petals on the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital and the Tamil Nadu Government Multi-Super Speciality Hospital at Omandurar Estate in the heart of the city. Later, an Indian Coast Guard helicopter carried out a similar activity honouring personnel at the Government Stanley Medical College and Kilpauk Medical College in the city. An Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter showered flower petals on doctors, nurses and staff at the Victoria Hospital, a designated Covid-19 hospital in Karnataka. The front-line workers too acknowledged the gesture by clapping and several of them clicking photos. “We are doing our duty, we know the danger of the disease, but we come here and do as its our duty. Such gesture, that too from the Armed forces is great, it will help us keep going,” a hospital staff said. The Airforce band also performed at the Victoria Hospital on the occasion. A similar activity was undertaken at the Command Hospital here as a mark of appreciation of those from the facility involved in testing of samples for Covid-19, Defence officials said. They said the INS Vikramaditya ship, which is at Anchorage off Karwar coast, will be illuminated at 7.30 PM. There will be a flypast by transport aircraftat C 130 J Hercules at 3.46 over Vidhana Soudha, the seat of state legislature and secretariat here, they added. Meanwhile, the Defence Public Relations Office here tweeted that bands from Madras Engineer Group (MEG), Parachute Regiment Training Centre (PRTC), Army Service Corps bands performed on Saturday thanking the corona warriors. An IAF helicopter on Sunday showered rose petals on doctors, nurses and other para-medical staff of King George’s Medical University (KGMU) and the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute for Medical Sciences (SGPGI) in Lucknow. At around 10.15 am, two rounds of floral showering was conducted by a helicopter of the Indian Air Force over the area in front of the administrative building of KGMU. As the flowers were showered, doctors, nurses and other para-medical staff of KGMU clapped and chanted ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ to express their happiness. Some of the doctors and nurses were overwhelmed by the gesture and became teary-eyed. Head of Department of Transfusion Medicine at KGMU, Tulika Chandra said, “It was an emotional and heart touching scene. There were tears in our eyes The feeling of tiredness, which grips us after spending 18 hours on duty disappeared with this honour and our motivational level increased. Vice-Chancellor of KGMU M L B Bhatt, while expressing happiness said, “The honour, which has been bestowed upon corona warriors today has made the doctors, nurses and para-medical staff very happy.” Meanwhile, director of Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute for Medical Sciences (SGPGI) R K Dhiman said, “This is a proud moment for all corona warriors. We feel that as if we are the jawans of the Indian Army who will take on the enemy in the battle field. He said the gesture has doubled the enthusiasm among the corona warriors at the SGPGI. ThePrint is now on Telegram. For the best reports & opinion on politics, governance and more, subscribe to ThePrint on Telegram. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
3 May 09:02 • ThePrint • https://theprint.in/india/iaf-navy-salute-corona-warriors-across-the-country-honour-them-with-flypast/413524/Rating: 1.95
Indian Army, IAF, Navy salute Coronavirus warriors: Flypast conducted over hospitals in Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi
Indian Armed Forces salute Coronavirus frontline workers: As announced by the chiefs of all three services of the Indian Armed Forces and the Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force on Sunday began their campaign to honour the selfless service of the ‘corona warriors’ in these difficult times. The Indian Air Force is conducting flypasts over state capitals showering flower petals while the Indian Army is performing gestures such as performance by the military bands outside hospitals. The Indian Navy too, will play its part by lighting up the ships on the dockyards of major cities such as Mumbai and Chennai. The gesture began with the Chiefs of the Indian Armed Forces honouring the police force posted across the country amid the ongoing COVID-19 lockdown at the police memorial. Srinagar: Indian Air Force’s flypast over Dal Lake to pay tribute to medical professionals and all other frontline workers. #COVID19pic.twitter.com/kpMxY6gPBh — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020
3 May 08:58 • The Financial Express • https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/indian-army-air-force-covid-19-warriors-army-iaf-navy-coronavirus-flypast-delhi-mumbai-kochi-bipin-rawat/1946567/Rating: 2.37
Indian Armed Forces Express Gratitude Towards 'Corona Warriors' with Fly Pasts Even as Cases Grow
New Delhi (Sputnik): While expressing satisfaction with the work being carried out by medics and police to control the spread of COVID-19 in the country, the Indian government had extended the lockdown till 17 May. Meanwhile, the country has registered record 2,644 new cases and 83 deaths in last 24 hours. The Indian armed forces have carried out countrywide aerial flypasts and showered flower petals on hospitals on Sunday to express their gratitude to thousands of medics and other front-line workers engaged in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indian defence ministry said that Indian Air Force fighter jets have conducted flypasts in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Patna and Lucknow. Fighter aircraft formations, comprising Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar, orbit over Delhi for around 30 minutes from 11 am. The aircraft fly at an approximate height of 500 metres to 1,000 metres, mostly in order to avoid hitting birds. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat and three service chiefs have also paid tribute at a police memorial in Delhi. In other cities, police chiefs and other officials also honoured the police personnel deployed to enforce the nationwide lockdown that began on 24 March. Later in the day, the Indian Navy will illuminate its naval ships from 19:30 to 23:59 local time in different locations with banners displaying "India Salutes Corona Warriors". The unprecedented event took place across the country after Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat announced on Friday that the three services will carry out a series of activities to thank the "corona warriors". The Indian health ministry said that total number of cases had climbed to 39,980 with biggest one-day jump of 2,644 since Saturday, 8:00 a.m. local time. The death toll also jumped, to 1,301 on Sunday. However, the Indian Council of Medical Research, the country's top bio-medical research body, has announced that one million people had been tested throughout the country on the 94th day of testing for COVID-19. This comes as the government has decided to restart the economic activities throughout the 80 percent of the country designated as being in the 'green' or 'orange' zone from 4 May. The country has classified its 733 districts into hotspots, non-hotspots, and non-infected (green) zones, based on whether or not confirmed COVID-19 cases have been reported there. According to the health ministry, there are only 130 hotspots in the country. There are around 284 districts in the country which are parts of orange zones — seen as potential hotspots. However, on this day of national gratitude, the Indian Army lost four personnel including two officers in a fierce gunbattle with terrorists in Handwara in north Kashmir; the raid also claimed the life of a local policeman. In an another incident, one Border Security Force soldier shot his senior officer and then shot himself in a BSF Unit on the Rajasthan-Pakistan border.
3 May 08:33 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/india/202005031079178473-indian-armed-forces-express-gratitude-towards-corona-warriors-with-flypasts-even-as-cases-grow/Rating: 3.96
WATCH: IAF choppers shower flowers in tribute to COVID-19 warriors
Indian Air Force choppers on Sunday showered flower petals on the National War Memorial and the hospitals across the country to honour the police officials and medical experts who are at the forefront in the fight against the Covid-19 disease. An IAF chopper first showered flower petals on the National War Memorial in New Delhi, paying tributes to the police officials for their work and determination amid the nationwide lockdown. Watch video here: Another IAF chopper held a flypast over Government Hospital, Panchkula, while the Indian Army band performed outside the hospital to express gratitude towards medical professionals fighting coronavirus. Meanwhile, an Indian Navy chopper showered flower petals on Goa Medical College in Panaji. On the other hand, an IAF aircraft flew past Marine Drive in Mumbai to express gratitude towards the medical professionals. While briefing the media on Friday, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat said: “Air Force will conduct flypast from Srinagar to Trivandrum and another one starting from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kutch in Gujarat. It will include both transport and fighter aircraft.” The Army on its part will conduct mountain band displays along some of the Covid-19 hospitals in almost every district of the country, he said. CDS General Rawat also said Navy warships will be lit up and their choppers will be used for showering flower petals on hospitals treating coronavirus patients.
3 May 08:12 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/watch-iaf-chopper-showers-flower-petals-on-national-war-memorial/Rating: 0.30
Lockdown 3.0: Armed forces say 'Thank You' to corona warriors; check out latest visuals from different states
India's armed forces are expressing gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers engaged in fighting coronavirus; activities will go on for about 10 hours in different parts of country throughout day India's armed forces are expressing gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers engaged in fighting the coronavirus pandemic by conducting aerial fly-pasts, lighting up ships at sea and showering flower petals on hospitals. The activities will go on for about 10 hours in different parts of the country throughout the day. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat on Friday announced that the three services would carry out a series of activities to thank the "corona warriors". The thanks-giving activities started with laying of wreaths at the police memorial in Delhi and in several other cities in the early morning to honour the police personnel deployed for enforcement of the nationwide lockdown. It's being followed by fly-pasts by fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force, covering a sizeable number of cities and towns across the country beginning 10 AM. Also read: Coronavirus India Live Updates: Lockdown 3.0! 2,644 new cases in 24 hours; biggest 1-day spike; tally-37,776 Cities, where fighter jets of IAF will conduct fly-pasts, include Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Patna and Lucknow. Transport aircraft of the force will carry out similar drills in a number of cities including Srinagar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Jaipur, Bhopal, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Coimbatore and Thiruvananthapuram. They said fighter aircraft formations, comprising Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar, will be flying over Rajpath, Delhi's centrepiece boulevard, and will orbit over the city for around 30 minutes from 10 AM. Also Read: Coronavirus in India: COVID-19 cases near 40,000; check state-wise tally, deaths, list of testing facilities Check out latest visuals coming in from different parts of the country Aircraft shower flowers on King George's Medical University in Lucknow. Aircraft flypast Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhubaneswar. Air Force showers flower petals on Victoria Hospital, Bengaluru. IAF chopper showers flower petals on the Police War Memorial in Delhi. IAF chopper holds flypast over Government Hospital, Panchkula. Navy chopper showers flower petals on Goa Medical College in Panaji. With PTI and ANI inputs
3 May 05:17 • Business Today • https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/lockdown-3-armed-forces-thank-you-corona-warriors-latest-visuals-from-states/story/402720.html?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=WEBRating: 2.10
Defence forces shower petals, play music to honour corona warriors
New Delhi, May 03: Chopper of the Indian Air Force showers flower petals on the Police War Memorial in Delhi in order to express gratitude and appreciation towards the police officials. It is to be noted that these corona warriors, during this time of crisis, are risking their own lives to protect everyone else. Flower petals were also showered by an Indian Air Force helicopter on two hospitals in honour of the front-lineworkers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. At around 10 am, the Sarang helicopter of the IAF flew past the Government Medical College Hospital and the General Hospital here as part the nation-wide initiative by the armed forces to honour doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers battling coronavirus. It hovered over a statue of 'motherand child' at the medical college hospital and moved towards the main entrance showering petals. The lightweight chopper flew past over the hospital once again and left for the General Hospital to honour the COVID-19 warriors there. A Defence release said the "Indian Coast Guard will honour the front-line workers by illuminating the Coast Guard Ships (Dress Overall) at Shangumugom Area on May 2 and 3 from 6.15 p.m to 8.30 p.m." Aircraft of the Indian Air Force showered petals on hospitals in Ahmedabad and conducted a fly-past over the city and the Gujarat Assembly complex in Gandhinagar to thank healthcare workers and others involved in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. An IAF helicopter showered petals on the civil hospital and the civic-run Sardar Vallabhbhai Hospital in Ahmedabad, where coronavirus positive patients are being treated, to express gratitude towards those engaged in the battle against the deadly disease. Personnel of the IAF band also arrived at the two hospitals and played the tune of "Saare Jahaan Se Achcha, Hindustan Hamara", a defence release said. Besides, the IAF's Sukhoi fighter jets (SU-30/3 fighter aircraft) carried out a fly-past over Ahmedabad city and the Legislative Assembly building in Gandhinagar in a formation at a low level, it said. This was part of the nationwide thanksgiving exercise by the armed forces to honour doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other frontline workers battling COVID-19 across the country. An Indian Air Force helicopter showered flower petals at two hospitals in Bhopal on Sunday as a mark of gratitude towards health workers who are at the forefront of the battle against coronavirus. The health staff members of the two hospitals, who were wearing the personal protecting equipment (PPE), cheered and clapped while looking at the aircraft in the sky. The MI17 helicopter of the IAF dropped petals at the government-run All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and the private Chirayu Hospital in the Madhya Pradesh capital between 10 am and 10.30 am, an official said. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat had earlier on Friday stated that the armed forces will carry out special operations across the country on May 3 to express gratitude to the "corona warriors" who have been working at the frontlines in the fight against the pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also welcomed the announcement by CDS Rawat to have the three defence services show solidarity with 'corona warriors'.
3 May 05:07 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/iaf-chopper-showers-petals-on-delhis-police-war-memorial-to-thank-corona-warriors-3082021.htmlRating: 0.30
Armed forces salute corona warriors in thanksgiving events across India | Updates
Fly-pasts by fighter jets, aerial flower shower, performances by military bands at major hospitals and lighting up of warships marked the nation-wide mega exercise by the armed forces on Sunday to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. Indian Air Force's combat jets and transport aircraft flew over various state capitals including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Guwahati, Patna, Lucknow, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram to salute the corona warriors. Army's military bands also performed at leading hospitals treating coronavirus patients across the country. A large number of helicopters belonging to the IAF and the Indian Navy dropped flower petals over leading hospitals treating coronavirus patients across the country. Here's how the armed forces honoured India's 'corona warriors' in thanksgiving events across various states: Ships lit up at Mumbai anchorage, flare fires Indian Navy ships illuminated: Ships of the Eastern Naval Command illuminated at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Indian Coast Guard illuminates its ships to show solidarity with frontline workers for their contribution in the fight against Covid-19 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Indian Navy ships of Southern Naval Command illuminated at The Anchorage in Ernakulam channel in Kochi, Kerala. Indian Navy ships fire flares: Indian Navy fires flares in the air as a mark of gratitude and appreciation for the frontline workers. Watch: Navy ships light up in Chennai: INS Sahyadri and INS Kamorta of the Indian Navy illuminated near Marina Beach in Tamil Nadu's Chennai to express gratitude towards medical professionals and all frontline workers. Navy 'punches' coronavirus: Indian Navy ship INS Vikramaditya symbolically punches coronavirus on its lit deck as armed forces pay tribute to the corona warriors. Watch: Jammu and Kashmir: The flypast began on Sunday morning with IAF aircraft seen flying over the Dal Lake in Srinagar. Chandigarh: After they took flight from Srinagar, the two the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft were photographed over Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. Floral tribute to police, security forces: At the same time, an Indian Air Force chopper showered flower petals on the Police War Memorial in New Delhi to pay tribute to police officers keeping the law and order across the country in this time of crisis. Haryana: Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers flew past the Panchkula Government hospital in Haryana while an Indian Army band performed underneath to express gratitude towards frontline workers. Goa: Navy choppers showered flower petals on the Goa Medical College in Panaji to thank frontline workers for their efforts towards battling the novel coronavirus outbreak. Flypast over Rajpath: The C-130 J Super Hercules aircraft conducted a flypast over Rajpath in Delhi at around 10:15 am on Sunday morning. Mumbai: Chetak helicopters of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard shower flower petals on medical staff and sanitation workers of Naval hospital Asvini at Colaba, Mumbai. The Indian Air Force's Su-30 aircraft flew past Marine Drive in Mumbai on Sunday morning in honour of the frontline workers working day and night to contain the Covid-19 outbreak in the city. Flower petals were also showered on hospitals KEM, KGH and JJ by Mi17 helicopter of IAF and Chetaks of Navy and Coast Guard. Uttar Pradesh: IAF choppers showered flowers over King George's Medical University in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh as a tribute to frontline workers. IAF choppers flew past Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on Sunday morning as part of the armed forces' show of gratitude towards frontline workers. Karnataka: An IAF chopper showered flower petals over the Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru to honour the healthcare workers on the frontline in the fight against the novel coronavirus. Tamil Nadu: An IAF chopper flowered petals over The Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu as part of the tribute to frontline workers. Telangana: An IAF chopper flew over Hyderabad to pay tribute to frontline workers. INS Jalashwa thanks Corona Warriors: The crew of INS Jalashwa, currently deployed in the Bay of Bengal, also expressed their gratitude towards frontline workers putting their lives on the line in the fight against Covid-19. IAF's fighters flypast over Delhi: IAF's fighter planes conducted a flypast over Delhi on Sunday to pay tribute to frontline workers. Madhya Pradesh: An IAF chopper showered flower petals over the Chirayu Medical College and Hospital in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh as part of the armed forces' tribute to Corona Warriors. Meghalaya: A chopper of the Indian Air Force showered petals over the Civil Hospital in Shillong on Sunday. Chhattisgarh: IAF also conducted a flypast over AIIMS-Raipur on Sunday. Kerala: Helicopters and surveillance aircraft of the Southern Naval Command at Kochi conducted a flypast over the General Hospital, Ernakulam. A Sarang Helicopter under the IAS' Southern Air Command flowered petals over the Trivandrum Medical College in Kerala. Bihar: An IAF chopper showered petals over Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH) in Patna on Sunday. Leh: IAF's Chinook helicopters showered flower petals over Leh in honour of frontline workers. Gujarat: In a mark of tribute for frontline workers battling Covid-19, IAF choppers showered flower petals over the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Assam: A Mi-17 helicopter conducted a flypast starting from Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and showered flower petals on the COVID-19 warriors at Guwahati Medical College Hospital (GMCH) and Mahendra Mohan Choudhury hospital in Guwahati as a mark of aerial salute to the COVID-19 warriors. Rajasthan: IAF fighters conducted a flypast over the Sawai Mansingh hospital in Jaipur to express gratitude towards frontline workers. Floral tribute at AIIMS: An IAF chopper showered flower petals over AIIMS, RML hospital and LNJP hospital in New Delhi on Sunday. Indian Army band pays tribute: The Indian Army band was seen playing outside the Covid-19 quarantine centre in Delhi's Narela on Sunday morning as a mark of respect for all frontline workers risking their lives to fight off the novel coronavirus outbreak. Army band pays tribute: An Indian Army band paid tribute to frontline workers at the Military Hospital in Jalandhar on Sunday. West Bengal: A Mi-17 helicopter flew past the Command hospital in Kolkata on Sunday to express gratitude towards healthcare workers. Uttarakhand: IAF helicopters showered flower petals on the Doon Medical College in Dehradun. Navy band pays tribute: A Southern Naval Command band performed onboard a naval warship in the Ernakulam channel in Kochi on Sunday morning as a tribute to India's corona warriors. Defence Minister applauds salute of the armed forces: In a series of tweets, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh complimented the armed forces for carrying out the activities to show respects of the armed forces to the front-line people fighting the pandemic. "I thank the Armed Forces for their special initiatives like fly pasts, showering flower petals and several other performances to express gratitude towards medical professionals, police and other frontline warriors. The entire nation stands united in these challenging times," Singh said. He said the "frontline warriors" are doing commendable work in strengthening India's fight against COVID-19. Salute from sky to sea: The armed forces through various military gestures are saluting coronavirus warriors today. There are flypasts by fighter and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) at multiple locations as announced earlier by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat Rawat. These aircraft will cover cities starting from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram and Dibrugarh to Kutch. Helicopters from the IAF and Indian Navy will fly over hospitals treating coronavirus patients and shower petals as a tribute to coronavirus warriors. While C-130 transport aircraft will fly over Rajpath, the fighter will fly between 10 am-11 am. This flying activity is combined with the training activity of the IAF and opportunity flight for transport aircraft and helicopters who are involved in moving supplies related to Covid-19 task. Flower petals will be dropped in Itanagar, Guwahati, Shillong and Kolkata, around 10:30 am. The Air Force band will be playing in Guwahati as well for paying tribute to the corona warriors. In Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow, the flower-petal showering will take place at KGMU and SGPGI Trauma Center between 10:15-10:30 am. Fighter aircraft will flypast over Vidhan Sabha in Lucknow around 12:20 pm. In the evening, Naval ships on the coasts of Mumbai, Porbandar, Karwar, Vizag, Chennai, Kochi and Port Blair will light up and flare fires in solidarity with the corona warriors. Indian Coast Guard ships will be seen at 24 places including Porbandar, Okha, Ratnagiri, Dahanu, Murud, Goa, New Mangalaore, Kavarati, Karaikal, Chennai, Krishnapatnam, Nizamapatanam, Puducherry, Kakinada, Paradip, Gopalpur/Puri, Sagar Island, Port Blair, Diglipur, Mayabundur, Hut bay and Campbel Bay. CDS General Bipin Rawat had on Friday said the armed forces will express their gratitude to the coronavirus warriors through various military gestures on Sunday. General Bipin Rawat said the tri-services including Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force will organise various events for the doctors, nurses, police, media, delivery personnel, bank employees, government employees and local store owners as a mark of respect for them.
3 May 04:33 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/flypast-armed-forces-honor-frontline-workers-battling-coronavirus-surge-1673840-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
Flypasts to petal drops: How armed forces will thank Covid warriors today
The Indian armed forces have made elaborate arrangements to express gratitude to doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers engaged in fighting the coronavirus pandemic by conducting aerial flypasts, light up naval ships and shower flower petals on hospitals on Sunday. On Friday, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat announced that the three services will carry out a series of activities to thank the "corona warriors". "The nation stood together and showed resilience in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. On behalf of armed forces, we want to thank all the corona warriors -- doctors, nurses, sanitation workers, police, home guards, delivery boys and media," he said. The event will start on Sunday morning with a wreath-laying at the Police Memorial in New Delhi on behalf of all three Service Chiefs to pay respects for the sacrifice by police and paramilitary forces. It will be followed by flypasts by fighter and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force, covering a sizeable number of cities and towns across the country between 10 am to 11 am, officials told news agency PTI. "These aircraft will cover major towns starting from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram and Dibrugarh to Kutch. Helicopters from the IAF and Indian Navy will fly over hospitals treating coronavirus patients and shower petals as a tribute to the corona warriors," Army PRO Colonel Aman Anand said. He said some of the aircraft will be flown as low as 500 metres so that people can witness the flypasts from the safety of their homes. The Eastern Air Command will conduct petal drops in Itanagar, Guwahati, Shillong and Kolkata at 10:30 am. While Air Force will display a band performance in Guwahati. In Gujarat, South Western Air Command has planned petal drops over two hospitals in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar which will be conducted from 9 am to 10 am. ALSO READ: Coronavirus LIVE: Over 1 mn RT-PCR tests conducted; total India cases 39699 Military bands will play "patriotic tunes" outside various civil hospitals treating coronavirus patients to express gratitude to doctors, nurses and paramedics, Col Anand added. Separately, Indian Navy helicopters would shower petals on hospitals treating coronavirus patients at Mumbai, Goa, Kochi and Vizag between 10 am to 10.30 am. Navy officials said the Western Naval Command will illuminate five naval ships from 7.30 pm to 11.59 pm off Gateway of India in Mumbai. They would display banners like "India Salutes Corona Warriors" and will sound the siren of the ships and fire flares at 7.30 pm at anchorage. Additionally, the Naval air stations at Goa would organise a human chain on the runway. The Eastern Naval Command will illuminate two ships at anchorage from 7.30 pm to midnight at Visakhapatnam coast. ALSO READ: Covid-19 Factoid: 2 of every 5 new cases last week were from Maharashtra Col Anand said Indian Coast Guard ships will be seen at 24 places, including in Porbandar, Okha, Ratnagiri, Dahanu, Murud, Goa, New Mangalaore, Kavarati, Karaikal, Chennai, Krishnapatnam, Nizamapatanam, Puducherry, Kakinada, Paradip, Sagar Island, Port Blair, Diglipur, Mayabundur, Hut bay and Campbel Bay. So far, coronavirus has infected 37,776 people in India and claimed the lives of 1,223 people, according to the Union Health Ministry. Gen Rawat's announcement about the special activities came shortly before the Union Home Ministry said the the current lockdown will be extended by another two weeks from Monday. The lockdown came into force on March 25 and was to end on April 14. It was first extended till May 3.
3 May 01:44 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/coronavirus-update-flypasts-to-petal-drops-how-armed-forces-will-thank-covid-warriors-today-120050300096_1.htmlRating: 0.30
Hyderabad: Defence forces salute Covid warriors
Pilots from Hakimpet to shower petals on Gandhi Hospital Hyderabad: Elaborate arrangements are being made to conduct the aerial flypasts, lighting up of ships at sea and showering flower petals on several hospitals to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics, sanitation staff and other front-line workers engaged in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. A decision to this effect was announced by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat on Friday and following this, arrangements are on at the Air Force Station, Hakimpet, to shower rose petals from an helicopter on Gandhi Hospital, which has been dedicated as Covid-19 hospital, as a gesture to honour the Covid Warriors.At 9.30 am on Sunday. Group Captain (Medical) K S Raju and Group Captain Pankaj Gupta from Air Force Station, Hakimpet, have been assigned to take this responsibility in Hyderabad. Gandhi Hospital Superintendent Dr Raja Rao has issued a circular on Saturday asking all doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, class four employees, contract and outsourcing employees involved in patient care, sanitation and security duties as well as Telangana police personnel guarding the hospital to assemble at Prof Jayashankar statue in hospital premises in full uniform. TGGDA state president (legal) Dr Praveen Pallam and Dr Subodh and Dr Ranga from local Gandhi unit of TGGDA thanked the Indian Air Force for their kind gesture. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
2 May 21:19 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/telangana/hyderabad-defence-forces-salute-covid-warriors-620476Rating: 1.10
Deploy IAF flypast to take migrants home, not waste precious flying hours for a show
Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and the three service chiefs held a press conference on Friday. Heavy on morale-boosting sound bytes and designs, there was little information about how the Indian military was poised to support the government, in addition to carrying out its routine duties, and how prepared it was to take on additional roles in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. The pronouncements were largely focused on celebrating India’s Covid-19 warriors, for which the chiefs announced a host of initiatives — Indian Air Force flypasts (from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram and from Dibrugarh to Kutch) with flower petals being showered on hospitals; Indian Army bands playing motivational tunes along hospitals treating Covid-19 patients in every district of the country; and Indian Navy ships showcasing solidarity with a display of lights along the Indian coast. Activities planned by the Army bands around silent zones like hospitals can be managed, and even be a morale-booster, while the Naval activities do not demand a huge logistical effort either, although very few among the target audience will be able to witness them. But the efficacy of flypasts by the Indian Air Force (IAF) must be reconsidered. There is no doubt that flypasts are great motivators, but it must be assessed if our Covid-19 warriors will really be able to immerse themselves in the experience, or even catch a fleeting glimpse of the aircraft as they pass overhead. Rather than mobilising fleets across the country, it would make sense to conduct the flypasts over certain concentrated areas as a symbolic gesture, and then share the footage on social media for the benefit of the rest. In fact, a tri-services effort captured in film would be even more impactful. Moreover, it would be optimum to utilise this latent, spare capacity and deploy it for essential services like transporting stranded people back to their homes safely, efficiently and swiftly, thus supporting other public transport services. This will be a great service, and will be appreciated by our heavily burdened Covid-19 warriors. Also read: Bureaucracy intact in Indian military. DMA only brings ill-advised orders for armed forces If it is about trying to replicate last week’s flypast events carried out by the US Air Force and US Navy, then it must be recalled that those had two purposes — maintaining flying currency and providing sufficient practice for their aerobatic teams because their prior engagements had been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. And even when the flypast events were conducted, ‘cost-benefit’ analysis ultimately played a role. Likewise, it may be prudent for the IAF to figure out how to ensure maximum bang for the buck — boosting morale while providing essential services and preserving operational potential. Finally, it must be kept in mind that flying is inherently expensive and hours need to be conserved for a future emergency. Coming soon after the incident wherein the parents of Colonel NS Bal, who died battling cancer last month, couldn’t be accorded an airlift on the IAF’s precious aircraft and had to travel 2,600 km by road to perform their son’s last rites, we should seriously ponder what counts for morale, and how best it can be displayed. Squadron Leader Anshuman Mainkar (Retd) served in the Indian Air Force and flew the MiG 21 and MiG 27 aircraft. He tweets at @anshumig. Views are personal. ThePrint is now on Telegram. For the best reports & opinion on politics, governance and more, subscribe to ThePrint on Telegram. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
2 May 06:03 • ThePrint • https://theprint.in/opinion/deploy-iaf-flypast-migrants-home-waste-flying-hours-show/413058/Rating: 1.95
From showering rose petals to illuminating naval vessels: Here's how armed forces are saluting corona warriors
From showering rose petals over hospitals treating Covid-19 patients to illuminating naval vessels, the armed forces through various military gestures are saluting coronavirus warriors on Sunday. The nation will witness flypasts by fighter and transport aircrafts of the Indian Air Force (IAF) at multiple locations on Sunday as announced earlier by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat Rawat. These aircrafts will cover major towns starting from Srinagar to Thiruvanathapuram and Dibrugarh to Kutch. The helicopters from the IAF and Indian Navy will fly over hospitals treating coronavirus patients and shower petals as a tribute to the coronavirus warriors. The IAF is scheduled to shower flower petals over two hospitals in Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar between 9-10 am. Flower petals will also be dropped in Itanagar, Guwahati, Shillong and Kolkata, around 10.30 am. The Air Force band will be playing in Guwahati as well for paying tribute to the corona warriors. In Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow, the flower-petal showering will take place at KGMU and SGPGI Trauma Center between 10.15-10.30 am. Fighter aircraft will flypast over Vidhan Sabha in Lucknow around 12.20 pm. In the national capital, the fighter and transport aircrafts will fly between 10 am-11 am. This flying activity is combined with the training activity of the IAF and opportunity flight for transport aircraft and helicopters who are involved in moving supplies related to Covid-19 task.The aerial salute to the corona warriors' is scheduled in Delhi between 10-10.30 am. Fighter aircraft formations, comprising of the Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar will be flying over Rajpath, and will orbit over Delhi and will be visible to the residents of Delhi from their roof tops. In addition, C-130 transport aircraft will follow a similar profile as fighters covering the entire Delhi and NCR region. The aircraft will be flying at an approximate height of 500 meters to 1,000 meters keeping aerospace safety in mind especially in respect of bird activity. Here's the complete schedule of petal dropping by helicopters: Additionally, helicopters are schedulled to drop flower petals over the Police War Memorial at 9 am, followed by Delhi hospitals involved in providing relief to patients of Covid-19 between 10-10.30 am. The list of hospitals includes: AllMS, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, GTB Hospital, Loknayak Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Safdarjang Hospital, Sri Ganga Ram Hospital, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Max Saket, Rohini Hospital, Apollo Indraprastha Hospital and Army Hospital Research and Referal. The aerial salute from the armed forces will be flown as low as 500 meters so that everyone is able to witness the same from their home. Military bands all over the country will visit various civil hospitals treating Covid-19 patients to express their gratitude by playing patriotic tunes. In the evening, Naval ships on the coasts of Mumbai, Porbandar, Karwar, Vizag, Chennai, Kochi and Port Blair will light up and flare fires in solidarity with the corona warriors. Indian Naval aviation assets would shower petals by helicopters on hospitals treating Covid-19 patients in Mumbai, Goa, Kochi and Vizag between 10 am-10.30 am. Indian Coast Guard ships will be seen at 24 places including Porbandar, Okha, Ratnagiri, Dahanu, Murud, Goa, New Mangalaore, Kavarati, Karaikal, Chennai, Krishnapatnam, Nizamapatanam, Puducherry, Kakinada, Paradip, Gopalpur/Puri, Sagar Island, Port Blair, Diglipur, Mayabundur, Hut bay and Campbel Bay. Additionally, the Naval Air Stations at Goa would display human chain messages on the runway to honour the corona warriors. On Friday, CDS General Bipin Rawat said that the armed forces will express their gratitude to the coronavirus warriors through various military gestures on Sunday. General Bipin Rawat said the tri-services including Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force will organise various events for the doctors, nurses, police, media, delivery personnel, bank employees, government employees and local store owners as a mark of respect for them. "During the current crisis, it is the doctors, nurses, policemen, media, sanitation workers, delivery personnel, bank employees, government employees and local store owners who have put their lives on the line to ensure that we as a nation are protected and cared for adequately. These are the invisible hands which have held the country together in these challenging times. armed forces wish to thank these proud Indians for their selfless service," General Bipin Rawat said. Speaking about the military by the tri-services, General Bipin Rawat said: "It will be to display our respect towards the sacrifice by our police and paramilitary forces who protect us at all times and keep us safe internally. Wreaths will be laid at the Police Memorial on behalf of all three service chiefs." The wreath laying ceremony will take place at the National Police Memorial in Delhi at 9.30 am on Sunday. "While we do these activities, we shall follow all social distancing guidelines and request all of you too. We are proud of our corona warriors and salute their sacrifice. We request you all to join us in this effort of the armed forces," Bipin Rawat said. Bipin Rawat also said that the armed forces are fully prepared amid coronavirus pandemic to address any type of threat that could emanate from land, sea or air.
2 May 09:43 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/from-showering-rose-petals-to-illuminating-naval-vessels-here-s-how-armed-forces-will-salute-corona-warriors-1673637-2020-05-02Rating: 0.30
France reports 135 more deaths from COVID-19, taking toll to 24,895
3 May 18:18
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France reports 135 more deaths from COVID-19, taking toll to 24,895
PARIS (Reuters) - The number of people who have died in France after contracting the new coronavirus rose on Sunday by 135 to 24,895, the health ministry said. The number of people treated in hospital for the coronavirus and the number of people in intensive care units continued to decline, it said. The number of people in hospital with the COVID-19 respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus fell on Sunday to 25,815 from 25,827 on Saturday, and the number of people in intensive care fell to 3,819 from 3,827.
3 May 18:18 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-france-toll-idUSKBN22F0S8Rating: 4.04
UK coronavirus death toll rises by 315 to 28,446
A further 315 people have died in the UK after contracting coronavirus. As of 5pm on Saturday, a total of 28,446 people had died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for Covid-19, according to the Department of Health. The number of deaths on Sunday were considerably down from the previous day, when 621 more were confirmed. The figure means the UK is closing the number of deaths linked to coronavirus in Italy, which stands at 28,884, the highest in Europe. In England, the number of people who have died with the respiratory disease has risen by 327 to 21,180. These figures are calculated over a different time period, resulting in in the higher number than the total. In Northern Ireland, five more people have died, bringing the total number of deaths to 381. A further 14 people have died in Wales, taking the total number of deaths there to 983, Public Health Wales said. Scotland deaths rose by 12 to 1,571, the health minister said. It was also confirmed that there had been a significant drop in testing carried out on Saturday, with just 76,496 carried out, well below the 100,000 daily target. The number of people in hospital being treated for coronavirus is also dropping, with London now said to be past the peak. Asked when the peak of the virus was, Professor Steve Powis said: “I think that’s a question that can’t really be precisely answered.” He explained: “There’s been a series of peaks – there’s been peaks in deaths, peaks in hospital admissions and peaks have occurred at different times around the country because different regions of the country have been in different stages.” However he added: “I think broadly we saw that plateauing of a variety of measures around the middle of April.” He also said that Government advisers now believe the R-rate to be “around 0.7”. During the Government's daily briefing, Chris in London asked what lessons have been learned for future waves of the virus and how the government will ensure there are enough PPE and ventilators in the future. NHS England’s national medical director Professor Powis said: “What I learned is that the NHS and the great staff of the NHS, when given that challenge, can very, very rapidly put in place the extra capacity that is required. “And they have done that magnificently, and at no point during the surge of cases in April was the NHS in a position where it was not able to give the treatment to patients with Covid-19 that they needed. “That is a great testament to how well the NHS has been able to cope. “And I think then the lesson going forward is one, that we can do that, but two, we need to keep that capacity in place. “But we need to keep it in place at the same time as standing up all the other services that the NHS is providing. “They’re the ones we’ve always provided, the emergency services, but some of the services that we’ve had to stand down during April, so elective surgery for instance. “So my lesson is that the NHS is incredibly flexible. It can respond to this challenge, and it will respond to the challenge going forward into the months ahead.”
3 May 15:35 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/uk-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-by-315-to-28-446/Rating: 0.88
Further 358 hospital deaths linked to coronavirus as UK toll slows
The number of people who have died in hospitals in the England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland after contracting coronavirus has risen by 358. NHS England announced 327 further deaths in the authority's daily update, taking the total number of hospital deaths linked to the condition to 21,180. A further five were confirmed in Northern Ireland, taking its total to 381. Wales saw 14 new deaths, taking the total to 983. A further 12 deaths were announced in Scotland, where the total is now 1,571. This means the total UK hospital death toll is 24,115. A full update, including care home and other deaths, will be announced later today and will see the total approach 30,000. The new figures are the latest up to 5pm on May 2 and refer to deaths that were registered within the preceding 24 hours, rather than the number of people who died over that timeframe. They come after a senior Government minister said Britain will not return to "business as usual" this month. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to set out the "road map" for how the UK will come out of the coronavirus lockdown over the coming days. But Transport Secretary Grant Shapps today warned that some form of social restrictions are likely to be in place throughout May. He told Sky’s Sophy Ridge On Sunday: “I don’t think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February - that’s clearly not going to happen and I don’t think anyone imagines that for one moment. “The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do do going forward doesn’t undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 - the all-critical reproduction rate doesn’t come back up because that’s when we’d see a second spike. “So no I’m afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the routemap lies.” It has previously been suggested that our lives could be radically different when lockdown ends according to plans said to be being considered by the Government. People travelling to work could be asked to check their temperature before leaving the house under the proposals reportedly under consideration. Honour our NHS heroes - from the surgeons to the porters, the nurses to the catering staff, the physios to the midwives, and the paramedics to the GPs - by helping to create a map of gratitude from every corner of Britain. We need our health workers now more than ever as they work superhuman hours and go above and beyond to protect us. Click HERE to drop a heart or a message on the map, and show you appreciate the efforts undertaken daily in the NHS. You can now also make a donation to NHS Heroes Help From Home, starting from £2.. As a thank you, everyone who donates will be entered into the weekly NHS Heroes Raffle. Click HERE to donate or to find out more - or click the link from within the Thanks a Million map. Thanks a million, NHS workers - we love you. The official advice - to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives - remains in place. Merseyside Police re-inforced that message this weekend as the force thanked the public for complying with social distancing regulations despite a return to good weather on Saturday. Superintendent Mark Wiggins, said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has stayed at home across Merseyside, or only visited parks and open spaces for their daily exercise, and supported each other in trying to prevent the spread of coronavirus. "There were a few days in the last couple of weeks when there was a greater number of people who were coming visit parks and opens spaces and not adhering to the Government restrictions. "But I'm pleased to say that members of the public seem to have listened to the pleas of ourselves, the local authorities and other local organisations to stay home and save lives, and protect our dedicated NHS workers. "I would urge people to continue to heed the message - the more you stay at home, the less people will become infected with the virus, and the quicker we can return to normality and start to live our lives again." Any loosening of restrictions is likely to be made in gradual stages - as we are beginning to see in other European countries.
3 May 13:51 • Liverpool Echo • https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/further-358-hospital-deaths-linked-18191804Rating: 0.83
UK death toll jumps to 28,446 as another 315 die from coronavirus
The UK’s coronavirus death toll has risen to 28,446, minister Michael Gove has said. Speaking during today’s daily press conference, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster stated that there had been more than 1,206,405 coronavirus tests carried out in the UK as of 9am on Sunday May 3, including 76,496 in the previous 24 hours. He noted that 14,248 people are currently being treated in hospital, compared to 14,695 recorded on Saturday. The rise in death toll comes after 358 more people died in hospitals across the country. England recorded another 327 deaths in hospitals, Wales another 14, Scotland 12, and Northern Ireland another five. The number released by the National Health Service only includes deaths in hospitals after testing positive for the virus. The government then began including care home and community deaths in their figures this week, creating two separate death tolls numbers for the UK. Of those deaths in England, 56 occurred on May 2, 125 occurred on May 1, 43 occurred on April 30 and 95 took place between April 1 and April 29. The remaining eight deaths occurred in March, with the earliest on March 28. The UK now has the third highest number of recorded deaths with coronavirus in the world, after the US and Italy. Britain could soon become the worst-affected country in Europe, as the death toll nears Italy’s total of 28,710. The government has not yet set forward a plan for lifting lockdown restrictions, after they were first implemented on March 23 and extended on April 16. A review of the current clampdown will be be announced on Thursday by Boris Johnson with no significant changes expected to be made immediately. However, the Prime Minister has said he wants primary schools opened ‘as fast as we can’. He told The Sun on Sunday: ‘That’s where we want to go. It’s about working out a way to do it.’ Officials have said getting children back into classrooms is a ‘top priority’ in the timetable to ‘unlock’ the UK. Reports suggest primary schools could be given notice as soon as this week, if infection rates continue to drop. Members of the public could also soon be able to exercise several times day, head to the countryside for walks, and enjoy picnics when the first restrictions are lifted. Ministers said the first relaxed measures would still only be for members of the same households, with separate groups still required to remain at least two metres apart. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 16:33 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/uk-coronavirus-death-toll-rises-28446-12648349/Rating: 2.18
Another 358 dead from coronavirus in hospitals across UK
The UK’s coronavirus death toll has risen to at least 28,321 after 358 more people died in hospitals. The toll was updated after England recorded another 327 deaths in hospitals, Wales another 14, Scotland another 12 and Northern Ireland another five. The UK’s number will rise even further later today, when deaths in care homes and the wider community are announced. Previously, the Department of Health only included deaths in hospitals in their daily figures. The government began including care home deaths in their figures earlier this week, amid concern it reflected a significant hidden death toll. The UK now has the third highest number of recorded deaths in the world after the USA and Italy. This has been partly blamed on a slow approach to testing and tracing, something which the government aims to change with a new app being tested this week on the Isle of Wight. Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: ‘The idea is that we will encourage as many people to take this up as possible. This is going to be a huge national effort and we need for this to work 50-60% of people to be using this app. ‘Not everybody has a smartphone, and I appreciate that for various reasons not everybody will download it but it will be the best possible way to help the NHS.’ He stressed the app would be completely confidential. The app will be central to the Government’s efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. Meanwhile, the Office for National Statistics has released an interactive map showing where deaths from coronavirus have taken place. The highest concentration of deaths is in London, but there were also hotspots in Manchester, Liverpool and other major cities. More follows. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 14:12 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/another-346-dead-coronavirus-hospitals-across-uk-12648237/Rating: 2.18
Coronavirus Scotland: Small rise in Ayrshire cases as 12,000 are diagnosed with COVID-19 across country
Ayrshire has reported another small rise in positive coronavirus cases today. The region recorded a less than one per cent rise from yesterday (0.8 per cent). This means the NHS Ayrshire & Arran region has now reached 799 cases of the disease – an increase of six from yesterday. Scotland's COVID-19 death toll has now tragically reached 1,559 which is up 12 on yesterday's figure. The number of people in hospital with confirmed or suspected coronavirus, within the health board's region, at midnight was 115. Meanwhile, the number of patients in intensive care with suspected or confirmed coronavirus stood at eight at midnight. Across Scotland, a total of 60,295 tests have been carried out with 12,097 delivering a positive result for the coronavirus. The symptoms of coronavirus are: But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu. If you think you may have the coronavirus, do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone.
3 May 13:34 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/coronavirus-scotland-small-rise-ayrshire-21966741Rating: 0.35
2 New Cases Of COVID-19
Today we have two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 to report and no new probable cases. Both of today’s cases can be linked to the St Margaret’s Hospital & Rest Home cluster in Auckland. Both cases are household contacts of an employee at the rest home. The total of confirmed and probable cases is 1,487. There are no additional deaths to report. New Zealand’s total number of confirmed cases is 1,136. This is the number we report to the World Health Organization and in many instances this is the number reported publicly by other countries. There were 4,634 tests completed yesterday, with a combined total to date of 150,223. Of our cases, 1,266 are reported as recovered – an increase of 3 on yesterday. 85% of all confirmed and probable cases are now considered as recovered. There are eight people in hospital, none in ICU. There are still 16 significant clusters. Three of these clusters are now considered closed as there is no longer transmission of the virus associated with the cluster. A COVID-19 cluster is considered closed after a total of 28 consecutive days – or two incubation periods for the virus – since its most recent report date of a reported case. The three closed clusters are the Wellington wedding cluster and the two clusters linked with group travel to the United States – one in Wellington and the other in Auckland. Alert Level 3 Almost a week into Level 3, the Director-General of Health has reinforced the need for people to continue to act in line with the Level 3 expectations. "It’s crucial that all New Zealanders stay vigilant and follow the guidelines of physical distancing, keeping to our bubbles, practicing good hand hygiene and if you’re unwell, staying away from others and seeking medical advice," says Dr Ashley Bloomfield. “Today’s numbers are encouraging but we can’t take them for granted. As I said last week, we all have a part to play. "We’re now nearly a week into Level 3 and while there could be some excuses early on, everyone should now be more familiar with the rules, both around increased retail activity and our own social interactions. “It’s been concerning to see some behaviours continue into the weekend and ultimately, this could slow a move to Level 2. “Continuing to be vigilant will be key in supporting a move down to Level 2 as soon as possible,” says Dr Bloomfield. One key message around physical distancing for businesses is to keep at least 1 metre between workers and 2 metres from customers or the public. Overall: stay home, save lives – this remains the number one rule for Alert Level 3. And of course, if you’re sick, you must stay home. Contact your GP or Healthline and ask about getting tested. ENDS © Scoop Media
3 May 13:03 • SCOOP • https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE2005/S00008/2-new-cases-of-covid-19.htmRating: 0.30
Death toll rises above 1,300, ICU cases below 100 for second day: Today's Covid-19 Main Points
THE NUMBER OF confirmed cases of Covid-19 in intensive care units has remained below 100 for the second day, as 98 people were confirmed as having the virus in ICUs around the country. According to the latest figures from the HSE, as of 8pm last night, there were 688 confirmed cases Covid-19 in the country’s hospitals, with 265 suspected cases. There were also 22 people suspected as having the virus in intensive care, while there were 131 critical care beds still available. The Department of Health this evening confirmed that a further 19 people had died from Covid-19 in Ireland, bringing the death toll here to 1,303. Internationally, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of confinement. In Italy, people will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives from Monday. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business also. Here are today’s main Covid-19 points: Here are today’s international main Covid-19 points: #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
3 May 10:26 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/covid-19-ireland-main-points-icu-5090701-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Coronavirus claims five more lives in north
A further five people in Northern Ireland have died from Covid-19, according to new figures from the Department of Health. The latest deaths bring the total number of fatalities to 381. According to the latest statistics, three deaths happened within the last 24 hours. The other two deaths happened earlier but have only been reported. READ MORE: Socially-distanced queues in west Belfast as priest hears confessions NHS England has announced 327 new deaths of people who tested positive for Covid-19, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 21,180. Of the 327 new deaths announced today: - 56 occurred on May 2 - 125 occurred on May 1 - 43 occurred on April 30 The figures also show 95 of the new deaths took place between April 1 and April 29 while the remaining eight deaths occurred in March, with the earliest new death taking place on March 28. NHS England releases updated figures each day showing the dates of every coronavirus-related death in hospitals in England, often including previously uncounted deaths that took place several days or even weeks ago. This is because of the time it takes for deaths to be confirmed as testing positive for Covid-19, for post-mortem examinations to be processed and for data from the tests to be validated. The figures published today by NHS England show April 8 continues to have the highest number for the most hospital deaths occurring on a single day, with a current total of 867. A further 14 people have died after testing positive for coronavirus in Wales, taking the total number of deaths to 983, Public Health Wales has said. A total of 1,571 patients have died in Scotland after testing positive for coronavirus, an increase of 12 since Saturday.
3 May 14:11 • The Irish News • http://www.irishnews.com/news/northernirelandnews/2020/05/03/news/coronavirus-claims-five-more-lives-in-north-1924924/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus: 19 deaths and 330 new cases confirmed in Ireland
A FURTHER 19 people have died from Covid-19 in Ireland, the Department of Health confirmed this evening. In a statement, it said that a further 330 cases of coronavirus have also been confirmed here, bringing the total number of cases to 21,506. The death toll from Covid-19 in Ireland is 1,303. 58% of the newly confirmed cases were female and 42% were male. The median age of confirmed cases is 49 years old. 2,825 (13%) cases have been hospitalised in total and 363 of these patients have been admitted to Intensive Care Units (ICU). 6,068 of all cases are associated with healthcare workers. Dublin continues to have the highest total number of cases with 49% or 10,406 cases. As a result of validation of data at the HPSC, two deaths have been de-notified as Covid-19 related and the figure of 1,303 reflects this. The latest figures come as fresh tensions have emerged among government ministers and top civil servants about how best to reopen the country. Yesterday, Minister for Business Heather Humphreys said the process to reopen businesses could accelerate at a rate faster than indicated in the government’s “roadmap” which was published on Friday. During the week, ministers pushed back against chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan and called for further easing of restrictions. As it stands, the current measures in place limiting movement and urging most people to remain at home with a few exceptions will remain until 18 May. It is believed questions are also being raised about the roadmap by some top civil servants who believe it could do serious and irreversible damage to the economy that Ireland won’t come back from. With reporting from Christina Finn and Orla Dwyer #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
3 May 16:03 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/coronavirus-deaths-sunday-5090777-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Ontario health officials report 434 new COVID-19 cases and 40 more deaths
TORONTO -- Ontario health officials are reporting another slight dip in the number of new novel coronavirus cases. Health officials reported on Sunday 434 new COVID-19 cases, which is a slight drop from the 511 announced just the day before. The total number of confirmed cases in the province now stands at 17,553. The volume of new cases reported Sunday is similar to what had been reported last week before the slight uptick on Saturday. Officials reported 421 new cases on Friday, 459 new cases on Thursday and 347 new cases on Wednesday, which marked the lowest number of cases recorded in three weeks. The provincial experts also reported 40 more deaths, bringing the total number of deaths in the province to 1,216. According to Saturday’s epidemiological summary, of all deceased patients in Ontario, seven were between the ages of 20 and 39, fifty-five people were between the ages of 40 and 59 and 309 people were between the ages of 60 and 79. People, who are over the age of 80, continue to be the hardest hit group. So far, at least 845 people in this age group of have died. The province also reported that 12,005 (68.4 per cent) of COVID-19 cases in Ontario have now been resolved. Of the more than 17,000 COVID-19 lab-confirmed cases reported in Ontario, health officials say about 12.0 per cent have been hospitalized at some point. As of Saturday, there are 1,010 people in hospital, 33 more than the day before. The province reported that 232 of those patients are in the intensive care unit and about 174 of them are using a ventilator. The province reported that 2,640 health-care workers have also been diagnosed with COVID-19. Health officials said there are four more outbreaks at long-term care homes in Ontario, bringing the total number of COVID-19 outbreaks in these facilities to 209. There has been an ongoing discrepancy between the data submitted by public health agencies through Public Health Ontario Daily Epidemiologic Summary (iPHIS) and the information obtained by the Ministry of Long-Term Care. While the ministry is reporting 954 deaths and 170 outbreaks in long-term care, the iPHIS is reporting the 209 outbreaks and 590 deaths. Quick facts on all Ontario COVID-19 patients: COVID-19 testing in Ontario In total, the province has conducted more than 327,505 tests for the novel coronavirus. In the last 24 hours, officials conducted 17,146 tests. There are 9,785 test samples under investigation. The province’s goal was to reach 16,000 tests daily by May 6.
3 May 14:31 • Toronto • https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-health-officials-report-434-new-covid-19-cases-and-40-more-deaths-1.4922741Rating: 0.30
Covid-19: 330 new cases 19 deaths confirmed in Ireland
A further 19 people have died from Covid-19 the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) confirmed. There have now been a total of 1,303 deaths in Ireland from the coronavirus. 330 new cases were also confirmed today. In total there are 21,506 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland. According to data provided by the HPSC: Earlier today, Dr Mary Favier, President of the Irish College of GPs, welcomed the fall in Covid-19 patients receiving treating in intensive care units (ICU). Dr Favier said: "If people spend time in intensive care, whether they have had a serious operation or something has happened to them, it's often only a couple of days, this (coronavirus) can be a couple of weeks. "So we'd expect there to be quite a substantial lag from the time people get the disease, to being admitted to hospital, to going into intensive care, to being discharged. The latest figure for patients in ICU is 98, only the second time it has been less than 100 in the last month. Meanwhile, the HSE is investigating after the family of a person who died from Covid-19 was given the wrong body by a hospital mortuary last weekend. The incident happened at Mullingar Regional Hospital on Friday, April 24. Victims of Covid-19 are put in sealed body bags by morticians due to the nature of the disease, with neither families or undertakers allowed to view the remains. Privacy of family at centre of Mullingar hospital incident must be respected: Sinn Féin TD
3 May 15:56 • Irishexaminer • https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/covid-19-330-new-cases-19-deaths-confirmed-in-ireland-997436.htmlRating: 0.69
Ontario reports 434 new cases of COVID-19, another 40 deaths
Ontario is reporting 434 new cases of COVID-19, marking a return to somewhat lower levels of new infections following a one-day spike on Saturday. The Ministry of Health reported 511 new cases of the virus on Saturday. It was just the second time in a week that the number of new instances of the virus surged past 500. In fact after a record 640 new cases were reported on April 25, the province has actually seen the number of new cases confirmed each day go down to an average of 448. That has, in turn, sparked optimism from some officials that we could be seeing the other side of the epidemic’s peak. Encouragingly, the drop in new cases of COVID-19 is also coming as the province ramps up its testing. After being stuck at two or three thousand tests a day in early-April, the province is now regularly surpassing 15,000 tests each day and conducted a record 17,146 of them on Saturday. “While it's coming down slowly, it's having ups and downs and we'd like to see it progressing even quicker,” Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams said of the rate of new infections on Saturday. “That means everyone needs to adhere to physical distancing as we're not yet disrupting community transmission adequately at this time. So we want to stick to the task.” While the number of new infections seems to have plateaued and may even be on the decline, the death toll continues to mount. Ontario is reporting another 40 deaths in people who had contracted the virus over the last 24 hours, bringing the total number so far 1,216. Residents in long-term care facilities continue to account for more than three-quarters of all deaths (954), though there have been seven fatalities reported in people between the ages of 20 and 39. Hospitalizations are also continuing to trend upwards. Over the last 24 hours another 33 people with COVID-19 ended up in hospitals as the total number provincewide surged past the 1,000 threshold for the first time. Of those people, 232 are in intensive care units. That remains well off the 264 people that were in ICU units on April 9 but is up 11 from one day prior. It should be noted that Ontario officials have said that they need to see a “consistent” two-to-four week decline in new cases and a reduction in new hospitalizations before they can consider lifting the restrictions that have shuttered businesses and brought public life to a virtual standstill. “We’re flattening the curve, we ‘re heading in the right direction,” Premier Doug Ford said on Friday. “We have reason to be optimistic – as the trends continue downwards, as we continue seeing a reduction in community spread, we’re getting closer and closer to opening things back up.” The total number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 now stands at 17,553 with more than two-thirds of those cases (12,005) considered resolved.
3 May 14:30 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/ontario-reports-434-new-cases-of-covid-19-another-40-deaths-1.4922725Rating: 1.66
Daily coronavirus death toll rises by 315 as UK passes 'the peak of deaths'
The UK's coronavirus death toll has reached 28,446 including deaths in care homes and in the wider community, an increase of 315 in the last 24 hours. Michael Gove today confirmed another 315 had lost their lives from Covid-19 across Britain - a big drop in fatalities compared to Saturday's figure of 621. The numbers now include fatalities in hospitals, care homes, and the wider comminuty. Stephen Powis, National Medical Director of NHS England, told the daily No10 press conference: “It does appear that we are past the peak of deaths too - we are beginning to see a decline in the number of deaths.” Speaking at Sunday's Downing Street briefing, Mr Gove said there had been 1,206,405 coronavirus tests in the UK as of 9am on Sunday May 3, including 76,496 in the previous 24 hours. That number is over 20,000 less than Health Secretary Matt Hancock’s target of 100,000 tests per day. In England, 327 more people lost their lives, while there were 14 deaths in Wales, 12 in Scotland and five in Northern Ireland. The number of deaths, now almost a third of the highest daily peaks reported in hospitals, will further fuel calls to ease lockdown measures. The 327 patients who died were aged between 46 and 101 years old, with 17 of them - aged between 47 and 97 years old - having had no known underlying health condition. Of the new deaths in England, 56 occurred on May 2, 125 on May 1 and 43 occurred on April 30, with the remainder taking place throughout April and March. The official UK tally yesterday stood at 28,131. The latest figures come after 469 deaths were announced yesterday, with 423 on Friday, 482 on Thursday, 610 on Wednesday and 653 on Tuesday. The UK's death toll is just hundreds short of Italy's total. Italy is the worst affected country in Europe and second only to the US in the world in terms of coronavirus deaths. As the daily death toll comes close to hitting a third of its previous peak, moves to reopen parts of the country are likely to be made. Many restaurants have started to fire up their ovens again to offer delivery only, including Burger King and Nandos. DIY stores such as B&Q and Homebase have started to let the public back in as well. Beyond movement in amongst private enterprises however, the lockdown rules remain the same as they did when government mandated social distancing was introduced at the end of March. Boris Johnson is expected to lay out a road map for the country's exit from lockdown on Thursday. Ministers are anxious that a second peak could lead to restrictions being put back in place if the lockdown is eased too quickly. It was announced today that the Government is considering placing people who fly into the country in quarantine. Grant Shapps, the Transport Secretary, said he would need to ensure the UK is not “importing” coronavirus once the infection rate here begins to come down. Asked if travellers to the UK will be asked to go into quarantine, he told the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show: “I think it’s important as we’re seeing the numbers decrease and the R rate we hope decrease… that we do ensure that the sacrifices in the sense of social distancing that we’re asking the British people to make are matched by anybody who comes to this country. “So I am actively looking at these issues right now so that when we have infection rates within the country under control, we’re not importing.” On Friday research by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that the rate of fatalities in poorer areas is double that of their more affluent counterparts.
3 May 15:38 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/breaking-uk-coronavirus-death-toll-21966895Rating: 2.39
More deaths confirmed at Nottingham hospitals after patients test positive for coronavirus
Five more patients have died in Nottingham hospitals after testing positive for Covid-19. Nottingham University Hospitals announced the deaths on Sunday, May 3, taking the trust's coronavirus death toll to 216. The patients were aged 81 to 89, and died on April 20 and May 1. There can be delays in deaths being reported by the hospital trust. This can be for a number of reasons including an individual being tested post-mortem or if there are difficulties in tracing and informing family members. Dr Keith Girling, Medical Director at Nottingham University Hospitals said: “Sadly we can confirm that a further five patients have died having tested positive for COVID-19. Regrettably that means that 216 COVID-19 positive patients we were caring for have sadly died since the beginning of March.” “The patients were aged 81 to 89, and died on the April 20 and May 1. “The families have been informed and our thoughts and condolences are with them at this difficult and distressing time.” There have been 527 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Nottingham and 1,134 in Nottinghamshire.
3 May 15:18 • NottinghamshireLive • https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/nottingham-news/more-deaths-confirmed-nottingham-hospitals-4100970Rating: 0.30
UK coronavirus death toll nears 28,000
LONDON, May 2 (MENA) - The UK's coronavirus death toll has risen to at least 27, 975 after 465 more people died in hospitals, Metro reported Saturday. The toll was updated after England recorded another 370 deaths in hospitals, Scotland another 40, Wales another 44 and Northern Ireland another 11. As of yesterday, the total number of people who have died of Covid-19 in all settings stood at 27,510. The new number will rise even further later today, when deaths in care homes and the wider community are announced. Previously, the Department of Health only included deaths in hospitals in their daily figures. That number now stands at at least 23,753. The government began including care home deaths in their figures earlier this week, amid concern it reflected a significant hidden death toll. The UK now has the third highest number of recorded deaths in the world, which critics have blamed on the government’s slow response to the outbreak, including its testing strategy.
3 May 00:00 • Egypt Today • http://egypttoday.com/Article/1/85351/UK-coronavirus-death-toll-nears-28-000Rating: 0.67
Two new cases of virus, number in hospital grows
There are just two new cases of Covid-19 in New Zealand today. Both of today's new cases are linked to the St Margaret's Hospital & Rest Home cluster in Auckland. Both cases were household contacts of an employee at the rest home, the Ministry of Health said this afternoon. The total of confirmed and probable cases in this country is now 1487 - "85 per cent of all confirmed and probable cases are now considered as recovered". There are no more deaths. Eight patients remain in hospital, though none are in intensive care. This has increased on yesterday's numbers where there were only five people in hospital. Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said today's case numbers were "encouraging" but there was no room for complacency.. "It's crucial that all New Zealanders stay vigilant and follow the guidelines of physical distancing, keeping to our bubbles, practicing good hand hygiene and if you're unwell, staying away from others and seeking medical advice," Bloomfield said. "Today's numbers are encouraging but we can't take them for granted. As I said last week, we all have a part to play. "We're now nearly a week into Level 3 and while there could be some excuses early on, everyone should now be more familiar with the rules, both around increased retail activity and our own social interactions. "It's been concerning to see some behaviours continue into the weekend and ultimately, this could slow a move to Level 2. "Continuing to be vigilant will be key in supporting a move down to Level 2 as soon as possible."
3 May 00:00 • Otago Daily Times Online News • https://www.odt.co.nz/news/national/two-new-cases-virus-number-hospital-growsRating: 0.40
France says 166 more deaths from COVID-19 taking toll to 24,760
PARIS (Reuters) - The number of people who have died from coronavirus infections in France rose by 166 to 24,760 on Saturday while hospitalisations for the disease and people in ICU units continued to decline, the French health ministry said. Saturday’s daily tally was markedly lower than the 218 recorded on Friday. The number of people in hospital with COVID-19 fell to 25,827 from 25,887 on Friday, and the number of people in intensive care with COVID-19 fell to 3,827 from 3,878. Both numbers have been on a downward trend for more than two weeks.
2 May 19:43 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-france-toll-idUSKBN22E0QXRating: 4.04
Latest confirmed coronavirus cases and deaths in Bristol on Saturday, May 2
Bristol now has 618 confirmed cases of coronavirus after a rise of eight in one day. The figures come as the UK's Covid-19 death toll reached 28,131 - the third highest in the world. Across Bristol hospitals, 155 deaths have been recorded, with 81 at Southmead Hospital and 74 at the University Hospitals Bristol, which runs Bristol Royal Infirmary. As of 5.24pm today (May 2), Public Health England's figures show South Gloucestershire now has 349 positive tests following a rise of five. A further 12 people have contracted the deadly virus in North Somerset, bringing the district's total to 246. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the UK is past the Covid-19 peak - but England's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty warned the country was "nowhere near the end of the pandemic". You can follow our liveblog on coronavirus here.
2 May 19:10 • BristolLive • https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/latest-confirmed-coronavirus-cases-deaths-4100165Rating: 0.30
6 New Cases Of COVID-19
Today we have two new confirmed cases of COVID-19 to report and four new probable cases. Five of today’s cases can be traced to a known source. One case is still being investigated. The total of confirmed and probable cases is 1,485. New Zealand’s total number of confirmed cases is 1,134. This is the number we report to the World Health Organization and in many instances this is the number reported publicly by other countries. There were 5,691 tests completed yesterday, with a combined total to date of 145,589. Of our cases, 1,263 are reported as recovered – an increase of 11 on yesterday. 85% of all confirmed and probable cases have now recovered. There are five people in hospital, none in ICU. Sadly, today we are reporting the death of a resident of Rosewood Rest Home who was transferred to Burwood Hospital. George Hollings was in his 80s, and his family have asked us to share his name and some information about him. George had a lot of friends who the family don’t have contact details for and they’d like for them to have the opportunity to grieve along with his family. His family tell us that George will be remembered as a real Kiwi bloke, a rough diamond, who loved his deer stalking. They ask for the media to respect their privacy and to give them time to grieve. His family also say the staff who cared for George did an exemplary job. “We can’t speak highly enough of the care Dad received. You’ve clearly chosen the best, most compassionate staff to work at Burwood”. George was considered to be a probable case of COVID-19, and he also had underlying health conditions. He passed away early this morning. Every person we lose to COVID-19 is a tragedy, with a family and friends left without their loved one. Our thoughts are with George’s family today and in the coming days. There have now been 20 deaths from COVID-19 in New Zealand. There are still 16 significant clusters, no change from yesterday. Three clusters are now considered closed as there is no longer transmission of the virus associated with the cluster. A COVID-19 cluster is considered be closed after a total of 28 consecutive days – or two incubation periods for the virus – since itsmost recent report date of a reported case. The three closed clusters are the Wellington wedding cluster (closed 25 April) and the two clusters linked with group travel to the United States – one in Wellington and the other in Auckland – closed today. A further reminder that people should not delay seeking care for any health needs either by phoning Healthline 0800 611 116 or through their GP. And, as usual, if it is an emergency then dial 111 and ask for the ambulance service or go to your nearest hospital emergency department. Also, if you get an appointment for an investigation such as an x-ray or scan, or to get an elective operation or procedure, it is safe to attend. The hospital will have tight processes in place to keep you and the staff safe. © Scoop Media
2 May 13:17 • SCOOP • https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE2005/S00006/6-new-cases-of-covid-19.htmRating: 0.30
BREAKING: England and Wales coronavirus hospital death toll rises by 414
The number of hospital deaths in England and Wales has risen by 414. The tragic number was revealed by health authorities this afternoon. England saw 370 deaths, while there were 44 in Wales. Sadly the real number of lives lost to Covid-19 will be higher, as this does not include those who died in care homes, hospices and private addresses. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the UK is past the Covid-19 peak - but England's Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty warned the country was "nowhere near the end of the pandemic". The latest figures come after 427 deaths were announced yesterday, with 482 on Thursday, 610 on Wednesday and 653 on Tuesday. For the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, click here The government has said it will not consider lifting the lockdown until the death rate and daily infection rate drops dramatically. Ministers are anxious that a second peak could lead to restrictions being put back in place. Yesterday research by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed that the rate of fatalities in poorer areas is double that of their more affluent counterparts. Nick Stripe, head of health analysis at the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said: “People living in more deprived areas have experienced Covid-19 mortality rates more than double those living in less deprived areas. "General mortality rates are normally higher in more deprived areas, but so far Covid-19 appears to be taking them higher still.” According to reports, the Prime Minister is considering allowing Brits to return to work at the end of the month. But it is likely that those who can work from home will still be required to do so, as the government seeks to avoid a spike in the number of infections. Germany has seen a rise in cases since lifting its social distancing measures, prompting concerns that strict rules could be reintroduced to bring the outbreak back under control. Figures released yesterday show that in London between the start of March and April 17, 85.7 deaths per 100,000 of the population were linked to Covid-19. Liverpool, Birmingham and Manchester, as well as Hertsmere, Salford, Watford, Middlesbrough, Luton, Sandwell and Slough had rates above 65 deaths per 100,000 people. In Wales there were 929 Covid-19 deaths during that period - 18% of all deaths.
2 May 13:07 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/breaking-england-wales-coronavirus-hospital-21962655Rating: 2.39
COVID 19: Portugal Update, 2 May
Portugal today has registered a total of 1,023 deaths associated with covid-19, 16 more than on Friday, and 25,190 infected (more 203), indicates the epidemiological bulletin released today by the General Directorate of Health. At the daily press conference to update information on the covid-19 pandemic, the Minister of Health explained that since April 25, 422 duplicate cases have been detected, which justifies that today there are fewer cases than there were been announced on Friday. The minister said the number of cases to be considered on Friday is 24,987. In comparison with Friday's data, which recorded 1,007 deaths, today there was an increase of 1.6% in deaths. Regarding the number of confirmed cases of infection with the new coronavirus (25,190), data from the General Directorate of Health (DGS) show that there are 161 fewer cases than on Friday (24,987), representing an increase of 0.8%. The North region has the highest number of deaths (585), followed by the Center (206) and Lisbon and the Tagus Valley (205), Algarve (13), the Azores (13) and the Alentejo region in one case, the epidemiological situation report advances, with data updated until midnight on Friday, maintaining the Autonomous Region of Madeira with no record of deaths. According to data from the Directorate-General for Health, 520 fatalities are women and 503 are men. Of the registered deaths, 691 were over 80 years old, 201 were between 70 and 79 years old, 89 between 60 and 69 years old, 32 between 50 and 59, and 10 between 40 and 49 years old. The clinical characterization of the confirmed cases indicates that 855 patients are admitted to hospitals, 37 fewer than on Friday (-4.1%), and 150 are in Intensive Care Units, four less than the previous day, which represents a 2.5% decrease. DGS data indicate that the municipality of Lisbon is the one with the highest number of cases of coronavirus infection (1,567), followed by Vila Nova de Gaia (1,413), Porto (1,247), Matosinhos (1,149), Braga (1,086) ), Gondomar (1,012), Maia (871), Valongo (729), Sintra (604), Guimarães (613), Ovar (566) and Coimbra, with 416 cases. Since January 1, 252,728 suspected cases have been recorded, of which 3,761 are awaiting test results There are 223,777 cases in which the test results were negative, says DGS, adding that the number of recovered patients increased to 1,671, 24 more than on Friday (1.4%). The North region continues to register the highest number of infections, totaling 14,951, followed by the region of Lisbon and the Tagus Valley, with 6,047, the Center region, with 3,426, the Algarve (331) and the Alentejo (218). The Azores have 131 cases of covid-19 and Madeira has 86 confirmed cases, according to the bulletin released today. DGS also records 27,895 contacts under surveillance by the health authorities. Of the total infected, 14,911 are women and 10,279 men. The age group most affected by the disease is from 50 to 59 years old (4,269), followed by the age group from 40 to 49 years old (4,222) and people over 80 years old (3,960 cases). There are also 3,537 patients aged between 30 and 39 years, 2,909 between 60 and 69 years old, 2,920 between 20 and 29 years old and 2,207 aged between 70 and 79 years old. DGS also records 411 cases of children up to the age of nine and 755 of young people aged between 10 and 19 years old. According to the daily report of the epidemiological situation in Portugal, 171 cases result from the importation of the virus from Spain, 137 from France and 88 from the United Kingdom. There are still hundreds of cases imported from dozens of other countries. According to the bulletin, 44% of patients positive for the new coronavirus have cough symptoms, 31% fever, 22% muscle pain, 20% headache, 16% general weakness and 13% breathing difficulty. This information refers to 87% of confirmed cases. Globally, according to a report by the AFP news agency, the covid-19 pandemic has already claimed almost 239,000 deaths and infected more than 3.3 million people in 195 countries and territories. More than a million patients were considered cured.
2 May 14:47 • The Portugal News Online • https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/covid-19-portugal-update-2-may/53974Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus Scotland: Sharp increase in death toll as number of Ayrshire cases near 800
There has been a sharp increase in the number of people who have died from the coronavirus in Scotland. The Scottish Government has produced figures this afternoon as part of its daily update on how the virus is impacting the country. Scotland's COVID-19 death toll has now tragically reached 1,559 which is up 44 on yesterday's figure. Within the NHS Ayrshire & Arran region, there are 793 cases of the disease – an increase of 15 from yesterday. The number of people in hospital with confirmed or suspected coronavirus, within the health board's region, at midnight was 103. Meanwhile, the number of patients in intensive care with suspected or confirmed coronavirus stood at eight at midnight. Across Scotland, a total of 58,833 tests have been carried out with 11,927 delivering a positive result for the coronavirus. Ayrshire and Arran – 793 Borders – 283 Dumfries and Galloway – 250 Fife – 768 Forth Valley – 757 Grampian – 889 Greater Glasgow and Clyde – 2,939 Highland – 288 Lanarkshire – 1,436 Lothian – 2,065 Shetland – 54 Tayside – 1,392 Orkney – 7 Western Isles – 6 The symptoms of coronavirus are: But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu. If you think you may have the coronavirus, do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone.
2 May 14:20 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/ayrshire/coronavirus-scotland-sharp-increase-death-21963061Rating: 0.35
Coronavirus death toll in UK increases by 621 bringing total to 28,131
A further people 621 have died after contracting coronavirus in the UK, Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has confirmed. The latest death toll announcement brings the total number of deaths in the UK to 28,131. This includes people who had died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for coronavirus in the UK as of 5pm on Friday. Another 370 patients have died in hospitals in England from coronavirus, according to the NHS. Of the 370 new deaths announced in England, 75 occurred on May 1, 149 occurred on April 30 and 52 occurred on April 29. The figures also show 85 of the new deaths took place between April 1 and April 28 while the remaining nine deaths occurred in March, with the earliest new death taking place on March 13. Of the 20,853 confirmed reported deaths so far in hospitals in England of people who tested positive for Covid-19, 10,901 (52%) have been people aged 80 and over while 8,119 (39%) were 60-79. A further 1,672 (8%) were aged 40-59, with 150 (1%) aged 20-39 and 11 (0.05%) aged 0-19, according to NHS England. Coronavirus cases in Wales passes 10,000 mark In Wales another 44 people have died in hospitals, bringing the total fatalities there to 969, according to Public Health Wales. It comes as the number of confirmed cases in Wales passes 10,000, health officials have announced. Dr Chris Williams, incident director for the Covid-19 outbreak response at Public Health Wales, said Wales appeared to have passed the peak of new cases, but repeated the warning that the public had to stay at home. Dr Williams said: "We seem to have passed the peak and flattened the curve of new cases of Covid-19 in Wales, which appears to be an indication of the effectiveness of lockdown measures. "We are currently working with the Welsh Government to determine the best approach for when the lockdown is eventually eased. "In the meantime, social distancing rules remain in effect. Public Health Wales fully supports Welsh Government's revised stay-at-home regulations. The message has not changed - anyone can get coronavirus, anyone can spread it. Stay home, protect the NHS, and save lives." 44 more deaths in Scotland as First Minister orders testing boost In Scotland another 44 people who tested positive for coronavirus have died, bringing the country's total deaths to 1,559. Figures from the Scottish Government released on Saturday evening show the number of people who have tested positive for the virus is at 11,927, a rise of 273 from the previous day. The latest figures come after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced an expansion to coronavirus testing north of the border. There will be expanded testing of care home staff and residents, with all over-65s who show symptoms of the virus also being tested. She set a target for testing capacity to increase to 10,500 by the end of next week, including both Scottish NHS laboratories and the UK Government's testing network. The latest figures comes as US regulators have approved the use of the first drug which appears to help coronavirus patients recover quicker. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the use of remdesivir, a drug previously used to treat ebola patients, after studies showed it shortened recovery time by 31 per cent, or around four days on average, for hospitalised Covid-19 patients. The drug is can now be administered to patients with severe conditions, such as those experiencing breathing problems requiring supplemental oxygen or ventilators. Coronavirus: Everything you need to know
2 May 15:06 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-02/coronavirus-death-toll-in-uk-increases/Rating: 0.88
Coronavirus: 25 deaths and 343 new confirmed cases in Ireland
A FURTHER 25 people have died from Covid-19 in Ireland, the Department of Health confirmed this evening. In a statement, it said that a further 343 cases of coronavirus have also been confirmed here, bringing the total number of cases to 21,176. The death toll from Covid-19 in Ireland is 1,286. In the latest data this evening from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, as of Thursday night the median age of all cases 49 years. The number of people hospitalised in Ireland due to Covid-19 was 2,785 (13%). Of those hospitalised, 368 had been admitted to an intensive care unit. According to the latest figures, there were 99 people with Covid-19 in intensive care last night. Among healthcare workers, there were 5,973 confirmed cases. Dublin has the highest number of cases with 10,277, with half of all cases in the capital. Kildare has the second most with 1,226 cases (6%) and Cork was next with 1,156 cases (6%). The latest figures come a day after the Taoiseach extended the restrictions in place upon the public until Monday 18 May. Leo Varadkar also announced details of the government’s “roadmap” for Ireland to reopen on a five-phase basis yesterday. The roadmap will see schools closed until September or October. Restaurants and cafes are earmarked to open in phase three (29 June) while pubs, bars, nightclubs, and casinos are not to open until phase five (10 August). Earlier today, Health Minister Simon Harris said foreign travel for the Irish public is looking “highly unlikely this year”. The minister also confirmed that a working group has been set up by the Taoiseach to establish if it can be made mandatory for those returning to Ireland – Irish citizens or not – to self isolate for a period of two weeks. Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy, meanwhile, said today it is expected that the rent freeze and eviction ban will be extended beyond June. #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
2 May 16:30 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/covid-19-saturday-figures-5090169-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Covid-19: 25 deaths with 343 new cases
25 more people have died from Covid-19 it has been confirmed. There have now been a total of 1,286 deaths in Ireland from Covid-19. 343 new cases were also confirmed today. In total there are 21,176 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Ireland. This is according to new data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC). As of 11am Saturday 2 May, HSPC data reveals: In a statement today the HPSC said that "validation of data at the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of 4 deaths. The figure of 1,286 deaths reflects this." Yesterday the total number of deaths from Covid-19 stood at 1,265. Earlier today the Government announced a number of measures to assist business impaced by Covid-19. A €6bn support package for farmers, small, medium and larger businesses has been agreed by Cabinet. Commercial rates are to be waived for three months for business impacted and the shortfall of €260m on local authorities is to be funded by the Government. The measures come as the Government mapped out a return to normality for the country as it exits the coronavirus lockdown. Yesterday Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the lockdown is to be lifted in five three-week phases from May 18. From Tuesday, Ireland will begin to cautiously re-emerge from total lockdown but after two further weeks of “tight restrictions”, the five-phase lifting of restrictions will commence. Paschal Donohoe: Oireachtas needs to 'come together' for Government business support
2 May 14:02 • Irishexaminer • https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/covid-19-25-deaths-with-343-new-cases-997347.htmlRating: 0.69
Number of people battling coronavirus across Tayside and Fife hospitals drops as overall number of cases hits 2,160
According to the latest figures uploaded to the NHS Scotland Open Data website on Saturday, there have now been 1392 confirmed Covid-19 cases across Tayside and 768 in Fife. Of these numbers 130 are currently in hospitals in the kingdom with confirmed or suspected cases of the disease, six of them in intensive care. In Tayside this figure is 86, with fewer than five people in intensive care. Of these local figures, 755 were in the Dundee local authority area, 343 were in Angus, and 284 were across Perth and Kinross. That means 54% of all Tayside coronavirus cases were in the City of Discovery. It comes as the number of confirmed Scottish deaths from the virus rose by 55 to 1,559. A total of 11,927 Scots have now tested positive for Covid-19. Across the country there are currently 1674 people in hospitals with confirmed or suspected cases of the disease. Some 108 of them were in intensive care as of last night. On Friday there were a total of 1379 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Tayside and 750 in the kingdom. A total of 86 people (fewer than five in intensive care) were in Tayside hospitals battling confirmed or suspected cases of the disease, along with 139 in Fife (six in intensive care). On Friday there were 177,454 positive Covid-19 cases in the UK, 11,654 of them in Scotland, and 27,510 confirmed deaths across the four nations.
2 May 15:29 • The Courier • https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/scotland/1305076/number-of-people-battling-coronavirus-across-tayside-and-fife-hospitals-drops-as-overall-number-of-cases-hits-2160/Rating: 0.30
Officials report 511 new COVID-19 cases and 55 more deaths in Ontario
TORONTO -- Ontario health officials are reporting 511 new cases of COVID-19 and 55 more deaths in the province. The data reported on Saturday brings the total number of novel coronavirus cases in Ontario to 17,119, including 1,176 deaths and 11,390 recoveries. Health officials reported that 66.5 per cent of cases in Ontario have now been resolved. The number of new confirmed cases reported represents a slight uptick compared to the last few days. Officials reported 421 new cases on Friday, 459 new cases on Thursday and 347 new cases on Wednesday, which marked the lowest number of cases recorded in three weeks. According to Saturday’s epidemiological summary, most of the deaths, 37, were residents and patients in long-term care homes, bringing the total number deaths in these facilities to 578. DAILY BREAKDOWN: The spread of COVID-19 in Ontario Health officials, in the summary, said that of all deceased patients in Ontario, seven were between the ages of 20 and 39. They also said that 52 people were between the ages of 40 and 59 and 302 people were between the ages of 60 and 79. People who are over the age of 80 have been hit the hardest. So far, at least 815 people in this age group of have died. The province reported seven more outbreaks at long-term care homes in Ontario, bringing the total number of COVID-19 outbreaks in these facilities to 205. There has been an ongoing discrepancy between the data submitted by public health agencies through Public Health Ontario Daily Epidemiologic Summary (iPHIS) and the information obtained by the Ministry of Long-Term Care. While the ministry is reporting 910 deaths and 167 outbreaks in long-term care, the iPHIS is reporting the 205 outbreaks and 578 deaths. The province reported that 2,540 health-care workers have also been diagnosed with COVID-19. Of the more than 17,000 COVID-19 lab-confirmed cases reported in Ontario, health officials say about 11.6 per cent have been hospitalized at some point. As of Saturday, there are 977people in hospital, 221 are in the intensive care unit and about 154 of them are using a ventilator. Quick facts on all Ontario COVID-19 patients: COVID-19 testing in Ontario In total, the province has conducted more than 310,359 tests for the novel coronavirus. In the last 24 hours, officials conducted 16,305 tests. There are 12,829 test samples under investigation. The province’s goal was to reach 16,000 tests daily by May 6.
2 May 14:30 • Toronto • https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/officials-report-511-new-covid-19-cases-and-55-more-deaths-in-ontario-1.4922031Rating: 0.30
Region's total of COVID-19 cases now 782
The number of positive COVID-19 cases across the region has risen to 782, according to new reports from The Region of Waterloo Public Health. On Saturday, Public Health confirmed one new case of COVID-19 as eight more cases were reported. The total number of resolved cases also went up to 330 and the region's total of COVID-19 related deaths is now 73. At this time, no new outbreaks are being reported, but Forest Heights Revera now has over 150 cases of COVID-19 with 35 deceased. Trinity Village is reporting the second highest number of cases with 33 residents and 32 staff members infected with COVID-19.
2 May 15:00 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/local-news/regions-total-of-covid-19-cases-now-782-2319067Rating: 0.30
UK coronavirus death toll nears 28,000 after another 465 die in hospitals
The UK’s coronavirus death toll has risen to at least 27, 975 after 465 more people died in hospitals. The toll was updated after England recorded another 370 deaths in hospitals, Scotland another 40, Wales another 44 and Northern Ireland another 11. As of yesterday, the total number of people who have died of Covid-19 in all settings stood at 27,510. The new number will rise even further later today, when deaths in care homes and the wider community are announced. Previously, the Department of Health only included deaths in hospitals in their daily figures. That number now stands at at least 23,753. The government began including care home deaths in their figures earlier this week, amid concern it reflected a significant hidden death toll. The UK now has the third highest number of recorded deaths in the world, which critics have blamed on the government’s slow response to the outbreak, including its testing strategy. The government announced yesterday that it had hit its 100,000 a day target, which it pledged to reach by the end of April. Health secretary Matt Hancock said 112, 347 tests had been provided in the 24 hours to 9am on May 1st. However, concerns were raised over how this was counted with the figure including tens of thousands of home test kits that had been sent, but not carried out. Contact tracing is set to form the next stage of the UK’s response to the virus. Mr Hancock said 18,000 contact tracers to track those who have come into contact with an infected person will be in place by mid-May and the numbers will be expanded if necessary. He said this next phase of dealing with Covid-19 will allow the Government ‘to reassert, as much as is safely possible, the liberty of us all’. Details on how life after lockdown might look are also expected to be published by the government next week. Ministers say the UK must pass five tests before restrictions could be lifted, meaning current measures could be in place until at least June. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
2 May 14:09 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/02/uk-coronavirus-death-toll-nears-28000-another-454-die-hospitals-12644841/Rating: 2.18
Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine watch
3 May 10:53
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Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine watch
Beijing: Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China's methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China's progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week -- except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: "Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room." Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household's door asking neighbours to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials told AFP that people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei's capital Wuhan. Her building's management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. "It's quite scary how you get used to such things," she told AFP. "Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out," Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. No human contact Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicentre of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardised meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. "Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly," Zhong told AFP. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March -- just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced -- spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. "They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance," Poirot told AFP. "We all played the game without contesting." Read More4,100 women take on Oracle over unequal pay in class-action lawsuit Over 4,000 former and current women employees have accused Cloud giant Oracle of unequal pay in a class-action gender discrimination lawsuit. Read More'I'm cheering for you': Robot welcome at Tokyo quarantine "Since patients are infected with COVID-19, it is not possible to have a real person to interact with," said Kan Kiyota, marketing director of SoftBank, which makes the Pepper robot. Read MoreTwitter offers data to researchers studying virus "Public conversation can help the world learn faster, solve problems better and realize we're all in this together," Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey said.
3 May 10:53 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Robots-and-cameras-China-s-sci-fi-quarantine-watchRating: 3.14
Robots and cameras help enforce China's sci-fi quarantine
BEIJING: Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China’s methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China’s progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week – except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: “Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room.” Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household’s door asking neighbours to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials told AFP that people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei’s capital Wuhan. Her building’s management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. “It’s quite scary how you get used to such things,” she told AFP. “Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out,” Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. No human contact Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicentre of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardised meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. “Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly,” Zhong told AFP. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March – just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced – spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. “They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance,” Poirot told AFP. “We all played the game without contesting.”
3 May 10:42 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213152/8-robots-cameras-help-enforce-chinas-sci-fi-quarantine/Rating: 1.80
Robots and cameras: China’s sci-fi quarantine watch
Beijing, China | AFP | Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China’s methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China’s progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week — except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: “Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room.” Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household’s door asking neighbours to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials told AFP that people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei’s capital Wuhan. Her building’s management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. “It’s quite scary how you get used to such things,” she told AFP. “Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out,” Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. – No human contact – Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicentre of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardised meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. “Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly,” Zhong told AFP. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March — just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced — spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. “They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance,” Poirot told AFP. “We all played the game without contesting.” Share on: WhatsApp
3 May 11:00 • The Independent Uganda: • https://www.independent.co.ug/robots-and-cameras-chinas-sci-fi-quarantine-watch/Rating: 0.30
Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine watch
Beijing – Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China’s methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralyzed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China’s progress, travelers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week — except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimize contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: “Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room.” Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household’s door asking neighbors to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials said people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei’s capital Wuhan. Her building’s management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. “It’s quite scary how you get used to such things,” she said. “Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out,” Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicenter of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardized meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. “Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly,” Zhong said. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March — just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced — spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. “They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance,” Poirot said. “We all played the game without contesting.”
3 May 06:06 • The Japan Times • https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2020/05/03/asia-pacific/robots-cameras-china-quarantine-coronavirus/Rating: 2.31
Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine watch
Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China's methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China's progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week -- except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: "Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room." Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household's door asking neighbours to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials told AFP that people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei's capital Wuhan. Her building's management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. "It's quite scary how you get used to such things," she told AFP. "Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out," Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. - No human contact - Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicentre of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardised meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. "Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly," Zhong told AFP. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March -- just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced -- spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. "They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance," Poirot told AFP. "We all played the game without contesting."
3 May 05:20 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/robots-and-cameras-china-s-sci-fi-quarantine-watch/article/571125Rating: 0.78
Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine watch
Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China's methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China's progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week -- except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: "Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room." Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household's door asking neighbours to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials told AFP that people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei's capital Wuhan. Her building's management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. "It's quite scary how you get used to such things," she told AFP. "Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out," Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicentre of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardised meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. "Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly," Zhong told AFP. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March -- just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced -- spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. "They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance," Poirot told AFP. "We all played the game without contesting." tjx/lth/ecl https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 05:23 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/robots-and-cameras-chinas-sci-fi-quarantine-watch/4ex3b9tRating: 0.51
Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine enforcement
Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China's progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week -- except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A three-foot-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. When the robot arrives at its destination, it dials the landline phone in the room and informs the occupant in an eerie, childlike voice: "Hello, this is your service robot. Your order has arrived outside your room." Its belly opens and the guest takes the delivery items before the robot turns and rolls away. Doctors in hazmat suits go from room to room daily reminding occupants, including an AFP journalist who had been in Hubei, to take their temperatures with the mercury thermometer provided at check-in, and to ask if any are experiencing symptoms. People under home quarantine elsewhere in the city have had silent electronic alarms installed on their doors. Officials put up a notice on each quarantined household's door asking neighbours to keep an eye on the confined inhabitants. In one Beijing residential compound, officials told AFP that people under home quarantine must inform community volunteers whenever they open their doors. Friederike Boege, a German journalist, began her second quarantine in Beijing this year on Sunday after returning from Hubei's capital Wuhan. Her building's management installed a camera in front of her door to monitor her movements. "It's quite scary how you get used to such things," she told AFP. "Apart from the camera I do believe that the guards and the cleaner on the compound would denunciate me if I were to go out," Boege said. During her previous quarantine experience in March after returning from a trip to Thailand, she was reported to building management by a cleaner for going downstairs to take out the trash. No human contact Total isolation has become a temporary norm for those under strict quarantine, without even a single trip to the grocery store or walk to break up the monotony. Joy Zhong, a 25-year-old media professional returning to Beijing from a work trip in the virus epicentre of Wuhan, spent three weeks without leaving a cramped room at another hotel in the Chinese capital. There, guests were not allowed to order their own food and were instead given standardised meals. Friends were allowed to bring packages to the front desk, which were then left outside hotel rooms by staff who avoided direct contact with guests. "Spending 21 days in a row without seeing a single person, it felt like time was passing extremely slowly," Zhong told AFP. Not all people under quarantine are as closely watched as those in Beijing, however. Charlotte Poirot, a French teacher who arrived in China in late March -- just before a ban on foreigners entering the country was introduced -- spent two weeks under quarantine at a hostel in the southeastern city Guangzhou. She was confined alone in a 10-bunk room, with meals delivered to her door and medical personnel coming to check her temperature multiple times a day. "They never locked the door and the (whole) process was based on reliance," Poirot told AFP. "We all played the game without contesting." (AFP)
3 May 07:56 • France 24 • https://www.france24.com/en/20200503-robots-and-cameras-china-s-sci-fi-quarantine-enforcementRating: 2.48
Covid-19 wrap | China's sci-fi coronavirus quarantine watch, Europe eases lockdowns, and Saudi stocks have a bad day
Keeping you up to date on the latest novel coronavirus (Covid-19) news from around the world. FOLLOW THE LIVE UPDATE | All the latest coronavirus and lockdown updates Robots and cameras: China's sci-fi quarantine watch Robots delivering meals, ghostly figures in hazmat suits and cameras pointed at front doors: China's methods to enforce coronavirus quarantines have looked like a sci-fi dystopia for legions of people. Authorities have taken drastic steps to ensure that people do not break isolation rules after China largely tamed the virus that had paralysed the country for months. With cases imported from abroad threatening to unravel China's progress, travellers arriving from overseas have been required to stay home or in designated hotels for 14 days. Beijing loosened the rule in the capital this week - except for those arriving from abroad and Hubei, the province where the virus first surfaced late last year. At one quarantine hotel in central Beijing, a guard sits at a desk on each floor to monitor all movements. The solitude is broken by one of the few visitors allowed near the rooms: A 1m-tall cylindrical robot that delivers water bottles, meals and packages to hotel guests. The robot rides the elevator and navigates hallways on its own to minimise contact between guests and human staff. - AFP Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as virus hopes rise Europe on Sunday prepared for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, after Spaniards flocked to the streets to jog, cycle and roller-skate for the first time after 48 days of confinement. More than 242 000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of captivity. - AFP Iran to reopen many mosques as lockdown eases: Rouhani Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country on Monday after being shuttered since early March over the novel coronavirus outbreak. Rouhani said 132 counties, or about one third of the administrative divisions, would "reopen their mosques as of tomorrow", speaking at a televised virus taskforce meeting. Maintaining "social distancing is more important than collective prayer", he added, arguing that Islam considers safety obligatory while praying in mosques is only recommended. - AFP Saudi stocks dive after finance minister vows 'painful' measures Saudi shares slumped 6.8% as trading opened on Sunday, a day after the finance minister announced "painful" measures to tackle the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Almost all the listed stocks on the Arab world's largest bourse were in the red just minutes after the start of trading. Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan said late on Saturday that the kingdom would take "drastic measures" to face the double shock of the novel coronavirus and low oil prices. "Some of these measures could be painful," he said in an interview with Saudi-owned news channel Al-Arabiya. He said the world's leading crude exporter would borrow close to $60 billion this year to plug a huge budget deficit. Saudi Jadwa Investment, an independent think-tank, forecast Thursday that the kingdom would post a record $112 billion budget deficit this year. The International Monetary Fund in April projected that the Saudi economy would contract by 2.3% this year. Capital Economics, a London-based think-tank, said the contraction would be at least 5%. - AFP
3 May 12:00 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/World/News/covid-19-wrap-chinas-sci-fi-coronavirus-quarantine-watch-europe-eases-lockdowns-and-saudi-stocks-have-a-bad-day-20200503Rating: 2.83
Facing meat shortages, some Americans turn to hunting during pandemic
3 May 20:55
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5 articles
Weight: 2.93
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Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:53
Average US: 23.22
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Facing meat shortages, some Americans turn to hunting during pandemic
TAOS, N.M. (Reuters) - David Elliot first thought of shooting an elk to help feed family and friends back in January when the United States reported its first novel coronavirus case. Elliot, emergency manager at Holy Cross Hospital in Taos, New Mexico, had always wanted to go big-game hunting and, with the pandemic spreading, there seemed no better time to try to fill his freezer with free-range, super-lean meat. So for the first time in his life, despite not owning a rifle or ever having hunted large animals, he put his name in for New Mexico’s annual elk permit draw. With some U.S. meat processors halting operations as workers fall ill, companies warning of shortages, and people having more time on their hands and possibly less money due to shutdowns and layoffs, he is among a growing number of Americans turning to hunting for food, according to state data and hunting groups. “I understand some people might be driven by like antlers or some sort of glory. I don’t want to do that,” said Elliot, 37, who received a prized permit to shoot a female elk in an area of Taos County where herds of the animal graze in vast plains studded with extinct volcanoes. Elliot plans to borrow a rifle and maybe even a horse to carry the elk back to his vehicle after the hunt in November. “I want to make sure it’s a clean, humane shot, as much as possible, and get a bunch of food.” Game and fish agencies from Minnesota to New Mexico have reported an increase in either hunting license sales, permit applications, or both this spring. Indiana saw a 28% jump in turkey license sales during the first week of the season as hunters likely had more time to get out into the woods, said Marty Benson, a spokesman for the state’s Department of Natural Resources. Firearm manufacturers have reported sales increases, and the FBI carried out 3.74 million background checks in March, a record for any month. That followed a decline of 255,000 in the number of hunters between 2016 and 2020, based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service license data, a 2% fall, as fewer young people took up the activity, hunting advocates say. Hank Forester of Quality Deer Management Association expects a resurgence after many Americans saw empty meat shelves at the grocery store for the first time during March and April. “People are starting to consider self-reliance and where their food comes from,” said Forester of the hunter research and training group. “We’re all born hunters.” Teachers Brian Van Nevel and Nathaniel Evans get up at 4 a.m. to try to be first into the forests around Taos to hunt wild turkey. Evans, a middle-school teacher, has seen a lot more people stalking birds this year. A town councilor as well, he is hunting not just for food but to reconnect with himself at a time when he is guiding Taos’ response to the pandemic as well as teaching online classes. “Its been so important for me, being able to go out and kind of cleanse my mental card and just go and be present, you really have to be present, and quiet and listening,” said Evans, 38, who in April shot a 17-pound (7.7-kg) bird. Some states such as Washington and Illinois closed state lands as the virus spread, prompting the National Rifle Association to lobby governors to keep them open to allow people to hunt for food. Officials in Washington issued 10 poaching charges between March 25 and April 26 compared with three in the year-earlier period, the state’s Fish and Wildlife Department reported. Nina Stafford, 42, a building contractor from Fayetteville, Georgia, killed her first deer in January. She described the experience as “thrilling, exciting and remorseful for the deer.” “The coronavirus has only made me want to go and do it more so that I don’t have that scared feeling of where’s my next meal going to come from,” said Stafford, who also grows vegetables and fruit. To be sure, stocks of species like wild turkey can only sustain so many hunters. Wildlife ecologists Michael Chamberlain and Brett Collier fear the turkey’s existing population decline will steepen this spring. Turkey hunter numbers in wildlife management areas in Georgia increased 47% this year from 2019, while turkeys killed during the first 23 days of the season rose 26%, despite no recent increase in bird numbers, the ecologists, respectively with the University of Georgia and Louisiana State University, wrote in a report, citing state department of natural resources preliminary data. Not all states have reported an increase in hunting license applications, with both California and Florida seeing declines. Still, big game such as deer could see similar pressure in the autumn as hunters have more time to max out “bag limits,” which in the case of Georgia is 12 animals, the ecologists said. Elk hunts in most states are limited to a single animal per hunter who draws a permit in an annual lottery. Elliot sees no downside to paying $60 for a tag that could allow him to get close to 200 pounds (91 kg) of meat, if he can get a cow elk. “It’s not just because what’s going on in the world right now. Frankly I don’t make that much money, so like this is just a good idea anyway,” said Elliot.
3 May 20:55 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-usa-hunting-idUSKBN22F0G4Rating: 4.04
Facing meat shortages, some Americans turn to hunting during pandemic
By Andrew Hay TAOS, N.M., May 3 (Reuters) - David Elliot first thought of shooting an elk to help feed family and friends back in January when the United States reported its first novel coronavirus case. Elliot, emergency manager at Holy Cross Hospital in Taos, New Mexico, had always wanted to go big-game hunting and, with the pandemic spreading, there seemed no better time to try to fill his freezer with free-range, super-lean meat. So for the first time in his life, despite not owning a rifle or ever having hunted large animals, he put his name in for New Mexico's annual elk permit draw. With some U.S. meat processors halting operations as workers fall ill, companies warning of shortages, and people having more time on their hands and possibly less money due to shutdowns and layoffs, he is among a growing number of Americans turning to hunting for food, according to state data and hunting groups. "I understand some people might be driven by like antlers or some sort of glory. I don't want to do that," said Elliot, 37, who received a prized permit to shoot a female elk in an area of Taos County where herds of the animal graze in vast plains studded with extinct volcanoes. Elliot plans to borrow a rifle and maybe even a horse to carry the elk back to his vehicle after the hunt in November. "I want to make sure it's a clean, humane shot, as much as possible, and get a bunch of food." Game and fish agencies from Minnesota to New Mexico have reported an increase in either hunting license sales, permit applications, or both this spring. Indiana saw a 28% jump in turkey license sales during the first week of the season as hunters likely had more time to get out into the woods, said Marty Benson, a spokesman for the state's Department of Natural Resources. Firearm manufacturers have reported sales increases, and the FBI carried out 3.74 million background checks in March, a record for any month. That followed a decline of 255,000 in the number of hunters between 2016 and 2020, based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service license data, a 2% fall, as fewer young people took up the activity, hunting advocates say. Hank Forester of Quality Deer Management Association expects a resurgence after many Americans saw empty meat shelves at the grocery store for the first time during March and April. "People are starting to consider self-reliance and where their food comes from," said Forester of the hunter research and training group. "We're all born hunters." 'MENTAL CLEANSE' Teachers Brian Van Nevel and Nathaniel Evans get up at 4 a.m. to try to be first into the forests around Taos to hunt wild turkey. Evans, a middle-school teacher, has seen a lot more people stalking birds this year. A town councilor as well, he is hunting not just for food but to reconnect with himself at a time when he is guiding Taos' response to the pandemic as well as teaching online classes. "Its been so important for me, being able to go out and kind of cleanse my mental card and just go and be present, you really have to be present, and quiet and listening," said Evans, 38, who in April shot a 17-pound (7.7-kg) bird. Some states such as Washington and Illinois closed state lands as the virus spread, prompting the National Rifle Association to lobby governors to keep them open to allow people to hunt for food. Officials in Washington issued 10 poaching charges between March 25 and April 26 compared with three in the year-earlier period, the state's Fish and Wildlife Department reported. 'A GOOD IDEA' Nina Stafford, 42, a building contractor from Fayetteville, Georgia, killed her first deer in January. She described the experience as "thrilling, exciting and remorseful for the deer." "The coronavirus has only made me want to go and do it more so that I don't have that scared feeling of where's my next meal going to come from," said Stafford, who also grows vegetables and fruit. To be sure, stocks of species like wild turkey can only sustain so many hunters. Wildlife ecologists Michael Chamberlain and Brett Collier fear the turkey's existing population decline will steepen this spring. Turkey hunter numbers in wildlife management areas in Georgia increased 47% this year from 2019, while turkeys killed during the first 23 days of the season rose 26%, despite no recent increase in bird numbers, the ecologists, respectively with the University of Georgia and Louisiana State University, wrote in a report, citing state department of natural resources preliminary data. Not all states have reported an increase in hunting license applications, with both California and Florida seeing declines. Still, big game such as deer could see similar pressure in the autumn as hunters have more time to max out "bag limits," which in the case of Georgia is 12 animals, the ecologists said. Elk hunts in most states are limited to a single animal per hunter who draws a permit in an annual lottery. Elliot sees no downside to paying $60 for a tag that could allow him to get close to 200 pounds (91 kg) of meat, if he can get a cow elk. "It's not just because what's going on in the world right now. Frankly I don't make that much money, so like this is just a good idea anyway," said Elliot. (Reporting by Andrew Hay in Taos, New Mexico; Editing by Bill Tarrant, Daniel Wallis and Peter Cooney) © Copyright Thomson Reuters 2020. Click For Restrictions - http://about.reuters.com/fulllegal.asp
3 May 20:53 • Successful Farming • https://www.agriculture.com/markets/newswire/update-1-facing-meat-shortages-some-americans-turn-to-hunting-during-pandemicRating: 0.30
Facing meat shortages, some Americans turn to hunting during pandemic
TAOS — David Elliot first thought of shooting an elk to help feed family and friends back in January when the United States reported its first novel coronavirus case. Elliot, emergency manager at Holy Cross Hospital in Taos, New Mexico, had always wanted to go big-game hunting and, with the pandemic spreading, there seemed no better time to try to fill his freezer with free-range, super-lean meat. So for the first time in his life, despite not owning a rifle or ever having hunted large animals, he put his name in for New Mexico’s annual elk permit draw. With some U.S. meat processors halting operations as workers fall ill, companies warning of shortages, and people having more time on their hands and possibly less money due to shutdowns and layoffs, he is among a growing number of Americans turning to hunting for food, according to state data and hunting groups. “I understand some people might be driven by like antlers or some sort of glory. I don’t want to do that,” said Elliot, 37, who received a prized permit to shoot a female elk in an area of Taos County where herds of the animal graze in vast plains studded with extinct volcanoes. Elliot plans to borrow a rifle and maybe even a horse to carry the elk back to his vehicle after the hunt in November. “I want to make sure it’s a clean, humane shot, as much as possible, and get a bunch of food.” Game and fish agencies from Minnesota to New Mexico have reported an increase in either hunting license sales, permit applications, or both this spring. Indiana saw a 28% jump in turkey license sales during the first week of the season as hunters likely had more time to get out into the woods, said Marty Benson, a spokesman for the state’s Department of Natural Resources. Firearm manufacturers have reported sales increases, and the FBI carried out 3.74 million background checks in March, a record for any month. That followed a decline of 255,000 in the number of hunters between 2016 and 2020, based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service license data, a 2% fall, as fewer young people took up the activity, hunting advocates say. Hank Forester of Quality Deer Management Association expects a resurgence after many Americans saw empty meat shelves at the grocery store for the first time during March and April. “People are starting to consider self-reliance and where their food comes from,” said Forester of the hunter research and training group. “We’re all born hunters.” ‘MENTAL CLEANSE’ Teachers Brian Van Nevel and Nathaniel Evans get up at 4 a.m. to try to be first into the forests around Taos to hunt wild turkey. Evans, a middle-school teacher, has seen a lot more people stalking birds this year. A town councilor as well, he is hunting not just for food but to reconnect with himself at a time when he is guiding Taos’ response to the pandemic as well as teaching online classes. “Its been so important for me, being able to go out and kind of cleanse my mental card and just go and be present, you really have to be present, and quiet and listening,” said Evans, 38, who in April shot a 17-pound (7.7-kg) bird. Some states such as Washington and Illinois closed state lands as the virus spread, prompting the National Rifle Association to lobby governors to keep them open to allow people to hunt for food. Officials in Washington issued 10 poaching charges between March 25 and April 26 compared with three in the year-earlier period, the state’s Fish and Wildlife Department reported. ‘A GOOD IDEA’ Nina Stafford, 42, a building contractor from Fayetteville, Georgia, killed her first deer in January. She described the experience as “thrilling, exciting and remorseful for the deer.” “The coronavirus has only made me want to go and do it more so that I don’t have that scared feeling of where’s my next meal going to come from,” said Stafford, who also grows vegetables and fruit. To be sure, stocks of species like wild turkey can only sustain so many hunters. Wildlife ecologists Michael Chamberlain and Brett Collier fear the turkey’s existing population decline will steepen this spring. Turkey hunter numbers in wildlife management areas in Georgia increased 47% this year from 2019, while turkeys killed during the first 23 days of the season rose 26%, despite no recent increase in bird numbers, the ecologists, respectively with the University of Georgia and Louisiana State University, wrote in a report, citing state department of natural resources preliminary data. Not all states have reported an increase in hunting license applications, with both California and Florida seeing declines. Still, big game such as deer could see similar pressure in the autumn as hunters have more time to max out “bag limits,” which in the case of Georgia is 12 animals, the ecologists said. Elk hunts in most states are limited to a single animal per hunter who draws a permit in an annual lottery. Elliot sees no downside to paying $60 for a tag that could allow him to get close to 200 pounds (91 kg) of meat, if he can get a cow elk. “It’s not just because what’s going on in the world right now. Frankly I don’t make that much money, so like this is just a good idea anyway,” said Elliot. (Reporting by Andrew Hay in Taos, New Mexico; Editing by Bill Tarrant, Daniel Wallis and Peter Cooney)
3 May 20:54 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/environment-pmn/facing-meat-shortages-some-americans-turn-to-hunting-during-pandemicRating: 1.59
Americans turn to hunting for food, renewal during pandemic
By Andrew Hay TAOS, N.M., May 3 (Reuters) - David Elliot first thought of shooting an elk to help feed family and friends back in January when the United States reported its first novel coronavirus case. Elliot, emergency manager at Holy Cross Hospital in Taos, New Mexico, had always wanted to go big game hunting and, with the pandemic spreading, there seemed no better time to try to fill his freezer with free-range, super-lean meat. So for the first time in his life, despite not owning a rifle or ever having hunted large animals, he put his name in for New Mexico's annual elk permit draw. With some U.S. meat processors halting operations as workers fall ill, stoking fears of shortages, and people having more time on their hands and possibly less money due to shutdowns and layoffs, he is among a growing number of Americans turning to hunting for food, according to state data and hunting groups. "I understand some people might be driven by like antlers or some sort of glory. I don't want to do that," said Elliot, 37, who received a prized permit to shoot a female elk in an area of Taos County where herds of the animal graze in vast plains studded with extinct volcanoes. Elliot plans to borrow a rifle and maybe even a horse to carry the elk back to his vehicle after the hunt in November. "I want to make sure it's a clean, humane shot, as much as possible, and get a bunch of food." Game and fish agencies from Minnesota to New Mexico have reported an increase in either hunting license sales, permit applications, or both this spring. Indiana saw a 28% jump in turkey license sales during the first week of the season as hunters likely had more time to get out into the woods, said Marty Benson, a spokesman for the state's department of natural resources. Firearm manufacturers have reported sales increases, and the FBI carried out 3.74 million background checks in March, a record for any month. That followed a 255,000 fall in the number of hunters between 2016 and 2020, based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service license data, a 2% fall, as fewer young people took up the activity, hunting advocates say. Hank Forester of Quality Deer Management Association expects a resurgence after many Americans saw empty meat shelves at the grocery store for the first time during March and April. "People are starting to consider self-reliance and where their food comes from," said Forester of the hunter research and training group. "I think we're all born hunters." 'MENTAL CLEANSE' Teachers Brian Van Nevel and Nathaniel Evans get up at 4 a.m. to try to be first into the forests around Taos, New Mexico to hunt wild turkey. Evans, a middle school teacher, has seen a lot more people stalking the male birds known as "gobblers" this year. A town councilor as well, he is hunting not just for food but to reconnect with himself at a time when he is guiding Taos' response to the pandemic as well as teaching online classes. "Its been so important for me, being able to go out and kind of cleanse my mental card and just go and be present, you really have to be present, and quiet and listening," said Evans, 38, who in April shot a 17-pound (7.7 kg) bird. Some states such as Washington and Illinois closed state lands as the virus spread, prompting the National Rifle Association to lobby governors to keep them open to allow people to hunt for food. Officials in Washington issued 10 poaching charges between March 25 and April 26, more than three times the number handed out during the same period a year ago, the state's fish and wildlife department reported. 'A GOOD IDEA' Nina Stafford, 42, a building contractor from Fayetteville, Georgia, killed her first deer in January. She described the experience as "thrilling, exciting and remorseful for the deer." "The coronavirus has only made me want to go and do it more so that I don't have that scared feeling of where's my next meal going to come from," said Stafford, who also grows vegetables and fruit. To be sure, stocks of species like wild turkey can only sustain so many hunters. Wildlife ecologists Michael Chamberlain and Brett Collier fear the turkey's existing population decline will steepen this spring. Turkey hunter numbers in wildlife management areas in Georgia increased 47% this year from 2019 while turkeys killed during the first 23 days of the season rose 26%, despite no recent increase in bird numbers, the ecologists wrote in a report, citing state department of natural resources preliminary data. Not all states have reported an increase in hunting license applications, both California and Florida seeing declines. Still, big game such as deer and antelope could see similar pressure in the fall as hunters have more time to reach kill limits, which in the case of Louisiana is 6 deer per season, and 12 in Georgia, the ecologists said. Elk hunts are controlled by permit limits in most states and Elliot sees no downside to paying $60 for a tag that could allow him to get close to 200 pounds (91 kg) of meat, if he can get a cow elk. "It's not just because what's going on in the world right now. Frankly I don't make that much money, so like this is just a good idea anyway," said Elliott, who plans to split the meat with an experienced-hunter friend who will accompany him. (Reporting By Andrew Hay in Taos, New Mexico; Editing by Bill Tarrant and Daniel Wallis) © Copyright Thomson Reuters 2020. Click For Restrictions - http://about.reuters.com/fulllegal.asp
3 May 11:00 • Successful Farming • https://www.agriculture.com/markets/newswire/americans-turn-to-hunting-for-food-renewal-during-pandemicRating: 0.30
Facing meat shortages, some Americans turn to hunting during pandemic
By Andrew Hay TAOS, N.M. (Reuters) - David Elliot first thought of shooting an elk to help feed family and friends back in January when the United States reported its first novel coronavirus case. Elliot, emergency manager at Holy Cross Hospital in Taos, New Mexico, had always wanted to go big-game hunting and, with the pandemic spreading, there seemed no better time to try to fill his freezer with free-range, super-lean meat. So for the first time in his life, despite not owning a rifle or ever having hunted large animals, he put his name in for New Mexico's annual elk permit draw. With some U.S. meat processors halting operations as workers fall ill, companies warning of shortages, and people having more time on their hands and possibly less money due to shutdowns and layoffs, he is among a growing number of Americans turning to hunting for food, according to state data and hunting groups. "I understand some people might be driven by like antlers or some sort of glory. I don't want to do that," said Elliot, 37, who received a prized permit to shoot a female elk in an area of Taos County where herds of the animal graze in vast plains studded with extinct volcanoes. Elliot plans to borrow a rifle and maybe even a horse to carry the elk back to his vehicle after the hunt in November. "I want to make sure it's a clean, humane shot, as much as possible, and get a bunch of food." Game and fish agencies from Minnesota to New Mexico have reported an increase in either hunting license sales, permit applications, or both this spring. Indiana saw a 28% jump in turkey license sales during the first week of the season as hunters likely had more time to get out into the woods, said Marty Benson, a spokesman for the state's Department of Natural Resources. Firearm manufacturers have reported sales increases, and the FBI carried out 3.74 million background checks in March, a record for any month. That followed a decline of 255,000 in the number of hunters between 2016 and 2020, based on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service license data, a 2% fall, as fewer young people took up the activity, hunting advocates say. Hank Forester of Quality Deer Management Association expects a resurgence after many Americans saw empty meat shelves at the grocery store for the first time during March and April. "People are starting to consider self-reliance and where their food comes from," said Forester of the hunter research and training group. "We're all born hunters." 'MENTAL CLEANSE' Teachers Brian Van Nevel and Nathaniel Evans get up at 4 a.m. to try to be first into the forests around Taos to hunt wild turkey. Evans, a middle-school teacher, has seen a lot more people stalking birds this year. A town councilor as well, he is hunting not just for food but to reconnect with himself at a time when he is guiding Taos' response to the pandemic as well as teaching online classes. "Its been so important for me, being able to go out and kind of cleanse my mental card and just go and be present, you really have to be present, and quiet and listening," said Evans, 38, who in April shot a 17-pound (7.7-kg) bird. Some states such as Washington and Illinois closed state lands as the virus spread, prompting the National Rifle Association to lobby governors to keep them open to allow people to hunt for food. Officials in Washington issued 10 poaching charges between March 25 and April 26 compared with three in the year-earlier period, the state's Fish and Wildlife Department reported. 'A GOOD IDEA' Nina Stafford, 42, a building contractor from Fayetteville, Georgia, killed her first deer in January. She described the experience as "thrilling, exciting and remorseful for the deer." "The coronavirus has only made me want to go and do it more so that I don't have that scared feeling of where's my next meal going to come from," said Stafford, who also grows vegetables and fruit. To be sure, stocks of species like wild turkey can only sustain so many hunters. Wildlife ecologists Michael Chamberlain and Brett Collier fear the turkey's existing population decline will steepen this spring. Turkey hunter numbers in wildlife management areas in Georgia increased 47% this year from 2019, while turkeys killed during the first 23 days of the season rose 26%, despite no recent increase in bird numbers, the ecologists, respectively with the University of Georgia and Louisiana State University, wrote in a report, citing state department of natural resources preliminary data. Not all states have reported an increase in hunting license applications, with both California and Florida seeing declines. Still, big game such as deer could see similar pressure in the autumn as hunters have more time to max out "bag limits," which in the case of Georgia is 12 animals, the ecologists said. Elk hunts in most states are limited to a single animal per hunter who draws a permit in an annual lottery. Elliot sees no downside to paying $60 for a tag that could allow him to get close to 200 pounds (91 kg) of meat, if he can get a cow elk. "It's not just because what's going on in the world right now. Frankly I don't make that much money, so like this is just a good idea anyway," said Elliot.
3 May 00:00 • Investing.com • https://www.investing.com/news/commodities-news/americans-turn-to-hunting-for-food-renewal-during-pandemic-2158983Rating: 0.30
Mississippi's governor backtracked on ending the state's lockdown after the state saw its biggest increase in coronavirus deaths and cases
3 May 11:19
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Mississippi's governor backtracked on ending the state's lockdown after the state saw its biggest increase in coronavirus deaths and cases
The Governor of Mississippi said he would backtrack on plans to partially end the state's coronavirus lockdown after seeing its largest single-day increase in both cases and deaths on Friday. Mississippi reported 397 new cases of coronavirus and 20 new deaths Friday, both of which were the highest daily numbers in the state since the virus first appeared there. By Saturday the number of new cases had fallen to 229, while there were 10 new deaths. The spike in cases caused the state's governor, Tate Reeves, to pull back on plans to allow some non-essential retailers to reopen under strict guidelines for their operation. "Things can change quickly. We have to stay flexible. Today, I was prepared to announce further reopenings. That was the plan and I was excited to get more of our people back to work," Reeves said in a briefing Friday. "This was a large enough change to make me take a step back," he said, referencing the large number of new cases. "I have come to the conclusion that I must hold on for now." Mississippi, the US' poorest state on a GDP per capita basis, has reported 7,441 cases of COVID-19, and 291 deaths, the state's department of health says. There have been some 1.1 million cases across the US, and around 66,000 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. LoadingSomething is loading. Mississippi was set to be one of a handful of states to begin easing lockdowns by reopening some non-essential businesses and allowing some workers to return to work. Reeves had planned a so-called "safer at home" initiative, whereby non-essential retail businesses like clothing stores and bookstores could reopen, while following strict guidelines. Those guidelines included lowering capacity, practicing social distancing, and ensuring high levels of hygiene. "The increase was a large enough change to make me take a step back, reexamine things and must hold on and reconsider at least over the weekend," Reeves said. He stressed his desire, "not to recklessly put people in harm's way." At a federal level, President Donald Trump has pushed for a reopening of some businesses after several weeks of lockdown, citing a desire to protect the US economy from the damage that a prolonged period of low activity would cause. The president has frequently yo-yo-ed between pushing for a reopening at the behest of business leaders, and urging caution amid advice from public health officials. Health officials warn that reopening the economy too quickly could lead to a second wave of new cases, much like was witnessed during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918. The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) warned this week that the most likely, and worst-case scenario going forward is a "one in which the first wave is followed by a larger wave in the fall or winter of 2020, and one or more smaller subsequent waves in 2021," Business Insider' Aylin Woodward reported Saturday. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 11:19 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/mississippi-governor-backs-down-on-reopening-after-biggest-covid-spike-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Mississippi's governor backtracked on ending the state's lockdown after the state saw its biggest increase in coronavirus deaths and cases
The Governor of Mississippi said he would backtrack on plans to partially end the state’s coronavirus lockdown after seeing its largest single-day increase in both cases and deaths on Friday. Mississippi reported 397 new cases of coronavirus and 20 new deaths Friday, both of which were the highest daily numbers in the state since the virus first appeared there. By Saturday the number of new cases had fallen to 229, while there were 10 new deaths. The spike in cases caused the state’s governor, Tate Reeves, to pull back on plans to allow some non-essential retailers to reopen under strict guidelines for their operation. “Things can change quickly. We have to stay flexible. Today, I was prepared to announce further reopenings. That was the plan and I was excited to get more of our people back to work,”Reeves said in a briefing Friday. “This was a large enough change to make me take a step back,” he said, referencing the large number of new cases. “I have come to the conclusion that I must hold on for now.” Mississippi, the US’ poorest state on a GDP per capita basis, has reported 7,441 cases of COVID-19, and 291 deaths, the state’s department of health says. There have been some 1.1 million cases across the US, and around 66,000 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Mississippi was set to be one of a handful of states to begin easing lockdowns by reopening some non-essential businesses and allowing some workers to return to work. Reeves had planned a so-called “safer at home” initiative, whereby non-essential retail businesses like clothing stores and bookstores could reopen, while following strict guidelines. Those guidelines included lowering capacity, practicing social distancing, and ensuring high levels of hygiene. “The increase was a large enough change to make me take a step back, reexamine things and must hold on and reconsider at least over the weekend,” Reeves said. He stressed his desire, “not to recklessly put people in harm’s way.” At a federal level, President Donald Trump has pushed for a reopening of some businesses after several weeks of lockdown, citing a desire to protect the US economy from the damage that a prolonged period of low activity would cause. The president has frequently yo-yo-ed between pushing for a reopening at the behest of business leaders, and urging caution amid advice from public health officials. Health officials warn that reopening the economy too quickly could lead to a second wave of new cases, much like was witnessed during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918. The Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) warned this week that the most likely, and worst-case scenario going forward is a “one in which the first wave is followed by a larger wave in the fall or winter of 2020, and one or more smaller subsequent waves in 2021,” Business Insider’ Aylin Woodward reported Saturday.
3 May 11:19 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/mississippi-governor-backs-down-on-reopening-after-biggest-covid-spike-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Mississippi’s governor backtracked on ending the state’s lockdown after the state saw its biggest increase in coronavirus deaths and cases
The Governor of Mississippi said he would backtrack on plans to partially end the state’s coronavirus lockdown after seeing its largest single-day increase in both cases and deaths on Friday. Mississippi reported 397 new cases of coronavirus and 20 new deaths Friday, both of which were the highest daily numbers in the state since the virus first appeared there. By Saturday the number of new cases had fallen to 229, while there were 10 new deaths. The spike in cases caused the state’s governor, Tate Reeves, to pull back on plans to allow some non-essential retailers to reopen under strict guidelines for their operation. “Things can change quickly. We have to stay flexible. Today, I was prepared to announce further reopenings. That was the plan and I was excited to get more of our people back to work,” Reeves said in a briefing Friday. “This was a large enough change to make me take a step back,” he said, referencing the large number of new cases. “I have come to the conclusion that I must hold on for now.” Mississippi, the US’ poorest state on a GDP per capita basis, has reported 7,441 cases of COVID-19, and 291 deaths, the state’s department of health says. There have been some 1.1 million cases across the US, and around 66,000 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Mississippi was set to be one of a handful of states to begin easing lockdowns by reopening some non-essential businesses and allowing some workers to return to work. Reeves had planned a so-called “safer at home” initiative, whereby non-essential retail businesses like clothing stores and bookstores could reopen, while following strict guidelines. Those guidelines included lowering capacity, practicing social distancing, and ensuring high levels of hygiene. “The increase was a large enough change to make me take a step back, reexamine things and must hold on and reconsider at least over the weekend,” Reeves said. He stressed his desire, “not to recklessly put people in harm’s way.” At a federal level, President Donald Trump has pushed for a reopening of some businesses after several weeks of lockdown, citing a desire to protect the US economy from the damage that a prolonged period of low activity would cause. The president has frequently yo-yo-ed between pushing for a reopening at the behest of business leaders, and urging caution amid advice from public health officials. Health officials warn that reopening the economy too quickly could lead to a second wave of new cases, much like was witnessed during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918. The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) warned this week that the most likely, and worst-case scenario going forward is a “one in which the first wave is followed by a larger wave in the fall or winter of 2020, and one or more smaller subsequent waves in 2021,” Business Insider’ Aylin Woodward reported Saturday.
3 May 11:19 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/mississippi-governor-backs-down-on-reopening-after-biggest-covid-spike-2020-5-2Rating: 0.30
Mississippi's governor backtracked on ending the state's lockdown after the state saw its biggest increase in coronavirus deaths and cases
Leah Mills/Reuters The Governor of Mississippi said he would backtrack on plans to partially end the state's coronavirus lockdown after seeing its largest single-day increase in both cases and deaths on Friday. Mississippi reported 397 new cases of coronavirus and 20 new deaths Friday, both of which were the highest daily numbers in the state since the virus first appeared there. By Saturday the number of new cases had fallen to 229, while there were 10 new deaths. The spike in cases caused the state's governor, Tate Reeves, to pull back on plans to allow some non-essential retailers to reopen under strict guidelines for their operation. "Things can change quickly. We have to stay flexible. Today, I was prepared to announce further reopenings. That was the plan and I was excited to get more of our people back to work," Reeves said in a briefing Friday. "This was a large enough change to make me take a step back," he said, referencing the large number of new cases. "I have come to the conclusion that I must hold on for now." Mississippi, the US' poorest state on a GDP per capita basis, has reported 7,441 cases of COVID-19, and 291 deaths, the state's department of health says. There have been some 1.1 million cases across the US, and around 66,000 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Mississippi was set to be one of a handful of states to begin easing lockdowns by reopening some non-essential businesses and allowing some workers to return to work. Reuters/Carlos Barria Reeves had planned a so-called "safer at home" initiative, whereby non-essential retail businesses like clothing stores and bookstores could reopen, while following strict guidelines. Those guidelines included lowering capacity, practicing social distancing, and ensuring high levels of hygiene. "The increase was a large enough change to make me take a step back, reexamine things and must hold on and reconsider at least over the weekend," Reeves said. He stressed his desire, "not to recklessly put people in harm's way." At a federal level, President Donald Trump has pushed for a reopening of some businesses after several weeks of lockdown, citing a desire to protect the US economy from the damage that a prolonged period of low activity would cause. The president has frequently yo-yo-ed between pushing for a reopening at the behest of business leaders, and urging caution amid advice from public health officials. Health officials warn that reopening the economy too quickly could lead to a second wave of new cases, much like was witnessed during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918. The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) warned this week that the most likely, and worst-case scenario going forward is a "one in which the first wave is followed by a larger wave in the fall or winter of 2020, and one or more smaller subsequent waves in 2021," Business Insider' Aylin Woodward reported Saturday. Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 11:19 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/mississippis-governor-backtracked-ending-states-111939581.htmlRating: 0.30
Mississippi's governor backtracked on ending the state's lockdown after the state saw its biggest increase in coronavirus deaths and cases, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
The Governor of Mississippi said he would backtrack on plans to partially end the state’s coronavirus lockdown after seeing its largest single-day increase in both cases and deaths on Friday. Mississippi reported 397 new cases of coronavirus and 20 new deaths Friday, both of which were the highest daily numbers in the state since the virus first appeared there. By Saturday the number of new cases had fallen to 229, while there were 10 new deaths. The spike in cases caused the state’s governor, Tate Reeves, to pull back on plans to allow some non-essential retailers to reopen under strict guidelines for their operation. “Things can change quickly. We have to stay flexible. Today, I was prepared to announce further reopenings. That was the plan and I was excited to get more of our people back to work,” Reeves said in a briefing Friday. “This was a large enough change to make me take a step back,” he said, referencing the large number of new cases. “I have come to the conclusion that I must hold on for now.” Mississippi, the US’ poorest state on a GDP per capita basis, has reported 7,441 cases of COVID-19, and 291 deaths, the state’s department of health says. There have been some 1.1 million cases across the US, and around 66,000 deaths, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Mississippi was set to be one of a handful of states to begin easing lockdowns by reopening some non-essential businesses and allowing some workers to return to work. Reeves had planned a so-called “safer at home” initiative, whereby non-essential retail businesses like clothing stores and bookstores could reopen, while following strict guidelines. Those guidelines included lowering capacity, practicing social distancing, and ensuring high levels of hygiene. “The increase was a large enough change to make me take a step back, reexamine things and must hold on and reconsider at least over the weekend,” Reeves said. He stressed his desire, “not to recklessly put people in harm’s way.” At a federal level, President Donald Trump has pushed for a reopening of some businesses after several weeks of lockdown, citing a desire to protect the US economy from the damage that a prolonged period of low activity would cause. The president has frequently yo-yo-ed between pushing for a reopening at the behest of business leaders, and urging caution amid advice from public health officials. Health officials warn that reopening the economy too quickly could lead to a second wave of new cases, much like was witnessed during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918. The Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) warned this week that the most likely, and worst-case scenario going forward is a “one in which the first wave is followed by a larger wave in the fall or winter of 2020, and one or more smaller subsequent waves in 2021,” Business Insider’ Aylin Woodward reported Saturday.
3 May 11:19 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/mississippi-governor-backs-down-on-reopening-after-biggest-covid-spike-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Mississippi governor reconsiders reopening state after new spike in coronavirus cases, deaths
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves announced Friday he would hold off on further measures to gradually reopen the state after the number of confirmed coronavirus cases, and deaths, surged overnight. His decision came after the state health department recorded at least 397 new infections and at least 20 new fatalities within a 24-hour period. As of Sunday, Mississippi recorded a total of 7,441 confirmed coronavirus cases, with at least 291 deaths. "Things can change quickly. We have to stay flexible. Today, I was prepared to announce further reopenings. That was the plan and I was excited to get more of our people back to work," Reeves said at his COVID-19 news briefing Friday. "This was a large enough change to make me take a step back, and I have come to the conclusion that I must hold on for now.” CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE During the briefing, state health officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs reported that, as of Friday, 554 COVID-19 patients occupied Mississippi hospital beds. “This thing is not even remotely toward the end,” Dobbs said. “Don’t be surprised if we have rebounding cases and have to reverse course if people are not willing to do the simple things that are requested at this time.” Initially citing a low number of patients and medical resources being utilized, Reeves, a Republican, had allowed the state to transition into a safer-at-home order on April 27, permitting some nonessential businesses to reopen at 50 percent capacity. "The increase was a large enough change to make me take a step back, reexamine things and must hold on and reconsider at least over the weekend," Reeves said Friday. “We may still move forward with more reopenings soon. We believe what we’re considering represents safe steps. They wouldn’t recklessly put more people in harm’s way.” The governor is expected to announce an update to his plans to reopen the state by Monday, WREG-TV reported. Before the Friday spike in COVID-19 cases, Reeves was singing a different tune in an interview with Fox News on Thursday. The governor said he felt comfortable opening nonessential businesses given Mississippi had less than 100 people utilizing ventilators and fewer than 200 in intensive care unit beds. Across the state, there are approximately 4,500 hospital beds available, he added. TENNESSEE, MISSISSIPPI, MONTANA REOPEN SOME BUSINESSES FOLLOWING OTHER STATES EASING CORONAVIRUS RESTRICTIONS “We always knew that we weren't going to be able to stop the spread of the virus, that we were trying to slow the spread to protect our health care system and we feel confident at this point that we have been able to do that,” Reeves told Fox News. Under the safer-at-home order, retail businesses could operate at 50 percent capacity for a two-week period provided they follow stringent public health guidelines that included implementing social distancing and providing hand sanitizer for customers. Elective medical and dental procedures were cleared to resume. Meanwhile, gyms, movie theaters and salons were required to remain closed. “You cannot shutter businesses for months and months and expect they're just going to come back and be ready to go because even with the massive amounts of federal help, people in our state – and I think people across the country – are hurting,” Reeves said Thursday. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Given that more than 200,000 Mississippians have filed for unemployment, Reeves said other state officials needed to start taking the long-term economic impact this shutdown will bring more seriously. "We have a short-term public health crisis in this nation, but we also have a short-term economic crisis that every single day that the economy's not open is going to be harder on the backend. That is something that I think is lost on some people,” the governor said. Fox News' Teny Sahakian contributed to this report
3 May 14:24 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/us/mississippi-reeves-coronavirus-reopening-spike-cases-deathsRating: 3.32
Mississippi Gov. Reeves defends decision to reconsider reopening state after spike in coronavirus cases
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves defended on Sunday his decision to back off easing social distancing restrictions after his state experienced the largest single day jump in both new coronavirus infections and deaths tied to the disease. Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” Reeves said that the state had experienced “a blip” because it received the results of a number of tests all at once, but that he wanted to be cautious and investigate the data before relaxing any more social distancing guidelines. “We didn’t have time to analyze the data before we made the announcement and we are trying to be very cautious,” Reeves said. “And so we said ‘let’s analyze the data over the weekend,’ and what we have found is it’s really a dump. We had a large number of tests that came in from out of state, private labs.” CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST ON THE CORONAVIRUS Reeves added: “It was a one day blip, but we wanted to make sure we investigate that data before we make a final decision, so we delayed it.” Reeves' walk-back on the easing of restrictions came on Friday after the state announced 397 new coronavirus cases and 20 more people died. Reeves, however, also defended his decision to ease restrictions before many other states have done so. “You have to understand that Mississippi is different than New York and New Jersey,” Reeves said on “Fox News Sunday." “What we have seen is for the last 35-40 days, we’ve been between 200 and 300 cases without a spike. Our hospital system is not stressed, we have less than 100 people in our state on ventilators.” The Republican governor also addressed a recent protest in the state capital of Jackson over the lockdown orders. Numerous protests have struck states in recent weeks as residents express anger over stay-at-home orders amid job losses and the economic fallout tied to the coronavirus pandemic. In Mississippi, where demonstrators gathered across from the governor's mansion, many expressed their dissatisfaction at the gradual relaxation of the business and social distancing restrictions established by the governor. The restrictions have been credited by Reeves for limiting the spread of COVID-19 in the state, but the protesters -- some of whom are small business owners, want the governor to fully reopen the state. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Reeves said Sunday that he understands their frustration and promised “we're doing everything in our power to get our, our state back open as soon as possible.” “I think a fundamental right of our government is to be able to protest our leaders and, you know, most of the people that were protesting voted for me last year,” Reeves said. “We have a public health crisis in this country. There is no doubt about it, but we also have an economic crisis and so when I looked at those protesters I know they were protesting for the 200,000 Mississippians that have lost their job in the last six weeks." He added: “We have a long-term economic crisis; is going to be very difficult for this country. And I understand and I feel their pain.” The Associated Press contributed to this report.
3 May 14:20 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/politics/mississippi-gov-reeves-defends-decision-to-reconsider-reopening-state-after-spike-in-coronavirus-casesRating: 3.32
Britain to trial new coronavirus tracing system
3 May 17:33
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Britain to trial new coronavirus tracing system
LONDON (Reuters) - Britain will trial a new coronavirus tracing programme next week on the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England, cabinet minister Michael Gove said on Sunday as the government looks at how to minimise the risk of a second wave of infection. Suffering one of the worst death tolls in Europe from COVID-19, Britain is confident that the peak of the virus has passed and is now looking at how to restart its shuttered economy and ease social restrictions on citizens. “This week we will be piloting new test, track and trace procedures on the Isle of Wight with a view to having that in place more widely later this month,” Gove told a news conference. A mass testing system along with the ability to trace people who have been in contact with those who test positive are seen as crucial to preventing a second spike and facilitating the relaxation of a lockdown which has lasted almost six weeks. Gove said the system being trialled next week would include asking citizens on the island to download a smartphone app as well as traditional ways of tracing those who have come into contact with a patient who has tested positive. “We will be able to make sure that people who are suffering from the virus ... they and their contacts can be encouraged to stay at home, so that we can limit the potential of any outbreak,” Gove said. The Isle of Wight has around 80,000 households.
3 May 17:33 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-tracing-idUSKBN22F0OJRating: 4.04
Britain to trial new coronavirus tracing system which includes app
London: Britain will trial a new coronavirus tracing programme that includes a smartphone app next week on the Isle of Wight, cabinet minister Michael Gove said on Sunday as the government looks at how to minimise the risk of a second wave of infection. Suffering one of the worst death tolls in Europe from COVID-19, Britain is confident that the peak of the virus has passed and is now looking at how to restart its shuttered economy and ease social restrictions on citizens. "This week we will be piloting new test, track and trace procedures on the Isle of Wight with a view to having that in place more widely later this month," Gove told a news conference. A mass testing system along with the ability to trace people who have been in contact with those who test positive are seen as crucial to preventing a second spike and facilitating the relaxation of a lockdown which has lasted almost six weeks. Gove said the system being trialled next week would include asking citizens on the island, just off the south coast of England, to download a smartphone app as well as traditional ways of tracing those who have come into contact with a patient who has tested positive. "We will be able to make sure that people who are suffering from the virus ... they and their contacts can be encouraged to stay at home, so that we can limit the potential of any outbreak," Gove said. The Isle of Wight has around 80,000 households. Reuters
3 May 21:53 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/world/europe/britain-to-trial-new-coronavirus-tracing-system-which-includes-app-20200504-p54ph6.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_worldRating: 2.20
Britain to trial new coronavirus tracing system which includes app
London: Britain will trial a new coronavirus tracing programme that includes a smartphone app next week on the Isle of Wight, cabinet minister Michael Gove said on Sunday as the government looks at how to minimise the risk of a second wave of infection. Suffering one of the worst death tolls in Europe from COVID-19, Britain is confident that the peak of the virus has passed and is now looking at how to restart its shuttered economy and ease social restrictions on citizens. "This week we will be piloting new test, track and trace procedures on the Isle of Wight with a view to having that in place more widely later this month," Gove told a news conference. A mass testing system along with the ability to trace people who have been in contact with those who test positive are seen as crucial to preventing a second spike and facilitating the relaxation of a lockdown which has lasted almost six weeks. Gove said the system being trialled next week would include asking citizens on the island, just off the south coast of England, to download a smartphone app as well as traditional ways of tracing those who have come into contact with a patient who has tested positive. "We will be able to make sure that people who are suffering from the virus ... they and their contacts can be encouraged to stay at home, so that we can limit the potential of any outbreak," Gove said. The Isle of Wight has around 80,000 households. Reuters
3 May 21:53 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/world/europe/britain-to-trial-new-coronavirus-tracing-system-which-includes-app-20200504-p54ph6.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_worldRating: 0.86
Britain to trial new coronavirus tracing system
LONDON: Britain will trial a new coronavirus tracing programme next week on the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England, cabinet minister Michael Gove said on Sunday as the government looks at how to minimise the risk of a second wave of infection. Suffering one of the worst death tolls in Europe from Covid-19, Britain is confident that the peak of the virus has passed and is now looking at how to restart its shuttered economy and ease social restrictions on citizens. “This week we will be piloting new test, track and trace procedures on the Isle of Wight with a view to having that in place more widely later this month,” Gove told a news conference. A mass testing system along with the ability to trace people who have been in contact with those who test positive are seen as crucial to preventing a second spike and facilitating the relaxation of a lockdown which has lasted almost six weeks. Gove said the system being trialled next week would include asking citizens on the island to download a smartphone app as well as traditional ways of tracing those who have come into contact with a patient who has tested positive. “We will be able to make sure that people who are suffering from the virus … they and their contacts can be encouraged to stay at home, so that we can limit the potential of any outbreak,” Gove said. The Isle of Wight has around 80,000 households.
3 May 17:58 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213351/3-britain-trial-new-coronavirus-tracing-system/Rating: 1.80
Britain to trial new coronavirus tracing system which includes app
London: Britain will trial a new coronavirus tracing programme that includes a smartphone app next week on the Isle of Wight, cabinet minister Michael Gove said on Sunday as the government looks at how to minimise the risk of a second wave of infection. Suffering one of the worst death tolls in Europe from COVID-19, Britain is confident that the peak of the virus has passed and is now looking at how to restart its shuttered economy and ease social restrictions on citizens. "This week we will be piloting new test, track and trace procedures on the Isle of Wight with a view to having that in place more widely later this month," Gove told a news conference. A mass testing system along with the ability to trace people who have been in contact with those who test positive are seen as crucial to preventing a second spike and facilitating the relaxation of a lockdown which has lasted almost six weeks. Gove said the system being trialled next week would include asking citizens on the island, just off the south coast of England, to download a smartphone app as well as traditional ways of tracing those who have come into contact with a patient who has tested positive. "We will be able to make sure that people who are suffering from the virus ... they and their contacts can be encouraged to stay at home, so that we can limit the potential of any outbreak," Gove said. The Isle of Wight has around 80,000 households.
3 May 21:53 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/world/europe/britain-to-trial-new-coronavirus-tracing-system-which-includes-app-20200504-p54ph6.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_worldRating: 0.55
Coronavirus | Britain to trial new tracing system
Britain will trial a new coronavirus tracing programme next week on the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England, cabinet minister Michael Gove said on Sunday as the government looks at how to minimise the risk of a second wave of infection. Suffering one of the worst death tolls in Europe from COVID-19, Britain is confident that the peak of the virus has passed and is now looking at how to restart its shuttered economy and ease social restrictions on citizens. “This week we will be piloting new test, track and trace procedures on the Isle of Wight with a view to having that in place more widely later this month,” Mr. Gove told a news conference. A mass testing system along with the ability to trace people who have been in contact with those who test positive are seen as crucial to preventing a second spike and facilitating the relaxation of a lockdown which has lasted almost six weeks. Mr. Gove said the system being trialled next week would include asking citizens on the island to download a smartphone app as well as traditional ways of tracing those who have come into contact with a patient who has tested positive. “We will be able to make sure that people who are suffering from the virus ... they and their contacts can be encouraged to stay at home, so that we can limit the potential of any outbreak,” Mr. Gove said. The Isle of Wight has around 80,000 households.
3 May 17:55 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-britain-to-trial-new-tracing-system/article31496061.eceRating: 0.30
Boris Johnson says death announcement was being prepared as he battled coronavirus
3 May 17:19
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Boris Johnson says death announcement was being prepared as he battled coronavirus
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said doctors were preparing a statement on his death during his hospitalization for the coronavirus. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” he told the Sun, a British tabloid, on Sunday. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place,” he said. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.” The revelation suggests Johnson’s health was more dire than Downing Street led on. The prime minister was hospitalized in early April, more than a week after he tested positive for the coronavirus. Downing Street said Johnson was admitted to the hospital as “a precautionary step” because his high fever and cough persisted. He was later moved to the intensive care unit as his condition worsened. Johnson said he received “liters and liters” of oxygen, and doctors considered putting him on a ventilator. “The bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction,” he said. “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." Johnson was released from the hospital about a week after he was admitted.
3 May 17:19 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/boris-johnson-says-death-announcement-was-being-prepared-as-he-battled-coronavirusRating: 0.51
UK PM says doctors prepared for his death
London: Britain Prime Minister Boris Johnson said doctors treating him for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive c... London: Britain Prime Minister Boris Johnson said doctors treating him for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care. These were in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview, adding that he kept asking himself: "How am I going to get out of this?" "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 20:38 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/international/uk-pm-says-doctors-prepared-for-his-death-620627Rating: 1.10
Boris Johnson: Doctors Were Preparing for ‘Death of Stalin’ Event
Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed that in his battle with the Chinese coronavirus he received “litres and litres of oxygen” as his condition began to “deteriorate” — forcing doctors to begin planning for a “Death of Stalin-type scenario” if he perished. Mr Johnson, who was hospitalised in early April, described his frustration with the virus, saying how “the bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction and I thought, ‘There’s no medicine for this thing and there’s no cure’. “So they gave me a face mask and my intake became really quite substantial. I was going through litres and litres of oxygen for a long time,” he explained. “That was the stage when I was thinking, ‘How am I going to get out of this?’” Johnson toldThe Sun on Sunday. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a ‘Death of Stalin’-type scenario”, Johnson said, adding: “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place.” “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” the Prime Minister said. Mr Johnson went on to say that he is keen to open up the economy, as has begun happening in other countries across Europe. “[I]f you ask me, ‘Am I driven by a desire to stop other people suffering?’ Yes, I absolutely am. But I am also driven by an overwhelming desire to get our country as a whole back on its feet, healthy again, going forward in a way that we can and I’m very confident we’ll get there,” he said. Next week, Mr Johnson is expected to release his plan for easing the national lockdown, with ministers pointing to May 26th as a possible date to re-open the economy, provided that the number of infections continues to drop by that point. The government will reportedly call on firms to introduce precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus in the workplace, such as adding Plexiglass screens and gaps in between desks. Another key plank of the “unlockdown” strategy will be the release of a coronavirus tracking app, meant to prevent a second outbreak of the Wuhan virus. However, privacy experts have warned that the app — which will store user data on government servers — could infringe on privacy rights and be used as a means of “social control“. Follow Kurt on Twitter at @KurtZindulka
3 May 15:18 • Breitbart • https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2020/05/03/boris-doctors-were-preparing-for-death-of-stalin-situation-if-i-died/Rating: 0.30
Boris Johnson says doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus
Boris Johnson has revealed that doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital last month. The Prime Minister spent three nights in intensive care at St Thomas' in London with the disease, where he said medics gave him "litres and litres of oxygen". He described it as a "tough old moment", telling the Sun On Sunday: "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. READ MORE: Boris Johnson and Carrie Symonds name son in tribute to doctors who saved PM "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. "The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. "They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie." Mr Johnson (55) said it was "hard to believe" his health had deteriorated in just a few days, saying he "couldn't understand why I wasn't getting better". The PM told the paper the "indicators kept going in the wrong direction" and that he kept asking himself: "How am I going to get out of this?" "The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. "That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." He said he was "in denial" initially about how serious his illness was, and that doctors were right to "force" him to go to hospital. After a fortnight convalescing from the virus, and just two days after he returned to work full-time, his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth to their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. They named him after their grandfathers, and two doctors - Dr Nick Price and Prof Nick Hart - who helped save Mr Johnson's life. He shared his experience of the disease as the number of people who have died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK as of 5pm on Friday rose to 28,131, up by 621. The death toll has edged closer to that of Italy, which now stands at 28,710 and is the highest in Europe, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. And the number of daily tests both concluded and sent out in the last 24 hours dropped to 105,937 from 122,347 the previous day. Of those, the number of people tested also fell - down to 63,667. It comes as questions were raised over how tests are being counted after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Friday he had met his target for 100,000 Covid-19 tests per day. Elsewhere: - The Telegraph reported that primary schools could reopen as early as June 1. Government sources suggested no firm dates had been set, and Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said at the daily press conference that ministers could not give a date. - The British Medical Association told the Sunday Times that the lockdown measures for should be eased based on "individual risk", after Dr Jenny Harries said blanket restrictions on those told to shield would be reviewed. - Fewer than one in five people believe it is the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and stadiums, a poll for The Observer suggested. - Former head of the army General Lord Dannatt and ex-chief of the defence staff General Lord Richards backed calls for health workers to be given daily allowances like those given to soldiers in war zones. Meanwhile, the Communities Secretary said the Government was "optimistic" people will download a phone app to trace the spread of coronavirus. Robert Jenrick said he thought the "vast majority" of people would download the app and "play their part" - though he insisted it was just one element of the plan to stop the spread. Contact tracing will be central to the Government's efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus, and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. It has been used extensively in South Korea, Hong Kong and Germany, where outbreaks have been contained more quickly. The Government intends to use an app and a phone team to carry out the tracing. Mr Jenrick told the daily Downing Street press conference: "Contact tracing will rely on all of us in society playing our part, but I'm optimistic about the prospects for that. "This has been a national effort so far - if you think of the different measures that we've brought forward, the restrictions, the vast majority of people have got behind it and I think that they will do again when we are able to launch the app on a national scale." Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said to get contact tracing "up and running at scale and effectively" is "another significant task but (there is) lots of preparation under way".
3 May 11:29 • The Irish News • http://www.irishnews.com/news/uknews/2020/05/03/news/boris-johnson-says-doctors-prepared-to-announce-his-death-as-he-battled-coronavirus-1924765/Rating: 0.30
UK PM Boris Johnson says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
LONDON: Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday (May 3), in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on Mar 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on Apr 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on Apr 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. "PRETTY GROGGY" Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care - doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 - just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 10:45 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-dovid-19-doctors-plan-in-case-he-died-12697526Rating: 3.25
Boris Johnson describes 'tough old moment' in coronavirus intensive care
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. LIVE | All the latest coronavirus and lockdown updates "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted Covid-19 on 27 March but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on 5 April for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on 12 April that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". 'In denial' But although he told the newspaper he did think: "How am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancée Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care - doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28 131 - just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" toward easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week. Stay healthy and entertained during the national lockdown. Sign up for our Lockdown Living newsletter. Register and manage your newsletters in the new News24 app by clicking on the Profile tab
3 May 10:30 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/World/News/boris-johnson-describes-tough-old-moment-in-coronavirus-intensive-care-20200503Rating: 2.83
Boris Johnson: Hospital doctors were ready to announce my death
Boris Johnson said that he came so close to dying in hospital with COVID-19 that doctors were ready to announce, what he called a "'death of Stalin'-type scenario." The U.K. prime minister was discharged from St Thomas' Hospital in central London on April 12 after spending three days in intensive care where he told the Sun on Sunday newspaper he required "liters and liters of oxygen." “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it," he said. "They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario." "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong," he added. Johnson, who had self-isolated in Downing Street for the days before going into hospital said it was "hard to believe" that his health had deteriorate so quickly and he could not understand why he was not getting better when he went into hospital. “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he said. Yesterday, Johnson and his fiancée Carrie Symonds announced they had named their newborn son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, with the name Nicholas chosen to honor two doctors who saved the prime minister's life.
3 May 07:40 • POLITICO • https://www.politico.eu/article/boris-johnson-hospital-doctors-were-ready-to-announce-my-death/Rating: 0.80
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson says doctors had plan in case he died of Covid-19
LONDON: Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted Covid-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
3 May 05:44 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/uk-prime-minister-boris-johnson-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/articleshow/75514883.cmsRating: 0.30
Johnson: Arrangements were being made in case I died - Europe
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said an interview with The Sun On Sunday that his health deteriorated so badly after contracting coronavirus that a strategy was drawn up in case he died. Johnson also said in the interview that he was given "liters and liters of oxygen" after going into intensive care with COVID-19 last month. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario,” he told the newspaper. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong,” he continued. "They gave me a face mask so I got liters and liters of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie," recalled Johnson. He spoke openly about how he was "in denial" about how serious it was when he was diagnosed with COVID-19 at the end of March. "I said I really didn't want to go into hospital. It didn't seem to me to be a good move but they were pretty adamant. Looking back, they were right to force me to go," said Johnson. Recalling what it was like when things got more serious after he was moved to intensive care, Johnson said, "I was just incredibly frustrated. Because the bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction and I thought, 'There's no medicine for this thing and there's no cure.'” "That was the stage when I was thinking, 'How am I going to get out of this?'" Johnson, who was discharged from the hospital a week after being admitted, returned to work last week. On Saturday, Johnson and his fiancée Carrie Symonds announced that they had named their new son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. In an Instagram post, Symonds wrote that the names were in honor of their grandfathers and the doctors who saved Johnson's life when he fell ill with coronavirus. Lawrie was Symonds' grandfather, and Wilfred was Boris' paternal grandfather, she wrote. She added that Nicholas is after two doctors, Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart, who worked to save the Prime Minister's life.
3 May 04:38 • Israel National News • http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/279556Rating: 0.83
UK’s PM, Johnson, says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
Kindly Share This Story: Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.” Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving “oxygen support”, and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus “could have gone either way”. But although he told the newspaper he did think “how am I going to get out of this?”, he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given “litres and litres” of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. “That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally,” he told the weekly tabloid. Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds’ baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care — doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy’s name that Hart and Price “saved Boris’ life last month”. The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called “an extraordinary thing”. He said he had been “in denial” about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling “pretty groggy”. He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. “Looking back, they were right to force me to go,” he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 — just behind Europe’s worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a “roadmap” towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week. [AFP] Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 04:30 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/uks-pm-johnson-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/Rating: 2.43
Tough old moment: UK PM Boris Johnson says doctors had plan in case he died of coronavirus
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. 'Pretty groggy' Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
3 May 02:20 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/uk-pm-boris-johnson-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-coronavirus-1673809-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
UK PM says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.” Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving “oxygen support”, and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus “could have gone either way”. But although he told the newspaper he did think “how am I going to get out of this?”, he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given “litres and litres” of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. “That was when it got a bit… they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally,” he told the weekly tabloid. – ‘Pretty groggy’ – Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service for their care. He and Symonds’ baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care — doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy’s name that Hart and Price “saved Boris’ life last month”. The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called “an extraordinary thing”. He said he had been “in denial” about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling “pretty groggy”. He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. “Looking back, they were right to force me to go,” he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 — just behind Europe’s worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a “roadmap” towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week. (AFP)
3 May 01:30 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/uk-pm-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
UK PM says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. - 'Pretty groggy' - Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
3 May 00:10 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/uk-pm-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/article/571109Rating: 0.78
UK PM says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week. phz/spm https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 00:08 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/uk-pm-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/sfbet51Rating: 0.51
Boris Johnson first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation
1 / 2Boris Johnson first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation (AFP Photo/Andrew PARSONS) London (AFP) - Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. - 'Pretty groggy' - Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
3 May 00:02 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/uk-pm-says-doctors-had-plan-case-died-000219608.htmlRating: 0.30
UK PM says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
LONDON – Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. "I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong." Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on 27 March but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on 5 April for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving "oxygen support", and admitted after his discharge on 12 April that his fight with the virus "could have gone either way". But although he told the newspaper he did think "how am I going to get out of this?", he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given "litres and litres" of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. "That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally," he told the weekly tabloid. 'PRETTY GROGGY' Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds' baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy's name that Hart and Price "saved Boris' life last month". The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called "an extraordinary thing". He said he had been "in denial" about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling "pretty groggy". He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. "Looking back, they were right to force me to go," he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a "roadmap" towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
3 May 00:00 • ewn.co.za • https://ewn.co.za/2020/05/03/uk-pm-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19Rating: 1.68
Boris Johnson says doctors had plan in case he died of Covid-19
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for coronavirus prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British prime minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.” Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted Covid-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving “oxygen support”, and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus “could have gone either way”. But although he told the newspaper he did think “how am I going to get out of this?”, he did not think at any point he was going to die. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given “litres and litres” of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. “That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally,” he told the weekly tabloid. - ‘Pretty groggy’ - Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds’ baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care -- doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy’s name that Hart and Price “saved Boris’ life last month”. The Sun on Sunday said Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called “an extraordinary thing”. He said he had been “in denial” about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling “pretty groggy”. He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. “Looking back, they were right to force me to go,” he said. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 -- just behind Europe’s worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a “roadmap” towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
2 May 23:49 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/boris-johnson-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/story-4prwE7yZ5o9S2IoCGDUcNP.htmlRating: 0.30
Boris says doctors prepared to announce his death as he fought coronavirus
Boris Johnson has revealed that doctors began to make arrangements for his death as he fought coronavirus in hospital. The prime minister, 55, said he was given ‘litres and litres of oxygen’ but ‘the bloody indicators kept going in the wrong direction’ and it soon hit home for him that there was no cure for Covid-19. Getting emotional as he discussed his experience in an interview, the Tory leader added that it was ‘extraordinary’ that he recovered in time to be at the birth of his son Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. Speaking to The Sun on Sunday, the Conservative politician admitted he was reluctant to go into hospital, but doctors were ‘adamant’ and he was put on oxygen and fitted with a tube. He said: ‘It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a “death of Stalin”-type scenario. ‘I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. ‘The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.’ Mr Johnson was forced to acknowledge how serious the situation was when he started to deteriorate and was admitted to intensive care on the Monday. Although he never believed he would die, he said there was a ‘bad moment’ when ‘it was 50-50 whether they would put a tube down his windpipe. He said: ‘That was when it got a bit . . . they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.’ The interview comes hours after the first picture of his newborn son was released. Carrie Symonds posted a photo of her cradling their baby Wilfred to Instagram this afternoon. The new mum also revealed that he was named after both parents’ grandparents, as well as the two doctors that saved the prime minister’s life from coronavirus in April. She wrote on Instagram: ‘Introducing Wilfred Lawrie Nicolas Johnson born on 29.04.20 at 9am. ‘Wilfred after Boris’ grandfather. Lawrie after my grandfather. Nicholas after Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart – the two doctors that saved Boris’ life last month. ‘Thank you so, so much to the incredible NHS maternity team at UCLH that looked after us so well. I couldn’t be happier. My heart is full.’ The two medics later shared their ‘warm congratulations’ with the couple in a statement that read: ‘We are honoured and humbled to have been recognised in this way, and we give our thanks to the incredible team of professionals who we work with at Guy’s at St Thomas’ and who ensure every patient receives the best care. We wish the new family every health and happiness.’ Dr Nicholas Price is a consultant in infectious diseases and general medicine, according to the Guys and St Thomas’ NHS trust website, with further expertise in infection prevention and control. Professor Nicholas Hart is the director of the Lane Fox Respiratory Service at the Guys and St Thomas’ trust, and a professor of respiratory and critical care medicine at King’s College London. He has expertise in rehabilitation and home mechanical ventilation with chronic respiratory failure, according to his profile. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
2 May 23:15 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/02/boris-says-doctors-prepared-announce-death-fought-coronavirus-12647002/Rating: 2.18
U.K. PM says doctors had plan in case he died of COVID-19
Doctors treating Boris Johnson for COVID-19 prepared to announce his death after he was taken to intensive care, the British Prime Minister said on Sunday, in his first detailed comments about his illness. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper in an interview. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong.” Mr. Johnson, 55, first announced he had contracted COVID-19 on March 27 but maintained he had only mild symptoms. Yet he failed to shake the illness after a week of self-isolation. He was taken to hospital as a precaution on April 5 for further tests but within 24 hours was moved to intensive care. The Conservative party leader spent three days receiving “oxygen support”, and admitted after his discharge on April 12 that his fight with the virus “could have gone either way”. But although he told the newspaper he did think “how am I going to get out of this?”, he did not think at any point he was going to die. Mr. Johnson, who returned to work last Monday and became a father again when his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth on Wednesday, said he was given “litres and litres” of oxygen in hospital. He said he felt frustrated he was not getting better but the reality hit home when doctors were deliberating whether to intubate him and put him on a ventilator. “That was when it got a bit... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally,” he told the weekly tabloid. Mr. Johnson has repeatedly paid tribute to staff of the state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their care. He and Symonds’ baby boy, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson, is named in part after two of the doctors who led his care — doctors Nick Price and Nick Hart. Both are experts in infectious diseases and ventilation. Ms. Symonds, 32, said in an Instagram post earlier to announce the boy’s name that Hart and Price “saved Boris’ life last month”. The Sun on Sunday said Mr. Johnson was emotional when recalling his treatment and recovery, which he called “an extraordinary thing”. He said he had been “in denial” about the seriousness of his condition at first, as he tried to continue to work despite feeling “pretty groggy”. He also said he did not want to go to hospital at first but doctors were adamant because of his low oxygen levels. “Looking back, they were right to force me to go,” he said. Mr. Johnson said the experience had made him more determined to fight the disease and get the country back to normal. His comments came as the government announced 621 more deaths in the outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131 — just behind Europe’s worst-hit country, Italy. He said he would announce a “roadmap” towards easing the lockdown restrictions imposed in late March later this week.
2 May 22:38 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/uk-pm-says-doctors-had-plan-in-case-he-died-of-covid-19/article31493115.eceRating: 0.30
UK Prime Minister says doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled Covid-19
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has revealed that doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital last month. The UK Prime Minister spent three nights in intensive care at St Thomas’ in London with the disease, where he said medics gave him “litres and litres of oxygen”. He described it as a “tough old moment”, telling the Sun On Sunday: “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. “They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie.” Mr Johnson, 55, said it was “hard to believe” his health had deteriorated in just a few days, saying he “couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting better”. The UK Prime Minister told the paper the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction” and that he kept asking himself: “How am I going to get out of this?” “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” He said he was “in denial” initially about how serious his illness was, and that doctors were right to “force” him to go to hospital. Mr Johnson shared his experience of the disease as the number of people who have died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK as of 5pm on Friday rose to 28,131, up by 621. The death toll has edged closer to that of Italy, which now stands at 28,710 and is the highest in Europe, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. And the number of daily tests both concluded and sent out in the last 24 hours dropped to 105,937. Of those, the number of people tested also fell – down to 63,667. It comes as questions were raised over how tests are being counted after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Friday he had met his target for 100,000 Covid-19 tests per day. Meanwhile, the Communities Secretary said the UK Government was “optimistic” people will download a phone app to trace the spread of coronavirus. Robert Jenrick said he thought the “vast majority” of people would download the app and “play their part” – though he insisted it was just one element of the plan to stop the spread. Contact tracing will be central to the UK Government’s efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus, and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. It has been used extensively in South Korea, Hong Kong and Germany, where outbreaks have been contained more quickly. The UK Government intends to use an app and a phone team to carry out the tracing. Mr Jenrick told the daily Downing Street press conference: “Contact tracing will rely on all of us in society playing our part, but I’m optimistic about the prospects for that. “This has been a national effort so far – if you think of the different measures that we’ve brought forward, the restrictions, the vast majority of people have got behind it and I think that they will do again when we are able to launch the app on a national scale.” Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said to get contact tracing “up and running at scale and effectively” is “another significant task but (there is) lots of preparation under way”. Fianna Fáil says 'crunch' will come when Government needed
2 May 21:48 • Irishexaminer • https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/world/uk-prime-minister-says-doctors-prepared-to-announce-his-death-as-he-battled-covid-19-997377.htmlRating: 0.69
Boris Johnson says doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled Covid-19
The Prime Minister said it was ‘hard to believe’ his health had deteriorated in just a few days. Boris Johnson has revealed that doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital last month. The Prime Minister spent three nights in intensive care at St Thomas’ in London with the disease, where he said medics gave him “litres and litres of oxygen”. He described it as a “tough old moment”, telling the Sun On Sunday: “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. “They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie.” Mr Johnson, 55, said it was “hard to believe” his health had deteriorated in just a few days, saying he “couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting better”. The PM told the paper the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction” and that he kept asking himself: “How am I going to get out of this?” “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” He said he was “in denial” initially about how serious his illness was, and that doctors were right to “force” him to go to hospital. After a fortnight convalescing from the virus, and just two days after he returned to work full-time, his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth to their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. They named him after their grandfathers, and two doctors – Dr Nick Price and Prof Nick Hart – who helped save Mr Johnson’s life. He shared his experience of the disease as the number of people who have died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK as of 5pm on Friday rose to 28,131, up by 621. The death toll has edged closer to that of Italy, which now stands at 28,710 and is the highest in Europe, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. And the number of daily tests both concluded and sent out in the last 24 hours dropped to 105,937. Of those, the number of people tested also fell – down to 63,667. It comes as questions were raised over how tests are being counted after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Friday he had met his target for 100,000 Covid-19 tests per day. Elsewhere: – The Telegraph reported that primary schools could reopen as early as June 1. Government sources suggested no firm dates had been set, and Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said at the daily press conference that ministers could not give a date. – The British Medical Association told the Sunday Times that the lockdown should be eased for healthy over-70s, after Dr Jenny Harries said blanket restrictions on those told to shield would be reviewed. – Fewer than one in five people believe it is the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and stadiums, a poll for The Observer suggested. – Former head of the army General Lord Dannatt and ex-chief of the defence staff General Lord Richards backed calls for health workers to be given daily allowances like those given to soldiers in war zones. Meanwhile, the Communities Secretary said the Government was “optimistic” people will download a phone app to trace the spread of coronavirus. Robert Jenrick said he thought the “vast majority” of people would download the app and “play their part” – though he insisted it was just one element of the plan to stop the spread. Contact tracing will be central to the Government’s efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus, and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. It has been used extensively in South Korea, Hong Kong and Germany, where outbreaks have been contained more quickly. The Government intends to use an app and a phone team to carry out the tracing. Mr Jenrick told the daily Downing Street press conference: “Contact tracing will rely on all of us in society playing our part, but I’m optimistic about the prospects for that. “This has been a national effort so far – if you think of the different measures that we’ve brought forward, the restrictions, the vast majority of people have got behind it and I think that they will do again when we are able to launch the app on a national scale.” Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said to get contact tracing “up and running at scale and effectively” is “another significant task but (there is) lots of preparation under way”.
2 May 21:41 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/boris-johnson-says-doctors-prepared-to-announce-his-death-as-he-battled-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
Boris Johnson says doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled Covid-19
Boris Johnson has revealed that doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital last month. The Prime Minister spent three nights in intensive care at St Thomas’ in London with the disease, where he said medics gave him “litres and litres of oxygen”. He described it as a “tough old moment”, telling the Sun On Sunday: “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. “They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie.” Mr Johnson, 55, said it was “hard to believe” his health had deteriorated in just a few days, saying he “couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting better”. The PM told the paper the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction” and that he kept asking himself: “How am I going to get out of this?” “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” He said he was “in denial” initially about how serious his illness was, and that doctors were right to “force” him to go to hospital. After a fortnight convalescing from the virus, and just two days after he returned to work full-time, his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth to their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. They named him after their grandfathers, and two doctors – Dr Nick Price and Prof Nick Hart – who helped save Mr Johnson’s life. He shared his experience of the disease as the number of people who have died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community after testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK as of 5pm on Friday rose to 28,131, up by 621. The death toll has edged closer to that of Italy, which now stands at 28,710 and is the highest in Europe, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. And the number of daily tests both concluded and sent out in the last 24 hours dropped to 105,937. Of those, the number of people tested also fell – down to 63,667. It comes as questions were raised over how tests are being counted after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Friday he had met his target for 100,000 Covid-19 tests per day. Elsewhere: – The Telegraph reported that primary schools could reopen as early as June 1. Government sources suggested no firm dates had been set, and Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said at the daily press conference that ministers could not give a date. – The British Medical Association told the Sunday Times that the lockdown should be eased for healthy over-70s, after Dr Jenny Harries said blanket restrictions on those told to shield would be reviewed. – Fewer than one in five people believe it is the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and stadiums, a poll for The Observer suggested. – Former head of the army General Lord Dannatt and ex-chief of the defence staff General Lord Richards backed calls for health workers to be given daily allowances like those given to soldiers in war zones. Meanwhile, the Communities Secretary said the Government was “optimistic” people will download a phone app to trace the spread of coronavirus. Robert Jenrick said he thought the “vast majority” of people would download the app and “play their part” – though he insisted it was just one element of the plan to stop the spread. Contact tracing will be central to the Government’s efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus, and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. It has been used extensively in South Korea, Hong Kong and Germany, where outbreaks have been contained more quickly. The Government intends to use an app and a phone team to carry out the tracing. Mr Jenrick told the daily Downing Street press conference: “Contact tracing will rely on all of us in society playing our part, but I’m optimistic about the prospects for that. “This has been a national effort so far – if you think of the different measures that we’ve brought forward, the restrictions, the vast majority of people have got behind it and I think that they will do again when we are able to launch the app on a national scale.” Deputy chief medical officer Dr Jenny Harries said to get contact tracing “up and running at scale and effectively” is “another significant task but (there is) lots of preparation under way”.
2 May 21:41 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/boris-johnson-says-doctors-prepared-to-announce-his-death-as-he-battled-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
These photos show thousands flocking to New York's parks over the weekend after Mayor de Blasio said that good weather 'is very much a threat to us'
3 May 16:40
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These photos show thousands flocking to New York's parks over the weekend after Mayor de Blasio said that good weather 'is very much a threat to us'
Thousands of New Yorkers flocked to the city's park this weekend enticed by the warm weather despite stay-at-home orders. While people exercised, walked their dogs, and even enjoyed picnics in and around Central Park, it appeared they were still endeavoring to adhere to social-distancing measures. City officials, who were expecting the large crowds, sent out 1,000 police officers to monitor the situation and hand out free face masks. Scroll down to see photos of thousands of people gathering in New York city's parks. Source: New York Times Source: New York Times A spokesperson for the New York City Pars Department told CNN that while there were a lot of park-goers out this weekend, most of them were complying with social-distancing rules. Source: CNN Source: CNN Source: New York Post LoadingSomething is loading. But de Blasio also said that it is "totally understandable" that people want to go out and get some fresh air. "People have heard that we need them to stay home, overwhelmingly they have. Even with good weather, they've gone out for a while and they came back home," he added. Source: CNN Jennifer Nuzzo, an associate professor at the Department of Epidemiology at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to the New York Times: "There's no reason a family can't picnic in the park." However, Nuzzo also said that it's difficult to determine whether the groups of people spotted in the park are from the same household or not. "It's hard for the people who enforce this to know whether they're dealing with a family or not," she said. Source: New York Times "I believe with the warm weather people will come outside, and that's great," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Saturday in Queens, according to the New York Times. "Go for a walk, but just respect the social distance and wear a mask," he added. Source: New York Times Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 16:40 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/new-yorkers-rush-parks-as-warm-weather-becomes-new-challenge-2020-5Rating: 4.40
These photos show thousands flocking to New York's parks over the weekend after Mayor de Blasio said that good weather 'is very much a threat to us'
Thousands of New Yorkers flocked to the city’s park this weekend enticed by the warm weather despite stay-at-home orders. While people exercised, walked their dogs, and even enjoyed picnics in and around Central Park, it appeared they were still endeavouring to adhere to social-distancing measures. City officials, who were expecting the large crowds, sent out 1,000 police officers to monitor the situation and hand out free face masks. Scroll down to see photos of thousands of people gathering in New York city’s parks. Source: New York Times Source: New York Times A spokesperson for the New York City Pars Department told CNN that while there were a lot of park-goers out this weekend, most of them were complying with social-distancing rules. Source: CNN Source: CNN Source: New York Post But de Blasio also said that it is “totally understandable” that people want to go out and get some fresh air. “People have heard that we need them to stay home, overwhelmingly they have. Even with good weather, they have gone out for a while and they came back home,” he added. Source: CNN Jennifer Nuzzo, an associate professor at the Department of Epidemiology at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to the New York Times: “There’s no reason a family can’t picnic in the park.” However, Nuzzo also said that it’s difficult to determine whether the groups of people spotted in the park are from the same household or not. “It’s hard for the people who enforce this to know whether they’re dealing with a family or not,” she said. Source: New York Times “I believe with the warm weather people will come outside, and that’s great,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Saturday in Queens, according to the New York Times. “Go for a walk, but just respect the social distance and wear a mask,” he added. Source: New York Times
3 May 16:40 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/new-yorkers-rush-parks-as-warm-weather-becomes-new-challenge-2020-5Rating: 0.30
These photos show thousands flocking to New York’s parks over the weekend after Mayor de Blasio said that good weather ‘is very much a threat to us’
Thousands of New Yorkers flocked to the city’s park this weekend enticed by the warm weather despite stay-at-home orders. While people exercised, walked their dogs, and even enjoyed picnics in and around Central Park, it appeared they were still endeavoring to adhere to social-distancing measures. City officials, who were expecting the large crowds, sent out 1,000 police officers to monitor the situation and hand out free face masks. Scroll down to see photos of thousands of people gathering in New York city’s parks. Source: New York Times Source: New York Times A spokesperson for the New York City Pars Department told CNN that while there were a lot of park-goers out this weekend, most of them were complying with social-distancing rules. Source: CNN Source: CNN Source: New York Post But de Blasio also said that it is “totally understandable” that people want to go out and get some fresh air. “People have heard that we need them to stay home, overwhelmingly they have. Even with good weather, they’ve gone out for a while and they came back home,” he added. Source: CNN Jennifer Nuzzo, an associate professor at the Department of Epidemiology at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to the New York Times: “There’s no reason a family can’t picnic in the park.” However, Nuzzo also said that it’s difficult to determine whether the groups of people spotted in the park are from the same household or not. “It’s hard for the people who enforce this to know whether they’re dealing with a family or not,” she said. Source: New York Times “I believe with the warm weather people will come outside, and that’s great,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Saturday in Queens, according to the New York Times. “Go for a walk, but just respect the social distance and wear a mask,” he added. Source: New York Times
3 May 16:40 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/new-yorkers-rush-parks-as-warm-weather-becomes-new-challenge-2020-5-2Rating: 0.30
These photos show thousands flocking to New York's parks over the weekend after Mayor de Blasio said that good weather 'is very much a threat to us', Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Thousands of New Yorkers flocked to the city’s park this weekend enticed by the warm weather despite stay-at-home orders. While people exercised, walked their dogs, and even enjoyed picnics in and around Central Park, it appeared they were still endeavoring to adhere to social-distancing measures. City officials, who were expecting the large crowds, sent out 1,000 police officers to monitor the situation and hand out free face masks. Scroll down to see photos of thousands of people gathering in New York city’s parks. Source: New York Times Source: New York Times A spokesperson for the New York City Pars Department told CNN that while there were a lot of park-goers out this weekend, most of them were complying with social-distancing rules. Source: CNN Source: CNN Source: New York Post But de Blasio also said that it is “totally understandable” that people want to go out and get some fresh air. “People have heard that we need them to stay home, overwhelmingly they have. Even with good weather, they’ve gone out for a while and they came back home,” he added. Source: CNN Jennifer Nuzzo, an associate professor at the Department of Epidemiology at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to the New York Times: “There’s no reason a family can’t picnic in the park.” However, Nuzzo also said that it’s difficult to determine whether the groups of people spotted in the park are from the same household or not. “It’s hard for the people who enforce this to know whether they’re dealing with a family or not,” she said. Source: New York Times “I believe with the warm weather people will come outside, and that’s great,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Saturday in Queens, according to the New York Times. “Go for a walk, but just respect the social distance and wear a mask,” he added. Source: New York Times
3 May 16:40 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/new-yorkers-rush-parks-as-warm-weather-becomes-new-challenge-2020-5Rating: 0.30
These photos show thousands flocking to New York's parks over the weekend after Mayor de Blasio said that good weather 'is very much a threat to us'
Noam Galai/Getty Images Thousands of New Yorkers flocked to the city's park this weekend enticed by the warm weather despite stay-at-home orders. While people exercised, walked their dogs, and even enjoyed picnics in and around Central Park, it appeared they were still endeavoring to adhere to social-distancing measures. City officials, who were expecting the large crowds, sent out 1,000 police officers to monitor the situation and hand out free face masks. Scroll down to see photos of thousands of people gathering in New York city's parks. New Yorkers rushed to parks and open spaces on Saturday as the first weekend of May welcomed temperatures in the high 70s. Noam Galai/Getty Images Source: New York Times Thousands of people were sunbathing, doing exercise, walking their dogs, and even picnicking in and around Central Park. Eduardo Munoz/Reuters New York State, which has been one of the worst-affected in the country, is still under an executive order from Gov. Andrew Cuomo that restricts any "nonessential gatherings" until at least May 15. Noam Galai/Getty Images Source: New York Times But it appeared as if New Yorkers — some of who wore masks — were following the social-distancing measures as much as possible. John Lamparski/Getty Images A spokesperson for the New York City Pars Department told CNN that while there were a lot of park-goers out this weekend, most of them were complying with social-distancing rules. Source: CNN City officials were also aware that the warm weather would draw crowds, sending out 1,000 police officers to enforce social distancing measures and also give away free face masks. Noam Galai/Getty Images Source: CNN But some people didn't enjoy the police presence. "It's Orwellian to be watched like this," one park-goer told the New York Post. Noam Galai/Getty Images Source: New York Post The crowds of people are making public officials nervous. In a radio interview on Friday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said: "The nice weather is very much a threat to us." Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/Getty Images But de Blasio also said that it is "totally understandable" that people want to go out and get some fresh air. "People have heard that we need them to stay home, overwhelmingly they have. Even with good weather, they've gone out for a while and they came back home," he added. Source: CNN Parks have remained open in the city, with public health experts saying that they are generally regarded as a relatively low-risk environment for illness transmission. Noam Galai/Getty Images Jennifer Nuzzo, an associate professor at the Department of Epidemiology at the John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to the New York Times: "There's no reason a family can't picnic in the park." However, Nuzzo also said that it's difficult to determine whether the groups of people spotted in the park are from the same household or not. "It's hard for the people who enforce this to know whether they're dealing with a family or not," she said. Source: New York Times New York State has seen a decline in new coronavirus cases in the last few days, but locals are still ordered to keep their outings to a minimum. Eduardo Munoz/Reuters "I believe with the warm weather people will come outside, and that's great," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said on Saturday in Queens, according to the New York Times. "Go for a walk, but just respect the social distance and wear a mask," he added. Source: New York Times Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 16:40 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/photos-show-thousands-flocking-yorks-164038977.htmlRating: 0.30
Coronavirus cases in Russia rise by record daily amount, mortality rate slows
3 May 18:06
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4 articles
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Coronavirus cases in Russia rise by record daily amount, mortality rate slows
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia on Sunday recorded its highest daily rise in confirmed coronavirus cases with 10,633 new cases, bringing the total to 134,687, with more than half of cases and deaths in Moscow. But the mortality rate has slowed in recent days and remains much lower, in relative terms, than many other countries. Russia has said its lower mortality rate was because the Russian outbreak occurred later than in many other countries which gave the authorities more time to prepare. Russia’s nationwide death toll rose to 1,280 on Sunday after 58 people died in the last 24 hours, Russia’s coronavirus crisis response centre said on its website. Russia has been in partial lockdown since the end of March to curb the spread of the virus. People in Moscow can leave home to visit the nearest food shop or chemist, walk their dog or throw out rubbish but need special passes for other activities. President Vladimir Putin has ordered the nationwide lockdown to remain in place until May 11 inclusive, when Russia finishes celebrating its Labour Day and World War Two Victory Day holidays. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin urged residents on Saturday to continue to strictly self-isolate over the long holidays. Sobyanin said there had been progress in expanding testing, allowing the authorities to treat those in need more quickly. But he said the number of critically ill patients was rising, albeit not as steeply as worst-case scenario projections. He said he thought 2% of Moscow, with a population of 12.7 million, had been infected, a much higher figure than official statistics show. “It is obvious that the threat is growing,” he said on his website. He told Rossiya-1 TV station that the Moscow authorities might cut the number of digital permits issued for travel across the city if the situation worsened. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Russia’s second-most senior official after Putin, told the president on Thursday he had tested positive for coronavirus and was temporarily stepping down to recover. First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov is now serving as acting prime minister in his absence. On Friday, another Russian cabinet member, Construction Minister Vladimir Yakushev, announced he had been diagnosed with the virus and would be treated in hospital. Dmitry Volkov, one of his deputies, also tested positive, the ministry said.
3 May 18:06 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-russia-idUSKBN22F07KRating: 4.04
Coronavirus cases in Russia rise by record daily amount, mortality rate slows
MOSCOW: Russia on Sunday recorded its highest daily rise in confirmed coronavirus cases with 10,633 new cases, bringing the total to 134,687, with more than half of cases and deaths in Moscow. But the mortality rate has slowed in recent days and remains much lower, in relative terms, than many other countries. Russia has said its lower mortality rate was because the Russian outbreak occurred later than in many other countries which gave the authorities more time to prepare. Russia’s nationwide death toll rose to 1,280 on Sunday after 58 people died in the last 24 hours, Russia’s coronavirus crisis response centre said on its website. Russia has been in partial lockdown since the end of March to curb the spread of the virus. People in Moscow can leave home to visit the nearest food shop or chemist, walk their dog or throw out rubbish but need special passes for other activities. President Vladimir Putin has ordered the nationwide lockdown to remain in place until May 11 inclusive, when Russia finishes celebrating its Labour Day and World War Two Victory Day holidays. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin urged residents on Saturday to continue to strictly self-isolate over the long holidays. Sobyanin said there had been progress in expanding testing, allowing the authorities to treat those in need more quickly. But he said the number of critically ill patients was rising, albeit not as steeply as worst-case scenario projections. He said he thought 2% of Moscow, with a population of 12.7 million, had been infected, a much higher figure than official statistics show. “It is obvious that the threat is growing,” he said on his website. He told Rossiya-1 TV station that the Moscow authorities might cut the number of digital permits issued for travel across the city if the situation worsened. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Russia’s second-most senior official after Putin, told the president on Thursday he had tested positive for coronavirus and was temporarily stepping down to recover. First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov is now serving as acting prime minister in his absence. On Friday, another Russian cabinet member, Construction Minister Vladimir Yakushev, announced he had been diagnosed with the virus and would be treated in hospital. Dmitry Volkov, one of his deputies, also tested positive, the ministry said.
3 May 18:26 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213363/3-coronavirus-cases-russia-rise-record-daily-amount-mortality-rate-slows/Rating: 1.80
COVID-19 cases in Russia rise by record daily amount, mortality rate slows
MOSCOW: Russia on Sunday (May 3) recorded its highest daily rise in confirmed COVID-19 cases with 10,633 new cases, bringing the total to 134,687, with more than half of cases and deaths in Moscow. But the mortality rate has slowed in recent days and remains much lower, in relative terms, than many other countries. Russia has said its lower mortality rate was because the Russian outbreak occurred later than in many other countries which gave the authorities more time to prepare. Russia's nationwide death toll rose to 1,280 on Sunday after 58 people died in the last 24 hours, Russia's coronavirus crisis response centre said on its website. Russia has been in partial lockdown since the end of March to curb the spread of the virus. People in Moscow can leave home to visit the nearest food shop or chemist, walk their dog or throw out rubbish but need special passes for other activities. President Vladimir Putin has ordered the nationwide lockdown to remain in place until May 11 inclusive, when Russia finishes celebrating its Labour Day and World War Two Victory Day holidays. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin urged residents on Saturday to continue to strictly self-isolate over the long holidays. Sobyanin said there had been progress in expanding testing, allowing the authorities to treat those in need more quickly. But he said the number of critically ill patients was rising, albeit not as steeply as worst-case scenario projections. He said he thought 2per cent of Moscow, with a population of 12.7 million, had been infected, a much higher figure than official statistics show. "It is obvious that the threat is growing," he said on his website. He told Rossiya-1 TV station that the Moscow authorities might cut the number of digital permits issued for travel across the city if the situation worsened. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Russia's second-most senior official after Putin, told the president on Thursday he had tested positive for coronavirus and was temporarily stepping down to recover. First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov is now serving as acting prime minister in his absence. On Friday, another Russian cabinet member, Construction Minister Vladimir Yakushev, announced he had been diagnosed with the virus and would be treated in hospital. Dmitry Volkov, one of his deputies, also tested positive, the ministry said.
3 May 16:26 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-coronavirus-russia-record-daily-rise-12697918Rating: 3.25
Coronavirus cases in Russia rise by record daily amount, mortality rate slows
By Andrew Osborn and Vladimir Soldatkin MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia on Sunday recorded its highest daily rise in confirmed coronavirus cases with 10,633 new cases, bringing the total to 134,687, with more than half of cases and deaths in Moscow. But the mortality rate has slowed in recent days and remains much lower, in relative terms, than many other countries. Russia has said its lower mortality rate was because the Russian outbreak occurred later than in many other countries which gave the authorities more time to prepare. Russia's nationwide death toll rose to 1,280 on Sunday after 58 people died in the last 24 hours, Russia's coronavirus crisis response centre said on its website. Russia has been in partial lockdown since the end of March to curb the spread of the virus. People in Moscow can leave home to visit the nearest food shop or chemist, walk their dog or throw out rubbish but need special passes for other activities. President Vladimir Putin has ordered the nationwide lockdown to remain in place until May 11 inclusive, when Russia finishes celebrating its Labour Day and World War Two Victory Day holidays. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin urged residents on Saturday to continue to strictly self-isolate over the long holidays. Sobyanin said there had been progress in expanding testing, allowing the authorities to treat those in need more quickly. But he said the number of critically ill patients was rising, albeit not as steeply as worst-case scenario projections. He said he thought 2% of Moscow, with a population of 12.7 million, had been infected, a much higher figure than official statistics show. "It is obvious that the threat is growing," he said on his website. He told Rossiya-1 TV station that the Moscow authorities might cut the number of digital permits issued for travel across the city if the situation worsened. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Russia's second-most senior official after Putin, told the president on Thursday he had tested positive for coronavirus and was temporarily stepping down to recover. First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov is now serving as acting prime minister in his absence. On Friday, another Russian cabinet member, Construction Minister Vladimir Yakushev, announced he had been diagnosed with the virus and would be treated in hospital. Dmitry Volkov, one of his deputies, also tested positive, the ministry said. (Additional reporting by Gleb Stoyarov; Editing by Edmund Blair)
3 May 07:47 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/coronavirus-cases-russia-rise-record-074730993.htmlRating: 0.30
Armed police surround village pub and arrest eight people in lockdown
3 May 15:46
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Armed police surround village pub and arrest eight people in lockdown
This is the dramatic moment armed police swooped on a group of people fighting outside a pub. Six men and two women were arrested after officers descended on the White Horse Pub in the historic Kent village of Otham. Police were called by witnesses who reported seeing a possible weapon just before midnight. Images and video posted online then showed officers with weapons in the village near Maidstone. One topless man was forced to kneel on the ground with his hands behind his back. The suspects were arrested on suspicion of affray and taken into custody. No serious injuries have been reported and no weapons have been found, Kent Police said. The force are calling for anybody with any information to come forward. Pubs across the country have closed during the government’s nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 15:46 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/armed-police-surround-village-pub-arrest-eight-people-lockdown-swoop-12648553/Rating: 2.18
Dramatic moment armed cops storm village pub and arrest eight people during coronavirus lockdown raid
ARMED cops stormed a village pub and arrested eight people during a coronavirus lockdown raid. Officers holding rifles were seen swooping in on the White Horse in Otham, Kent, after reports of weapons being used in a fight on Saturday night. One topless man was forced to kneel on the ground with his hands behind his back as the cops barked orders at him in dramatic pictures. Kent Police said that offers were called the village, near Maidstone, after reports of a disturbance. Six men and two women were arrested in the raid, a spokesman said. He added: “A large number of people were reported to have become involved in a verbal and physical altercation in White Horse Lane shortly before midnight on Saturday. “Witnesses also reported seeing a possible weapon. “Upon arrival, officers arrested six men and two women on suspicion of affray and were taken into custody as enquiries continue. “No serious injuries have been reported and no weapons were found.” Anyone with information on the incident should contact Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting 46/75100/20. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
3 May 09:56 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11537399/armed-cops-raid-village-pub/Rating: 2.72
Armed police swoop on covidiot clash just before midnight outside pub in quaint Kent village - and arrest six men and two women
Six men and two women have been arrested after armed officers and a police dog swooped on a disturbance at a pub in a quintessential Kent village. Officers shouted outside the White Horse Pub in historic Otham, which is mentioned in the Domesday book, just before midnight and led away the eight individuals in handcuffs. Eight people were arrested on suspicion of affray following a physical and verbal altercation. They remain in police custody. Kent police said enquiries were ongoing to establish the circumstances around the incident. It is not clear whether the pub was open despite lockdown measures and whether those involved were part of the same family group. At least five armed officers were pictured outside the pub late last night along with a police dog as they made the arrests. A man was also seen leaving the pub when asked by armed police in video footage of the scene. A sign outside the business read: 'Due to Covid-19 this pub is closed.' And a second said: 'Discrimination, prejudice, harassment, hate is a crime.' Officers were called to the sleepy village late last night after witnesses reported the fight and seeing a possible weapon. No serious injuries were reported and no weapons were found. The UK government ordered all cafes, pubs and restaurants to close indefinitely on March 20 in the fight to beat coronavirus. It offered to pay 80 per cent of staffs wages during this period to avoid businesses going bankrupt. However, experts have warned that despite the measures many will never re-open. Announcing the measures, Boris Johnson said: 'For now, at least physically, we need to keep people apart. 'The more effectively we follow the advice we are given, the faster this country will stage both a medical and an economic recovery in full.' As many as 28,131 people have died from coronavirus in the UK since the outbreak began. A further 182,260 infections have also been identified. By James Robinson for MailOnline Covidiots who continually flout lockdown laws could face fines of more than £3,000 under new government proposals. Government chiefs are considering increasing fines up to a maximum of £3,200 for repeat offenders, and £100 for first time rule-breakers. The move is part of a crackdown on those breaking strict lockdown laws, which were put in place in March to help slow the spread of coronavirus. The eye-watering maximum fine would be for an offender caught for a sixth time, with fines set to double for each repeat offence. It means a sixth time offender would accumulate fines totalling £6,300. The move comes as some Britons continue to flout the rules, with more than 9,000 fines issued throughout England and Wales in the four weeks to April 27. Police handed out 400 fixed penalty notices to repeat offenders in the four weeks to April 27 in England and Wales, while one person was even fined six times, the Sunday Telegraph reports. Last month, Minister for the Cabinet Office Michael Gove revealed to MPs that more than 3,200 fines had been issued to people between March 27 and April 13. A Whitehall source told the paper said: 'In the next phase of our fight against coronavirus, some of the social distancing measures will be relaxed, others will be toughened up. 'Hand in hand with the new rules will come tougher enforcement powers for the police to crack down on the small minority who break the rules - and stop them putting everyone else at greater risk.' Downing Street has previously said ramping up the fines was an option but such a course would only be taken if people repeatedly ignored or disregarded the current penalties. Officers have been told to use their common sense when dealing with gatherings, with fines only used if warnings and persuasion prove ineffective. But while the vast majority of the country has abided by the rules, some covidiots have continued to act out. As reported last week by MailOnline, dozens of revellers posed for a picture during a group drinking session in breach of lockdown rules - while shoppers queued outside reopened DIY stores and motorists returned to the streets of London on Monday. Around 30 people gathered for an outdoor party last weekend in Coatbridge, Lanarkshire. One of the group joked online that they were 'away for a social distance swally' and that she would 'probs be in the cells for 4'. Last week, a group of covidiots left behind empty vodka bottles and beer cans after an unauthorised party at a beauty spot' at Whitfield Valley Nature reserve in Staffordshire. Yesterday, in Basingstoke, Hampshire, groups of people defied government rules by gathering for an anti-lockdown 'protest'. The protesters held a demonstration in a children's park and have vowed to meet every week to take a stand against lockdown measures, claiming coronavirus deaths have been exaggerated. And in London, a protest by 5G conspiracy theorists saw a group of people take part in a 'group hug' outside the Metropolitan Police's headquarters, New Scotland Yard. The group, which included young children, held up signs which included the slogans 'my body, my choice', 'we do not consent' and 'no more lockdown'. One man was arrested on suspicion of failing to comply with the direction of a police constable and assault on police. He was taken into custody yesterday. Since Britain was put into lockdown in March, the public is only supposed to go outside for essential shopping/medical appointments or taking part in one hour's exercise. Key workers are allowed to commute to and from work. The rules were put in place to slow the spread of coronavirus, which has infected more than 180,000 people across the UK. The government announced 621 more people had died from coronavirus yesterday, bringing the total number of deaths to 28,131.
3 May 09:20 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8281865/Armed-police-swoop-covidiot-clash-just-midnight-outside-pub-quaint-Kent-village.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Warren Is Favorite VP Pick in New CBS Poll: Campaign Update
3 May 16:18
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Warren Is Favorite VP Pick in New CBS Poll: Campaign Update
Senator Elizabeth Warren topped the wish list for Joe Biden’s running mate among Democratic voters, according to a new CBS poll released on Sunday. Warren had 36% support as voters’ first choice, with Senator Kamala Harris of California at 19%, Georgia Democrat Stacey Abrams at 14%, and Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota at 13%. Familiarity was a factor, as Warren, Harris and Klobuchar had been in the running for president, and Abrams ran for governor of Georgia in 2018. By a seven to one margin, Democrats with a preference want the running-mate pick to be a woman. Most think that would make things easier rather than harder for the ticket to win in November, when Biden, the presumptive nominee, goes up against President Donald Trump. According to the survey, 49% of likely voters prefer Biden, six points over Trump. Those are nationwide numbers, though, and the outcome is determined by the state-by-state Electoral College results. Likely voters say the economy and the coronavirus outbreak are major factors in their vote choice right now. The CBS poll was conducted April 28-May 1 by YouGov. Some 2,200 U.S. residents were polled; the survey had a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 points. Joe Biden easily won the Democratic primary in Kansas after a vote that wrapped up on Saturday, conducted entirely via mail-in ballots because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Associated Press reported on Sunday that Biden -- the party’s presumptive nominee -- received 77% of the vote over Bernie Sanders with 23%. The Vermont senator ended his campaign in April but was still in the running when the state Democratic party started mailing ballots to voters in late March. The state has 39 pledged delegates of the 1,991 originally needed to secure the party’s nomination. The postponement of many primaries — and New York state’s outright cancellation — means that the total number delegates could be different by the time of the convention in August. Kansas officials abandoned plans for in-person voting after Democratic Governor Laura Kelly issued a stay-at-home order to slow the spread of Covid-19. -- Ros Krasny Oregon is due to hold its Democratic primary on May 19. The northwest state conducted all statewide contests by mail since 1998.
3 May 16:18 • Bloomberg.com • https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-03/biden-wins-in-kansas-after-all-mail-in-vote-campaign-updateRating: 4.04
Warren is Democratic voters' top choice for Biden VP: poll
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) ranks as Democratic voters’ top choice for presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden’s vice presidential pick, a CBS News poll released Sunday found. Seventy-one percent of Democratic voters say Warren should be considered as a running mate, topping the list of potential female picks. Warren was followed by Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) at 59 percent, former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacy Abrams at 50 percent and Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) at 49 percent. The Massachusetts progressive also earned the top first-choice pick for the position, at 36 percent. Harris followed at 19 percent, ahead of Abrams at 14 percent and Klobuchar at 13 percent. Warren won the vote among white Democrats and liberals by big margins. For black Democrats, she is among the top picks, although their votes are distributed between her, Abrams and Harris. The progressive also was one of the top three choices for moderate Democrats, along with Klobuchar and Harris. Familiarity appears to play a role in the choices, as the three women who ran for president on the list, Warren, Klobuchar and Harris, rank in the top picks, CBS News noted. The Massachusetts senator earned support among those who said economic expertise is an important factor and among those who believe Biden should choose a progressive running mate. Democratic voters rank economic expertise and crisis management as top qualities wanted in a vice presidential candidate. A total of 55 percent of Democratic voters think Biden should make a “bold” choice in his vice presidential pick, while 45 percent say he should go with the “safe” option. Biden has pledged to pick a woman as his running mate and on Saturday said his vice presidential selection committee is vetting “more than a dozen women.” In the poll, Biden leads Trump in a matchup, 49 percent to 43 percent. The poll surveyed 2,200 U.S. residents between April 28 and May 1. The margin of error is 2.5 points.
3 May 16:54 • TheHill • https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/495875-warren-is-democratic-voters-top-choice-for-biden-vp-pollRating: 1.94
Elizabeth Warren First Choice Among Democrats For Joe Biden VP Pick
Former Vice President Joe Biden is the presumptive Democratic nominee in the 2020 presidential election against incumbent Donald Trump. He is yet to make a final decision on his choice for a running mate but has pledged to pick a woman. Senator Elizabeth Warren is Democratic voters’ first pick for presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden’s choice for vice president, according to a CBS News poll released on Sunday. Seventy-one percent of Democratic voters say that Biden should pick Warren as his running mate, heading the list of potential female options. Senator Kamala Harris followed Warren in second at 59%, with former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacy Abrams at 50 percent and Senator Amy Klobuchar at 49%. The progressive Massachusetts politician also topped the first-choice pick for the position with 36%. Harris followed at 19%, who edged Abrams at 14%, and Klobuchar who came in fourth with 13%. The majority of white Democrats and liberals support Warren as the VP candidate. For black Democrats, she remains a contender but their votes are split between Abrams and Harris too. Senator Warren also was also among the top three choices for moderate Democrats, alongside Klobuchar and Harris. CBS noted that familiarity appeared to play a role, as all 3 candidates who topped the list also ran in the 2019 presidential race. Warren was also the top pick for those who consider "economic expertise" to be an important factor for the position as well as those who think Biden should pick a progressive to be his running mate. Economic expertise and crisis management are two of the top qualities that Democratic voters say they want from a vice presidential candidate. 55% of Democratic voters also say that Biden should make a “bold” choice with his vice presidential pick, while 45% say he should rely on a "safe option". Biden has promised to pick a woman as his running mate and on Saturday said his selection committee was vetting “more than a dozen women". In the same poll, Biden leads Trump in a head to head national election matchup - 49% to 43%. The poll was conducted through a survey of 200 US residents between April 28 and May 1 and has a margin of error of 2.5 points. Elizabeth Warren dropped out of the 2019 presidential race after coming third in her own state on super Tuesday, trailing both fellow progressive Senator Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden.
3 May 21:20 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/us/202005031079184269-elizabeth-warren-first-choice-among-democrats-for-joe-biden-vp-pick/Rating: 3.96
Dutch coronavirus cases rise 335 to 40,571 with 69 new deaths: health authorities
3 May 12:23
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Dutch coronavirus cases rise 335 to 40,571 with 69 new deaths: health authorities
THE HAGUE (Reuters) - The number of confirmed coronavirus infections in the Netherlands has increased by 335 to 40,471, Dutch health authorities said on Sunday. The National Institute for Public Health reported 69 new deaths, taking total COVID-19 fatalities to 5,056. The authorities stress that the actual number of infections is likely higher because not all suspected COVID-19 patients are being tested.
3 May 12:23 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-netherlands-idUSKBN22F0IERating: 4.04
Dutch coronavirus cases rise 335 to 40,571 with 69 new deaths, say health authorities
THE HAGUE, May 3 — The number of confirmed coronavirus infections in the Netherlands has increased by 335 to 40,471, Dutch health authorities said today. The National Institute for Public Health reported 69 new deaths, taking total Covid-19 fatalities to 5,056. The authorities stress that the actual number of infections is likely higher because not all suspected Covid-19 patients are being tested. — Reuters
3 May 13:51 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/dutch-coronavirus-cases-rise-335-to-40571-with-69-new-deaths-health-authori/1862695Rating: 1.42
Dutch coronavirus cases rise 335 to 40,571 with 69 new deaths -health authorities
THE HAGUE — The number of confirmed coronavirus infections in the Netherlands has increased by 335 to 40,471, Dutch health authorities said on Sunday. The National Institute for Public Health reported 69 new deaths, taking total COVID-19 fatalities to 5,056. The authorities stress that the actual number of infections is likely higher because not all suspected COVID-19 patients are being tested. (Reporting by Stephanie van den Berg;Editing by Elaine Hardcastle)
3 May 12:06 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/dutch-coronavirus-cases-rise-335-to-40571-with-69-new-deaths-health-authoritiesRating: 1.59
The latest developments on COVID-19 in Canada
The latest news on the COVID-19 global pandemic (all times Eastern): 10:40 a.m. Ontario is reporting 511 new cases of COVID-19 and 55 new deaths. The Ministry of Health says there are 17,119 confirmed cases of the virus and the death toll is now at 1,176. The province has marked 11,390 of the cases as resolved. The Canadian Press
2 May 14:43 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/02/the-latest-developments-on-covid-19-in-canada-57/Rating: 0.61
Dutch coronavirus cases pass 40,000
AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - The number of confirmed coronavirus infections in the Netherlands has increased by 445 to 40,236, Dutch health authorities said on Saturday. The National Institute for Public Health reported 94 new deaths, taking total COVID-19 fatalities to 4,987.
2 May 12:08 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-netherlands-idUSKBN22E0G7Rating: 4.04
Indonesia reports 292 new coronavirus cases, 31 new deaths
JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia recorded 292 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, taking the total number of infections to 10,843, said health ministry official, Achmad Yurianto. Yurianto also reported 31 new deaths, taking the total number of fatalities to 831. The number of people who have recovered from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, rose by 74 to 1,665, he said. The country has tested more than 79,800 people for the virus, he said.
2 May 09:11 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-indonesia-idUSKBN22E0AYRating: 4.04
Indonesia reports 292 new coronavirus cases, 31 new deaths
JAKARTA — Indonesia recorded 292 new coronavirus cases on Saturday, taking the total number of infections to 10,843, said health ministry official, Achmad Yurianto. Yurianto also reported 31 new deaths, taking the total number of fatalities to 831. The number of people who have recovered from COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, rose by 74 to 1,665, he said. The country has tested more than 79,800 people for the virus, he said. (Reporting by Agustinus Beo Da Costa; Writing by Gayatri Suroyo; Editing by Tom Hogue)
2 May 09:00 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/indonesia-reports-292-new-coronavirus-cases-31-new-deathsRating: 1.59
Mexico reports 1,515 new coronavirus cases, 113 deaths
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexico’s health ministry reported on Friday 1,515 new known coronavirus cases and 113 deaths, bringing the country’s total to 20,739 cases and 1,972 deaths.
2 May 00:44 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-mexico-tally-idUSKBN22E00LRating: 4.04
Mexico reports 1,515 new coronavirus cases, 113 deaths
MEXICO CITY — Mexico’s health ministry reported on Friday 1,515 new known coronavirus cases and 113 deaths, bringing the country’s total to 20,739 cases and 1,972 deaths. (Reporting by Anthony Esposito; Editing by Sandra Maler)
2 May 00:12 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/mexico-reports-1515-new-coronavirus-cases-113-deathsRating: 1.59
Philippines says total coronavirus cases nearing 9,000
MANILA (Reuters) - The Philippines said on Saturday it has recorded 156 new cases of the novel coronavirus and 24 more deaths, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 8,928 and the fatalities to 603. It also said that 40 more individuals had recovered from infections, bringing the recoveries to 1,124.
2 May 08:37 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-philippines-cases-idUSKBN22E095Rating: 4.04
Russia's daily coronavirus case tally hits new high
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia reported 9,623 new cases of the coronavirus on Saturday, its highest daily rise, bringing the total to 124,054. The nationwide death toll rose to 1,222 after 57 people died in the last 24 hours, Russia's coronavirus crisis response centre said, after revising the previous day's tally.
2 May 00:00 • Investing.com • https://www.investing.com/news/coronavirus/russias-daily-coronavirus-case-tally-hits-new-high-2158598Rating: 0.30
'Swastikas and nooses': governor slams 'racism' of Michigan lockdown protest
3 May 23:49
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'Swastikas and nooses': governor slams 'racism' of Michigan lockdown protest
Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan issued a rebuke of the armed protesters who gathered inside the state capitol last week in defiance of statewide lockdown orders, saying the demonstrators embodied some of the “worst racism” of the nation’s history. “Some of the outrageousness of what happened at our capitol depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history in this country,” Whitmer said during a Sunday interview on CNN’s State of the Union. Last week Donald Trump had said of the protesters: “These are very good people.” Hundreds of protesters, many not wearing protective face masks and some armed legally with “long guns”, gathered inside the statehouse in Lansing on Thursday as lawmakers debated the Democratic governor’s request to extend her emergency powers to combat the coronavirus pandemic. The tightly packed crowd attempted to enter the floor of the legislative chamber and were held back by a line of state police and capitol staff, according to video footage posted by local journalists. Whitmer highlighted that the number of protesters was relatively small but that the imagery some of them used was a disturbing reminder of ugly elements of America’s past. “We know that people are not all happy about having to take the stay-home posture,” Whitmer said on Sunday, “and you know what, I’m not either. But we have to listen to the public health experts and displays like the one we saw in our state capitol are not representative of who we are in Michigan. “There were swastikas and Confederate flags and nooses and people with assault rifles. That’s a small group of people when you think that this is a state of almost 10 million people, the vast majority of whom are doing the right thing.” Displaying the Confederate flag, or other symbols of the slave-owning south during the American civil war, is usually seen as racist. While some claim they are celebrating southern identity, it is widely seen as a racist symbol deeply offensive to black Americans. There is also an ongoing campaign to remove Confederate war statues from public display or rename streets and buildings which commemorate Confederate generals or politicians. Last week, the Democratic congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, who represents Michigan’s 13th congressional district, condemned the demonstrations at the state Capitol. “Black people get executed by police for just existing, while white people dressed like militia members carrying assault weapons are allowed to threaten State Legislators and staff,” Tlaib wrote in a tweet on Thursday. The protests continued to draw national attention on Friday when Trump once again threw his support behind the rightwing movement, saying Whitmer should “make a deal” with the demonstrators. “The governor of Michigan should give a little, and put out the fire,” the president wrote on Twitter. “These are very good people, but they are angry. They want their lives back again, safely! See them, talk to them, make a deal.” When asked if it was appropriate for the president to express support for protests in which “long guns” were carried on Friday afternoon, the White House press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, said the president supported the right to protest within the law and while following federal social distancing guidelines. “The president says that we must protest lawfully and act within the bounds of the law,” said McEnany. The staggering effects of the pandemic among Whitmer’s electorate in terms of both illness and unemployment have placed a nationwide focus on Michigan, which is certain to be a key battleground state in the upcoming presidential election. The state had long been regarded as a Democratic stronghold but went for Trump four years ago, helping to spring his surprise electoral victory.
3 May 23:49 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/may/03/michigan-gretchen-whitmer-lockdown-protest-racismRating: 5.39
Michigan gov. says protesters displayed ‘worst racism and awful parts’ of US history
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer slammed the stay-at-home order protesters who stormed the state’s Capitol on Thursday, saying they represented the “worst racism and awful parts” of US history. “Some of the outrageousnesses of what happened at our Capitol depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history in this country,” Whitmer said Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union.” The Democratic governor said the group of armed demonstrators — which she said included people wielding “Confederate flags and nooses” in addition to other racist signs — were “not representative of who we are today.” “That’s a small group of people when you think of about the fact that this is a state of 10 million people, the vast majority of [whom] are doing the right thing,” she said. President Trump called on Whitmer in a tweet last week to negotiate with protesters. “The Governor of Michigan should give a little, and put out the fire. These are very good people, but they are angry. They want their lives back again, safely! See them, talk to them, make a deal,” he wrote. But Whitmer doubled down Sunday on her defense of the statewide stay-at-home order, saying she was “working to protect your life.” She has extended the mandate last week to May 15, but eased some restrictions, including on motor boating, golfing and curbside pick-ups at businesses. “The fact of the matter is we are in the global pandemic. This is not something we negotiate ourselves out of and is a political matter, this is a public health crisis that has taken the lives of almost 70,000 Americans,” she said. Michigan reported a total of 43,254 confirmed coronavirus cases and 4,025 deaths statewide as of Sunday afternoon, according to the latest figures from John Hopkins University.
3 May 19:29 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/gov-whitmer-protesters-displayed-worst-parts-of-us-history/Rating: 2.55
CNN’s Jake Tapper, Gov. Whitmer Say Michigan Protesters Nazis And Racists
Democrat Governor of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer went on CNN to complain about the anti-lockdown protesters unhappy with her illogical and tyrannical coronavirus lockdown measures, comparing them to neo-Nazis and racists. With the help of CNN’s liberal activist host Jake Tapper on Sunday, Whitmer portrayed the armed protesters who stormed Michigan’s capitol to express their disapproval of her many new lockdown policies as a nothing but a group of angry racists. Tapper first asked Whitmer if the Michigan protesters were “in the same vein as the Charlottesville Neo-Nazis” given President Trump defended them on Twitter. “Some of the outrageousness of what happened at our capitol this week, um, you know, depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history in this country,” Whiter replied. Whitmer then pointed to some protesters with swastikas on their signs as evidence of Nazi intentions, seemingly unaware that the swastikas were used to depict Whitmer’s authoritarian policies. “The Confederate flags and nooses, the swastikas, the behavior that you’ve seen in all the clips is not representative of who we are in Michigan,” she continued. “And the fact of the matter is, I mean, we’re in a global pandemic. This isn’t something we just negotiate ourselves out of as a political matter.” Is this protester, a black man who explained his desire to go to work again and rejection of government “handouts”, one of the Nazis Whitmer is referring to? “Just allow me to work, as a man of color. I don’t want any handouts,” he said. “Just giving me free stuff, it takes away my dignity…why should I depend on other people to take care of me?” Twitter: Follow @WhiteIsTheFury Gab: https://gab.com/WhiteIsTheFury Minds: https://www.minds.com/whiteisthefury Owen Shroyer remotes in to The Alex Jones Show from the Texas Capitol to report on Texans’ response to the armed demonstration in Michigan. Also, make sure to get your boost of zinc and pregnenolone today with The Real Red Pill now at 50% off!
3 May 18:14 • Infowars • https://www.infowars.com/cnns-jake-tapper-gov-whitmer-say-michigan-protesters-nazis-and-racists/Rating: 1.61
Michigan's Whitmer says armed protesters displayed 'worst racism and awful parts' of US history
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer slammed the protesters who gathered inside the state's Capitol building on Thursday to demand she rescind her stay-at-home orders, saying they represented the "worst racism and awful parts" of U.S. history. "There were swastikas and Confederate flags and nooses and people with assault rifles," Whitmer said Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union." "Some of the outrageousnesses of what happened at our capitol depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history in this country." The Michigan governor, however, added that those people represented a small portion of the demonstrators at the state capital and that, for the most part, the protest was peaceful. "When you think about the fact that this is a state of almost 10 million people, the vast majority of whom are doing the right thing," she added, "the behavior you've seen in all of the clips is not representative of who we are in Michigan." CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST ON THE CORONAVIRUS Holding American flags and handmade signs – and with some carrying firearms -- the demonstrators in Lansing first congregated shoulder-to-shoulder on Thursday outside before demanding to be let inside the building as lawmakers were poised to debate an extension of an emergency and disaster declaration. Some chanted "Let us in," The Detroit News reported. State Sen. Dayna Polehanki, a Democrat, tweeted a photo of what she described as armed demonstrators yelling above her. She said some of her colleagues were wearing "bullet proof vests" inside the House chamber. "Directly above me, men with rifles yelling at us. Some of my colleagues who own bullet proof vests are wearing them. I have never appreciated our Sergeants-at-Arms more than today. #mileg," she posted. Thursday's rally came as some people living in Michigan have continued to demand Whitmer roll back her stay-at-home order in an effort to reopen the state's economy and allow residents to resume daily activities. Last week, she extended the mandate through May 15, but loosened some restrictions beginning Friday. Residents will be allowed to travel between residences, but it will be "strongly discouraged." Whitmer said she would not be intimidated by political pressure to ease up her state’s stay-at-home orders amid the coronavirus pandemic. “The fact of the matter is we are in the global pandemic. This is not something we negotiate ourselves out of and is a political matter; this is a public health crisis that has taken the lives of almost 70,000 Americans,” she said. “Whether you agree with me or not, I'm working to protect your life if you live in the state of Michigan,” Whitmer added. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP President Trump has come out in support of the protesters, calling them “very good people” in a tweet on Friday. “The Governor of Michigan should give a little, and put out the fire. These are very good people, but they are angry. They want their lives back again, safely! See them, talk to them, make a deal,” Trump added. Fox News’ Louis Casiano contributed to this report.
3 May 15:06 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/politics/michigans-whitmer-says-armed-protesters-displayed-worst-racism-and-awful-parts-of-u-s-historyRating: 3.32
Whitmer says Michigan protests 'depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history'
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) said protests inside the state Capitol last week, featuring demonstrators with assault weapons, swastikas and Confederate flags, depicted some of the “worst racism and awful parts” of the nation’s history. “Some of the outrageousness of what happened at our Capitol depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history in this country,” she said Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “The behavior you've seen in all of the clips is not representative of who we are in Michigan,” she added. The protesters were demonstrating against Whitmer’s statewide stay-at-home order put in place amid the coronavirus pandemic in an effort to mitigate the spread of the potentially fatal virus. President Trump tweeted Friday in defense of the protesters, calling them “very good people.” “The Governor of Michigan should give a little, and put out the fire. These are very good people, but they are angry. They want their lives back again, safely! See them, talk to them, make a deal,” Trump tweeted. Whitmer on Sunday doubled down on her defense of the stay-at-home order and suggested she won’t be swayed by political pressure to lift restrictions. “The fact of the matter is we are in the global pandemic. This is not something we negotiate ourselves out of and is a political matter. This is a public health crisis that has taken the lives of almost 70,000 Americans,” she said. “Whether you agree with me or not, I'm working to protect your life if you live in the state of Michigan,” Whitmer added. Michigan reported a total of 43,207 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 4,020 deaths statewide as of Saturday.
3 May 14:13 • TheHill • https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/495853-whitmer-says-michigan-protests-depicted-some-of-the-worst-racism-andRating: 1.94
Gov. Whitmer: Michigan Lockdown Protesters 'Depicted Some of the Worst Racism' in U.S. History
Sunday on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) accused Michigan protesters last week of depicting “some of the worst racism” in America’s history. According to the Michigan governor, those protesting her coronavirus measures had “swastikas, Confederate flags, nooses.” Whitmer said, “We know that people are not all happy about having to take the stay-at-home posture, and you know what, I’m not either. The fact of the matter is we have to listen to epidemiologists and public health experts. Displays like the one we saw at the state capitol are not representative of who we are. There were swastikas, Confederate flags, nooses, people with assault rifles. That’s a small group of people. When you think about the fact that this is a state of almost 10 million people, the vast majority of whom are doing the right thing, that’s why we’ve seen our curve gets pushed down. We’ve saved lives in the process. We have to keep listening to the epidemiologists and experts and not listen to the partisan rhetoric, or these political rallies or tweets, for that matter. We have to keep doing the next right thing.” She added, “Some of the outrageousnesses of what happened at our capitol this week, you know, depicted some of the worst racism and awful parts of our history in this country. The Confederate flags and nooses, the swastikas, the, you know, behavior that you’ve seen in all of the clips, is not representative of who we are in Michigan. The fact of the matter is, I mean, we’re in a global pandemic. This isn’t something we just negotiate ourselves out of, as a political matter. This is a public health crisis that’s taken the lives of almost 70,000 Americans, has put 30 million people into unemployment.” Follow Pam Key on Twitter @pamkeyNEN
3 May 13:56 • Breitbart • https://www.breitbart.com/clips/2020/05/03/gov-whitmer-michigan-lockdown-protesters-depicted-some-of-the-worst-racism-in-u-s-history/Rating: 0.30
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
3 May 22:21
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Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
OTTAWA - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation “when Parliament allows.” The comments came during the prime minister's daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn't go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone's guess. “We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we're going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage,” Trudeau said. “Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits.” Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday's ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front “at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than” COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. “We've seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l'Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago,” Trudeau said. “We've seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That's why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn't require legislation.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 22:21 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming-1.4923046Rating: 1.66
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
OTTAWA -- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation "when Parliament allows." The comments came during the prime minister's daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn't go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone's guess. "We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we're going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage," Trudeau said. "Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits." Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday's ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front "at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than" COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. "We've seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l'Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago," Trudeau said. "We've seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That's why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn't require legislation." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 18:23 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming-1.4922898Rating: 2.87
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans will move ahead but doesn't say when
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation “when Parliament allows.” The comments came during the prime minister’s daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn’t go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone’s guess. “We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we’re going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage,” Trudeau said. “Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits.” Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday’s ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front “at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than” COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. “We’ve seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l’Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago,” Trudeau said. “We’ve seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That’s why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn’t require legislation.”
3 May 23:14 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/news/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-comingRating: 1.59
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
OTTAWA - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation "when Parliament allows." The comments came during the prime minister's daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn't go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone's guess. "We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we're going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage," Trudeau said. "Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits." Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday's ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front "at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than" COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. "We've seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l'Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago," Trudeau said. "We've seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That's why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn't require legislation." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 21:44 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/trudeau-rifles/cp47612952Rating: 0.30
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation "when Parliament allows." The comments came during the prime minister's daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn't go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone's guess. "We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we're going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage," Trudeau said. "Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits." Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday's ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front "at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than" COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. "We've seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l'Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago," Trudeau said. "We've seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That's why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn't require legislation." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Lee Berthiaume, The Canadian Press
3 May 21:44 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming-2320892Rating: 0.30
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun ban is next
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation “when Parliament allows.” The comments came during the Prime Minister’s daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn’t go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Mr. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when that legislation will be introduced, however, appears to be anyone’s guess. “We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country, which is why we’re going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage,” Mr. Trudeau said. “Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits.” Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday’s ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front “at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than” COVID-19, Mr. Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual a week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the Prime Minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the previous election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Mr. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. “We’ve seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l’École Polytechnique 30 years ago,” Mr. Trudeau said. “We’ve seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That’s why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn’t require legislation.” Know what is happening in the halls of power with the day’s top political headlines and commentary as selected by Globe editors (subscribers only). Sign up today.
3 May 18:06 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming/Rating: 2.18
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation “when Parliament allows.” The comments came during the prime minister’s daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn’t go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. READ MORE: Feds ban more than 1,500 assault-style rifles in Canada Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone’s guess. “We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we’re going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage,” Trudeau said. “Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits.” Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday’s ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front “at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than” COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. READ MORE: Ontario’s premier takes aim at Trudeau government’s gun control measures Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. “We’ve seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l’Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago,” Trudeau said. “We’ve seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That’s why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn’t require legislation.” Lee Berthiaume, The Canadian Press
3 May 22:30 • North Delta Reporter • https://www.northdeltareporter.com/news/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming/Rating: 0.30
PM Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says his government plans to move ahead with legislation letting municipalities ban handguns within their borders, though he isn’t giving a timeline. The Trudeau government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style rifles, saying the guns were designed for the battlefield, not hunting or sport shooting. The move has prompted criticism from both sides, with some like Ontario Premier Doug Ford saying it misses the mark by targeting legal gun owners while others say it doesn’t go far enough. Trudeau acknowledged during his annual daily COVID-19 news conference in Ottawa this morning that the federal government has more work to do when it comes to guns, which is why it still plans to introduce legislation on handguns. He also says the government will be looking to tighten up the border against gun smuggling and safe storage. As for the timing, Trudeau would only say that the federal government would introduce the relevant legislation when Parliament, which is sitting in person only one day a week and holding virtual sessions twice a week because of COVID-19, “allows it.”
3 May 17:28 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming-2/Rating: 0.61
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says his government plans to move ahead with legislation letting municipalities ban handguns within their borders, though he isn’t giving a timeline. The Trudeau government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style rifles, saying the guns were designed for the battlefield, not hunting or sport shooting. The move has prompted criticism from both sides, with some like Ontario Premier Doug Ford saying it misses the mark by targeting legal gun owners while others say it doesn’t go far enough. Trudeau acknowledged during his annual daily COVID-19 news conference in Ottawa this morning that the federal government has more work to do when it comes to guns, which is why it still plans to introduce legislation on handguns. He also says the government will be looking to tighten up the border against gun smuggling and safe storage. As for the timing, Trudeau would only say that the federal government would introduce the relevant legislation when Parliament, which is sitting in person only one day a week and holding virtual sessions twice a week because of COVID-19, “allows it.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 18:28 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming/Rating: 0.77
Trudeau says legislation on municipal handgun bans coming
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says his government plans to move ahead with legislation letting municipalities ban handguns within their borders, though he isn’t giving a timeline. The Trudeau government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style rifles, saying the guns were designed for the battlefield, not hunting or sport shooting. The move has prompted criticism from both sides, with some like Ontario Premier Doug Ford saying it misses the mark by targeting legal gun owners while others say it doesn’t go far enough. Trudeau acknowledged during his annual daily COVID-19 news conference in Ottawa this morning that the federal government has more work to do when it comes to guns, which is why it still plans to introduce legislation on handguns. He also says the government will be looking to tighten up the border against gun smuggling and safe storage. As for the timing, Trudeau would only say that the federal government would introduce the relevant legislation when Parliament, which is sitting in person only one day a week and holding virtual sessions twice a week because of COVID-19, “allows it.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 17:28 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-coming/Rating: 0.61
City handgun bans coming
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau defended his assault-rifle ban on Sunday and promised to go even further by targeting handguns and tightening border security with new legislation introduced in the Parliament. Yet he stopped short of providing a timeline for when such measures would be introduced, saying only that the federal Liberal government would move forward with legislation "when Parliament allows." The comments came during the prime minister's daily COVID-19 news conference after the government on Friday outlawed a wide range of assault-style weapons. The ban did not require parliamentary approval and was instead published in regulations in the Canada Gazette. Some have said the ban doesn't go far enough and should include handguns while others have argued that it targets legal gun owners and that Ottawa should instead focus on the smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and stronger jail sentences. Trudeau acknowledged his government has more work to do when it comes to guns in Canada, which was why it was working on legislation that will deal with the border, gun storage and handguns. Exactly when will that legislation be introduced, however, appears to be anyone's guess. "We know there is more to do on strengthening gun control in this country which is why we're going to be moving forward when Parliament allows it with stronger measures around borders, stronger measures around safe storage," Trudeau said. "Measures around handguns to permit municipalities to ban handguns within their city limits." Legislation will also need to be introduced around a two-year amnesty and a buyback program that will allow the current owners of assault rifles covered by Friday's ban to receive compensation for turning in the designated firearms or keep them through a grandfathering process. The Liberal government will move forward on that front "at the first opportunity when the House turns its attention to things other than" COVID-19, Trudeau said. The House of Commons has limited its sitting to one in-person and two virtual per week due to the pandemic. The assault-rifle ban came only weeks after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Canadian history, when a man dressed as an RCMP officer killed 22 people in Nova Scotia on April 18 and 19. Police have indicated the man had two rifles and several handguns on his possession at the time. Some have accused the prime minister of using the tragedy to instigate a ban while Parliament is largely consumed with the COVID-19 pandemic, while others have questioned why the government waited so long. The Liberals promised in the last election campaign to ban assault rifles and introduce legislation allowing cities to ban handguns. Trudeau refused to apologize for the ban after Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Saturday said it targeted legal gun owners. He suggested Ottawa should instead focus on smuggling of illegal weapons at the border and strengthening jail sentences for gun crimes. "We've seen far too many mass shootings in which military-style-assault weapons were used to kill innocent Canadians. In Sainte-Foy. Recently in Nova Scotia. Back at l'Ecole Polytechnique 30 years ago," Trudeau said. "We've seen far too many cases in which these guns have caused devastation to families and communities. That's why it was time to ban them. This is something that we were able to do through regulations so it didn't require legislation."
3 May 15:00 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/Canada/298995/Trudeau-says-legislation-on-municipal-handgun-bans-comingRating: 1.34
What One Doctor’s Suicide Taught Us
3 May 23:01
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6 articles
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What One Doctor’s Suicide Taught Us
Just over a month ago, I got a call at 10:30 at night from a doctor friend who works in one of the busiest emergency rooms in New York City. She’d just returned from a brutal shift, a miserable slog of impossible intubations and fruitless C.P.R. One patient, more or less her age, died just minutes after she’d placed him on a ventilator. She was so stunned she burst into tears. My friend is not the type to burst into tears. She is generally a model of towering nerve. A few days later, she went to one of the walk-in mental health forums at her hospital, expecting to see a large group. Instead, she had the psychiatrist and psychologist all to herself. In hindsight, maybe it made sense. As an emergency physician, she explained to me, “You’re supposed to see things and move on.” Project confidence and toughness; plow forward. It’s the reason you’re not reading my friend’s name now. She knows what patients and colleagues expect. In the months and years ahead, we’re going to have to train ourselves to be especially attentive to the mental health needs of our first responders to this pandemic. In the aftermath of a disaster, they’re at a far greater risk for post-traumatic stress, substance abuse and major depression than the average civilian. Yet seeing themselves as vulnerable is disruptive — antithetical, even — to their self-concept. They’re the healers in this equation, not the ones who need to be healed. It wasn’t just my friend who taught this to me. Last week NBC ran an interview with the sister of Lorna M. Breen, the medical director of the emergency department at New York-Presbyterian Allen Hospital who died by suicide on April 26. “I know my sister felt like she couldn’t sit down,” she said. “She couldn’t stop working. And she certainly couldn’t tell anybody she was struggling.” One wouldn’t want to extrapolate too much from Breen’s case. Suicides can be idiosyncratic, individual, painfully mysterious; the data on the incidence of suicide in frontline workers is mixed. But it ought to be noted that Breen was the second American health worker to die by suicide in this pandemic — the first was a 24-year-old Staten Island E.M.T., on April 24 — and she did not have a known history of depression or suicidal ideation. Here are some facts about physicians that should put us all on notice. In general, doctors die by suicide at more than twice the rate of the general population, the highest of any profession. They also experience far more burnout. And the specialty with the highest levels of burnout? Emergency medicine. Some of the reasons for this are guessable. Emergency room doctors work far more grueling hours than most physicians and under more stressful circumstances, often seeing people on the very worst days of their lives. But when I phoned Dr. John R. Matheson, former president of the Washington State chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians and founder of its Wellness Committee, he gave me a much more subtle, characterological explanation for why his subspecialty can be so depleting. “We tend to be perfectionists,” he said. “And disease processes aren’t always straightforward. When you’re a high achiever and you’re very driven and you can’t do what you want to do, it can be very disheartening.” Now introduce a novel, wantonly contagious virus into the already-chaotic emergency room, a virus that behaves in dumbfounding and pitiless ways. It’s your problem to solve. But you haven’t the tools to fix it — shift after shift, day after day, at a scale of suffering you’ve never witnessed. For people who are action-oriented and hellbent on finding solutions, this is a recipe for existential disaster. First responders are suffering from a crisis of utility. “We’re almost observers in this,” Matheson said. “We can put patients on oxygen. We can intubate them in the I.C.U. But we’re mainly trying to allow the body to heal on its own. Dealing with Covid largely means dealing with a feeling of helplessness.” Which explains my friend’s distress that night. She told me point-blank that she felt like a failure. “There’s no algorithm,” she kept repeating. “There’s no if-then.” But getting first responders to reckon with these feelings isn’t easy. It’s why my friend found herself alone with two therapists in a setting clearly intended for large groups. Last week, I phoned Dr. Craig L. Katz, a psychiatrist in the Mount Sinai Health System who’s helping to organize their eight hospitals’ mental health response for their workers. “It’s been hard getting them to come to us,” he told me. “We’ve had to go to them.” Dr. John Draper, the executive vice president of National Networks for Vibrant Emotional Health, told me that in the week after Sept. 11, their local New York City hotline, LifeNet, got more phone calls from health professionals offering to help than asking for it. That’s how they cope. “And guess what?” he said. “We’re hearing again from them now.” The solution, he said, may be that first responders find ways to counsel one another peer-to-peer, whether it’s online or over the phone. They know what they need to hear. As for the rest of us: He suggests we refrain from platitudes about their heroism. “They’re perfectionists,” he said. “They’re so aware of what they haven’t done or aren’t doing or might have missed. What’s better is to say: ‘I can only imagine how hard it is. I can only imagine it’s a sacrifice.’ ” For what it’s worth, here’s what helped my friend. You were trying to help. You did the right thing. It was the disease. Not you. [If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for a list of additional resources.] The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips. And here’s our email: letters@nytimes.com. Follow The New York Times Opinion section on Facebook, Twitter (@NYTopinion) and Instagram.
3 May 23:01 • NY Times • https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/03/opinion/coronavirus-doctors-mental-health.htmlRating: 5.38
'I was a boy who wanted nothing so much as to join the police'
I was born in Liverpool in 1978, two months before my mum’s 42nd birthday. I was her 11th and last child – she had her own football team. Like all of my siblings, I was mixed race. My mother was white, with long brown hair and piercing blue eyes flecked with green. I was a brown-skinned, brown-eyed boy. My love of the blue police uniform was evident very early on. I insisted that any toys bought for me for birthdays, Christmas and Easter were police-themed Lego. For my fifth birthday, my mum bought me my first bike, decorated in police stickers. I was elated. I was obsessed with the police force; I was a little boy who wanted nothing so much as to “protect and serve”. Every spare moment I had as a child was spent at home, building my Lego police stations or watching American cop shows. My favourites were Cagney & Lacey, TJ Hooker and Hill Street Blues. I named every Lego officer I had after characters from The Bill. My brother had taught me the phonetic alphabet from A to Z, alpha to zulu (so I finally worked out what the British cop show Juliet Bravo was all about). With my newfound knowledge, I read the number plates of the cars I saw on my estate and pretended I was undercover, a secret one-man operation, keeping an eye on my neighbourhood. To me, the police were the bastion of justice and equality. I desperately wanted to be one of them and couldn’t wait to grow up to fulfil my dream of working for the force. After Salford University, I applied to join Greater Manchester police and when I was accepted I felt like I had won the lottery. I was keen to tell some of my closest university friends, particularly my best friend, Dan, so I arranged to meet him in a bar in Manchester’s gay village. As he sat down I said to him: “I got in.” “Got in where?” he asked, looking at me strangely. “The police,” I replied. “Oh, Kevin.” Dan wasn’t the only person to be worried. The rest of my white liberal friends at university were having none of the police’s public statements about changing and they certainly didn’t share my vision of hope about the public drive towards diversity in the force. They repeatedly warned me about racism and homophobia still being rife. But I didn’t let any of my friends shake my resolve. I knew what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. In the second week of my initial police training, a memo was posted around the classes, asking for all the “ethnics” to report at the school chapel the next morning before class. As a result of the Labour government’s drive to recruit more officers of colour there was a larger number of ethnic minorities than usual in my cohort but we were still only a handful out of 60-plus recruits. The leadership wanted a photoshoot for a media campaign, to show the public they were committed to equal opportunities. I could see why this might be an instant public-relations hit, but I didn’t want to be part of it. The publicity could have put me in danger and jeopardised any future operations I was involved in. I told the press department that I wasn’t doing it and returned to my class. The photoshoot marked an immediate racial divide between the cops. It led to white officers feeling excluded, especially those who perceived the photo-op as special treatment. Some were furious. Back in my class, the tension was tangible. One evening soon afterwards, I was in my room in the accommodation block revising for my weekly law knowledge test. It was early evening and one white cop was blasting out R&B music in the next room to mine. Someone shouted: “Turn the coconut music off!” There was an outburst of laughter and a few voices started whispering. Coconut. I’d heard the term before. Black people who joined the police were known as “coconuts”: black on the outside, but white on the inside. Someone knocked on my door and, when I opened it, the white officer who’d shouted the word was standing outside. He took a step towards me and said: “You heard what I just said, didn’t you?” “Yes,” I said, and closed the door. I didn’t know what else to do. Was I supposed to hit him? Shout at him? I heard him walk into the room to the left of mine. I sat at my desk and listened to him and some others burst into another fit of hysterics. Uncomfortable and unsettled, I left the floor. I went to sit in the classroom to think. En route, I saw my white class trainer. I sat down with her, to tell her what had happened. Taking solace in the privacy of the room, I confessed that I didn’t know whether to quit the police then and there and return home to Liverpool, because I didn’t feel comfortable in such an unaccepting environment. I had gone from being an ethnic to a coconut. One of the officers laughing in the next room, an ex-army man, had once told a group of us that a former army colleague of his had accepted the nickname “black bastard”. It was just banter, he said, everyone had a nickname in the services. I knew I couldn’t be protected from this behaviour that was seen as normal, but felt I shouldn’t have to subject myself to it for the rest of my career. Several hours later, it was suddenly campus news that the officer who had shouted “coconut music” and one of the ringleaders from the group laughing in the bedroom had been “marched off” the police training site and sent back to their respective forces, a process known as being “back-classed”. I felt the glare of the spotlight on me, the black cop that other officers were starting to suspect was gay. Not long afterwards, an internal affairs inspector and a sergeant from GMP arrived to interview me. After pulling me out of class in front of my peers, they told me that if I proceeded with a complaint against my colleagues it would be my word against theirs and I would have to deal with the consequences. I hadn’t filed or even suggested making a complaint. I knew that a complaint from me would mark my police career. I didn’t want to be isolated any further. My white classmates were agitated about the predicament of the two officers who had been sent back to their forces and I knew that if I wanted to survive as an officer of colour in the police and complete the residential training, I had to keep my mouth shut and head down. After my initial training, I was posted to Bootle Street police station, a grand old stone building in Manchester’s city centre, the headquarters for the old city police. My new station was called “Brutal Street” by my colleagues, a reputation it lived up to. The first thing the superintendent asked me – in front of his deputy – was: “Have you come to my station on a crusade, waving a gay and black flag?” Alarmed, I said that I hadn’t. I was not a member of any political association, I just wanted to do my job. I quickly realised homophobic attitudes were standard. For example, a female colleague complained about not wanting to go to Via Fossa, a bar in Manchester’s gay village, and deal with a theft. She didn’t want to be dealing with “queers” and their “drama” anymore. Within the safe confines of my mind, I challenged her, calling her out for her homophobic language – but fear kept me from actually saying anything. I did not want to make enemies. On another night, after work a group of us went to the local nightclub, I went to join a circle of my colleagues, just in time to hear one of the male officers announce: “If a gay guy ever tried to hit on me, I would break his nose.” His words were meant for me. This officer had tested me previously, by asking me in front of others if I liked women. My brain shouted, “So, just because I’m gay I’m attracted to you?” But again, I kept it to myself. He carried on, saying he didn’t think what gay people did was “natural”. I held my tongue, smiled and drank my drink. There was a hierarchy in the police. First came the white straight male, then the white straight female, then white (male) gay officers, then white lesbian officers, then straight officers of colour. Black gay officers didn’t make the list. Disabled officers weren’t even considered. Just before Christmas, two years into the force, I was confirmed as a fully fledged constable. In high spirits, I attended my patrol’s Christmas party at the Bootle Street police station bar. A colleague was doing standup comedy for the evening. Part of his routine focused on me. I was sitting in the front row with some colleagues as he made up a story about finding me in the middle of a sexual encounter at the station. According to the routine, I had been on my knees giving oral sex to a male prisoner in the cells while my sergeant was looking for me. My face and ears burned as the crowd laughed. I looked past several people wiping tears of mirth from their eyes and saw my patrol inspector walk out. Shortly afterwards, one of my sergeants called me on my mobile. I was asked to see the inspector in his office. As we sat there, he asked me what I wanted to do. I simply said “nothing”. The inspector said that he would deal with my colleague, but I didn’t have much hope; he hadn’t, after all, said anything during the standup act. After our impromptu meeting, I returned to the bar. Though I was the one humiliated, I found myself reassuring my colleagues that I had not made any complaint against the “comedian”. Over the next few years, I tried repeatedly to get accepted on various detective training schemes with no success. Most officers with just two years of experience in the police could successfully get themselves on to the detectives’ course. I had helped several of them with their detectives’ interview preparation. They were white. I was a minority officer with an excellent service record and top test scores but for some reason I could not pass the first stage. My second application did not even make it past the paper-sift to the interview stage. The fourth time I applied I was interviewed by a detective inspector, who had known me when I was a police constable at Bootle Street, and a detective sergeant. They told me they couldn’t understand why I had not applied to the CID before. Later, I received a phone call informing me I had come top in the interviews and finally been accepted. Not long before, I had submitted a grievance report about being turned down so many times for detective training. If I wanted the grievance progressed, I had to be ready for a battle. But I’d been offered a position I’d fought so hard for. I decided that the best thing for me to do was to keep my head down and mouth shut. I will pass the detectives course, I thought, then get as far away as possible from GMP. In June 2008, I travelled to London for an interview with special branch. Later that day I learned I had come top of the interviewees. I was elated. I would be putting my experiences at GMP behind me and starting afresh with the Met at Scotland Yard. I joined a specialist intelligence unit with the responsibility of bringing to justice anyone engaged in terrorism or domestic extremism. Due to the nature of the work, most of the branch’s intelligence came from the seaports and airports in the UK. I was sent to Heathrow airport. There were seven members on my team, including me: four officers, my sergeant – all white – and one other black officer. He and I were the only two black officers out of the several hundred at special branch who were known as detectives. My new sergeant was strangely hostile towards me. We’d only ever spoken over the phone and when she first met me, she was cold. My black colleague was quick to notice her behaviour towards me but advised me to ignore it. When the sergeant finally sat down with me to go through my performance development review, I told her about my interest in the Home Office’s high potential development scheme, as I’d been identified as having high potential for leadership upon joining the Met. She replied: “Don’t get above your station.” She was supposed to be my mentor, but she left me trying to figure most things out for myself. For example, she once instructed me: “Turn the office alarm on before leaving.” But I had never been shown how to turn it on. “Move. I’ll do it,” she snapped, nudging me aside. Or: “Unlock the safe,” she demanded. “I don’t know how. I don’t know the code.” “For God’s sake,” she muttered. It wasn’t really what I was hoping for in a mentor. I began struggling to sleep and eat and needed to force myself to go to work. I wasn’t sure what was happening to me. I spoke to the black officer in confidence about our situation. I told him I was gay. He was fine with it. “Keep your chin up,” he encouraged me. In the spring, I was ready to move out of my police accommodation and started looking for somewhere to live in London. I asked some colleagues for advice. One officer told me to make sure that I didn’t live in south London, below the river, with “the scum”. He and another officer went on to discuss the Met’s Operation Trident, which had been set up to tackle gun crime and homicide in London’s African-Caribbean communities after a series of shootings in some south London boroughs. I mentioned that Trident was looking for experienced detectives to join its command. They told me not to apply, as I would be dealing with “shit’” all day – meaning the predominantly black victims and witnesses. Soon afterwards, while I was using a computer terminal, an officer came in and began talking about gay men “taking it up the arse”. He continued his rant about homosexual sex until a female officer interrupted him. “Enough,” she snapped. He stopped. On a later shift, he came back, having since been informed that I was gay. He attempted to apologise, but the damage had been done. The year after joining the Met I attended a terrorism forensics awareness course at Paddington police station. The presentation sergeant, a white man in his 50s with a shaved head, opened his briefing by stating: “I am not politically correct.” The first slide of his PowerPoint was of a man at a fairground surrounded by children. He told the class the man on the screen was “as gay as a gay in a gay teashop” and everyone laughed. When the day was over, I went to the Globe pub on Marylebone Road with a detective and two other colleagues from the course and admitted how I felt. My colleagues said the sergeant was stupid and unprofessional. A valid point, I thought, yet no one had stood up to him. Because everyone, including myself, stayed silent, the behaviour was sanctioned, acceptable. Once again, I found myself part of the problem. I had been having headaches and stomach pains and at around this time they started getting more severe. An hour into a shift one day, I was walking along the public concourse at Terminal 5 when I suddenly became intensely aware of the bright lights above. They were blinding me. I stumbled, managing to catch myself, and panic set in. As sweat quickly beaded all over my body, I asked the duty sergeant if I could go to hospital. At the NHS walk-in centre in Soho, I was seen by a nurse practitioner who, after routine tests, asked me: “How are things in your life? Are you happy?” Taken aback by the personal nature of the questions, I couldn’t speak. Suddenly, I became aware of a wetness on my face. I reached up to touch it. Not the sweat of panic, but tears. I was crying. Like a dam breaking, everything I had bottled up over the past few years in the police burst out. I was a mess. “You’re suffering from depression,” she said. I was stunned. Depression didn’t happen to people like me. I had coped up to now in the police, despite the negative experiences, so why had it happened now? But here I was defeated after years of denial in the force and betrayed by a body that had finally had enough and given up. Kevin Maxwell was signed off work with depression by his doctor but the police’s medical and welfare officers contested the diagnosis. His pay was halved, then stopped altogether. An employment tribunal later found Scotland Yard guilty of 40 counts of discrimination, harassment and victimisation. The force appealed and then proceeded to dismiss Maxwell while the appeal was in progress for “discrediting the police service”. The reason given was that he refused to attend a job interview while unwell. The force eventually lost the appeal. This is an edited extract from Forced Out by Kevin Maxwell, published by Granta (£14.99)
3 May 11:30 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/books/2020/may/03/i-was-a-boy-who-wanted-nothing-so-much-as-to-join-the-policeRating: 5.39
'I was alone': how giving birth is changing during the pandemic
Cristal Brown thought she would give birth with her mom and boyfriend by her side, and then draw her newborn close to breastfeed. “That’s how I pictured it,” Brown said. “And it went totally the opposite. I was alone.” When the time finally arrived to induce labor, Manhattan hospitals were already limiting visitors because of the coronavirus pandemic. After Brown tested positive for Covid-19, her partner was forced to leave. Pre-eclampsia and a bacterial infection eventually pushed her into having an invasive C-section. After her baby was born, she had to stay 6ft away from him and couldn’t hold him before he was whisked out of the room. Brown was isolated except when hospital staff checked her vital signs or redressed her incision. The closest she got to her baby boy for 36 hours were photos on her phone. “I just wanted to take my son and go home,” Brown said. Maternal care in the US, already flawed compared to similarly well-off countries, has been derailed because of the global coronavirus pandemic. Prenatal visits have transitioned to a combination of telehealth and in-person appointments where only the pregnant person is allowed to be physically present. Maternity units are also limiting visitors, usually to one, though some hospitals in Covid-19 hotspots have not allowed any. These changes have made deliveries difficult for all expecting mothers, regardless of a Covid-19 diagnosis,race or ethnicity. But evenunder “normal” circumstances, black mothers face a terrifying prospect as they navigate US hospitals, historically influenced by systemic racism and implicit biases, experts say. Add a global pandemic that’s overwhelming the country’s healthcare institutions, and advocates warn the outcome could be disastrous. “Black women aren’t trusted. They aren’t trusted to know and understand their own bodies,” said Nia Martin-Robinson, director of black leadership and engagement at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. “The impact of Covid-19 on a lot of health systems is gonna further exacerbate maternal health complications, especially when it comes to labor and delivery,” said Angela D Aina, interim executive director of Black Mamas Matter Alliance. Specialists in maternal health fear that women will suffer and die, and that recent strides will regress, as a result of the outbreak. They also recognize the parallels between Covid-19 and maternal mortality, both of which have worse impacts on people of color. “What you see for both black maternal mortality and for Covid-19 is that difference … in who is seen as valuable shows up so quickly,” said Dr Joia Crear-Perry, president of the National Birth Equity Collaborative. Black Americans have shouldered a disproportionate burden from coronavirus thus far, representing 34% of fatalities but only around 13% of the population in states that have released racial breakdowns of their data, according to Johns Hopkins University. It’s the continuation of a pernicious trend in healthcare: for years now, black women have carried the lion’s share of pregnancy-related tragedies. In 2018, black women died of maternal causes at 2.5 times the rate of white women and 3.1 times the rate of Hispanic women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); multi-year reports have shown even wider chasms. These racial inequities exist across socio-economic status and education levels, research suggests. “We know that black women who are healthy, who have done what the medical community might consider to be all of the right things, are still black women who are dying,” said Martin-Robinson. Experts told the Guardian how an already lethal situation is devolving even further as expectant mothers have had their agency stripped away and their support systems pushed out of the birthing room in the name of safety. They focused especially on the confusion and fear in New York City, the US’s Covid-19 center, where black women were already nearly eight times more likely than their white counterparts to suffer a pregnancy-related death. “I think where these two public health crises intersect is that they are impacting the same communities, they are thriving on the same forms of discrimination,” said Pilar Herrero, a senior staff attorney at the Center for Reproductive Rights. “And there are pregnant women of color who … were already at risk of dying from a preventable maternal death, who now might also be exposed to the Covid-19 infection, or might not get the care that they need because resources have been reallocated.” Mothers are already suffering the consequences. Amber Rose Isaac, a 26-year-old black, Puerto Rican New Yorker, died on 21 April during an emergency C-section. Her platelet counts — which help blood clot — had been falling since February, but the condition went largely unmonitored because her doctor’s visits had been replaced with Zoom conference calls. “All of this was 100% preventable. All of it,” said Bruce McIntyre III, Isaac’s partner. “I feel like she would have got more attentive care if she was a white mother, to be completely honest with you.” Denise Bolds, a doula who supports mothers during childbirth, warned that, because hospitals have limited staff and want to cut down exposure to Covid-19, doctors may rush toward operations such as C-sections. “It’s really changing how women are giving birth,” Bolds said. “It’s becoming more clinical. It’s becoming more controlled. And women are losing their autonomy.” Preliminary evidence suggestspregnancy does not appear to increase the risk of contracting or getting seriously ill from Covid-19. But the virus has created a tremendous sense of uncertainty around pregnancy. It has also overwhelmed medical staff who don’t have enough personal protective equipment (PPE) or testing, “placing the human rights of health workers and the human rights of pregnant people in tension with one another in ways that really could have been avoided”, Herrero said. “Where we see discrimination already pre-Covid, now it’s not only strongly enforced but exacerbated,” said Jennie Joseph, a midwife and health advocate in Florida. “You’re stressed already, you’re at your wits’ end, you’re tired out, you’re scared as well. You’re gonna go to your kneejerk, which is you’re gonna think about things in the way that is simplest, quickest, easiest.” There’s no worldwide consensus around whether women who test positive for coronavirus or show related symptoms can safely touch their newborn and breastfeed directly. So far, the virus hasn’t been found in breastmilk or amniotic fluid, but hospitals are still separating mothers such as Brown from their newborns in case they’re contagious. The World Health Organization has said mothers should be able to hold their babies skin-to-skin, breastfeed with proper hygiene and stay in the same room, regardless of a Covid-19 diagnosis. But the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended temporary separation between mother and baby, or at least maintaining a 6ft distance. “We really are building this rocket ship while it’s flying,” said Melissa A Simon, a physician and professor at the Northwestern University Feinberg school of medicine. “So in general, most of us believe we should err on the side of caution and not have that newborn and mom contact when the mom just was diagnosed with Covid.”
3 May 10:00 • the Guardian • https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/may/03/giving-birth-coronavirus-pandemic-hospitalsRating: 5.39
Irish GP trying for baby had life saved when doctor found ovarian cancer
A young woman has told how a chance cancer diagnosis while she was trying to conceive saved her life. Serena O’Connell went from doctor to patient after she was told in March 2017 a cyst had stopped her from starting a family but cancer which had spread through her abdomen. Serena, who is a GP in Galway, said she had felt tired and had lost a bit of weight before being told of her diagnosis but had put it down to long working hours. She told the Irish Sunday Mirror had it not have been for a doctor probing why she couldn’t conceive she may never have known she had cancer. Serena said: “My husband Fergus and I had been married a year and we were trying for a baby and nothing was happening. “We went to see a fertility expert in Galway who done a scan and thought perhaps I had an ovarian cyst or something. “He brought me in to have a look with keyhole surgery and when I came from the operation I was told I had cancer and it had spread significantly through the abdomen. “I ended up being brought back in two weeks later to have surgery as it had spread to the my lining of my bladder, the bowel, there were tumour deposits on my diaphragm just below the lungs, you could say that I was riddled. “They operated and took away both ovaries, the uterus, they removed a section of bowel and re-joined it again, they scrubbed down the bladder, my diaphragm, everywhere. "After the epidural wore off the pain was horrific. I remember wondering how the human body could endure such pain and still remain conscious, it was horrific.” Motorbike enthusiast Serena was just 34 when she got the diagnosis and after the surgery she felt bereft. She added: “I remember lying on the bed in recovery, I couldn’t look at anyone, I was just looking up at the ceiling and tears were flowing down my face.” This Friday marks World Ovarian Cancer Day. It’s the fourth most common cancer in Ireland with 272 women losing their lives to it each year. Symptoms include persistent pelvic and tummy pain, abdominal bloating and feeling full quickly. Serena said: “Had I not have tried to have a baby I wouldn’t have even known I had cancer. I would have been terminally ill before I knew. “I was at stage 3B when they were doing the surgery, had I got to stage four it would have been terminal.” OvaCare, an organisation set up to help women who have had ovarian cancer, says it’s important women don’t ignore the signs of the illness. According to consultant gynaecological Dr Michael O’Leary, early diagnosis and treatment are vital. He said: “Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer should be particularly vigilant. Talk to your GP, describe new symptoms which are not going away and mention any family history. GPs are there to help you.”
3 May 06:00 • Irish Mirror • https://www.irishmirror.ie/lifestyle/health/irish-gp-trying-baby-life-21963973Rating: 0.56
Heartbroken mum had just four precious hours were her baby boy before he died
A mum who was left devastated when her baby died at only four hours old says she will never forget the feeling that "her whole world stopped". Cassie Hylans and her partner Steven Hale, from Burton, were delighted when they found out they were expecting Freddie-Philip back in 2016, but that happiness was short-lived when doctors explained that Cassie had passed on a genetic condition she has, to her unborn child The 27-year-old who lives in Stapenhill, was given the news at her 20 week scan but said she refused all the options her doctors gave her, in the hope of meeting her baby boy. She said: "We were so excited, but when I had my 20-week scan I found out that I have a genetic condition called Kallman Syndrome, which has a 50 per cent chance of being passed on to boys. "It meant that I had no fluid (around him) and Freddie-Philip's kidneys were covered in cysts. They gave me lots of options, which I refused. "We knew he wouldn’t survive but at the end of the day he was still my baby and I was growing him. I wanted to see his face and give him a cuddle. He was ours." When cleaner Cassie gave birth to Freddie-Philip on November 29 she and her family spent "four precious hours" with their bundle of joy. She said: "He was born breathing, so we had four hours of unexpected precious time with him. "I gave birth on the normal labour ward and we took tonnes of pictures, had cuddles with him and the vicar came and gave him a blessing. We still talk to her to this day. "The nurses were amazing and gave us two teddies and a keepsake memory box with his handprints and footprints in. It was really special." Cassie and her family were supported by staff at the Snowdrop Suite, a special unit for bereaved parents at Burton’s Queen’s Hospital. Cassie said: "My mum and partner were there with me the whole way through and I can’t remember that much because it was all a blur. "We could spend as much time with him as we wanted the nurses left us to it and we were at the end of the labour ward so we didn’t have to see new mums walking around with their babies. "As he took his last breath my partner dropped to his knees and screamed. It was the hardest thing you could ever go through. "It was so surreal just watching it happen and not being able to do anything to help keep him alive." The pair were able to keep Freddie-Philip with them in a special cuddle cot, but when the time came to return home, the new parents were devastated. Cassie said: "It was so hard to go home. Everything was normal and his bedroom was fully kitted out waiting for him. "Going there without him in our arms was heartbreaking and it was like our world had stopped." Cassie said the tragedy did not put the couple off having another child and when they got pregnant with Bobby, they were "so happy." She said: "The pregnancy was fine, but he only has one kidney. "I was overwhelmed when Bobby was born. I felt heartbroken that he would never get to meet his big brother and he was the spitting image of Freddie-Philip. "November will always be a very bittersweet month for me as Bobby was born at the start and Freddie was born at the end." Cassie is full of praise for the midwives who cared for her following Freddie-Philip's death and said they were still welcome to access support at the Snowdrop Suite. She said: "That time was so precious and without the staff at the hospital and the specialist suite we would not have been able to make such special memories. "Baby loss awareness is so important and it should not be a taboo subject. I would rather people talk about it then ignore that it happened. "Freddie-Philip was still here. He is still a person. He is my son."
3 May 05:00 • Derbyshire Live • https://www.derbytelegraph.co.uk/burton/baby-loss-stillborn-snowdrop-suite-3414108Rating: 0.30
Was my baby girl struck by children’s coronavirus? KATE MANSEY thought her daughter was dead when she passed out... only for her to recover but develop a temperature and cough
They were 30 seconds of my life that must have aged me about ten years. My toddler had tried to climb the stairs and as she tumbled down the last couple of steps on her bottom, there was a thud and a cry. A normal part of learning to get about for a child of 20 months. I picked her up and dried her tears, but then the most unimaginable and unexpected thing happened: as Ivy tried to draw breath for her next wail, she passed out cold. Her head lolled back and she went floppy in my arms. I called her name, tried in vain to get her to respond and shouted for help. I can still hear the blood-curdling, pit-of-the-stomach sound of a woman screaming ‘My baby! My baby!’ which it later occurred to me must have been my own voice. I ran up the stairs cradling her and locked eyes with my husband – I’ve never seen him look so scared. We both thought our beautiful daughter must be dead. Yet within moments she had come back around and was hugging my husband’s neck, panting – an Easter Monday miracle. We rushed her to the A&E at King’s College Hospital, by which time I was sobbing uncontrollably with sheer relief that she would now get medical attention. I must have seemed deranged because by now, my little girl was toddling up to the nurses to show them her dolly, her temperature was fine and the consultant said perhaps it was just one of those things that happens to infants from time to time. They gave us lunch, kept us for three hours of observation and sent us home. It was only the next day when Ivy developed a temperature and a cough that I wished I had asked them to test her for Covid-19. For weeks beforehand my son, too, had been experiencing symptoms of the virus that I wouldn’t describe as ‘mild’. And when, last week, NHS leaders issued an urgent nationwide alert to doctors, warning of a more severe ‘coronavirus-related syndrome’ in children, I began to wonder: could this have been it? I know that other families have seen their children go down with unexpected and sometimes frightening symptoms in the past few weeks before bouncing back. Are children more seriously at risk than we have – so far – been told? The alert about the new syndrome came from doctors in London and elsewhere in the UK who had noticed a sudden spike in children admitted to intensive care with rashes, convulsions, cardiac inflammation and stomach pain. The suggestion is that in very rare cases, Covid-19 might cause a child’s immune system to overreact as it battles to fight off the virus. This can lead to a general inflammation of blood vessels similar to Kawasaki disease, a rare condition that usually affects under-fives. It can cause damage to internal organs. Given what we’d experienced, I began to investigate. At first, the statistics were encouraging. Children seemed largely untouched by the virus. Save for some tragic cases – last month a five-year-old became the UK’s youngest victim – the NHS guidance shows that children, if they do get coronavirus, seem to experience very mild symptoms. The chances that Ivy had been in danger seemed small. Children have so far accounted for only between one per cent and five per cent of diagnosed Covid-19 cases worldwide. Mostly they show milder signs of the disease, and deaths among the under-tens are rare. Great Ormond Street experts say about half of children have a fever, 40 per cent have a cough and fewer than ten per cent have gastrointestinal symptoms. But then came last week’s news that children could not only catch the virus, but that in some rare cases, the consequences are severe. For these children, the immune system, which remains immature right up to adolescence, can become its own worst enemy. Professor Russell Viner, president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), told me that UK medics were the first to spot the alarming – yet rare – phenomenon and have since discussed their findings with Italian and Spanish doctors who realise with hindsight that they, too, have seen such cases. ‘We’ve seen this in adults, too, though not this exact phenomenon,’ said Prof Viner. ‘The link to Covid-19 isn’t yet proven but we think it’s very likely. However, it’s important to realise that this is not a new mutation of the bug or something we’re worried is going to escalate. It’s an incredibly rare subset, and we know how to treat it.’ He added: ‘These findings are testimony to the way our doctors and researchers work together. It’s just what we’re good at.’ There have been 20 cases in the UK, according to the RCPCH, but with no one sign or symptom. Dr Mike Linney, paediatrician and registrar at the RCPCH, said: ‘All of these children were extremely unwell, with features suggestive of sepsis such as a persistently high temperature coupled with rapid breathing, cold hands and feet and sleepiness. ‘The other symptoms varied greatly in the different cases.’ It all rings a worrying bell for me. Not long before my daughter’s fainting spell, my five-year-old son suddenly fell ill. Ted woke in the night saying he was ‘not vewwy well’. He had started coughing the day before so, with coronavirus on my mind, I checked his temperature. It was normal, so I wondered whether he was just having a bad dream. Unusually clingy, he grabbed my arm and said: ‘Mummy, don’t leave me.’ Within 20 minutes his temperature rocketed to 40C and his little body (why do children always seem to look so much smaller when they’re poorly?) was shaking violently. He was still clinging on to me as I mouthed over his shoulder to my husband: ‘Oh God, this must be “it”.’ Ted vomited several times – the bathroom, his room, our room. Yet within 24 hours he seemed almost back to his usual self. Almost. But here’s the strangest thing: nearly two weeks later, he still wasn’t well and spiralled down again. This time, his fever lasted seven days and nights and his cough had returned with a vengeance. He complained of a sharp, persistent pain in his armpit and one in his tummy. He had diarrhoea, barely ate and would fall asleep sitting up in chairs. His breathing was laboured and I would go into his room every hour through the night to check on him. I made a couple of frantic calls to the GP surgery and had a phone call with a doctor and then, a few days later, a video call with another. Was I missing something? Tonsillitis? Appendicitis? Something that could be treated, I hoped. Their view was that this was coronavirus, and they said that if his breathing got worse I should call back or, if I was really worried, go to hospital. The boomerang nature of it shocked me but after a week of being so ill – far worse than last year’s chicken pox or his infant case of hand, foot and mouth disease – the colour gradually returned to his cheeks. Then, within days of the children being ill, I had the cough, too. There followed a week in bed for me with chest pains and a terrifying sensation that felt like drowning despite being on dry land. Did we all have coronavirus? None of us was tested, but I’d put money on it. Certainly, we need to know more about how this virus affects children and, in order for us to successfully emerge from lockdown, how they transmit it. My two are now completely better, thank goodness. But the biggest worry is that other parents will be lulled into a false sense of security and believe, like I did, that coronavirus is not a big deal for children. The fear is that some won’t seek help when it is needed. As any good doctor will tell you, parents know their child best. You know what ‘a bit under the weather’ looks like and that it’s a world away from ‘desperately poorly’. We must remember, too, that there are doctors there to help. As the dedicated team at King’s College Hospital said to me: ‘We’re open for business as usual.’
2 May 21:03 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8280849/Kate-Mansey-thought-daughter-dead-recover-develop-temperature-cough.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide
3 May 11:57
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4 articles
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Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide
VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis called on Sunday for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world. Francis, who has been delivering his Sunday address from the papal library instead of St. Peter’s Square because of the lockdown in Italy, thanked all those around the world who were providing essential services. He encouraged international cooperation to deal with the crisis and combat the virus, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 people worldwide. “In fact, it is important to unite scientific capabilities, in a transparent and impartial way to find vaccines and treatments,” he said. Francis said it was also important to “guarantee universal access to essential technologies that allow each infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary medical treatment.” World leaders pledged in April to accelerate work on tests, drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and to share them around the globe, but the United States did not take part in the launch of the World Health Organization (WHO) initiative. U.S. President Donald Trump has said the WHO was slow to react to the outbreak and was being “China-centric”, and as a consequence has announced a suspension of funding. The WHO has defended its handling of the crisis. A number of pharmaceutical companies around the world have developed tests to identify antibodies that develop after somebody has come into contact with the virus. The Trump administration is planning to speed up development of a coronavirus vaccine with the goal of having 100 million doses ready by the end of 2020, according to a senior U.S. administration official. Most experts have suggested clinical trials to guarantee a vaccine is safe and effective could take a minimum of 12 to 18 months. On Sunday, the pope also backed a proposal by an inter-religious group known as the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity for an international day of prayer and fasting on May 14 to ask God to help humanity overcome the pandemic.
3 May 11:57 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-pope-vaccine-idUSKBN22F0GGRating: 4.04
Pope says COVID-19 vaccine must be shared worldwide
VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis called on Sunday (May 3) for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world. Francis, who has been delivering his Sunday address from the papal library instead of St Peter's Square because of the lockdown in Italy, thanked all those around the world who were providing essential services. He encouraged international cooperation to deal with the crisis and combat the virus, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 people worldwide. "In fact, it is important to unite scientific capabilities, in a transparent and impartial way to find vaccines and treatments," he said. Francis said it was also important to "guarantee universal access to essential technologies that allow each infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary medical treatment". World leaders pledged in April to accelerate work on tests, drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and to share them around the globe, but the United States did not take part in the launch of the World Health Organization (WHO) initiative. .S President Donald Trump has said the WHO was slow to react to the outbreak and was being "China-centric", and as a consequence has announced a suspension of funding. The WHO has defended its handling of the crisis. A number of pharmaceutical companies around the world have developed tests to identify antibodies that develop after somebody has come into contact with the virus. The Trump administration is planning to speed up development of a coronavirus vaccine with the goal of having 100 million doses ready by the end of 2020, according to a senior US administration official. Most experts have suggested clinical trials to guarantee a vaccine is safe and effective could take a minimum of 12 to 18 months. On Sunday, the pope also backed a proposal by an inter-religious group known as the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity for an international day of prayer and fasting on May 14 to ask God to help humanity overcome the pandemic.
3 May 20:16 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/pope-says-covid-19-vaccine-must-be-shared-worldwide-12698140Rating: 3.25
Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide
VATICAN CITY: Pope Francis called on Sunday for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world. Francis, who has been delivering his Sunday address from the papal library instead of St. Peter’s Square because of the lockdown in Italy, thanked all those around the world who were providing essential services. He encouraged international cooperation to deal with the crisis and combat the virus, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 people worldwide. “In fact, it is important to unite scientific capabilities, in a transparent and impartial way to find vaccines and treatments,” he said. Francis said it was also important to “guarantee universal access to essential technologies that allow each infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary medical treatment.” World leaders pledged in April to accelerate work on tests, drugs and vaccines against Covid-19 and to share them around the globe, but the United States did not take part in the launch of the World Health Organisation (WHO) initiative. US President Donald Trump has said the WHO was slow to react to the outbreak and was being “China-centric”, and as a consequence has announced a suspension of funding. The WHO has defended its handling of the crisis. A number of pharmaceutical companies around the world have developed tests to identify antibodies that develop after somebody has come into contact with the virus. The Trump administration is planning to speed up development of a coronavirus vaccine with the goal of having 100 million doses ready by the end of 2020, according to a senior US administration official. Most experts have suggested clinical trials to guarantee a vaccine is safe and effective could take a minimum of 12 to 18 months. On Sunday, the pope also backed a proposal by an inter-religious group known as the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity for an international day of prayer and fasting on May 14 to ask God to help humanity overcome the pandemic.
3 May 12:31 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213189/3-pope-says-coronavirus-vaccine-must-shared-worldwide/Rating: 1.80
Pope says coronavirus vaccine must be shared worldwide
VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis called on Sunday for international scientific cooperation to discover a vaccine for the coronavirus and said any successful vaccine should be made available around the world. Francis, who has been delivering his Sunday address from the papal library instead of St. Peter’s Square because of the lockdown in Italy, thanked all those around the world who were providing essential services. He encouraged international cooperation to deal with the crisis and combat the virus, which has infected nearly 3.5 million people and killed more than 240,000 people worldwide. “In fact, it is important to unite scientific capabilities, in a transparent and impartial way to find vaccines and treatments,” he said. Francis said it was also important to “guarantee universal access to essential technologies that allow each infected person, in every part of the world, to receive the necessary medical treatment.” World leaders pledged in April to accelerate work on tests, drugs and vaccines against COVID-19 and to share them around the globe, but the United States did not take part in the launch of the World Health Organization (WHO) initiative. U.S. President Donald Trump has said the WHO was slow to react to the outbreak and was being “China-centric,” and as a consequence has announced a suspension of funding. The WHO has defended its handling of the crisis. A number of pharmaceutical companies around the world have developed tests to identify antibodies that develop after somebody has come into contact with the virus. The Trump administration is planning to speed up development of a coronavirus vaccine with the goal of having 100 million doses ready by the end of 2020, according to a senior U.S. administration official. Most experts have suggested clinical trials to guarantee a vaccine is safe and effective could take a minimum of 12 to 18 months. On Sunday, the pope also backed a proposal by an inter-religious group known as the Higher Committee on Human Fraternity for an international day of prayer and fasting on May 14 to ask God to help humanity overcome the pandemic. (Reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Edmund Blair)
3 May 11:23 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/pope-says-coronavirus-vaccine-must-be-shared-worldwideRating: 1.59
People in the UK may have to cut down their social groups by 90% to stop coronavirus from spreading, scientists warn
3 May 16:10
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4 articles
Weight: 2.65
Importance: 2.65
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 16:10
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People in the UK may have to cut down their social groups by 90% to stop coronavirus from spreading, scientists warn
The UK's social distancing measures may need to be in place for years, according to two new studies from scientists. Social contact in the UK may need to be dramatically reduced on a long-term basis, according to scientists who warned that the UK's scope for lifting the lockdown is extremely limited until the discovery of a vaccine. Two new studies found that Boris Johnson's government risks pushing the rate of transmission too high if social interaction is not severely limited for the foreseeable future. The studies, published by British academics, explored what would happen to the so-called R rate if the current social distancing measures, which the government introduced in March, were lifted. The R rate tracks how many people are infected, on average, for every one person who has the disease and keeping it below one is key to preventing a second peak of infections later this summer, scientists say. A new study by scientists at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and reported by the Telegraph newspaper, found that even in an "optimistic" scenario, social contact would have to be limited to around 5 to 10 people outside the home, workplace, and school. A second study reported by scientists at the University of Dundee concluded that people resuming more than 10% of their previous social activity would risk a second peak of the virus, the Telegraph reported. "Lockdown… can barely contain the disease's spread," the authors of the University of Dundee's study wrote. "Our data is more consistent with a need to adopting a 'new normal' that can provide the optimal balance between allowing economic activity while ensuring very substantial reductions in prior social contacts - 90 per cent reductions according to our best estimates." It came as Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, warned on Sunday that Britain would not return to "business as usual this month. He told Sky News: "I don't think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February - that's clearly not going to happen and I don't think anyone imagines that for one moment. "The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do going forward doesn't undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 - the all-critical reproduction rate doesn't come back up because that's when we'd see a second spike. "So no I'm afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the route map lies." Shapps confirmed that the government would be piloting a contact-tracing smartphone app this month, which is designed to limit the spread of COVID-19. The app will alert people if they have potentially interacted with people infected with the coronavirus. LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 16:10 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-the-end-of-socializing-as-we-know-it-study-warns-2020-5Rating: 4.40
People in the UK may have to cut down their social groups by 90% to stop coronavirus from spreading, scientists warn
The UK’s social distancing measures may need to be in place for years, according to two new studies from scientists. Social contact in the UK may need to be dramatically reduced on a long-term basis, according to scientists who warned that the UK’s scope for lifting the lockdown is extremely limited until the discovery of a vaccine. Two new studies found that Boris Johnson’s government risks pushing the rate of transmission too high if social interaction is not severely limited for the foreseeable future. The studies, published by British academics, explored what would happen to the so-called R rate if the current social distancing measures, which the government introduced in March, were lifted. The R rate tracks how many people are infected, on average, for every one person who has the disease and keeping it below one is key to preventing a second peak of infections later this summer, scientists say. A new study by scientists at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and reported by the Telegraph newspaper, found that even in an “optimistic” scenario, social contact would have to be limited to around 5 to 10 people outside the home, workplace, and school. A second study reported by scientists at the University of Dundee concluded that people resuming more than 10% of their previous social activity would risk a second peak of the virus, the Telegraph reported. “Lockdown… can barely contain the disease’s spread,” the authors of the University of Dundee’s study wrote. “Our data is more consistent with a need to adopting a ‘new normal’ that can provide the optimal balance between allowing economic activity while ensuring very substantial reductions in prior social contacts – 90 per cent reductions according to our best estimates.” It came as Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, warned on Sunday that Britain would not return to “business as usual this month. He told Sky News: “I don’t think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February – that’s clearly not going to happen and I don’t think anyone imagines that for one moment. “The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do going forward doesn’t undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 – the all-critical reproduction rate doesn’t come back up because that’s when we’d see a second spike. “So no I’m afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the route map lies.” Shapps confirmed that the government would be piloting a contact-tracing smartphone app this month, which is designed to limit the spread of COVID-19. The app will alert people if they have potentially interacted with people infected with the coronavirus.
3 May 16:10 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/coronavirus-the-end-of-socializing-as-we-know-it-study-warns-2020-5Rating: 0.30
People in the UK may have to cut down their social groups by 90% to stop coronavirus from spreading, scientists warn
The UK’s social distancing measures may need to be in place for years, according to two new studies from scientists. Social contact in the UK may need to be dramatically reduced on a long-term basis, according to scientists who warned that the UK’s scope for lifting the lockdown is extremely limited until the discovery of a vaccine. Two new studies found that Boris Johnson’s government risks pushing the rate of transmission too high if social interaction is not severely limited for the foreseeable future. The studies, published by British academics, explored what would happen to the so-called R rate if the current social distancing measures, which the government introduced in March, were lifted. The R rate tracks how many people are infected, on average, for every one person who has the disease and keeping it below one is key to preventing a second peak of infections later this summer, scientists say. A new study by scientists at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and reported by the Telegraph newspaper, found that even in an “optimistic” scenario, social contact would have to be limited to around 5 to 10 people outside the home, workplace, and school. A second study reported by scientists at the University of Dundee concluded that people resuming more than 10% of their previous social activity would risk a second peak of the virus, the Telegraph reported. “Lockdown… can barely contain the disease’s spread,” the authors of the University of Dundee’s study wrote. “Our data is more consistent with a need to adopting a ‘new normal’ that can provide the optimal balance between allowing economic activity while ensuring very substantial reductions in prior social contacts – 90 per cent reductions according to our best estimates.” It came as Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, warned on Sunday that Britain would not return to “business as usual this month. He told Sky News: “I don’t think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February – that’s clearly not going to happen and I don’t think anyone imagines that for one moment. “The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do going forward doesn’t undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 – the all-critical reproduction rate doesn’t come back up because that’s when we’d see a second spike. “So no I’m afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the route map lies.” Shapps confirmed that the government would be piloting a contact-tracing smartphone app this month, which is designed to limit the spread of COVID-19. The app will alert people if they have potentially interacted with people infected with the coronavirus.
3 May 16:10 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/coronavirus-the-end-of-socializing-as-we-know-it-study-warns-2020-5Rating: 0.30
People in the UK may have to cut down their social groups by 90% to stop coronavirus from spreading, scientists warn, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
The UK’s social distancing measures may need to be in place for years, according to two new studies from scientists. Social contact in the UK may need to be dramatically reduced on a long-term basis, according to scientists who warned that the UK’s scope for lifting the lockdown is extremely limited until the discovery of a vaccine. Two new studies found that Boris Johnson’s government risks pushing the rate of transmission too high if social interaction is not severely limited for the foreseeable future. The studies, published by British academics, explored what would happen to the so-called R rate if the current social distancing measures, which the government introduced in March, were lifted. The R rate tracks how many people are infected, on average, for every one person who has the disease and keeping it below one is key to preventing a second peak of infections later this summer, scientists say. A new study by scientists at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, and reported by the Telegraph newspaper, found that even in an “optimistic” scenario, social contact would have to be limited to around 5 to 10 people outside the home, workplace, and school. A second study reported by scientists at the University of Dundee concluded that people resuming more than 10% of their previous social activity would risk a second peak of the virus, the Telegraph reported. “Lockdown… can barely contain the disease’s spread,” the authors of the University of Dundee’s study wrote. “Our data is more consistent with a need to adopting a ‘new normal’ that can provide the optimal balance between allowing economic activity while ensuring very substantial reductions in prior social contacts – 90 per cent reductions according to our best estimates.” It came as Grant Shapps, the transport secretary, warned on Sunday that Britain would not return to “business as usual this month. He told Sky News: “I don’t think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February – that’s clearly not going to happen and I don’t think anyone imagines that for one moment. “The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do going forward doesn’t undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 – the all-critical reproduction rate doesn’t come back up because that’s when we’d see a second spike. “So no I’m afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the route map lies.” Shapps confirmed that the government would be piloting a contact-tracing smartphone app this month, which is designed to limit the spread of COVID-19. The app will alert people if they have potentially interacted with people infected with the coronavirus.
3 May 16:10 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/coronavirus-the-end-of-socializing-as-we-know-it-study-warns-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Instead of bidding against each other, New York and six other states are pooling their purchasing power to buy ventilators, protective gear, and coronavirus tests
3 May 17:56
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4 articles
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Instead of bidding against each other, New York and six other states are pooling their purchasing power to buy ventilators, protective gear, and coronavirus tests
Seven states in the northeastern US are banding together to buy medical equipment and testing they need to fight the coronavirus. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the consortium Sunday, saying the seven states combine to spend about $5 billion per year on medical equipment and supplies. By combining their purchases, the participating states hope to better compete in the international market for medical supplies at better prices, Cuomo said. In the absence of a coordinated federal government purchasing effort, the states have largely been on their own in attempting to track down and buy this equipment. Many governors have commented that they feel like they are bidding against each other. New York, for instance, has paid as much as 15 to 20 times the usual price for routine medical gear like masks and gloves, ProPublica reporters Lydia DePillis and Lisa Song found. New York is the largest state of the group, accounting for about $2 billion in annual spending on medical supplies, Cuomo said. The six other participating states in the Regional State Purchasing Consortium are New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island. "The consortium, I think, will help us get the equipment and get it at a better price," Cuomo said, adding it will focus on buying personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, medical equipment, and coronavirus tests. The consortium will aim to better prepare for future outbreaks, including trying to buy more from American vendors instead of China. "I'm afraid this is still just beginning," Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said. "We are planning for the next round of this, if there is a next round, making sure we control our own destiny going forward and we do it much better together." The group is also looking to establish sufficient testing capacity for the virus, which is widely seen as a critical element on the path to reopening the economy. "Part of this is testing, it's not just equipment," said Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. "We really need to work together to build the capacity to test, or we're not going to be able to give our citizens the confidence they need to go back to work. They're not going to have the confidence to go back to school, or back to the store, or back to worship." LoadingSomething is loading. Featured Health Articles:- Telehealth Industry Explained- Value-Based Care Explained- Senior Care & Assisted Living Market- Smart Medical Devices & Wearable Tech- AI in Healthcare- Remote Patient Monitoring Explained - AI in Medical Diagnosis Systems Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 17:56 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/new-york-gov-cuomo-announces-coronavirus-state-purchasing-coalition-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Instead of bidding against each other, New York and six other states are pooling their purchasing power to buy ventilators, protective gear, and coronavirus tests
Seven states in the northeastern US are banding together to buy medical equipment and testing they need to fight the coronavirus. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the consortium Sunday, saying the seven states combine to spend about $5 billion per year on medical equipment and supplies. By combining their purchases, the participating states hope to better compete in the international market for medical supplies at better prices, Cuomo said. In the absence of a coordinated federal government purchasing effort, the states have largely been on their own in attempting to track down and buy this equipment. Many governors have commented that they feel like they are bidding against each other. New York, for instance, has paid as much as 15 to 20 times the usual price for routine medical gear like masks and gloves, ProPublica reporters Lydia DePillis and Lisa Song found. New York is the largest state of the group, accounting for about $2 billion in annual spending on medical supplies, Cuomo said. The six other participating states in the Regional State Purchasing Consortium are New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island. “The consortium, I think, will help us get the equipment and get it at a better price,” Cuomo said, adding it will focus on buying personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, medical equipment, and coronavirus tests. The consortium will aim to better prepare for future outbreaks, including trying to buy more from American vendors instead of China. “I’m afraid this is still just beginning,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said. “We are planning for the next round of this, if there is a next round, making sure we control our own destiny going forward and we do it much better together.” The group is also looking to establish sufficient testing capacity for the virus, which is widely seen as a critical element on the path to reopening the economy. “Part of this is testing, it’s not just equipment,” said Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. “We really need to work together to build the capacity to test, or we’re not going to be able to give our citizens the confidence they need to go back to work. They’re not going to have the confidence to go back to school, or back to the store, or back to worship.”
3 May 17:56 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/new-york-gov-cuomo-announces-coronavirus-state-purchasing-coalition-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Instead of bidding against each other, New York and six other states are pooling their purchasing power to buy ventilators, protective gear, and coronavirus tests
Seven states in the northeastern US are banding together to buy medical equipment and testing they need to fight the coronavirus. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the consortium Sunday, saying the seven states combine to spend about $US5 billion per year on medical equipment and supplies. By combining their purchases, the participating states hope to better compete in the international market for medical supplies at better prices, Cuomo said. In the absence of a coordinated federal government purchasing effort, the states have largely been on their own in attempting to track down and buy this equipment. Many governors have commented that they feel like they are bidding against each other. New York, for instance, has paid as much as 15 to 20 times the usual price for routine medical gear like masks and gloves,ProPublica reporters Lydia DePillis and Lisa Song found. New York is the largest state of the group, accounting for about $US2 billion in annual spending on medical supplies, Cuomo said. The six other participating states in the Regional State Purchasing Consortium are New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island. “The consortium, I think, will help us get the equipment and get it at a better price,” Cuomo said, adding it will focus on buying personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, medical equipment, and coronavirus tests. The consortium will aim to better prepare for future outbreaks, including trying to buy more from American vendors instead of China. “I’m afraid this is still just beginning,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said. “We are planning for the next round of this, if there is a next round, making sure we control our own destiny going forward and we do it much better together.” The group is also looking to establish sufficient testing capacity for the virus, which is widely seen as a critical element on the path to reopening the economy. “Part of this is testing, it’s not just equipment,” said Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. “We really need to work together to build the capacity to test, or we’re not going to be able to give our citizens the confidence they need to go back to work. They’re not going to have the confidence to go back to school, or back to the store, or back to worship.”
3 May 17:56 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/new-york-gov-cuomo-announces-coronavirus-state-purchasing-coalition-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Instead of bidding against each other, New York and six other states are pooling their purchasing power to buy ventilators, protective gear, and coronavirus tests, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Seven states in the northeastern US are banding together to buy medical equipment and testing they need to fight the coronavirus. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the consortium Sunday, saying the seven states combine to spend about $5 billion per year on medical equipment and supplies. By combining their purchases, the participating states hope to better compete in the international market for medical supplies at better prices, Cuomo said. In the absence of a coordinated federal government purchasing effort, the states have largely been on their own in attempting to track down and buy this equipment. Many governors have commented that they feel like they are bidding against each other. New York, for instance, has paid as much as 15 to 20 times the usual price for routine medical gear like masks and gloves, ProPublica reporters Lydia DePillis and Lisa Song found. New York is the largest state of the group, accounting for about $2 billion in annual spending on medical supplies, Cuomo said. The six other participating states in the Regional State Purchasing Consortium are New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware, and Rhode Island. “The consortium, I think, will help us get the equipment and get it at a better price,” Cuomo said, adding it will focus on buying personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, medical equipment, and coronavirus tests. The consortium will aim to better prepare for future outbreaks, including trying to buy more from American vendors instead of China. “I’m afraid this is still just beginning,” Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont said. “We are planning for the next round of this, if there is a next round, making sure we control our own destiny going forward and we do it much better together.” The group is also looking to establish sufficient testing capacity for the virus, which is widely seen as a critical element on the path to reopening the economy. “Part of this is testing, it’s not just equipment,” said Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. “We really need to work together to build the capacity to test, or we’re not going to be able to give our citizens the confidence they need to go back to work. They’re not going to have the confidence to go back to school, or back to the store, or back to worship.”
3 May 17:56 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/new-york-gov-cuomo-announces-coronavirus-state-purchasing-coalition-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Ohio Gov. DeWine said his order for shoppers to wear masks went ‘too far’
3 May 22:32
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8 articles
Weight: 2.65
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Ohio Gov. DeWine said his order for shoppers to wear masks went ‘too far’
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday that his order for the state’s retail customers to wear face masks was “too far” after he was criticized for it and walked back the rule one day after announcing it. DeWine said on ABC’s “This Week” that he was standing by orders that employees working during the novel coronavirus pandemic in the state would have a face mask but has since backed off ordering customers to also wear masks. “It became clear to me that that was just a bridge too far,” DeWine told host Martha Raddatz. “People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do.” Though he “pulled that back,” DeWine said he maintains that wearing masks in public “is highly recommended for most people unless you have a physical reason” because “it’s the kind thing to do” to prevent the chance of unknowingly infecting to retail workers. Raddatz then pointed to data collected by ABC showing a partisan divide along how Americans respond to the pandemic, specifically that Democrats are more concerned with contracting the virus while Republicans are twice as likely to eat at a restaurant, work out at a gym, and get a haircut. “Generally, Republicans are less inclined to have the government tell them what to do,” DeWine said. “That’s generally how I am.” Despite some standing orders for ongoing safety practices, DeWine said “we’re starting really pretty aggressively to phase business back in” as the state is set to begin reopening some businesses on May 4, along with some other states. The state’s manufacturing and construction businesses are set to start up on May 4 and retail stores are scheduled to open their doors on May 11. Ohio has recorded more than 19,000 coronavirus cases, and at least 1,000 deaths. Officials have pushed for businesses to begin reopening after a brief downward curve in new infections and deaths, even though it does not satisfy the federal guideline of a 14-day downward trend in the number of new coronavirus cases.
3 May 22:32 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/gov-dewine-masks-order-for-ohio-went-too-far-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Ohio Gov. DeWine said his order for shoppers to wear masks went 'too far'
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday that his order for the state’s retail customers to wear face masks was “too far” after he was criticised for it and walked back the rule one day after announcing it. DeWine said on ABC’s “This Week” that he was standing by orders that employees working during the novel coronavirus pandemic in the state would have a face mask but has since backed off ordering customers to also wear masks. “It became clear to me that that was just a bridge too far,” DeWine told host Martha Raddatz. “People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do.” Though he “pulled that back,” DeWine said he maintains that wearing masks in public “is highly recommended for most people unless you have a physical reason” because “it’s the kind thing to do” to prevent the chance of unknowingly infecting to retail workers. Raddatz then pointed to data collected by ABC showing a partisan divide along how Americans respond to the pandemic, specifically that Democrats are more concerned with contracting the virus while Republicans are twice as likely to eat at a restaurant, work out at a gym, and get a haircut. “Generally, Republicans are less inclined to have the government tell them what to do,” DeWine said. “That’s generally how I am.” Despite some standing orders for ongoing safety practices, DeWine said “we’re starting really pretty aggressively to phase business back in” as the state is set to begin reopening some businesses on May 4, along with some other states. The state’s manufacturing and construction businesses are set to start up on May 4 and retail stores are scheduled to open their doors on May 11. Ohio has recorded more than 19,000 coronavirus cases, and at least 1,000 deaths. Officials have pushed for businesses to begin reopening after a brief downward curve in new infections and deaths, even though it does not satisfy the federal guideline of a 14-day downward trend in the number of new coronavirus cases.
3 May 22:32 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/gov-dewine-masks-order-for-ohio-went-too-far-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Governor: Face covering order 'went too far,' was reversed
COLUMBUS, Ohio — An order for people to wear face coverings while in stores was reversed last week because it “went too far,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday. DeWine reversed the order Tuesday, calling it “a bridge too far” and saying face coverings were strongly recommended but would no longer be required. He repeated that language Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” saying, “People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do.” “So my ability to communicate to the people of Ohio, frankly, I thought, was going to be really impeded and we would get hung up on the mandatory masks for someone going in as a customer and it just wasn’t going to work,” he said. “And so you got to know what you can do and what you can’t do.” On Friday, the Republican governor extended the state shutdown until May 29 while also allowing retail stores to expand their business earlier than expected. He spoke as Ohio COVID-19 deaths topped 1,000 for the first time and as dozens of protesters of Ohio’s stay-at-home orders returned to the statehouse. Construction companies, distributors, manufacturers and offices are allowed to reopen Monday, and retail businesses on May 12. Health care offices were allowed to reopen Friday. Bars and movie theatres remain closed, along with in-person dining at restaurants. Sporting events and concerts are still prohibited. The governor said reopening Ohio is a “balancing” act between bringing the economy back while protecting people and added that he will be prepared to take action should the situation worsen again. The governor earlier said multiple working groups were being formed to come up with the best and safest way to restart activities, including hair care, dining out, going to the gym, visiting libraries and participating in sporting events. “So when we open tomorrow in regard to a lot of businesses as well as office, it’s going to be based upon really best practices that were laid out by people in those businesses who do that,” he said Sunday. The Associated Press
3 May 19:41 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/governor-face-covering-order-went-too-far-was-reversed/Rating: 0.77
Governor: Face covering order 'went too far,' was reversed
COLUMBUS, Ohio — An order for people to wear face coverings while in stores was reversed last week because it “went too far,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday. DeWine reversed the order Tuesday, calling it “a bridge too far” and saying face coverings were strongly recommended but would no longer be required. He repeated that language Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” saying, “People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do.” “So my ability to communicate to the people of Ohio, frankly, I thought, was going to be really impeded and we would get hung up on the mandatory masks for someone going in as a customer and it just wasn’t going to work,” he said. “And so you got to know what you can do and what you can’t do.” On Friday, the Republican governor extended the state shutdown until May 29 while also allowing retail stores to expand their business earlier than expected. He spoke as Ohio COVID-19 deaths topped 1,000 for the first time and as dozens of protesters of Ohio’s stay-at-home orders returned to the statehouse. Construction companies, distributors, manufacturers and offices are allowed to reopen Monday, and retail businesses on May 12. Health care offices were allowed to reopen Friday. Bars and movie theatres remain closed, along with in-person dining at restaurants. Sporting events and concerts are still prohibited. The governor said reopening Ohio is a “balancing” act between bringing the economy back while protecting people and added that he will be prepared to take action should the situation worsen again. The governor earlier said multiple working groups were being formed to come up with the best and safest way to restart activities, including hair care, dining out, going to the gym, visiting libraries and participating in sporting events. “So when we open tomorrow in regard to a lot of businesses as well as office, it’s going to be based upon really best practices that were laid out by people in those businesses who do that,” he said Sunday. The Associated Press
3 May 18:41 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/governor-face-covering-order-went-too-far-was-reversed/Rating: 0.61
Ohio Gov. DeWine said his order for shoppers to wear masks went 'too far', Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday that his order for the state’s retail customers to wear face masks was “too far” after he was criticized for it and walked back the rule one day after announcing it. DeWine said on ABC’s “This Week” that he was standing by orders that employees working during the novel coronavirus pandemic in the state would have a face mask but has since backed off ordering customers to also wear masks. “It became clear to me that that was just a bridge too far,” DeWine told host Martha Raddatz. “People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do.” Though he “pulled that back,” DeWine said he maintains that wearing masks in public “is highly recommended for most people unless you have a physical reason” because “it’s the kind thing to do” to prevent the chance of unknowingly infecting to retail workers. Raddatz then pointed to data collected by ABC showing a partisan divide along how Americans respond to the pandemic, specifically that Democrats are more concerned with contracting the virus while Republicans are twice as likely to eat at a restaurant, work out at a gym, and get a haircut. “Generally, Republicans are less inclined to have the government tell them what to do,” DeWine said. “That’s generally how I am.” Despite some standing orders for ongoing safety practices, DeWine said “we’re starting really pretty aggressively to phase business back in” as the state is set to begin reopening some businesses on May 4, along with some other states. The state’s manufacturing and construction businesses are set to start up on May 4 and retail stores are scheduled to open their doors on May 11. Ohio has recorded more than 19,000 coronavirus cases, and at least 1,000 deaths. Officials have pushed for businesses to begin reopening after a brief downward curve in new infections and deaths, even though it does not satisfy the federal guideline of a 14-day downward trend in the number of new coronavirus cases.
3 May 22:32 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/gov-dewine-masks-order-for-ohio-went-too-far-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Ohio Gov. DeWine said his order for shoppers to wear masks went 'too far'
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday that his order for the state's retail customers to wear face masks was "too far" after he was criticized for it and walked back the rule one day after announcing it. DeWine said on ABC's "This Week" that he was standing by orders that employees working during the novel coronavirus pandemic in the state would have a face mask but has since backed off ordering customers to also wear masks. "It became clear to me that that was just a bridge too far," DeWine told host Martha Raddatz. "People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do." Though he "pulled that back," DeWine said he maintains that wearing masks in public "is highly recommended for most people unless you have a physical reason" because "it's the kind thing to do" to prevent the chance of unknowingly infecting to retail workers. Raddatz then pointed to data collected by ABC showing a partisan divide along how Americans respond to the pandemic, specifically that Democrats are more concerned with contracting the virus while Republicans are twice as likely to eat at a restaurant, work out at a gym, and get a haircut. "Generally, Republicans are less inclined to have the government tell them what to do," DeWine said. "That's generally how I am." Despite some standing orders for ongoing safety practices, DeWine said "we're starting really pretty aggressively to phase business back in" as the state is set to begin reopening some businesses on May 4, along with some other states. The state's manufacturing and construction businesses are set to start up on May 4 and retail stores are scheduled to open their doors on May 11. Ohio has recorded more than 19,000 coronavirus cases, and at least 1,000 deaths. Officials have pushed for businesses to begin reopening after a brief downward curve in new infections and deaths, even though it does not satisfy the federal guideline of a 14-day downward trend in the number of new coronavirus cases. LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 22:32 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/gov-dewine-masks-order-for-ohio-went-too-far-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says his face-mask order went ‘too far’
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday that his order for face masks to be worn in stores went “too far,” saying that the government can’t control the public’s behavior. “It became clear to me that that was just a bridge too far. People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do,” DeWine said on ABC’s “This Week.” The governor announced Tuesday that he was rescinding the order because some Ohioans found it “offensive.” He added Sunday that he believed discussions around the mask order were distracting from other initiatives to defeat coronavirus. “My ability to communicate to the people of Ohio frankly I thought was going to be really impeded and we were going to get hung up on the mandatory masks … You’ve got to know what you can and can’t do,” the Republican governor said. The governor said though he has walked back the order, he continues to recommend Ohioans wear face coverings in retail stores. “At the same time we pulled this back, I said this is highly recommended,” DeWine said. “When you go into a retail store, that is the kind thing to do because I worry and we should all worry about the folks who are stocking shelves in grocery stores, the people in the checkout line who work there all day. We’ve got to protect them.”
3 May 17:08 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/ohio-gov-mike-dewine-says-his-face-mask-order-went-too-far/Rating: 2.55
Governor: Face covering order ‘went too far,’ was reversed
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — An order for people to wear face coverings while in stores was reversed last week because it “went too far,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said Sunday. DeWine reversed the order Tuesday, saying many Ohioans saw it as “one government mandate too far” and saying face coverings were strongly recommended but would no longer be required. He repeated that sentiment Sunday on ABC’s “This Week,” calling it “a bridge too far” and saying, “People were not going to accept the government telling them what to do.” “So my ability to communicate to the people of Ohio, frankly, I thought, was going to be really impeded and we would get hung up on the mandatory masks for someone going in as a customer and it just wasn’t going to work,” he said. “And so you got to know what you can do and what you can’t do.” On Friday, the Republican governor extended the state shutdown until May 29 while also allowing retail stores to expand their business earlier than expected. He spoke as Ohio COVID-19 deaths topped 1,000 for the first time and as dozens of protesters of Ohio’s stay-at-home orders returned to the statehouse. Construction companies, distributors, manufacturers and offices are allowed to reopen Monday, and retail businesses on May 12. Health care offices were allowed to reopen Friday. Bars and movie theaters remain closed, along with in-person dining at restaurants. Sporting events and concerts are still prohibited. The governor said reopening Ohio is a “balancing” act between bringing the economy back while protecting people and added that he will be prepared to take action should the situation worsen again. Advertising The governor earlier said multiple working groups were being formed to come up with the best and safest way to restart activities, including hair care, dining out, going to the gym, visiting libraries and participating in sporting events. “So when we open tomorrow in regard to a lot of businesses as well as office, it’s going to be based upon really best practices that were laid out by people in those businesses who do that,” he said Sunday. Here are the latest coronavirus developments in Ohio: CASES Ohio state health officials say the number of confirmed and probable deaths associated with the coronavirus has now reached 1,038. The Ohio health department posted figures Sunday indicating 957 confirmed deaths and another 81 probable deaths associated with the virus. The department noted more than 19,000 confirmed cases of the virus and a probable total of more than 19,900. For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in a couple of weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are at higher risk of more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death. ___ This story has been corrected to show that DeWine called the order “a bridge too far” on Sunday, not Tuesday. The Associated Press
3 May 11:40 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/governor-face-covering-order-went-too-far-was-reversed/Rating: 0.74
Anti-quarantine protesters are being kicked off Facebook and quickly finding refuge on a site loved by conspiracy theorists
3 May 14:00
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Anti-quarantine protesters are being kicked off Facebook and quickly finding refuge on a site loved by conspiracy theorists
Organizers of anti-quarantine protests have been forced to flee Facebook as the platform has cracked down on coronavirus content. Business Insider has found that they're now organizing on another social network — one that's been a refuge for conspiracy theorists and others who have been exiled from mainstream online communities. Subscription-based social site MeWe has become host to groups with names that are explicit in their members' goals: there's Ohioans Against Excessive Quarantine, Open Texas Now!, and #ReOpenFL, among others. These MeWe groups are iterations of those on Facebook with the same names. But ever since Facebook started to crack down on these organizational efforts and remove some of their content, members have been searching for a way to plan their rallies uninhibited by Facebook's moderators. While social networks have become a haven for the millions affected by stay-at-home measures, the platforms have also had to grapple with users organizing in-person events and protests that are in direct conflict with health and safety measures in place to curtail the virus's spread. Facebook now requires all events to explicitly tell attendees to adhere to social distancing guidelines, and has banned groups that encourage users to break state mandates. There are no similar guidelines on MeWe. More than 20 MeWe groups against state shelter-in-place orders have popped in the last week, Business Insider has found. Inside these groups, members rail against Facebook for censoring their movement and mock the state governors and health experts who talk about the dangers of re-opening the economy too quickly. And members of these MeWe groups are in recruitment mode, flooding feeds with urgent calls for members to invite everyone they know in anticipation of other platforms taking down protest content. It's a sign of the difficulties officials face in regulating behavior during a pandemic. For all of one social media site's adherence to guidelines, another can ignore or dismiss them. Indeed, many of the groups on MeWe explicitly oppose states' orders. Since its founding in 2012, MeWe has attracted 8 million members, spokesperson David Westreich told Business Insider. The platform operates under a freemium model, where users can access a limited number of features for free and pay for access more extensive ones. Groups operate similarly to Facebook Groups: They can be set public or private, and members can write posts and organize events. There's also a chat room for each group for instant messaging with other members. Although its size is only a fraction of Facebook's 2.5 billion monthly active users, MeWe presents itself as the antithesis to Facebook. It promotes a social platform with no ads, no sharing of user data, and no manipulation of what appears in your feed. "Unlike Facebook, MeWe respects its members as customers to serve and delight, not data to target or sell to advertisers, marketers, or politicians," Westreich told Business Insider. "MeWe members have total control of their data, news feeds, and privacy." MeWe also issues every user a Privacy Bill of Rights. MeWe's founder, Mark Weinstein, has said he started the site as a protection against what he calls Facebook's overreach on privacy and user rights, and that his site protects the privacy and rights of its users better. But MeWe's hands-off approach has attracted those who have been kicked off of Facebook and Twitter for violating their policies. While many of MeWe's groups are home to innocuous discussions of conservative values, some of MeWe's most popular groups revolve around extremist rhetoric. A group called "Stop Mandatory Vaccination Official" that has more than 13,000 members spreads dangerous falsehoods about vaccines. Another called "Wake the f--- up" prompts interested members to answer the prompt, "Who was really responsible for 9/11?" A group called "HERBAL SURVIVAL AND HOMESTEADING" falsely promotes plants as cures for coronavirus. In 2019, Rolling Stone discovered a number of groups on MeWe catering to conspiracy theorists, white supremacists, anti-vaxxers, and flat-Earthers. The report also found several examples of content violating MeWe's own community guidelines, which includes a ban on "unlawful, harmful, obscene, or pornographic content." Weinstein refuted Rolling Stone's report in January 2019. "MeWe's TOS is clear: haters, bullies, lawbreakers, and people promoting threats and violence are not welcome," he wrote on Medium. Even so, Business Insider found events on the platform that encouraged breaking shelter-in-place orders. Popular posts also spread bizarre conspiracy theories that blamed the coronavirus outbreak on Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and 5G technology. Business Insider shared with Westreich, the MeWe spokesperson, several examples of posts and events that appeared to encourage people to break state or local laws. Westreich said it was "likely" MeWe's moderators were already reviewing such content. However, none of the content has been taken down yet. "False information about anything is concerning at MeWe and so we take a systemic approach to the solution," Westreich said. "If you've found such content on MeWe, then it's likely it hasn't yet been reported to our Trust and Safety Team team or it may already be pending review." LoadingSomething is loading. 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3 May 14:00 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/anti-quarantine-protesters-mewe-facebook-groups-conspiracy-theorists-social-media-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Anti-quarantine protesters are being kicked off Facebook and quickly finding refuge on a site loved by conspiracy theorists
Organisers of anti-quarantine protests have been forced to flee Facebook as the platform has cracked down on coronavirus content. Business Insider has found that they’re now organising on another social network – one that’s been a refuge for conspiracy theorists and others who have been exiled from mainstream online communities. Subscription-based social site MeWe has become host to groups with names that are explicit in their members’ goals: there’s Ohioans Against Excessive Quarantine, Open Texas Now!, and #ReOpenFL, among others. These MeWe groups are iterations of those on Facebook with the same names. But ever since Facebook started to crack down on these organizational efforts and remove some of their content, members have been searching for a way to plan their rallies uninhibited by Facebook’s moderators. While social networks have become a haven for the millions affected by stay-at-home measures, the platforms have also had to grapple with users organising in-person events and protests that are in direct conflict with health and safety measures in place to curtail the virus’s spread. Facebook now requires all events to explicitly tell attendees to adhere to social distancing guidelines, and has banned groups that encourage users to break state mandates. There are no similar guidelines on MeWe. More than 20 MeWe groups against state shelter-in-place orders have popped in the last week, Business Insider has found. Inside these groups, members rail against Facebook for censoring their movement and mock the state governors and health experts who talk about the dangers of re-opening the economy too quickly. And members of these MeWe groups are in recruitment mode, flooding feeds with urgent calls for members to invite everyone they know in anticipation of other platforms taking down protest content. It’s a sign of the difficulties officials face in regulating behaviour during a pandemic. For all of one social media site’s adherence to guidelines, another can ignore or dismiss them. Indeed, many of the groups on MeWe explicitly oppose states’ orders. Since its founding in 2012, MeWe has attracted 8 million members, spokesperson David Westreich told Business Insider. The platform operates under a freemium model, where users can access a limited number of features for free and pay for access more extensive ones. Groups operate similarly to Facebook Groups: They can be set public or private, and members can write posts and organise events. There’s also a chat room for each group for instant messaging with other members. Although its size is only a fraction of Facebook’s 2.5 billion monthly active users, MeWe presents itself as the antithesis to Facebook. It promotes a social platform with no ads, no sharing of user data, and no manipulation of what appears in your feed. “Unlike Facebook, MeWe respects its members as customers to serve and delight, not data to target or sell to advertisers, marketers, or politicians,” Westreich told Business Insider. “MeWe members have total control of their data, news feeds, and privacy.” MeWe also issues every user a Privacy Bill of Rights. MeWe’s founder, Mark Weinstein, has said he started the site as a protection against what he calls Facebook’s overreach on privacy and user rights, and that his site protects the privacy and rights of its users better. But MeWe’s hands-off approach has attracted those who have been kicked off of Facebook and Twitter for violating their policies. While many of MeWe’s groups are home to innocuous discussions of conservative values, some of MeWe’s most popular groups revolve around extremist rhetoric. A group called “Stop Mandatory Vaccination Official” that has more than 13,000 members spreads dangerous falsehoods about vaccines. Another called “Wake the f— up” prompts interested members to answer the prompt, “Who was really responsible for 9/11?” A group called “HERBAL SURVIVAL AND HOMESTEADING” falsely promotes plants as cures for coronavirus. In 2019, Rolling Stone discovered a number of groups on MeWe catering to conspiracy theorists, white supremacists, anti-vaxxers, and flat-Earthers. The report also found several examples of content violating MeWe’s own community guidelines, which includes a ban on “unlawful, harmful, obscene, or pornographic content.” Weinstein refuted Rolling Stone’s report in January 2019. “MeWe’s TOS is clear: haters, bullies, lawbreakers, and people promoting threats and violence are not welcome,” he wrote on Medium. Even so, Business Insider found events on the platform that encouraged breaking shelter-in-place orders. Popular posts also spread bizarre conspiracy theories that blamed the coronavirus outbreak on Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and 5G technology. Business Insider shared with Westreich, the MeWe spokesperson, several examples of posts and events that appeared to encourage people to break state or local laws. Westreich said it was “likely” MeWe’s moderators were already reviewing such content. However, none of the content has been taken down yet. “False information about anything is concerning at MeWe and so we take a systemic approach to the solution,” Westreich said. “If you’ve found such content on MeWe, then it’s likely it hasn’t yet been reported to our Trust and Safety Team team or it may already be pending review.”
3 May 14:00 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/anti-quarantine-protesters-mewe-facebook-groups-conspiracy-theorists-social-media-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Anti-quarantine protesters are being kicked off Facebook and quickly finding refuge on a site loved by conspiracy theorists
Organizers of anti-quarantine protests have been forced to flee Facebook as the platform has cracked down on coronavirus content. Business Insider has found that they’re now organizing on another social network – one that’s been a refuge for conspiracy theorists and others who have been exiled from mainstream online communities. Subscription-based social site MeWe has become host to groups with names that are explicit in their members’ goals: there’s Ohioans Against Excessive Quarantine, Open Texas Now!, and #ReOpenFL, among others. These MeWe groups are iterations of those on Facebook with the same names. But ever since Facebook started to crack down on these organizational efforts and remove some of their content, members have been searching for a way to plan their rallies uninhibited by Facebook’s moderators. While social networks have become a haven for the millions affected by stay-at-home measures, the platforms have also had to grapple with users organizing in-person events and protests that are in direct conflict with health and safety measures in place to curtail the virus’s spread. Facebook now requires all events to explicitly tell attendees to adhere to social distancing guidelines, and has banned groups that encourage users to break state mandates. There are no similar guidelines on MeWe. More than 20 MeWe groups against state shelter-in-place orders have popped in the last week, Business Insider has found. Inside these groups, members rail against Facebook for censoring their movement and mock the state governors and health experts who talk about the dangers of re-opening the economy too quickly. And members of these MeWe groups are in recruitment mode, flooding feeds with urgent calls for members to invite everyone they know in anticipation of other platforms taking down protest content. It’s a sign of the difficulties officials face in regulating behavior during a pandemic. For all of one social media site’s adherence to guidelines, another can ignore or dismiss them. Indeed, many of the groups on MeWe explicitly oppose states’ orders. Since its founding in 2012, MeWe has attracted 8 million members, spokesperson David Westreich told Business Insider. The platform operates under a freemium model, where users can access a limited number of features for free and pay for access more extensive ones. Groups operate similarly to Facebook Groups: They can be set public or private, and members can write posts and organize events. There’s also a chat room for each group for instant messaging with other members. Although its size is only a fraction of Facebook’s 2.5 billion monthly active users, MeWe presents itself as the antithesis to Facebook. It promotes a social platform with no ads, no sharing of user data, and no manipulation of what appears in your feed. “Unlike Facebook, MeWe respects its members as customers to serve and delight, not data to target or sell to advertisers, marketers, or politicians,” Westreich told Business Insider. “MeWe members have total control of their data, news feeds, and privacy.” MeWe also issues every user a Privacy Bill of Rights. MeWe’s founder, Mark Weinstein, has said he started the site as a protection against what he calls Facebook’s overreach on privacy and user rights, and that his site protects the privacy and rights of its users better. But MeWe’s hands-off approach has attracted those who have been kicked off of Facebook and Twitter for violating their policies. While many of MeWe’s groups are home to innocuous discussions of conservative values, some of MeWe’s most popular groups revolve around extremist rhetoric. A group called “Stop Mandatory Vaccination Official” that has more than 13,000 members spreads dangerous falsehoods about vaccines. Another called “Wake the f— up” prompts interested members to answer the prompt, “Who was really responsible for 9/11?” A group called “HERBAL SURVIVAL AND HOMESTEADING” falsely promotes plants as cures for coronavirus. In 2019, Rolling Stone discovered a number of groups on MeWe catering to conspiracy theorists, white supremacists, anti-vaxxers, and flat-Earthers. The report also found several examples of content violating MeWe’s own community guidelines, which includes a ban on “unlawful, harmful, obscene, or pornographic content.” Weinstein refuted Rolling Stone’s report in January 2019. “MeWe’s TOS is clear: haters, bullies, lawbreakers, and people promoting threats and violence are not welcome,” he wrote on Medium. Even so, Business Insider found events on the platform that encouraged breaking shelter-in-place orders. Popular posts also spread bizarre conspiracy theories that blamed the coronavirus outbreak on Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and 5G technology. Business Insider shared with Westreich, the MeWe spokesperson, several examples of posts and events that appeared to encourage people to break state or local laws. Westreich said it was “likely” MeWe’s moderators were already reviewing such content. However, none of the content has been taken down yet. “False information about anything is concerning at MeWe and so we take a systemic approach to the solution,” Westreich said. “If you’ve found such content on MeWe, then it’s likely it hasn’t yet been reported to our Trust and Safety Team team or it may already be pending review.”
3 May 14:00 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/anti-quarantine-protesters-mewe-facebook-groups-conspiracy-theorists-social-media-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Anti-quarantine protesters are being kicked off Facebook and quickly finding refuge on a site loved by conspiracy theorists, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Organizers of anti-quarantine protests have been forced to flee Facebook as the platform has cracked down on coronavirus content. Business Insider has found that they’re now organizing on another social network – one that’s been a refuge for conspiracy theorists and others who have been exiled from mainstream online communities. Subscription-based social site MeWe has become host to groups with names that are explicit in their members’ goals: there’s Ohioans Against Excessive Quarantine, Open Texas Now!, and #ReOpenFL, among others. These MeWe groups are iterations of those on Facebook with the same names. But ever since Facebook started to crack down on these organizational efforts and remove some of their content, members have been searching for a way to plan their rallies uninhibited by Facebook’s moderators. While social networks have become a haven for the millions affected by stay-at-home measures, the platforms have also had to grapple with users organizing in-person events and protests that are in direct conflict with health and safety measures in place to curtail the virus’s spread. Facebook now requires all events to explicitly tell attendees to adhere to social distancing guidelines, and has banned groups that encourage users to break state mandates. There are no similar guidelines on MeWe. More than 20 MeWe groups against state shelter-in-place orders have popped in the last week, Business Insider has found. Inside these groups, members rail against Facebook for censoring their movement and mock the state governors and health experts who talk about the dangers of re-opening the economy too quickly. And members of these MeWe groups are in recruitment mode, flooding feeds with urgent calls for members to invite everyone they know in anticipation of other platforms taking down protest content. It’s a sign of the difficulties officials face in regulating behavior during a pandemic. For all of one social media site’s adherence to guidelines, another can ignore or dismiss them. Indeed, many of the groups on MeWe explicitly oppose states’ orders. Since its founding in 2012, MeWe has attracted 8 million members, spokesperson David Westreich told Business Insider. The platform operates under a freemium model, where users can access a limited number of features for free and pay for access more extensive ones. Groups operate similarly to Facebook Groups: They can be set public or private, and members can write posts and organize events. There’s also a chat room for each group for instant messaging with other members. Although its size is only a fraction of Facebook’s 2.5 billion monthly active users, MeWe presents itself as the antithesis to Facebook. It promotes a social platform with no ads, no sharing of user data, and no manipulation of what appears in your feed. “Unlike Facebook, MeWe respects its members as customers to serve and delight, not data to target or sell to advertisers, marketers, or politicians,” Westreich told Business Insider. “MeWe members have total control of their data, news feeds, and privacy.” MeWe also issues every user a Privacy Bill of Rights. MeWe’s founder, Mark Weinstein, has said he started the site as a protection against what he calls Facebook’s overreach on privacy and user rights, and that his site protects the privacy and rights of its users better. But MeWe’s hands-off approach has attracted those who have been kicked off of Facebook and Twitter for violating their policies. While many of MeWe’s groups are home to innocuous discussions of conservative values, some of MeWe’s most popular groups revolve around extremist rhetoric. A group called “Stop Mandatory Vaccination Official” that has more than 13,000 members spreads dangerous falsehoods about vaccines. Another called “Wake the f— up” prompts interested members to answer the prompt, “Who was really responsible for 9/11?” A group called “HERBAL SURVIVAL AND HOMESTEADING” falsely promotes plants as cures for coronavirus. In 2019, Rolling Stone discovered a number of groups on MeWe catering to conspiracy theorists, white supremacists, anti-vaxxers, and flat-Earthers. The report also found several examples of content violating MeWe’s own community guidelines, which includes a ban on “unlawful, harmful, obscene, or pornographic content.” Weinstein refuted Rolling Stone’s report in January 2019. “MeWe’s TOS is clear: haters, bullies, lawbreakers, and people promoting threats and violence are not welcome,” he wrote on Medium. Even so, Business Insider found events on the platform that encouraged breaking shelter-in-place orders. Popular posts also spread bizarre conspiracy theories that blamed the coronavirus outbreak on Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and 5G technology. Business Insider shared with Westreich, the MeWe spokesperson, several examples of posts and events that appeared to encourage people to break state or local laws. Westreich said it was “likely” MeWe’s moderators were already reviewing such content. However, none of the content has been taken down yet. “False information about anything is concerning at MeWe and so we take a systemic approach to the solution,” Westreich said. “If you’ve found such content on MeWe, then it’s likely it hasn’t yet been reported to our Trust and Safety Team team or it may already be pending review.”
3 May 14:00 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/anti-quarantine-protesters-mewe-facebook-groups-conspiracy-theorists-social-media-2020-5Rating: 0.30
I've been covering the coronavirus for months. I'm telling my family to expect rounds of lockdowns over the next 2 years, and probably no vaccine., Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
3 May 11:15
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5 articles
Weight: 2.64
Importance: 2.68
Age penalty: 0.98
Best date: 3 May 11:15
Average US: 13.66
Weighted average US: 47.00463751069927
Average GB: 0.08000000000000002
Weighted average GB: 0.3143057532591955
Average IN: 0.68
Weighted average IN: 2.671598902703162
I've been covering the coronavirus for months. I'm telling my family to expect rounds of lockdowns over the next 2 years, and probably no vaccine., Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
I’ve been covering the coronavirus pandemic since January. I’ve read a plethora of scientific research on the virus, watched governments’ differing responses, and talked with epidemiologists and doctors. Friends and family have recently started asking me when things will go back to normal. Every time, I brace myself for their disappointed silence. I’m about to tell them what they don’t want to hear: I think we’ll be tiptoeing through this pandemic for at least the next two years. The subsequent lockdowns we’re very likely to see may not be as stringent as this initial one, but the waves of death could get much worse – especially come fall. Here’s what I’m expecting. Absent a widely available vaccine, the coronavirus is not going to die out. The US – and much of the world – is far from the level of immunity its population would need to stifle the virus’ spread. That means it will likely circulate for years. According to a recent analysis from infectious-disease researchers at Harvard, “a resurgence in contagion could be possible as late as 2024.” The researchers also found that on-and-off social distancing measures could be necessary through 2022 to avoid overwhelming hospitals. So, for at least the next two years, public-health authorities will need to play a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. States that proceed carefully will partially lift lockdowns, allowing some businesses to reopen and lifting some restrictions on people’s movements. They will closely monitor the virus’s spread, and attempt to limit it as much as possible. Local governments will test residents en masse, ideally including people who have no symptoms. Armies of contact tracers will try to track down anybody who was exposed to a coronavirus-positive person. This, of course, is an optimistic future. In reality, things will likely get much worse in some parts of the country, because states will reopen without the right surveillance systems in place. As we proceed, epidemiologists will do their best to model the virus as it spreads (though good data depends on widespread testing), watching its trajectory creep towards the maximum capacity of local critical-care systems. When enough people get infected that forecasters predict a caseload that nearly overwhelms hospitals, governments will drop the hammer once again, closing businesses and schools and ordering residents back into their homes. “What happened in Wuhan could happen repeatedly to a city,” Dr. Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong who researches influenza transmission and control measures, told me in March. “They can shut down for a month, but then when they reopen, they’re still going to have an epidemic starting again.” Many states have already chosen to reopen without the widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation policies they need to avoid a devastating second wave of infections. That will mean that in mere months, an unmonitored – and therefore largely unseen – wave of infections could overwhelm their emergency rooms, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths. Georgia could be the first state to suffer those consequences. Gyms, barbershops, hair and nail salons, spas, and tattoo parlors there resumed business on April 24. Theaters and restaurants followed three days later. Epidemiologists and computer scientists at Harvard and MIT forecasted the virus’s spread through Georgia, as The Daily Beast reported on Tuesday. The models showed that if the state resumes 50% of pre-pandemic interpersonal contact, it could see 1,604 to 4,236 deaths by June 15. By contrast, if the state had left its lockdown in place, the models showed that the death count would have grown to between 1,004 and 2,922. If Georgia resumes 100% of pre-pandemic activity, it could see 4,279 to 9,748 deaths by June 15, according to the forecast. Other states are planning to follow Georgia’s lead. Texas allowed theaters, malls, and restaurants to reopen at limited capacity starting Friday, with more businesses to follow on May 18. Idaho and Montana are planning to open the doors to houses of worship. Oklahoma is reopening sports venues, among other businesses. Dr. Ashish Jha, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, has recommended the US conduct 500,000 to 700,000 tests per day nationwide before deeming it safe to reopen such businesses. That is the “bare minimum,” Jha recently told my colleague Dave Mosher. Other plans call for millions of tests per day. “If we don’t do this, we’re going to basically find ourselves with large numbers of cases and having to shut down again in two to two-and-a-half months.” Jha said. The COVID Tracking Project reported that 1.5 million tests were conducted nationwide last week, or just under 200,000 per day. “The states have basically decided they can’t, for the next round, can’t count on the federal government to help lead this. So they’re all taking their own state-based approach,” Jha said. “It does make me worry a lot about what’s going to happen in Kentucky and what’s going to happen in Georgia and Alabama and a lot of places that are poorer and don’t have the same kind of singular focus on, ‘How do we get ready for the fall season?'” Some evidence indicates the virus could come back with a vengeance in the fall. If it coincides with a bad flu season – which typically begins in October or November – that could spell disaster. “There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through,” Robert Redfield, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told The Washington Post. “We’re going to have the flu epidemic and the coronavirus epidemic at the same time.” That one-two punch to the critical care system could lead to more preventable deaths and necessitate even harsher lockdowns. “If we don’t get our act together, the chances that there will be another lockdown in the fall, and that it will be a long one, are very, very high,” Jha told The Atlantic. The real answer to my friends’ and family members’ question – when will this end? – hinges on the answer to another question: When will a vaccine be widely available? COVID-19 vaccine efforts are moving forward at record speed. Over 100 potential vaccines are currently in development, according to the World Health Organization. Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech have already begun human trials, and say their vaccine could be available for emergency use by the fall. Johnson & Johnson hopes to have its own ready for emergency use in early 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has estimated that the development and distribution of a vaccine will take 12 to 18 months. Other experts say this timeline is too optimistic. The fastest vaccine ever developed, for mumps, took four years. It’s also possible that there might never be an effective COVID-19 vaccine. The UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Christopher Whitty, told a Parliamentary committee on April 24 that there was “concerning” evidence suggesting that it may be impossible to stimulate immunity to the virus. “We cannot guarantee success,” Whitty said. “Vaccines are looked for, for every infectious disease. They are not found for all of them.” No vaccine has ever been approved for use against any other coronavirus. “If we could have a highly effective, very safe vaccine that is in plentiful supply, that we could give to everybody and everybody is immune, that would be amazing,” Dr. Lisa Winston, an epidemiologist at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, told me a couple weeks ago. “If a genie came out of the wall and I could wish for something, that’s what I would wish for. And I’d wish for it today. But that’s not when it’s coming.” Dave Mosher contributed reporting.
3 May 11:15 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/coronavirus-two-year-prediction-recurring-lockdowns-no-vaccine-2020-4Rating: 0.30
I've been covering the coronavirus for months. I'm telling my family to expect rounds of lockdowns over the next 2 years, and probably no vaccine.
I’ve been covering the coronavirus pandemic since January. I’ve read a plethora of scientific research on the virus, watched governments’ differing responses, and talked with epidemiologists and doctors. Friends and family have recently started asking me when things will go back to normal. Every time, I brace myself for their disappointed silence. I’m about to tell them what they don’t want to hear: I think we’ll be tiptoeing through this pandemic for at least the next two years. The subsequent lockdowns we’re very likely to see may not be as stringent as this initial one, but the waves of death could get much worse – especially come fall. Here’s what I’m expecting. Absent a widely available vaccine, the coronavirus is not going to die out. The US – and much of the world – is far from the level of immunity its population would need to stifle the virus’ spread. That means it will likely circulate for years. According to a recent analysis from infectious-disease researchers at Harvard, “a resurgence in contagion could be possible as late as 2024.” The researchers also found that on-and-off social distancing measures could be necessary through 2022 to avoid overwhelming hospitals. So, for at least the next two years, public-health authorities will need to play a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. States that proceed carefully will partially lift lockdowns, allowing some businesses to reopen and lifting some restrictions on people’s movements. They will closely monitor the virus’s spread, and attempt to limit it as much as possible. Local governments will test residents en masse, ideally including people who have no symptoms. Armies of contact tracers will try to track down anybody who was exposed to a coronavirus-positive person. This, of course, is an optimistic future. In reality, things will likely get much worse in some parts of the country, because states will reopen without the right surveillance systems in place. As we proceed, epidemiologists will do their best to model the virus as it spreads (though good data depends on widespread testing), watching its trajectory creep towards the maximum capacity of local critical-care systems. When enough people get infected that forecasters predict a caseload that nearly overwhelms hospitals, governments will drop the hammer once again, closing businesses and schools and ordering residents back into their homes. “What happened in Wuhan could happen repeatedly to a city,” Dr. Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong who researches influenza transmission and control measures, told me in March. “They can shut down for a month, but then when they reopen, they’re still going to have an epidemic starting again.” Many states have already chosen to reopen without the widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation policies they need to avoid a devastating second wave of infections. That will mean that in mere months, an unmonitored – and therefore largely unseen – wave of infections could overwhelm their emergency rooms, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths. Georgia could be the first state to suffer those consequences. Gyms, barbershops, hair and nail salons, spas, and tattoo parlors there resumed business on April 24. Theatres and restaurants followed three days later. Epidemiologists and computer scientists at Harvard and MIT forecasted the virus’s spread through Georgia, as The Daily Beast reported on Tuesday. The models showed that if the state resumes 50% of pre-pandemic interpersonal contact, it could see 1,604 to 4,236 deaths by June 15. By contrast, if the state had left its lockdown in place, the models showed that the death count would have grown to between 1,004 and 2,922. If Georgia resumes 100% of pre-pandemic activity, it could see 4,279 to 9,748 deaths by June 15, according to the forecast. Other states are planning to follow Georgia’s lead. Texas allowed theatres, malls, and restaurants to reopen at limited capacity starting Friday, with more businesses to follow on May 18. Idaho and Montana are planning to open the doors to houses of worship. Oklahoma is reopening sports venues, among other businesses. Dr. Ashish Jha, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, has recommended the US conduct 500,000 to 700,000 tests per day nationwide before deeming it safe to reopen such businesses. That is the “bare minimum,” Jha recently told my colleague Dave Mosher. Other plans call for millions of tests per day. “If we don’t do this, we’re going to basically find ourselves with large numbers of cases and having to shut down again in two to two-and-a-half months.” Jha said. The COVID Tracking Project reported that 1.5 million tests were conducted nationwide last week, or just under 200,000 per day. “The states have basically decided they can’t, for the next round, can’t count on the federal government to help lead this. So they’re all taking their own state-based approach,” Jha said. “It does make me worry a lot about what’s going to happen in Kentucky and what’s going to happen in Georgia and Alabama and a lot of places that are poorer and don’t have the same kind of singular focus on, ‘How do we get ready for the fall season?'” Some evidence indicates the virus could come back with a vengeance in the fall. If it coincides with a bad flu season – which typically begins in October or November – that could spell disaster. “There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through,” Robert Redfield, director of the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, told The Washington Post. “We’re going to have the flu epidemic and the coronavirus epidemic at the same time.” That one-two punch to the critical care system could lead to more preventable deaths and necessitate even harsher lockdowns. “If we don’t get our act together, the chances that there will be another lockdown in the fall, and that it will be a long one, are very, very high,” Jha told The Atlantic. The real answer to my friends’ and family members’ question – when will this end? – hinges on the answer to another question: When will a vaccine be widely available? COVID-19 vaccine efforts are moving forward at record speed. Over 100 potential vaccines are currently in development, according to the World Health Organisation. Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech have already begun human trials, and say their vaccine could be available for emergency use by the fall. Johnson & Johnson hopes to have its own ready for emergency use in early 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has estimated that the development and distribution of a vaccine will take 12 to 18 months. Other experts say this timeline is too optimistic. The fastest vaccine ever developed, for mumps, took four years. It’s also possible that there might never be an effective COVID-19 vaccine. The UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Christopher Whitty, told a Parliamentary committee on April 24 that there was “concerning” evidence suggesting that it may be impossible to stimulate immunity to the virus. “We cannot guarantee success,” Whitty said. “Vaccines are looked for, for every infectious disease. They are not found for all of them.” No vaccine has ever been approved for use against any other coronavirus. “If we could have a highly effective, very safe vaccine that is in plentiful supply, that we could give to everybody and everybody is immune, that would be amazing,” Dr. Lisa Winston, an epidemiologist at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, told me a couple weeks ago. “If a genie came out of the wall and I could wish for something, that’s what I would wish for. And I’d wish for it today. But that’s not when it’s coming.” Dave Mosher contributed reporting.
3 May 11:15 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/coronavirus-two-year-prediction-recurring-lockdowns-no-vaccine-2020-4Rating: 0.30
I've been covering the coronavirus for months. I'm telling my family to expect rounds of lockdowns over the next 2 years, and probably no vaccine.
I’ve been covering the coronavirus pandemic since January. I’ve read a plethora of scientific research on the virus, watched governments’ differing responses, and talked with epidemiologists and doctors. Friends and family have recently started asking me when things will go back to normal. Every time, I brace myself for their disappointed silence. I’m about to tell them what they don’t want to hear: I think we’ll be tiptoeing through this pandemic for at least the next two years. The subsequent lockdowns we’re very likely to see may not be as stringent as this initial one, but the waves of death could get much worse – especially come fall. Here’s what I’m expecting. Foto: The streets of San Francisco are eerily empty a day after the city went into lockdown on March 16. Source: Josh Edelson/AFP via Getty Absent a widely available vaccine, the coronavirus is not going to die out. The US – and much of the world – is far from the level of immunity its population would need to stifle the virus’ spread. That means it will likely circulate for years. According to a recent analysis from infectious-disease researchers at Harvard, “a resurgence in contagion could be possible as late as 2024.” The researchers also found that on-and-off social distancing measures could be necessary through 2022 to avoid overwhelming hospitals. So, for at least the next two years, public-health authorities will need to play a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. States that proceed carefully will partially lift lockdowns, allowing some businesses to reopen and lifting some restrictions on people’s movements. They will closely monitor the virus’s spread, and attempt to limit it as much as possible. Local governments will test residents en masse, ideally including people who have no symptoms. Armies of contact tracers will try to track down anybody who was exposed to a coronavirus-positive person. This, of course, is an optimistic future. In reality, things will likely get much worse in some parts of the country, because states will reopen without the right surveillance systems in place. As we proceed, epidemiologists will do their best to model the virus as it spreads (though good data depends on widespread testing), watching its trajectory creep towards the maximum capacity of local critical-care systems. When enough people get infected that forecasters predict a caseload that nearly overwhelms hospitals, governments will drop the hammer once again, closing businesses and schools and ordering residents back into their homes. “What happened in Wuhan could happen repeatedly to a city,” Dr. Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong who researches influenza transmission and control measures, told me in March. “They can shut down for a month, but then when they reopen, they’re still going to have an epidemic starting again.” Many states have already chosen to reopen without the widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation policies they need to avoid a devastating second wave of infections. That will mean that in mere months, an unmonitored – and therefore largely unseen – wave of infections could overwhelm their emergency rooms, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths. Georgia could be the first state to suffer those consequences. Gyms, barbershops, hair and nail salons, spas, and tattoo parlors there resumed business on April 24. Theaters and restaurants followed three days later. Epidemiologists and computer scientists at Harvard and MIT forecasted the virus’s spread through Georgia, as The Daily Beast reported on Tuesday. The models showed that if the state resumes 50% of pre-pandemic interpersonal contact, it could see 1,604 to 4,236 deaths by June 15. By contrast, if the state had left its lockdown in place, the models showed that the death count would have grown to between 1,004 and 2,922. If Georgia resumes 100% of pre-pandemic activity, it could see 4,279 to 9,748 deaths by June 15, according to the forecast. Other states are planning to follow Georgia’s lead. Texas allowed theaters, malls, and restaurants to reopen at limited capacity starting Friday, with more businesses to follow on May 18. Idaho and Montana are planning to open the doors to houses of worship. Oklahoma is reopening sports venues, among other businesses. Dr. Ashish Jha, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, has recommended the US conduct 500,000 to 700,000 tests per day nationwide before deeming it safe to reopen such businesses. That is the “bare minimum,” Jha recently told my colleague Dave Mosher. Other plans call for millions of tests per day. “If we don’t do this, we’re going to basically find ourselves with large numbers of cases and having to shut down again in two to two-and-a-half months.” Jha said. The COVID Tracking Project reported that 1.5 million tests were conducted nationwide last week, or just under 200,000 per day. “The states have basically decided they can’t, for the next round, can’t count on the federal government to help lead this. So they’re all taking their own state-based approach,” Jha said. “It does make me worry a lot about what’s going to happen in Kentucky and what’s going to happen in Georgia and Alabama and a lot of places that are poorer and don’t have the same kind of singular focus on, ‘How do we get ready for the fall season?'” Some evidence indicates the virus could come back with a vengeance in the fall. If it coincides with a bad flu season – which typically begins in October or November – that could spell disaster. “There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through,” Robert Redfield, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told The Washington Post. “We’re going to have the flu epidemic and the coronavirus epidemic at the same time.” That one-two punch to the critical care system could lead to more preventable deaths and necessitate even harsher lockdowns. “If we don’t get our act together, the chances that there will be another lockdown in the fall, and that it will be a long one, are very, very high,” Jha told The Atlantic. The real answer to my friends’ and family members’ question – when will this end? – hinges on the answer to another question: When will a vaccine be widely available? COVID-19 vaccine efforts are moving forward at record speed. Over 100 potential vaccines are currently in development, according to the World Health Organization. Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech have already begun human trials, and say their vaccine could be available for emergency use by the fall. Johnson & Johnson hopes to have its own ready for emergency use in early 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has estimated that the development and distribution of a vaccine will take 12 to 18 months. Other experts say this timeline is too optimistic. The fastest vaccine ever developed, for mumps, took four years. It’s also possible that there might never be an effective COVID-19 vaccine. The UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Christopher Whitty, told a Parliamentary committee on April 24 that there was “concerning” evidence suggesting that it may be impossible to stimulate immunity to the virus. “We cannot guarantee success,” Whitty said. “Vaccines are looked for, for every infectious disease. They are not found for all of them.” No vaccine has ever been approved for use against any other coronavirus. “If we could have a highly effective, very safe vaccine that is in plentiful supply, that we could give to everybody and everybody is immune, that would be amazing,” Dr. Lisa Winston, an epidemiologist at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, told me a couple weeks ago. “If a genie came out of the wall and I could wish for something, that’s what I would wish for. And I’d wish for it today. But that’s not when it’s coming.” Dave Mosher contributed reporting.
3 May 13:27 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/coronavirus-two-year-prediction-recurring-lockdowns-no-vaccine-2020-4/Rating: 0.30
I've been covering the coronavirus for months. I'm telling my family to expect rounds of lockdowns over the next 2 years, and probably no vaccine.
I've been covering the coronavirus pandemic since January. I've read a plethora of scientific research on the virus, watched governments' differing responses, and talked with epidemiologists and doctors. Friends and family have recently started asking me when things will go back to normal. Every time, I brace myself for their disappointed silence. I'm about to tell them what they don't want to hear: I think we'll be tiptoeing through this pandemic for at least the next two years. The subsequent lockdowns we're very likely to see may not be as stringent as this initial one, but the waves of death could get much worse — especially come fall. Here's what I'm expecting. Absent a widely available vaccine, the coronavirus is not going to die out. The US — and much of the world — is far from the level of immunity its population would need to stifle the virus' spread. That means it will likely circulate for years. According to a recent analysis from infectious-disease researchers at Harvard, "a resurgence in contagion could be possible as late as 2024." The researchers also found that on-and-off social distancing measures could be necessary through 2022 to avoid overwhelming hospitals. So, for at least the next two years, public-health authorities will need to play a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. States that proceed carefully will partially lift lockdowns, allowing some businesses to reopen and lifting some restrictions on people's movements. They will closely monitor the virus's spread, and attempt to limit it as much as possible. Local governments will test residents en masse, ideally including people who have no symptoms. Armies of contact tracers will try to track down anybody who was exposed to a coronavirus-positive person. This, of course, is an optimistic future. In reality, things will likely get much worse in some parts of the country, because states will reopen without the right surveillance systems in place. As we proceed, epidemiologists will do their best to model the virus as it spreads (though good data depends on widespread testing), watching its trajectory creep towards the maximum capacity of local critical-care systems. When enough people get infected that forecasters predict a caseload that nearly overwhelms hospitals, governments will drop the hammer once again, closing businesses and schools and ordering residents back into their homes. "What happened in Wuhan could happen repeatedly to a city," Dr. Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong who researches influenza transmission and control measures, told me in March. "They can shut down for a month, but then when they reopen, they're still going to have an epidemic starting again." Many states have already chosen to reopen without the widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation policies they need to avoid a devastating second wave of infections. That will mean that in mere months, an unmonitored — and therefore largely unseen — wave of infections could overwhelm their emergency rooms, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths. Georgia could be the first state to suffer those consequences. Gyms, barbershops, hair and nail salons, spas, and tattoo parlors there resumed business on April 24. Theaters and restaurants followed three days later. Epidemiologists and computer scientists at Harvard and MIT forecasted the virus's spread through Georgia, as The Daily Beast reported on Tuesday. The models showed that if the state resumes 50% of pre-pandemic interpersonal contact, it could see 1,604 to 4,236 deaths by June 15. By contrast, if the state had left its lockdown in place, the models showed that the death count would have grown to between 1,004 and 2,922. If Georgia resumes 100% of pre-pandemic activity, it could see 4,279 to 9,748 deaths by June 15, according to the forecast. LoadingSomething is loading. Other states are planning to follow Georgia's lead. Texas allowed theaters, malls, and restaurants to reopen at limited capacity starting Friday, with more businesses to follow on May 18. Idaho and Montana are planning to open the doors to houses of worship. Oklahoma is reopening sports venues, among other businesses. Dr. Ashish Jha, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, has recommended the US conduct 500,000 to 700,000 tests per day nationwide before deeming it safe to reopen such businesses. That is the "bare minimum," Jha recently told my colleague Dave Mosher. Other plans call for millions of tests per day. "If we don't do this, we're going to basically find ourselves with large numbers of cases and having to shut down again in two to two-and-a-half months." Jha said. The COVID Tracking Project reported that 1.5 million tests were conducted nationwide last week, or just under 200,000 per day. "The states have basically decided they can't, for the next round, can't count on the federal government to help lead this. So they're all taking their own state-based approach," Jha said. "It does make me worry a lot about what's going to happen in Kentucky and what's going to happen in Georgia and Alabama and a lot of places that are poorer and don't have the same kind of singular focus on, 'How do we get ready for the fall season?'" Some evidence indicates the virus could come back with a vengeance in the fall. If it coincides with a bad flu season — which typically begins in October or November — that could spell disaster. "There's a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through," Robert Redfield, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told The Washington Post. "We're going to have the flu epidemic and the coronavirus epidemic at the same time." That one-two punch to the critical care system could lead to more preventable deaths and necessitate even harsher lockdowns. "If we don't get our act together, the chances that there will be another lockdown in the fall, and that it will be a long one, are very, very high," Jha told The Atlantic. The real answer to my friends' and family members' question — when will this end? — hinges on the answer to another question: When will a vaccine be widely available? COVID-19 vaccine efforts are moving forward at record speed. Over 100 potential vaccines are currently in development, according to the World Health Organization. Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech have already begun human trials, and say their vaccine could be available for emergency use by the fall. Johnson & Johnson hopes to have its own ready for emergency use in early 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has estimated that the development and distribution of a vaccine will take 12 to 18 months. Other experts say this timeline is too optimistic. The fastest vaccine ever developed, for mumps, took four years. It's also possible that there might never be an effective COVID-19 vaccine. The UK's Chief Medical Officer, Christopher Whitty, told a Parliamentary committee on April 24 that there was "concerning" evidence suggesting that it may be impossible to stimulate immunity to the virus. "We cannot guarantee success," Whitty said. "Vaccines are looked for, for every infectious disease. They are not found for all of them." No vaccine has ever been approved for use against any other coronavirus. "If we could have a highly effective, very safe vaccine that is in plentiful supply, that we could give to everybody and everybody is immune, that would be amazing," Dr. Lisa Winston, an epidemiologist at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, told me a couple weeks ago. "If a genie came out of the wall and I could wish for something, that's what I would wish for. And I'd wish for it today. But that's not when it's coming." Dave Mosher contributed reporting. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 11:15 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-two-year-prediction-recurring-lockdowns-no-vaccine-2020-4Rating: 4.40
I’ve been covering the coronavirus for months. I’m telling my family to expect rounds of lockdowns over the next 2 years, and probably no vaccine.
I’ve been covering the coronavirus pandemic since January. I’ve read a plethora of scientific research on the virus, watched governments’ differing responses, and talked with epidemiologists and doctors. Friends and family have recently started asking me when things will go back to normal. Every time, I brace myself for their disappointed silence. I’m about to tell them what they don’t want to hear: I think we’ll be tiptoeing through this pandemic for at least the next two years. The subsequent lockdowns we’re very likely to see may not be as stringent as this initial one, but the waves of death could get much worse – especially come fall. Here’s what I’m expecting. Absent a widely available vaccine, the coronavirus is not going to die out. The US – and much of the world – is far from the level of immunity its population would need to stifle the virus’ spread. That means it will likely circulate for years. According to a recent analysis from infectious-disease researchers at Harvard, “a resurgence in contagion could be possible as late as 2024.” The researchers also found that on-and-off social distancing measures could be necessary through 2022 to avoid overwhelming hospitals. So, for at least the next two years, public-health authorities will need to play a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. States that proceed carefully will partially lift lockdowns, allowing some businesses to reopen and lifting some restrictions on people’s movements. They will closely monitor the virus’s spread, and attempt to limit it as much as possible. Local governments will test residents en masse, ideally including people who have no symptoms. Armies of contact tracers will try to track down anybody who was exposed to a coronavirus-positive person. This, of course, is an optimistic future. In reality, things will likely get much worse in some parts of the country, because states will reopen without the right surveillance systems in place. As we proceed, epidemiologists will do their best to model the virus as it spreads (though good data depends on widespread testing), watching its trajectory creep towards the maximum capacity of local critical-care systems. When enough people get infected that forecasters predict a caseload that nearly overwhelms hospitals, governments will drop the hammer once again, closing businesses and schools and ordering residents back into their homes. “What happened in Wuhan could happen repeatedly to a city,” Dr. Ben Cowling, an epidemiologist at the University of Hong Kong who researches influenza transmission and control measures, told me in March. “They can shut down for a month, but then when they reopen, they’re still going to have an epidemic starting again.” Many states have already chosen to reopen without the widespread testing, contact tracing, and isolation policies they need to avoid a devastating second wave of infections. That will mean that in mere months, an unmonitored – and therefore largely unseen – wave of infections could overwhelm their emergency rooms, leading to thousands of unnecessary deaths. Georgia could be the first state to suffer those consequences. Gyms, barbershops, hair and nail salons, spas, and tattoo parlors there resumed business on April 24. Theaters and restaurants followed three days later. Epidemiologists and computer scientists at Harvard and MIT forecasted the virus’s spread through Georgia, as The Daily Beast reported on Tuesday. The models showed that if the state resumes 50% of pre-pandemic interpersonal contact, it could see 1,604 to 4,236 deaths by June 15. By contrast, if the state had left its lockdown in place, the models showed that the death count would have grown to between 1,004 and 2,922. If Georgia resumes 100% of pre-pandemic activity, it could see 4,279 to 9,748 deaths by June 15, according to the forecast. Other states are planning to follow Georgia’s lead. Texas allowed theaters, malls, and restaurants to reopen at limited capacity starting Friday, with more businesses to follow on May 18. Idaho and Montana are planning to open the doors to houses of worship. Oklahoma is reopening sports venues, among other businesses. Dr. Ashish Jha, director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, has recommended the US conduct 500,000 to 700,000 tests per day nationwide before deeming it safe to reopen such businesses. That is the “bare minimum,” Jha recently told my colleague Dave Mosher. Other plans call for millions of tests per day. “If we don’t do this, we’re going to basically find ourselves with large numbers of cases and having to shut down again in two to two-and-a-half months.” Jha said. The COVID Tracking Project reported that 1.5 million tests were conducted nationwide last week, or just under 200,000 per day. “The states have basically decided they can’t, for the next round, can’t count on the federal government to help lead this. So they’re all taking their own state-based approach,” Jha said. “It does make me worry a lot about what’s going to happen in Kentucky and what’s going to happen in Georgia and Alabama and a lot of places that are poorer and don’t have the same kind of singular focus on, ‘How do we get ready for the fall season?'” Some evidence indicates the virus could come back with a vengeance in the fall. If it coincides with a bad flu season – which typically begins in October or November – that could spell disaster. “There’s a possibility that the assault of the virus on our nation next winter will actually be even more difficult than the one we just went through,” Robert Redfield, director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told The Washington Post. “We’re going to have the flu epidemic and the coronavirus epidemic at the same time.” That one-two punch to the critical care system could lead to more preventable deaths and necessitate even harsher lockdowns. “If we don’t get our act together, the chances that there will be another lockdown in the fall, and that it will be a long one, are very, very high,” Jha told The Atlantic. The real answer to my friends’ and family members’ question – when will this end? – hinges on the answer to another question: When will a vaccine be widely available? COVID-19 vaccine efforts are moving forward at record speed. Over 100 potential vaccines are currently in development, according to the World Health Organization. Pharmaceutical companies Pfizer and BioNTech have already begun human trials, and say their vaccine could be available for emergency use by the fall. Johnson & Johnson hopes to have its own ready for emergency use in early 2021. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has estimated that the development and distribution of a vaccine will take 12 to 18 months. Other experts say this timeline is too optimistic. The fastest vaccine ever developed, for mumps, took four years. It’s also possible that there might never be an effective COVID-19 vaccine. The UK’s Chief Medical Officer, Christopher Whitty, told a Parliamentary committee on April 24 that there was “concerning” evidence suggesting that it may be impossible to stimulate immunity to the virus. “We cannot guarantee success,” Whitty said. “Vaccines are looked for, for every infectious disease. They are not found for all of them.” No vaccine has ever been approved for use against any other coronavirus. “If we could have a highly effective, very safe vaccine that is in plentiful supply, that we could give to everybody and everybody is immune, that would be amazing,” Dr. Lisa Winston, an epidemiologist at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, told me a couple weeks ago. “If a genie came out of the wall and I could wish for something, that’s what I would wish for. And I’d wish for it today. But that’s not when it’s coming.” Dave Mosher contributed reporting.
3 May 11:15 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/coronavirus-two-year-prediction-recurring-lockdowns-no-vaccine-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus death toll in English hospitals rises to 21,180
3 May 14:06
•
5 articles
Weight: 2.60
Importance: 2.61
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 13:50
Average US: 8.760000000000002
Weighted average US: 18.895621353749522
Average GB: 12.74
Weighted average GB: 3.532896456265448
Average IN: 2.54
Weighted average IN: 5.348737391429813
Coronavirus death toll in English hospitals rises to 21,180
LONDON (Reuters) - A total of 21,180 people have died in hospital in England after testing positive for the new coronavirus, up by 327 in a 24-hour period, the National Health Service for England said on Sunday. The 327 patients who died were aged between 46 and 101 years old, with 17 of them - aged between 47 and 97 years old - having had no known underlying health condition. Figures for the whole of the United Kingdom will be published later in the day.
3 May 14:06 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-england-idUSKBN22F0L1Rating: 4.04
Three more Shropshire coronavirus patients die as county death toll reaches 103
The number of coronavirus patients who have died in Shropshire hospitals has risen to 103 after three more deaths were announced today. Two more Covid-19 deaths were confirmed at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) and one more death was announced at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, near Oswestry. It means 103 people have now died in the county's hospitals after testing positive for coronavirus, with 92 of these dying at SaTH, six at the community health trust and five at the Orthopaedic Hospital in Gobowen. Four deaths were announced for the county on Saturday. There were three deaths confirmed at (SaTH) and one more at the Shropshire Community Health and Care NHS Trust. No new deaths were confirmed over the weekend in Powys, where nine coronavirus patients have died in hospital so far. The full UK death total, which includes deaths in hospitals, care homes and in the community is now 28,446 up from 28,131. The Government has only released daily figures for care home and community coronavirus deaths since Wednesday and these statistics are not broken down by local area. However data from the Office for National Statistics showed that 36 people died with the virus in Shropshire care homes in the space of two weeks.
3 May 14:09 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/health/coronavirus-covid19/2020/05/03/three-more-shropshire-coronavirus-patients-die-as-county-death-toll-reaches-103/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus death toll in English hospitals rises to 21,180
LONDON, May 3 — A total of 21,180 people have died in hospital in England after testing positive for the new coronavirus, up by 327 in a 24-hour period, the National Health Service for England said today. The 327 patients who died were aged between 46 and 101 years old, with 17 of them - aged between 47 and 97 years old - having had no known underlying health condition. Figures for the whole of the United Kingdom will be published later in the day. — Reuters
3 May 13:50 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/coronavirus-death-toll-in-english-hospitals-rises-to-21180/1862694Rating: 1.42
Coronavirus: Chandigarh Reports First COVID-19 Death, Positive Cases in City Rise to 95
New Delhi: An 82-year-old woman from Chandigarh died on Sunday reporting the city’s first death due to the deadly coronavirus infection. Meanwhile, the total number of cases in the union territory rose to 95, including a minor boy. Also Read - JEE, NEET 2020: HRD Minister Nishank to Announce Fresh Dates on Tuesday According to a medical bulletin, the woman was a resident of Sector 18 in the city and was undergoing treatment at a hospital in Haryana’s Panchkula. She passed away due to the contagious disease this morning. Also Read - Coronavirus in Forces: MHA Asks Chiefs to Consider 'Work-From-Home' For Those Not on Frontline At the same time, a 13-year-old boy from the city’s worst-hit Bapu Dham colony tested positive for the COVID-19. Also Read - 'Time Has Come to Reopen Delhi': Here's What Will be Available, What Not From Monday The number of cases in the capital city of Haryana and Punjab have gone up three-folds since April 25. However, nineteen coronavirus patients have also been discharged from hospitals after treatment. The Chandigarh administration has, however, decided to implement the relaxations and open shops, as per the Home Ministry’s recent order. For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on India Latest News on India.com. Comments - Join the Discussion
3 May 16:29 • India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News | India.com • https://www.india.com/news/india/coronavirus-chandigarh-reports-first-covid-19-death-positive-cases-in-city-rise-to-95-4018670/Rating: 0.30
Australia’s virus toll rises after 14th death at Sydney nursing home
Another resident from the coronavirus-riddled Newmarch Aged Care House in Sydney has tragically died. The nursing home confirmed the sad news in a statement on Sunday morning. It brings the total number of residents who have died from the virus since the outbreak began on Easter Sunday to fourteen. “Anglicare is saddened to advise that a resident of Newmarch House who had tested positive for COVID-19 passed away in hospital yesterday,” Anglicare Sydney said. “This is a very sad time for the family and a distressing and challenging time for residents and staff as we deal with the impact of this dreadful virus. “As of yesterday afternoon, 37 residents have tested positive and tragically now 14 have died. “In addition, 26 staff have tested positive and as a consequence 63 have been in isolation.” Anglicare said they are now working on plans for residents who don’t have the virus to move elsewhere. “Alternative accommodation options for people who are COVID-19 negative are being discussed with some residents and their families and of course this is possible, provided there is a good understanding of the risks and precautionary measures that that this would involve – for the resident and their families.” “Our prayers and thoughts are with our grieving Newmarch House families and also with our staff who have worked so closely with the residents and their families.” The total number of people who have died from the virus in Australia now stands at 94.
3 May 02:18 • myGC.com.au • http://www.mygc.com.au/australias-virus-toll-rises-after-14th-death-at-sydney-nursing-home/Rating: 0.30
Trump mocked George W. Bush's call for Americans to push aside partisanship and unite during coronavirus pandemic
3 May 16:29
•
8 articles
Weight: 2.59
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Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 13:42
Average US: 37.5625
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Average IN: 1.5750000000000002
Weighted average IN: 2.7224662896293426
Trump mocked George W. Bush's call for Americans to push aside partisanship and unite during coronavirus pandemic
President Donald Trump mocked a video from George. W Bush calling for unity amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. The former president shared a three-minute video on Twitter Saturday urging Americans to overcome partisanship after outlining the importance of the "spirit of service and sacrifice" and "empathy and simple kindness" in the face of outbreaks by leaders, healthcare workers, and other Americans. Bush also pointed to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks as an example that the US has withstood "times of testing before." Near the end of the video, Bush asks Americans to "let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat." "We are not partisan combatants," Bush says. "We are human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together, and we are determined to rise." As of Sunday morning, the video had racked up at least 4.5 million views. Less than 24 hours after it had been tweeted, it also received a tweeted jab from Trump. The president tweeted early Sunday, apparently quoting weekend "Fox and Friends" co-anchor Pete Hegseth asking why Bush didn't push for "putting partisanship aside" during the impeachment trial against Trump. "He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!" Trump added. The 43rd president did not publicly comment on the two approved articles of impeachment the House passed against Trump in December 2019, but other members of the family have criticized Trump, including former first lady Barbara Bush who said in 2018 that she didn't consider herself a Republican anymore because of Trump's rise to prominence.
3 May 16:29 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-george-w-bush-call-for-unity-during-coronavirus-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Trump mocked George W. Bush’s call for Americans to push aside partisanship and unite during coronavirus pandemic
President Donald Trump mocked a video from George. W Bush calling for unity amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. The former president shared a three-minute video on Twitter Saturday urging Americans to overcome partisanship after outlining the importance of the “spirit of service and sacrifice” and “empathy and simple kindness” in the face of outbreaks by leaders, healthcare workers, and other Americans. Bush also pointed to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks as an example that the US has withstood “times of testing before.” Near the end of the video, Bush asks Americans to “let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat.” “We are not partisan combatants,” Bush says. “We are human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together, and we are determined to rise.” As of Sunday morning, the video had racked up at least 4.5 million views. Less than 24 hours after it had been tweeted, it also received a tweeted jab from Trump. The president tweeted early Sunday, apparently quoting weekend “Fox and Friends” co-anchor Pete Hegseth asking why Bush didn’t push for “putting partisanship aside” during the impeachment trial against Trump. “He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” Trump added. The 43rd president did not publicly comment on the two approved articles of impeachment the House passed against Trump in December 2019, but other members of the family have criticized Trump, including former first lady Barbara Bush who said in 2018 that she didn’t consider herself a Republican anymore because of Trump’s rise to prominence.
3 May 16:29 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/trump-george-w-bush-call-for-unity-during-coronavirus-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Trump mocked George W. Bush's call for Americans to push aside partisanship and unite during coronavirus pandemic, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
President Donald Trump mocked a video from George. W Bush calling for unity amid the novel coronavirus pandemic. The former president shared a three-minute video on Twitter Saturday urging Americans to overcome partisanship after outlining the importance of the “spirit of service and sacrifice” and “empathy and simple kindness” in the face of outbreaks by leaders, healthcare workers, and other Americans. Bush also pointed to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks as an example that the US has withstood “times of testing before.” Near the end of the video, Bush asks Americans to “let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat.” “We are not partisan combatants,” Bush says. “We are human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together, and we are determined to rise.” As of Sunday morning, the video had racked up at least 4.5 million views. Less than 24 hours after it had been tweeted, it also received a tweeted jab from Trump. The president tweeted early Sunday, apparently quoting weekend “Fox and Friends” co-anchor Pete Hegseth asking why Bush didn’t push for “putting partisanship aside” during the impeachment trial against Trump. “He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” Trump added. The 43rd president did not publicly comment on the two approved articles of impeachment the House passed against Trump in December 2019, but other members of the family have criticized Trump, including former first lady Barbara Bush who said in 2018 that she didn’t consider herself a Republican anymore because of Trump’s rise to prominence.
3 May 16:29 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/trump-george-w-bush-call-for-unity-during-coronavirus-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus: Trump Ridicules George W. Bush Appeal for Bipartisanship
A call by former President George W. Bush for humanity to jettison partisanship amid the Chinese coronavirus pandemic has drawn a sharp rebuke from President Donald Trump. Bush published a video message on Saturday urging unity and togetherness amid the coronavirus’ outbreak, which received 4.4 million views on Twitter as of Sunday morning. Bush’s plea amounted to a call for people to ignore partisanship to protect the most vulnerable and to assist those who have become unemployed. He based his plaintive call on the observation we are all God’s children and therefore equal of merit and support. “[L]et us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat,” Bush said. “In the final analysis we are not partisan combatants, we are human beings equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together, and we are determined to rise.” The president’s response was straight to the point, outlining Bush’s absence when Trump was being excoriated during his impeachment proceedings. “.@PeteHegseth “Oh bye the way, I appreciate the message from former President Bush, but where was he during Impeachment calling for putting partisanship aside. @foxandfriends He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” Trump tweeted.
3 May 13:42 • Breitbart • https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2020/05/03/trump-ridicules-george-w-bush-appeal-for-bipartisanship-amid-coronavirus/Rating: 0.30
Trump rips George W. Bush after he calls for unity amid coronavirus outbreak
President Trump on Sunday took aim at George W. Bush after the former Republican president issued a call to push partisanship aside amid the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. In a three-minute video shared on Twitter on Saturday, Bush urged Americans to remember "how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat." "In the final analysis, we are not partisan combatants. We are human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God," Bush said. "We rise or fall together, and we are determined to rise." In an early morning tweet on Sunday, Trump called out Bush for his failure to support him as he faced an impeachment trial earlier this year over his alleged dealings with Ukraine. He cited apparent comments from Fox News anchor Pete Hegseth, who asked why Bush didn't push for "putting partisanship aside" amid the trial. "He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history," Trump said. The House impeached Trump last December for allegedly pressuring Ukraine to open an investigation into his Democratic political rivals. The president was acquitted by the Senate in February. While Bush never commented publicly on the allegations and the trial, he and other members of his family have voiced criticism of the president and his policies. The former president released the video as confirmed cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, continued to rise in parts of the U.S. The country has confirmed more than 1.1 million COVID-19 cases and more than 66,000 deaths from it. Bush invoked the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in his message, noting that the U.S. has faced "times of testing before." "Let's remember that the suffering we experience as a nation does not fall evenly. In the days to come, it will be especially important to care in practical ways for the elderly, the ill and the unemployed," he said. Trump has faced continued scrutiny for his early response to the outbreak. The president in February suggested the virus would suddenly "disappear" and later predicted that everyone who needed a test would have access to one. He's repeatedly pushed back against concerns from governors about testing and medical equipment shortages. --This report was updated at 10:19 a.m.
3 May 12:28 • TheHill • https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/495843-trump-rips-george-w-bush-after-he-issues-call-to-unite-amidRating: 1.94
Trump slams Bush's call to put partisanship aside during pandemic
President Trump was dismissive of former President George W. Bush’s call for unity amid the coronavirus pandemic, questioning why the former president didn’t defend him during his impeachment trial. “He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” Trump tweeted Sunday morning. Bush released a video message a day earlier urging people to ignore partisanship as the country works to overcome the outbreak. “Let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat,” Bush said. “In the final analysis, we are not partisan combatants, we are human beings equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together, and we are determined to rise.”
3 May 13:54 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/trump-slams-bushs-call-to-put-partisanship-aside-during-pandemicRating: 0.51
Donald Trump Takes Aim at George W. Bush Over Call for Unity in Times of COVID-19
As the United States continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, former US President George W. Bush has stepped forward to call upon the populace to set aside their differences in the face of this insidious viral threat. Addressing people via a tweet posted by the George W. Bush Presidential Center, the ex-head of state praised the medical professionals who risk their health for the sake of the health of others, noting that the disease in question threatens not just one's physical well-being, but also people's "sense of safety, security and community". The ex-president's address elicited a somewhat mixed response online, as while a number of netizens praised him for his words, others seemed reluctant to forget certain events that transpired during Bush's presidency. It appears that Trump himself took note of this development, putting his two cents in and thus drawing the attention of his proponents and detractors alike. And several netizens also used this opportunity to criticize US President Donald Trump's response to the coronavirus crisis.
3 May 13:45 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/us/202005031079182422-donald-trump-takes-aim-at-george-w-bush-over-call-for-unity-in-times-of-covid-19/Rating: 3.96
George W. Bush urges Americans to unite to fight the coronavirus
George W. Bush is calling for Americans to join together to face the “shared threat” of the coronavirus. The former president made his plea for unity in a video released on the Twitter account of The George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas. “Let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat,” Bush said in the three-minute clip. “In the final analysis, we are not partisan combatants. We are human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together.” Bush noted that he had seen America join to “embrace unavoidable new duties” after the 9/11 attacks, and sees that spirit still alive and well today. “In the days to come, it will be especially important to care in practical ways for the elderly, the ill and the unemployed,” he said.
3 May 04:50 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/george-w-bush-urges-americans-to-unite-to-fight-the-coronavirus/Rating: 2.55
Starbucks stores are reopening, but fearful employees say they'd rather collect unemployment than risk their health returning to work — except they can't
3 May 19:46
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Weight: 2.58
Importance: 2.58
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 19:41
Average US: 13.66
Weighted average US: 47.00463751069927
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Weighted average IN: 2.671598902703162
Starbucks stores are reopening, but fearful employees say they'd rather collect unemployment than risk their health returning to work — except they can't
Starbucks on Sunday ended catastrophe pay for most of its workers and begin to re-open stores it had closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said they fear it's too soon for Starbucks to ask its workforce to return to stores and end catastrophe pay for workers who feel unsafe going back to work. As Business Insider previously reported, the company plans to open 90% of its stores by June 1. Most locations will not allow customers inside, with customers picking up their orders at the door, at drive-thrus, or via delivery. The locations that allow customers inside will remove all furniture and mandate customers to practice social distancing while picking up their orders, the company said. On March 20, the company announced locations without drive-thrus would temporarily close. At the time, Starbucks began offering "catastrophe pay," which allowed employees — called "partners" — unable or unwilling to work to continue receiving their pay and benefits during the pandemic. While catastrophe pay ended for most employees Sunday, it continues to be available to certain Starbucks workers, including those who test positive for COVID-19, "those partners whom the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, or partners who live with a health care worker who works with COVID-19 patients," according to a letter written by Rossann Williams, the company's North American president. Williams said the company would similarly provide catastrophe pay throughout the month of May for employees "navigating childcare challenges." "There will be some partners who just aren't ready to return to a service role," Williams wrote in the April 16 letter to partners. "So, we must show our genuine empathy for those who need to make the personal decision to leave Starbucks. We will always be grateful for their service to our company and we will support them the best way we can as they make personal decisions to care for themselves." Ashley Krug, a Starbucks barista who works at a store in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, told Business Insider her Starbucks location closed not long after catastrophe pay was instituted because most of her coworkers felt unsafe continuing to work amid the pandemic — even after her cafe transitioned to drive-thru only. Her location is re-opening on Monday, she told Insider. Krug, 27, said she's the primary caretaker for her 75-year-old grandmother — "nana" — who has stage four Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes an obstruction of airflow into her lungs. COPD also puts her grandmother at high risk for the most severe symptoms of the highly contagious disease, including death. "This is the only place I have to stay," Krug told Business Insider of the home she shares with her grandmother, adding that she feels "even bumping elbows with my coworkers" would put her "vulnerable" grandmother at risk if she returned to work. "No matter how much I showered or how much I bleached, when I came home, I couldn't escape that inevitable feeling that I could have been exposed to someone," she added of the final days she worked at her Starbucks store in March. A spokesperson for the company, Reggie Borges, told Business Insider, "Partner and customer health and safety are our top priorities." "So if at any moment there's a situation where we don't feel like we can manage that, we'll close the stores," he said. Borges pointed to a series of changes in Starbucks stores as part of its "modify and adapt" plan to re-open closed company-owned Starbucks locations, and keep its workers and customers safe. Modifications include mandated facial coverings for partners, installed plexiglass at drive-thru windows, and "wellness checks" for employees before every shift. While Borges stressed the company was keeping lobbies at all company-owned locations closed to protect its partners and customers, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson said Sunday in an interview with Yahoo News it would consider opening cafes to "limited seating" in "communities where we see the number of COVID cases continue to decline." Borges told Business Insider Sunday that Johnson was speaking about decisions that could be made "down the road" and said all lobbies would remain closed for the time being. Despite changes implemented by the company to protect workers and customers amid its re-opening, Krug said she doesn't know if she'd be able to shake anxieties that she could infect her grandmother if she returned to work. Krug said her manager told her she would not qualify for continued catastrophe pay after May 3 if she chose not to return to work, despite living with someone who the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. She was told the best the company could offer her was a 30-day unpaid leave, protecting her employment with the company should she decide she's comfortable to return to work in June. She's not sure she will be. "That's great because that gives me job security, but what if the situation hasn't cleared, and I'm not comfortable or able to do that?" Krug said. Veronica, 21, who works at a Starbucks location in California and asked only her first name be used out of fear of "retaliation," told Business Insider she moved back into her family home at the start of the pandemic under one condition from her family: she had to stop leaving the house, which included going to work at Starbucks. While Veronica said she initially understood the company's decision to require her to return to work, she disagreed with Starbucks' decision to end catastrophe pay when her county became one of a handful in California to extend a stay-at-home order through the end of May. Veronica, who lives with her father, stepmom, her grandmother, and two younger siblings, said she told her manager she "would not be able to return to work until my county lifted the shelter-in-place." "I was still scheduled for work even though the shelter-in-place had not been lifted. I let her know that I wouldn't be able to return to work, and she told me there would be no way I could qualify for catastrophe pay unless I was homeschooling a child, or unless I lived in a house with a healthcare worker that was in direct contact with COVID-19 patients," Veronica told Business Insider. Like Krug, Veronica said she was told her best bet was the 30-day leave from the company. Her store manager also recommended she apply for the Starbucks CUP Fund, an employee-funded program that offers grants to Starbucks partners in need, she said. The maximum amount currently awarded through this program is $500 — a payout far less than the money she'd typically earn during a month working at her cafe, she noted. Veronica said her manager had initially proposed she use either sick or vacation leave to remain at home if she was uncomfortable going into work, though, she said, her manager later told her she wouldn't be able to use her sick paid leave to stay home — a contradiction to what employees had been told via letter last month. Starbucks employees who remain uncomfortable working at a cafe after May 3 "will have the option to utilize their remaining vacation or sick leave, apply for unpaid leave, or evaluate eligibility for assistance based on the CARES Act (or any state mandates)," read the letter from the Starbucks' North American president. "I would rather be able to collect unemployment and comply with and protect the needs of my family," Veronica said. As Business Insider previously reported, some people are earning more while collecting unemployment — the result of a temporary federal $600 weekly boost set to expire in July — than they were at their jobs. Meanwhile, others who are currently employed during the pandemic have argued the system is unfair and have asked employers to lay them off so they can collect unemployment. While some employees who have been mandated to take unpaid leave — and were not laid off during the pandemic— can still qualify for unemployment benefits, unemployment eligibility requires that an employer offered zero hours for an employee to work. When asked whether the company would consider firing or laying off partners so they could apply for unemployment benefits, Borges told Business Insider the company would consider doing so. None of the Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said this was presented as a possibility. "I think we're working with every single partner who has issues and concerns and we will find different ways to support them," Borges said. "In no way, shape, or form are we saying we aren't going to let a partner go if that partner doesn't want to work. We want to do what's best for those partners and want to explore all the options that work best for them." He added: "Whatever that partner wants to do. We want to explore any or all of the options." Veronica said she was told by her manager she was ineligible for unemployment while on her 30-day leave from the company. "It's unpaid leave, and because it's voluntary I do not qualify for any unemployment," Veronica said. "When I talked to my district manager, he said that the company is not laying people off because they are allowing people back to work, so they don't have a reason to lay people off. But that leaves me still having to contribute to my household — to feed everyone — and I still have bills that aren't stopping. I don't have an income." Krug agreed that termination from Starbucks could help her collect unemployment benefits and protect her grandmother, but she doesn't think it's likely. "It takes pretty extreme situations to be fired [from Starbucks], and I have never heard of anyone being laid off," she said. "I'm going to be forced to quit at that point, and I don't believe that I will be able to get unemployment at that point either." Kevin Martin, a shift supervisor at a Starbucks store in New Hampshire told Business Insider he felt the company's messaging to employees has been unclear. "I think it's just requiring us to put our lives in danger for something as silly as just coffee, and the people who create these rules have the luxury of being able to work from home and not be in close proximity of hundreds of people a day," he told Business Insider. "Usually, we find out pretty last minute regarding new policies, and especially in a time like this, you'd think they'd be giving us much more consistent updates," said Martin, who says he's worked with the company for over two years. Borges stressed that Starbucks let partners know it was expecting them to return to work and was ending catastrophe pay on April 16 — nearly two weeks before they would be expected to return. "Some of my coworkers have told me they are hesitantly going back because they really don't want to, but they needed the benefits provided by Starbucks," Martin said, adding that he believed was "privileged" to be able to make the decision to remain on unpaid leave from the company. He added: "It's tough because I know other people I work with are going to be seriously affected and would hate to see something happen to any of them or their family members because they're now being forced to be exposed to the general public." Krug agreed the response from the company to the pandemic had been a bit puzzling. "It's been very confusing and I do feel like the statement the company put out at first was kind and reassuring, but I think it just helped them save face because eventually, it was just like 'well, get back to work or don't eat.'" "We've all been home for a month," a barista who works at a Starbucks location in Vermont and asked to remain anonymous in fear of "definitely put a target on my back," told Business Insider. "It's not that we don't want to work. There's a huge population of Starbucks workers who are getting a little stir crazy — who want something to do. None of my coworkers are like 'we don't want to work.' We want to work. We don't want to just be opening because our company is just trying to turn a profit, which it does feel like that." Most of the workers at her store signed a letter addressed to their district and store manager saying they would not return to work on May 6, which was the planned re-opening date for their location. They said they would not consider returning to work until at least May 15, when the stay-at-home order in Vermont is lifted. On Saturday, the US faced its single deadliest day so far amid the pandemic, as businesses including Starbucks begin to re-open stores and states across the country relax stay-at-home orders, even as death tolls continue to rise from the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Currently, Starbucks plans to phase out catastrophe pay in June when the company expects to "return to [its] normal operations, pay, and benefits," according to Williams' April 16 letter. "Service Pay," which gives a temporary $3 an hour raise to Starbucks partners who work during the pandemic, will also end in June. Krug doesn't know if she will feel safe enough to return to work after her leave ends. "I do feel like I made the right decision to protect my nana, and I'm glad the company was there to support me with that at first, but now, unless some kind of miracle happens within the next couple of weeks, I'm going to be losing my job." LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 19:46 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/starbucks-workers-afraid-to-work-will-go-without-pay-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Starbucks stores are reopening, but fearful employees say they'd rather collect unemployment than risk their health returning to work — except they can't
Starbucks on Sunday ended catastrophe pay for most of its workers and begin to re-open stores it had closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said they fear it’s too soon for Starbucks to ask its workforce to return to stores and end catastrophe pay for workers who feel unsafe going back to work. As Business Insider previously reported, the company plans to open 90% of its stores by June 1. Most locations will not allow customers inside, with customers picking up their orders at the door, at drive-thrus, or via delivery. The locations that allow customers inside will remove all furniture and mandate customers to practice social distancing while picking up their orders, the company said. On March 20, the company announced locations without drive-thrus would temporarily close. At the time, Starbucks began offering “catastrophe pay,” which allowed employees – called “partners” – unable or unwilling to work to continue receiving their pay and benefits during the pandemic. While catastrophe pay ended for most employees Sunday, it continues to be available to certain Starbucks workers, including those who test positive for COVID-19, “those partners whom the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, or partners who live with a health care worker who works with COVID-19 patients,” according to a letter written by Rossann Williams, the company’s North American president. Williams said the company would similarly provide catastrophe pay throughout the month of May for employees “navigating childcare challenges.” “There will be some partners who just aren’t ready to return to a service role,” Williams wrote in the April 16 letter to partners. “So, we must show our genuine empathy for those who need to make the personal decision to leave Starbucks. We will always be grateful for their service to our company and we will support them the best way we can as they make personal decisions to care for themselves.” Ashley Krug, a Starbucks barista who works at a store in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, told Business Insider her Starbucks location closed not long after catastrophe pay was instituted because most of her coworkers felt unsafe continuing to work amid the pandemic – even after her cafe transitioned to drive-thru only. Her location is re-opening on Monday, she told Insider. Krug, 27, said she’s the primary caretaker for her 75-year-old grandmother – “nana” – who has stage four Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes an obstruction of airflow into her lungs. COPD also puts her grandmother at high risk for the most severe symptoms of the highly contagious disease, including death. “This is the only place I have to stay,” Krug told Business Insider of the home she shares with her grandmother, adding that she feels “even bumping elbows with my coworkers” would put her “vulnerable” grandmother at risk if she returned to work. “No matter how much I showered or how much I bleached, when I came home, I couldn’t escape that inevitable feeling that I could have been exposed to someone,” she added of the final days she worked at her Starbucks store in March. A spokesperson for the company, Reggie Borges, told Business Insider, “Partner and customer health and safety are our top priorities.” “So if at any moment there’s a situation where we don’t feel like we can manage that, we’ll close the stores,” he said. Borges pointed to a series of changes in Starbucks stores as part of its “modify and adapt” plan to re-open closed company-owned Starbucks locations, and keep its workers and customers safe. Modifications include mandated facial coverings for partners, installed plexiglass at drive-thru windows, and “wellness checks” for employees before every shift. While Borges stressed the company was keeping lobbies at all company-owned locations closed to protect its partners and customers, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson said Sunday in an interview with Yahoo News it would consider opening cafes to “limited seating” in “communities where we see the number of COVID cases continue to decline.” Borges told Business Insider Sunday that Johnson was speaking about decisions that could be made “down the road” and said all lobbies would remain closed for the time being. Despite changes implemented by the company to protect workers and customers amid its re-opening, Krug said she doesn’t know if she’d be able to shake anxieties that she could infect her grandmother if she returned to work. Krug said her manager told her she would not qualify for continued catastrophe pay after May 3 if she chose not to return to work, despite living with someone who the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. She was told the best the company could offer her was a 30-day unpaid leave, protecting her employment with the company should she decide she’s comfortable to return to work in June. She’s not sure she will be. “That’s great because that gives me job security, but what if the situation hasn’t cleared, and I’m not comfortable or able to do that?” Krug said. Veronica, 21, who works at a Starbucks location in California and asked only her first name be used out of fear of “retaliation,” told Business Insider she moved back into her family home at the start of the pandemic under one condition from her family: she had to stop leaving the house, which included going to work at Starbucks. While Veronica said she initially understood the company’s decision to require her to return to work, she disagreed with Starbucks’ decision to end catastrophe pay when her county became one of a handful in California to extend a stay-at-home order through the end of May. Veronica, who lives with her father, stepmom, her grandmother, and two younger siblings, said she told her manager she “would not be able to return to work until my county lifted the shelter-in-place.” “I was still scheduled for work even though the shelter-in-place had not been lifted. I let her know that I wouldn’t be able to return to work, and she told me there would be no way I could qualify for catastrophe pay unless I was homeschooling a child, or unless I lived in a house with a healthcare worker that was in direct contact with COVID-19 patients,” Veronica told Business Insider. Like Krug, Veronica said she was told her best bet was the 30-day leave from the company. Her store manager also recommended she apply for the Starbucks CUP Fund, an employee-funded program that offers grants to Starbucks partners in need, she said. The maximum amount currently awarded through this program is $US500 – a payout far less than the money she’d typically earn during a month working at her cafe, she noted. Veronica said her manager had initially proposed she use either sick or vacation leave to remain at home if she was uncomfortable going into work, though, she said, her manager later told her she wouldn’t be able to use her sick paid leave to stay home – a contradiction to what employees had been told via letter last month. Starbucks employees who remain uncomfortable working at a cafe after May 3 “will have the option to utilise their remaining vacation or sick leave, apply for unpaid leave, or evaluate eligibility for assistance based on the CARES Act (or any state mandates),” read the letter from the Starbucks’ North American president. “I would rather be able to collect unemployment and comply with and protect the needs of my family,” Veronica said. As Business Insider previously reported, some people are earning more while collecting unemployment – the result of a temporary federal $US600 weekly boost set to expire in July – than they were at their jobs. Meanwhile, others who are currently employed during the pandemic have argued the system is unfair and have asked employers to lay them off so they can collect unemployment. While some employees who have been mandated to take unpaid leave – and were not laid off during the pandemic- can still qualify for unemployment benefits, unemployment eligibility requires that an employer offered zero hours for an employee to work. When asked whether the company would consider firing or laying off partners so they could apply for unemployment benefits, Borges told Business Insider the company would consider doing so. None of the Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said this was presented as a possibility. “I think we’re working with every single partner who has issues and concerns and we will find different ways to support them,” Borges said. “In no way, shape, or form are we saying we aren’t going to let a partner go if that partner doesn’t want to work. We want to do what’s best for those partners and want to explore all the options that work best for them.” He added: “Whatever that partner wants to do. We want to explore any or all of the options.” Veronica said she was told by her manager she was ineligible for unemployment while on her 30-day leave from the company. “It’s unpaid leave, and because it’s voluntary I do not qualify for any unemployment,” Veronica said. “When I talked to my district manager, he said that the company is not laying people off because they are allowing people back to work, so they don’t have a reason to lay people off. But that leaves me still having to contribute to my household – to feed everyone – and I still have bills that aren’t stopping. I don’t have an income.” Krug agreed that termination from Starbucks could help her collect unemployment benefits and protect her grandmother, but she doesn’t think it’s likely. “It takes pretty extreme situations to be fired [from Starbucks], and I have never heard of anyone being laid off,” she said. “I’m going to be forced to quit at that point, and I don’t believe that I will be able to get unemployment at that point either.” Kevin Martin, a shift supervisor at a Starbucks store in New Hampshire told Business Insider he felt the company’s messaging to employees has been unclear. “I think it’s just requiring us to put our lives in danger for something as silly as just coffee, and the people who create these rules have the luxury of being able to work from home and not be in close proximity of hundreds of people a day,” he told Business Insider. “Usually, we find out pretty last minute regarding new policies, and especially in a time like this, you’d think they’d be giving us much more consistent updates,” said Martin, who says he’s worked with the company for over two years. Borges stressed that Starbucks let partners know it was expecting them to return to work and was ending catastrophe pay on April 16 – nearly two weeks before they would be expected to return. “Some of my coworkers have told me they are hesitantly going back because they really don’t want to, but they needed the benefits provided by Starbucks,” Martin said, adding that he believed was “privileged” to be able to make the decision to remain on unpaid leave from the company. He added: “It’s tough because I know other people I work with are going to be seriously affected and would hate to see something happen to any of them or their family members because they’re now being forced to be exposed to the general public.” Krug agreed the response from the company to the pandemic had been a bit puzzling. “It’s been very confusing and I do feel like the statement the company put out at first was kind and reassuring, but I think it just helped them save face because eventually, it was just like ‘well, get back to work or don’t eat.'” “We’ve all been home for a month,” a barista who works at a Starbucks location in Vermont and asked to remain anonymous in fear of “definitely put a target on my back,” told Business Insider. “It’s not that we don’t want to work. There’s a huge population of Starbucks workers who are getting a little stir crazy – who want something to do. None of my coworkers are like ‘we don’t want to work.’ We want to work. We don’t want to just be opening because our company is just trying to turn a profit, which it does feel like that.” Most of the workers at her store signed a letter addressed to their district and store manager saying they would not return to work on May 6, which was the planned re-opening date for their location. They said they would not consider returning to work until at least May 15, when the stay-at-home order in Vermont is lifted. On Saturday, the US faced its single deadliest day so far amid the pandemic, as businesses including Starbucks begin to re-open stores and states across the country relax stay-at-home orders, even as death tolls continue to rise from the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Currently, Starbucks plans to phase out catastrophe pay in June when the company expects to “return to [its] normal operations, pay, and benefits,” according to Williams’ April 16 letter. “Service Pay,” which gives a temporary $US3 an hour raise to Starbucks partners who work during the pandemic, will also end in June. Krug doesn’t know if she will feel safe enough to return to work after her leave ends. “I do feel like I made the right decision to protect my nana, and I’m glad the company was there to support me with that at first, but now, unless some kind of miracle happens within the next couple of weeks, I’m going to be losing my job.”
3 May 19:41 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/starbucks-workers-afraid-to-work-will-go-without-pay-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Starbucks stores are reopening, but fearful employees say they'd rather collect unemployment than risk their health returning to work — except they can't
Starbucks on Sunday ended catastrophe pay for most of its workers and begin to re-open stores it had closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said they fear it’s too soon for Starbucks to ask its workforce to return to stores and end catastrophe pay for workers who feel unsafe going back to work. As Business Insider previously reported, the company plans to open 90% of its stores by June 1. Most locations will not allow customers inside, with customers picking up their orders at the door, at drive-thrus, or via delivery. The locations that allow customers inside will remove all furniture and mandate customers to practice social distancing while picking up their orders, the company said. On March 20, the company announced locations without drive-thrus would temporarily close. At the time, Starbucks began offering “catastrophe pay,” which allowed employees – called “partners” – unable or unwilling to work to continue receiving their pay and benefits during the pandemic. While catastrophe pay ended for most employees Sunday, it continues to be available to certain Starbucks workers, including those who test positive for COVID-19, “those partners whom the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, or partners who live with a health care worker who works with COVID-19 patients,” according to a letter written by Rossann Williams, the company’s North American president. Williams said the company would similarly provide catastrophe pay throughout the month of May for employees “navigating childcare challenges.” “There will be some partners who just aren’t ready to return to a service role,” Williams wrote in the April 16 letter to partners. “So, we must show our genuine empathy for those who need to make the personal decision to leave Starbucks. We will always be grateful for their service to our company and we will support them the best way we can as they make personal decisions to care for themselves.” Ashley Krug, a Starbucks barista who works at a store in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, told Business Insider her Starbucks location closed not long after catastrophe pay was instituted because most of her coworkers felt unsafe continuing to work amid the pandemic – even after her cafe transitioned to drive-thru only. Her location is re-opening on Monday, she told Insider. Krug, 27, said she’s the primary caretaker for her 75-year-old grandmother – “nana” – who has stage four Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes an obstruction of airflow into her lungs. COPD also puts her grandmother at high risk for the most severe symptoms of the highly contagious disease, including death. “This is the only place I have to stay,” Krug told Business Insider of the home she shares with her grandmother, adding that she feels “even bumping elbows with my coworkers” would put her “vulnerable” grandmother at risk if she returned to work. “No matter how much I showered or how much I bleached, when I came home, I couldn’t escape that inevitable feeling that I could have been exposed to someone,” she added of the final days she worked at her Starbucks store in March. A spokesperson for the company, Reggie Borges, told Business Insider, “Partner and customer health and safety are our top priorities.” “So if at any moment there’s a situation where we don’t feel like we can manage that, we’ll close the stores,” he said. Borges pointed to a series of changes in Starbucks stores as part of its “modify and adapt” plan to re-open closed company-owned Starbucks locations, and keep its workers and customers safe. Modifications include mandated facial coverings for partners, installed plexiglass at drive-thru windows, and “wellness checks” for employees before every shift. While Borges stressed the company was keeping lobbies at all company-owned locations closed to protect its partners and customers, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson said Sunday in an interview with Yahoo News it would consider opening cafes to “limited seating” in “communities where we see the number of COVID cases continue to decline.” Borges told Business Insider Sunday that Johnson was speaking about decisions that could be made “down the road” and said all lobbies would remain closed for the time being. Despite changes implemented by the company to protect workers and customers amid its re-opening, Krug said she doesn’t know if she’d be able to shake anxieties that she could infect her grandmother if she returned to work. Krug said her manager told her she would not qualify for continued catastrophe pay after May 3 if she chose not to return to work, despite living with someone who the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. She was told the best the company could offer her was a 30-day unpaid leave, protecting her employment with the company should she decide she’s comfortable to return to work in June. She’s not sure she will be. “That’s great because that gives me job security, but what if the situation hasn’t cleared, and I’m not comfortable or able to do that?” Krug said. Veronica, 21, who works at a Starbucks location in California and asked only her first name be used out of fear of “retaliation,” told Business Insider she moved back into her family home at the start of the pandemic under one condition from her family: she had to stop leaving the house, which included going to work at Starbucks. While Veronica said she initially understood the company’s decision to require her to return to work, she disagreed with Starbucks’ decision to end catastrophe pay when her county became one of a handful in California to extend a stay-at-home order through the end of May. Veronica, who lives with her father, stepmom, her grandmother, and two younger siblings, said she told her manager she “would not be able to return to work until my county lifted the shelter-in-place.” “I was still scheduled for work even though the shelter-in-place had not been lifted. I let her know that I wouldn’t be able to return to work, and she told me there would be no way I could qualify for catastrophe pay unless I was homeschooling a child, or unless I lived in a house with a healthcare worker that was in direct contact with COVID-19 patients,” Veronica told Business Insider. Like Krug, Veronica said she was told her best bet was the 30-day leave from the company. Her store manager also recommended she apply for the Starbucks CUP Fund, an employee-funded program that offers grants to Starbucks partners in need, she said. The maximum amount currently awarded through this program is $500 – a payout far less than the money she’d typically earn during a month working at her cafe, she noted. Veronica said her manager had initially proposed she use either sick or vacation leave to remain at home if she was uncomfortable going into work, though, she said, her manager later told her she wouldn’t be able to use her sick paid leave to stay home – a contradiction to what employees had been told via letter last month. Starbucks employees who remain uncomfortable working at a cafe after May 3 “will have the option to utilize their remaining vacation or sick leave, apply for unpaid leave, or evaluate eligibility for assistance based on the CARES Act (or any state mandates),” read the letter from the Starbucks’ North American president. “I would rather be able to collect unemployment and comply with and protect the needs of my family,” Veronica said. As Business Insider previously reported, some people are earning more while collecting unemployment – the result of a temporary federal $600 weekly boost set to expire in July – than they were at their jobs. Meanwhile, others who are currently employed during the pandemic have argued the system is unfair and have asked employers to lay them off so they can collect unemployment. While some employees who have been mandated to take unpaid leave – and were not laid off during the pandemic- can still qualify for unemployment benefits, unemployment eligibility requires that an employer offered zero hours for an employee to work. When asked whether the company would consider firing or laying off partners so they could apply for unemployment benefits, Borges told Business Insider the company would consider doing so. None of the Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said this was presented as a possibility. “I think we’re working with every single partner who has issues and concerns and we will find different ways to support them,” Borges said. “In no way, shape, or form are we saying we aren’t going to let a partner go if that partner doesn’t want to work. We want to do what’s best for those partners and want to explore all the options that work best for them.” He added: “Whatever that partner wants to do. We want to explore any or all of the options.” Veronica said she was told by her manager she was ineligible for unemployment while on her 30-day leave from the company. “It’s unpaid leave, and because it’s voluntary I do not qualify for any unemployment,” Veronica said. “When I talked to my district manager, he said that the company is not laying people off because they are allowing people back to work, so they don’t have a reason to lay people off. But that leaves me still having to contribute to my household – to feed everyone – and I still have bills that aren’t stopping. I don’t have an income.” Krug agreed that termination from Starbucks could help her collect unemployment benefits and protect her grandmother, but she doesn’t think it’s likely. “It takes pretty extreme situations to be fired [from Starbucks], and I have never heard of anyone being laid off,” she said. “I’m going to be forced to quit at that point, and I don’t believe that I will be able to get unemployment at that point either.” Kevin Martin, a shift supervisor at a Starbucks store in New Hampshire told Business Insider he felt the company’s messaging to employees has been unclear. “I think it’s just requiring us to put our lives in danger for something as silly as just coffee, and the people who create these rules have the luxury of being able to work from home and not be in close proximity of hundreds of people a day,” he told Business Insider. “Usually, we find out pretty last minute regarding new policies, and especially in a time like this, you’d think they’d be giving us much more consistent updates,” said Martin, who says he’s worked with the company for over two years. Borges stressed that Starbucks let partners know it was expecting them to return to work and was ending catastrophe pay on April 16 – nearly two weeks before they would be expected to return. “Some of my coworkers have told me they are hesitantly going back because they really don’t want to, but they needed the benefits provided by Starbucks,” Martin said, adding that he believed was “privileged” to be able to make the decision to remain on unpaid leave from the company. He added: “It’s tough because I know other people I work with are going to be seriously affected and would hate to see something happen to any of them or their family members because they’re now being forced to be exposed to the general public.” Krug agreed the response from the company to the pandemic had been a bit puzzling. “It’s been very confusing and I do feel like the statement the company put out at first was kind and reassuring, but I think it just helped them save face because eventually, it was just like ‘well, get back to work or don’t eat.'” “We’ve all been home for a month,” a barista who works at a Starbucks location in Vermont and asked to remain anonymous in fear of “definitely put a target on my back,” told Business Insider. “It’s not that we don’t want to work. There’s a huge population of Starbucks workers who are getting a little stir crazy – who want something to do. None of my coworkers are like ‘we don’t want to work.’ We want to work. We don’t want to just be opening because our company is just trying to turn a profit, which it does feel like that.” Most of the workers at her store signed a letter addressed to their district and store manager saying they would not return to work on May 6, which was the planned re-opening date for their location. They said they would not consider returning to work until at least May 15, when the stay-at-home order in Vermont is lifted. On Saturday, the US faced its single deadliest day so far amid the pandemic, as businesses including Starbucks begin to re-open stores and states across the country relax stay-at-home orders, even as death tolls continue to rise from the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Currently, Starbucks plans to phase out catastrophe pay in June when the company expects to “return to [its] normal operations, pay, and benefits,” according to Williams’ April 16 letter. “Service Pay,” which gives a temporary $3 an hour raise to Starbucks partners who work during the pandemic, will also end in June. Krug doesn’t know if she will feel safe enough to return to work after her leave ends. “I do feel like I made the right decision to protect my nana, and I’m glad the company was there to support me with that at first, but now, unless some kind of miracle happens within the next couple of weeks, I’m going to be losing my job.”
3 May 22:05 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/starbucks-workers-afraid-to-work-will-go-without-pay-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
Starbucks stores are reopening, but fearful employees say they’d rather collect unemployment than risk their health returning to work — except they can’t
Starbucks on Sunday ended catastrophe pay for most of its workers and begin to re-open stores it had closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said they fear it’s too soon for Starbucks to ask its workforce to return to stores and end catastrophe pay for workers who feel unsafe going back to work. As Business Insider previously reported, the company plans to open 90% of its stores by June 1. Most locations will not allow customers inside, with customers picking up their orders at the door, at drive-thrus, or via delivery. The locations that allow customers inside will remove all furniture and mandate customers to practice social distancing while picking up their orders, the company said. On March 20, the company announced locations without drive-thrus would temporarily close. At the time, Starbucks began offering “catastrophe pay,” which allowed employees – called “partners” – unable or unwilling to work to continue receiving their pay and benefits during the pandemic. While catastrophe pay ended for most employees Sunday, it continues to be available to certain Starbucks workers, including those who test positive for COVID-19, “those partners whom the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, or partners who live with a health care worker who works with COVID-19 patients,” according to a letter written by Rossann Williams, the company’s North American president. Williams said the company would similarly provide catastrophe pay throughout the month of May for employees “navigating childcare challenges.” “There will be some partners who just aren’t ready to return to a service role,” Williams wrote in the April 16 letter to partners. “So, we must show our genuine empathy for those who need to make the personal decision to leave Starbucks. We will always be grateful for their service to our company and we will support them the best way we can as they make personal decisions to care for themselves.” Ashley Krug, a Starbucks barista who works at a store in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, told Business Insider her Starbucks location closed not long after catastrophe pay was instituted because most of her coworkers felt unsafe continuing to work amid the pandemic – even after her cafe transitioned to drive-thru only. Her location is re-opening on Monday, she told Insider. Krug, 27, said she’s the primary caretaker for her 75-year-old grandmother – “nana” – who has stage four Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes an obstruction of airflow into her lungs. COPD also puts her grandmother at high risk for the most severe symptoms of the highly contagious disease, including death. “This is the only place I have to stay,” Krug told Business Insider of the home she shares with her grandmother, adding that she feels “even bumping elbows with my coworkers” would put her “vulnerable” grandmother at risk if she returned to work. “No matter how much I showered or how much I bleached, when I came home, I couldn’t escape that inevitable feeling that I could have been exposed to someone,” she added of the final days she worked at her Starbucks store in March. A spokesperson for the company, Reggie Borges, told Business Insider, “Partner and customer health and safety are our top priorities.” “So if at any moment there’s a situation where we don’t feel like we can manage that, we’ll close the stores,” he said. Borges pointed to a series of changes in Starbucks stores as part of its “modify and adapt” plan to re-open closed company-owned Starbucks locations, and keep its workers and customers safe. Modifications include mandated facial coverings for partners, installed plexiglass at drive-thru windows, and “wellness checks” for employees before every shift. While Borges stressed the company was keeping lobbies at all company-owned locations closed to protect its partners and customers, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson said Sunday in an interview with Yahoo News it would consider opening cafes to “limited seating” in “communities where we see the number of COVID cases continue to decline.” Borges told Business Insider Sunday that Johnson was speaking about decisions that could be made “down the road” and said all lobbies would remain closed for the time being. Despite changes implemented by the company to protect workers and customers amid its re-opening, Krug said she doesn’t know if she’d be able to shake anxieties that she could infect her grandmother if she returned to work. Krug said her manager told her she would not qualify for continued catastrophe pay after May 3 if she chose not to return to work, despite living with someone who the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. She was told the best the company could offer her was a 30-day unpaid leave, protecting her employment with the company should she decide she’s comfortable to return to work in June. She’s not sure she will be. “That’s great because that gives me job security, but what if the situation hasn’t cleared, and I’m not comfortable or able to do that?” Krug said. Veronica, 21, who works at a Starbucks location in California and asked only her first name be used out of fear of “retaliation,” told Business Insider she moved back into her family home at the start of the pandemic under one condition from her family: she had to stop leaving the house, which included going to work at Starbucks. While Veronica said she initially understood the company’s decision to require her to return to work, she disagreed with Starbucks’ decision to end catastrophe pay when her county became one of a handful in California to extend a stay-at-home order through the end of May. Veronica, who lives with her father, stepmom, her grandmother, and two younger siblings, said she told her manager she “would not be able to return to work until my county lifted the shelter-in-place.” “I was still scheduled for work even though the shelter-in-place had not been lifted. I let her know that I wouldn’t be able to return to work, and she told me there would be no way I could qualify for catastrophe pay unless I was homeschooling a child, or unless I lived in a house with a healthcare worker that was in direct contact with COVID-19 patients,” Veronica told Business Insider. Like Krug, Veronica said she was told her best bet was the 30-day leave from the company. Her store manager also recommended she apply for the Starbucks CUP Fund, an employee-funded program that offers grants to Starbucks partners in need, she said. The maximum amount currently awarded through this program is $500 – a payout far less than the money she’d typically earn during a month working at her cafe, she noted. Veronica said her manager had initially proposed she use either sick or vacation leave to remain at home if she was uncomfortable going into work, though, she said, her manager later told her she wouldn’t be able to use her sick paid leave to stay home – a contradiction to what employees had been told via letter last month. Starbucks employees who remain uncomfortable working at a cafe after May 3 “will have the option to utilize their remaining vacation or sick leave, apply for unpaid leave, or evaluate eligibility for assistance based on the CARES Act (or any state mandates),” read the letter from the Starbucks’ North American president. “I would rather be able to collect unemployment and comply with and protect the needs of my family,” Veronica said. As Business Insider previously reported, some people are earning more while collecting unemployment – the result of a temporary federal $600 weekly boost set to expire in July – than they were at their jobs. Meanwhile, others who are currently employed during the pandemic have argued the system is unfair and have asked employers to lay them off so they can collect unemployment. While some employees who have been mandated to take unpaid leave – and were not laid off during the pandemic- can still qualify for unemployment benefits, unemployment eligibility requires that an employer offered zero hours for an employee to work. When asked whether the company would consider firing or laying off partners so they could apply for unemployment benefits, Borges told Business Insider the company would consider doing so. None of the Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said this was presented as a possibility. “I think we’re working with every single partner who has issues and concerns and we will find different ways to support them,” Borges said. “In no way, shape, or form are we saying we aren’t going to let a partner go if that partner doesn’t want to work. We want to do what’s best for those partners and want to explore all the options that work best for them.” He added: “Whatever that partner wants to do. We want to explore any or all of the options.” Veronica said she was told by her manager she was ineligible for unemployment while on her 30-day leave from the company. “It’s unpaid leave, and because it’s voluntary I do not qualify for any unemployment,” Veronica said. “When I talked to my district manager, he said that the company is not laying people off because they are allowing people back to work, so they don’t have a reason to lay people off. But that leaves me still having to contribute to my household – to feed everyone – and I still have bills that aren’t stopping. I don’t have an income.” Krug agreed that termination from Starbucks could help her collect unemployment benefits and protect her grandmother, but she doesn’t think it’s likely. “It takes pretty extreme situations to be fired [from Starbucks], and I have never heard of anyone being laid off,” she said. “I’m going to be forced to quit at that point, and I don’t believe that I will be able to get unemployment at that point either.” Kevin Martin, a shift supervisor at a Starbucks store in New Hampshire told Business Insider he felt the company’s messaging to employees has been unclear. “I think it’s just requiring us to put our lives in danger for something as silly as just coffee, and the people who create these rules have the luxury of being able to work from home and not be in close proximity of hundreds of people a day,” he told Business Insider. “Usually, we find out pretty last minute regarding new policies, and especially in a time like this, you’d think they’d be giving us much more consistent updates,” said Martin, who says he’s worked with the company for over two years. Borges stressed that Starbucks let partners know it was expecting them to return to work and was ending catastrophe pay on April 16 – nearly two weeks before they would be expected to return. “Some of my coworkers have told me they are hesitantly going back because they really don’t want to, but they needed the benefits provided by Starbucks,” Martin said, adding that he believed was “privileged” to be able to make the decision to remain on unpaid leave from the company. He added: “It’s tough because I know other people I work with are going to be seriously affected and would hate to see something happen to any of them or their family members because they’re now being forced to be exposed to the general public.” Krug agreed the response from the company to the pandemic had been a bit puzzling. “It’s been very confusing and I do feel like the statement the company put out at first was kind and reassuring, but I think it just helped them save face because eventually, it was just like ‘well, get back to work or don’t eat.'” “We’ve all been home for a month,” a barista who works at a Starbucks location in Vermont and asked to remain anonymous in fear of “definitely put a target on my back,” told Business Insider. “It’s not that we don’t want to work. There’s a huge population of Starbucks workers who are getting a little stir crazy – who want something to do. None of my coworkers are like ‘we don’t want to work.’ We want to work. We don’t want to just be opening because our company is just trying to turn a profit, which it does feel like that.” Most of the workers at her store signed a letter addressed to their district and store manager saying they would not return to work on May 6, which was the planned re-opening date for their location. They said they would not consider returning to work until at least May 15, when the stay-at-home order in Vermont is lifted. On Saturday, the US faced its single deadliest day so far amid the pandemic, as businesses including Starbucks begin to re-open stores and states across the country relax stay-at-home orders, even as death tolls continue to rise from the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Currently, Starbucks plans to phase out catastrophe pay in June when the company expects to “return to [its] normal operations, pay, and benefits,” according to Williams’ April 16 letter. “Service Pay,” which gives a temporary $3 an hour raise to Starbucks partners who work during the pandemic, will also end in June. Krug doesn’t know if she will feel safe enough to return to work after her leave ends. “I do feel like I made the right decision to protect my nana, and I’m glad the company was there to support me with that at first, but now, unless some kind of miracle happens within the next couple of weeks, I’m going to be losing my job.”
3 May 19:46 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/starbucks-workers-afraid-to-work-will-go-without-pay-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Starbucks stores are reopening, but fearful employees say they'd rather collect unemployment than risk their health returning to work — except they can't, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Starbucks on Sunday ended catastrophe pay for most of its workers and begin to re-open stores it had closed in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said they fear it’s too soon for Starbucks to ask its workforce to return to stores and end catastrophe pay for workers who feel unsafe going back to work. As Business Insider previously reported, the company plans to open 90% of its stores by June 1. Most locations will not allow customers inside, with customers picking up their orders at the door, at drive-thrus, or via delivery. The locations that allow customers inside will remove all furniture and mandate customers to practice social distancing while picking up their orders, the company said. On March 20, the company announced locations without drive-thrus would temporarily close. At the time, Starbucks began offering “catastrophe pay,” which allowed employees – called “partners” – unable or unwilling to work to continue receiving their pay and benefits during the pandemic. While catastrophe pay ended for most employees Sunday, it continues to be available to certain Starbucks workers, including those who test positive for COVID-19, “those partners whom the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19, or partners who live with a health care worker who works with COVID-19 patients,” according to a letter written by Rossann Williams, the company’s North American president. Williams said the company would similarly provide catastrophe pay throughout the month of May for employees “navigating childcare challenges.” “There will be some partners who just aren’t ready to return to a service role,” Williams wrote in the April 16 letter to partners. “So, we must show our genuine empathy for those who need to make the personal decision to leave Starbucks. We will always be grateful for their service to our company and we will support them the best way we can as they make personal decisions to care for themselves.” Ashley Krug, a Starbucks barista who works at a store in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, told Business Insider her Starbucks location closed not long after catastrophe pay was instituted because most of her coworkers felt unsafe continuing to work amid the pandemic – even after her cafe transitioned to drive-thru only. Her location is re-opening on Monday, she told Insider. Krug, 27, said she’s the primary caretaker for her 75-year-old grandmother – “nana” – who has stage four Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes an obstruction of airflow into her lungs. COPD also puts her grandmother at high risk for the most severe symptoms of the highly contagious disease, including death. “This is the only place I have to stay,” Krug told Business Insider of the home she shares with her grandmother, adding that she feels “even bumping elbows with my coworkers” would put her “vulnerable” grandmother at risk if she returned to work. “No matter how much I showered or how much I bleached, when I came home, I couldn’t escape that inevitable feeling that I could have been exposed to someone,” she added of the final days she worked at her Starbucks store in March. A spokesperson for the company, Reggie Borges, told Business Insider, “Partner and customer health and safety are our top priorities.” “So if at any moment there’s a situation where we don’t feel like we can manage that, we’ll close the stores,” he said. Borges pointed to a series of changes in Starbucks stores as part of its “modify and adapt” plan to re-open closed company-owned Starbucks locations, and keep its workers and customers safe. Modifications include mandated facial coverings for partners, installed plexiglass at drive-thru windows, and “wellness checks” for employees before every shift. While Borges stressed the company was keeping lobbies at all company-owned locations closed to protect its partners and customers, Starbucks CEO Kevin Johnson said Sunday in an interview with Yahoo News it would consider opening cafes to “limited seating” in “communities where we see the number of COVID cases continue to decline.” Borges told Business Insider Sunday that Johnson was speaking about decisions that could be made “down the road” and said all lobbies would remain closed for the time being. Despite changes implemented by the company to protect workers and customers amid its re-opening, Krug said she doesn’t know if she’d be able to shake anxieties that she could infect her grandmother if she returned to work. Krug said her manager told her she would not qualify for continued catastrophe pay after May 3 if she chose not to return to work, despite living with someone who the CDC has identified as at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. She was told the best the company could offer her was a 30-day unpaid leave, protecting her employment with the company should she decide she’s comfortable to return to work in June. She’s not sure she will be. “That’s great because that gives me job security, but what if the situation hasn’t cleared, and I’m not comfortable or able to do that?” Krug said. Veronica, 21, who works at a Starbucks location in California and asked only her first name be used out of fear of “retaliation,” told Business Insider she moved back into her family home at the start of the pandemic under one condition from her family: she had to stop leaving the house, which included going to work at Starbucks. While Veronica said she initially understood the company’s decision to require her to return to work, she disagreed with Starbucks’ decision to end catastrophe pay when her county became one of a handful in California to extend a stay-at-home order through the end of May. Veronica, who lives with her father, stepmom, her grandmother, and two younger siblings, said she told her manager she “would not be able to return to work until my county lifted the shelter-in-place.” “I was still scheduled for work even though the shelter-in-place had not been lifted. I let her know that I wouldn’t be able to return to work, and she told me there would be no way I could qualify for catastrophe pay unless I was homeschooling a child, or unless I lived in a house with a healthcare worker that was in direct contact with COVID-19 patients,” Veronica told Business Insider. Like Krug, Veronica said she was told her best bet was the 30-day leave from the company. Her store manager also recommended she apply for the Starbucks CUP Fund, an employee-funded program that offers grants to Starbucks partners in need, she said. The maximum amount currently awarded through this program is $500 – a payout far less than the money she’d typically earn during a month working at her cafe, she noted. Veronica said her manager had initially proposed she use either sick or vacation leave to remain at home if she was uncomfortable going into work, though, she said, her manager later told her she wouldn’t be able to use her sick paid leave to stay home – a contradiction to what employees had been told via letter last month. Starbucks employees who remain uncomfortable working at a cafe after May 3 “will have the option to utilize their remaining vacation or sick leave, apply for unpaid leave, or evaluate eligibility for assistance based on the CARES Act (or any state mandates),” read the letter from the Starbucks’ North American president. “I would rather be able to collect unemployment and comply with and protect the needs of my family,” Veronica said. As Business Insider previously reported, some people are earning more while collecting unemployment – the result of a temporary federal $600 weekly boost set to expire in July – than they were at their jobs. Meanwhile, others who are currently employed during the pandemic have argued the system is unfair and have asked employers to lay them off so they can collect unemployment. While some employees who have been mandated to take unpaid leave – and were not laid off during the pandemic- can still qualify for unemployment benefits, unemployment eligibility requires that an employer offered zero hours for an employee to work. When asked whether the company would consider firing or laying off partners so they could apply for unemployment benefits, Borges told Business Insider the company would consider doing so. None of the Starbucks employees who spoke with Business Insider said this was presented as a possibility. “I think we’re working with every single partner who has issues and concerns and we will find different ways to support them,” Borges said. “In no way, shape, or form are we saying we aren’t going to let a partner go if that partner doesn’t want to work. We want to do what’s best for those partners and want to explore all the options that work best for them.” He added: “Whatever that partner wants to do. We want to explore any or all of the options.” Veronica said she was told by her manager she was ineligible for unemployment while on her 30-day leave from the company. “It’s unpaid leave, and because it’s voluntary I do not qualify for any unemployment,” Veronica said. “When I talked to my district manager, he said that the company is not laying people off because they are allowing people back to work, so they don’t have a reason to lay people off. But that leaves me still having to contribute to my household – to feed everyone – and I still have bills that aren’t stopping. I don’t have an income.” Krug agreed that termination from Starbucks could help her collect unemployment benefits and protect her grandmother, but she doesn’t think it’s likely. “It takes pretty extreme situations to be fired [from Starbucks], and I have never heard of anyone being laid off,” she said. “I’m going to be forced to quit at that point, and I don’t believe that I will be able to get unemployment at that point either.” Kevin Martin, a shift supervisor at a Starbucks store in New Hampshire told Business Insider he felt the company’s messaging to employees has been unclear. “I think it’s just requiring us to put our lives in danger for something as silly as just coffee, and the people who create these rules have the luxury of being able to work from home and not be in close proximity of hundreds of people a day,” he told Business Insider. “Usually, we find out pretty last minute regarding new policies, and especially in a time like this, you’d think they’d be giving us much more consistent updates,” said Martin, who says he’s worked with the company for over two years. Borges stressed that Starbucks let partners know it was expecting them to return to work and was ending catastrophe pay on April 16 – nearly two weeks before they would be expected to return. “Some of my coworkers have told me they are hesitantly going back because they really don’t want to, but they needed the benefits provided by Starbucks,” Martin said, adding that he believed was “privileged” to be able to make the decision to remain on unpaid leave from the company. He added: “It’s tough because I know other people I work with are going to be seriously affected and would hate to see something happen to any of them or their family members because they’re now being forced to be exposed to the general public.” Krug agreed the response from the company to the pandemic had been a bit puzzling. “It’s been very confusing and I do feel like the statement the company put out at first was kind and reassuring, but I think it just helped them save face because eventually, it was just like ‘well, get back to work or don’t eat.'” “We’ve all been home for a month,” a barista who works at a Starbucks location in Vermont and asked to remain anonymous in fear of “definitely put a target on my back,” told Business Insider. “It’s not that we don’t want to work. There’s a huge population of Starbucks workers who are getting a little stir crazy – who want something to do. None of my coworkers are like ‘we don’t want to work.’ We want to work. We don’t want to just be opening because our company is just trying to turn a profit, which it does feel like that.” Most of the workers at her store signed a letter addressed to their district and store manager saying they would not return to work on May 6, which was the planned re-opening date for their location. They said they would not consider returning to work until at least May 15, when the stay-at-home order in Vermont is lifted. On Saturday, the US faced its single deadliest day so far amid the pandemic, as businesses including Starbucks begin to re-open stores and states across the country relax stay-at-home orders, even as death tolls continue to rise from the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Currently, Starbucks plans to phase out catastrophe pay in June when the company expects to “return to [its] normal operations, pay, and benefits,” according to Williams’ April 16 letter. “Service Pay,” which gives a temporary $3 an hour raise to Starbucks partners who work during the pandemic, will also end in June. Krug doesn’t know if she will feel safe enough to return to work after her leave ends. “I do feel like I made the right decision to protect my nana, and I’m glad the company was there to support me with that at first, but now, unless some kind of miracle happens within the next couple of weeks, I’m going to be losing my job.”
3 May 19:46 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/starbucks-workers-afraid-to-work-will-go-without-pay-2020-5Rating: 0.30
US says 'evidence' virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
3 May 23:18
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US says 'evidence' virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
WASHINGTON, May 4 — US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo yesterday said "enormous evidence" showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fuelling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo's comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 245,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China's management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. 'History of infecting the world' China denies the claims, and the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the “wide scientific consensus that the Covid-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified.” But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing “significant” and “enormous” evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. “I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories.” Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.” “President Trump is very clear: We'll hold those responsible accountable.” Pressure from demonstrators US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China's handling of the pandemic a centerpiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 67,000, and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown today, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators — some carrying weapons — who have rallied against the restrictions. In New York, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. But dozens of New Yorkers were fined for violating social distancing guidelines as they flocked to beaches and parks in balmy weekend weather. 'Rules are not clear' Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy — which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10 — is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Italians from today will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day that Italians were obliged to remain within 200 metres of their homes. “On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors,” said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. “On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do.” Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. Elsewhere, Germany will continue its easing today, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said yesterday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was expected to unveil the government's plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus — social distancing and masks in public — and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow — the epicentre of the contagion in Russia — urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. Prepare for 'bad scenarios' European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise €7.5 billion (RM35.35 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for Covid-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. The head of the maker of remdesivir, an anti-viral shown to reduce recovery times in patients, said Sunday it was exporting the drug and making it available in the US through the government. In Asia, South Korea — once the second worst-hit nation on the planet — said yesterday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures.” Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting yesterday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest Covid-19 outbreak. — AFP
3 May 23:18 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/04/us-says-evidence-virus-came-from-china-lab-as-europe-eases-lockdown/1862727Rating: 1.42
US says 'evidence' coronavirus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday (May 3) said "enormous evidence" showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fueling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo's comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 245,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China's management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. 'HISTORY OF INFECTING THE WORLD' China denies the claims and even the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the "wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories." Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." PRESSURE FROM DEMONSTRATORS US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China's handling of the pandemic a centrepiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 67,000, and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators - some armed - who have rallied against the restrictions. In New York, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. But dozens of New Yorkers were fined for violating social distancing guidelines as they flocked to beaches and parks in balmy weekend weather. 'RULES ARE NOT CLEAR' Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy - which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on Mar 10 - is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Italians from Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 meters of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. Elsewhere, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said on Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was expected to unveil the government's plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public - and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow - the epicenter of the contagion in Russia - urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. PREPARE FOR 'BAD SCENARIOS' European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros (US$8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. The head of the maker of remdesivir, an anti-viral shown to reduce recovery times in patients, said on Sunday it was exporting the drug and making it available in the US through the government. In Asia, South Korea - once the second worst-hit nation on the planet - said on Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 23:50 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/evidence-covid-19-coronavirus-china-lab-europe-eases-lockdown-12698348Rating: 3.25
US says ‘evidence’ virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday said “enormous evidence” showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fueling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo’s comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China’s management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. Trump, without giving details, said Thursday he had seen evidence the Wuhan Institute of Virology was the source, appearing to echo speculation fueled by US right-wing radio commentators about a secret lab. - ‘History of infecting the world’ - China denies the claims and even the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the “wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified.” But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing “significant” and “enormous” evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. “I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories.” Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.” “President Trump is very clear: we’ll hold those responsible accountable.” - Pressure from demonstrators - US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China’s handling of the pandemic a centerpiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 66,000 and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown Monday, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have rallied against the restrictions. There are signs the pandemic is slowing in some parts of the United States. In New York, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. - ‘Rules are not clear’ - Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy -- which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10 -- is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Italians from Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 meters of their homes. “On the one hand, we’re super excited for the reopening, we’re already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors,” said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. “On the other hand, it’s disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we’re not sure if just using common sense will do.” Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. Elsewhere, Germany will continue its easing Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country’s football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own “roadmap” to ease the lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was “past the peak” of the outbreak. But with health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing restrictions to revive businesses against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow -- the epicenter of the contagion in Russia -- urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. - Prepare for ‘bad scenarios’ - European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. In Asia, South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures”. Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen “calmly and gradually”, it should also prepare for “bad scenarios”. burs-pm/txw
3 May 18:31 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-says-evidence-virus-came-from-china-lab-as-europe-eases-lockdown/story-OI5e4IN9aslu5NoJDgWiEP.htmlRating: 0.30
US says 'evidence' virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday said "enormous evidence" showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fueling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo's comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China's management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. Trump, without giving details, said Thursday he had seen evidence the Wuhan Institute of Virology was the source, appearing to echo speculation fueled by US right-wing radio commentators about a secret lab. China denies the claims and even the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the "wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories." Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China's handling of the pandemic a centerpiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 66,000 and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown Monday, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have rallied against the restrictions. There are signs the pandemic is slowing in some parts of the United States. In New York, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy -- which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10 -- is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Italians from Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 meters of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. Elsewhere, Germany will continue its easing Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own "roadmap" to ease the lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak. But with health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing restrictions to revive businesses against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow -- the epicenter of the contagion in Russia -- urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. - Prepare for 'bad scenarios' - European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. In Asia, South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". burs-pm/txw https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 16:48 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/us-says-evidence-virus-came-from-china-lab-as-europe-eases-lockdown/vpxed0fRating: 0.51
US says 'evidence' virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday said "enormous evidence" showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fueling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo's comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 245,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China's management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, claims to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. - 'History of infecting the world' - China denies the claims, and the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made. But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. He did not however present evidence to back up his claim. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories," he said. Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." - Pressure from demonstrators - US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China's handling of the pandemic a centerpiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 67,600, with 1,450 recorded over the 24-hours late Sunday. Trump, speaking at a live TV event, promised an early coronavirus vaccine and an "incredible" future for the country as he sought to relaunch his disrupted election campaign. Florida is set to ease its lockdown Monday, as other US states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some carrying weapons -- who have rallied against the restrictions. In New York, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. But dozens of New Yorkers were fined for violating social distancing guidelines as they flocked to beaches and parks in balmy weekend weather. In Brazil, President Jair Bolsonaro railed against the country's lockdown in a speech to thousands of anti-confinement demonstrators, even as the national death toll rose above 7,000. - 'Rules are not clear' - Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy -- which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10 -- is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Starting Monday Italians will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city center were mostly empty on the last day that Italians were obliged to remain within 200 meters of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus -- social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow -- the epicenter of the contagion in Russia -- urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. - Prepare for 'bad scenarios' - European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. In Asia, South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures." Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. burs/bgs/ch
3 May 16:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/us-says-evidence-virus-came-from-china-lab-as-europe-eases-lockdown/article/571138Rating: 0.78
US says 'enormous evidence' shows coronavirus came from China lab
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday (May 3) said "enormous evidence" showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fueling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo's comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 245,000 people have been killed and 3.5 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China's management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. "HISTORY OF INFECTING THE WORLD" China denies the claims and even the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told ABC Television he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the "wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories." Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: We'll hold those responsible accountable." PRESSURE FROM DEMONSTRATORS US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China's handling of the pandemic a centrepiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most COVID-19 deaths in the world at more 67,000, and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators - some armed - who have rallied against the restrictions. In New York, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. But dozens of New Yorkers were fined for violating social distancing guidelines as they flocked to beaches and parks in balmy weekend weather. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 23:50 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-coronavirus-came-from-china-lab-wuhan-evidence-pompeo-12698348Rating: 3.25
U.S. says 'evidence' virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
WASHINGTON, USA – US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday, May 3, said "enormous evidence" showed the new coronavirus originated in a lab in China, further fueling tensions with Beijing over its handling of the outbreak. Pompeo's comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. (READ: Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns) More than 245,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China's management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. 'History of infecting the world' China denies the claims, and the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the "wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified." But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing "significant" and "enormous" evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. "I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories." Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to "a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk." "President Trump is very clear: we'll hold those responsible accountable." Pressure from demonstrators US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China's handling of the pandemic a centerpiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 67,000, and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown Monday, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators – some carrying weapons – who have rallied against the restrictions. (READ: Armed U.S. protesters enter Michigan capitol to demand lockdown end) In New York, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. But dozens of New Yorkers were fined for violating social distancing guidelines as they flocked to beaches and parks in balmy weekend weather. 'Rules are not clear' Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy – which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10 – is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Italians from Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day that Italians were obliged to remain within 200 meters of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. Elsewhere, Germany will continue its easing Monday, while Slovenia, Poland, and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was expected to unveil the government's plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus – social distancing and masks in public – and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow – the epicenter of the contagion in Russia – urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. Prepare for 'bad scenarios' European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. The head of the maker of remdesivir, an anti-viral shown to reduce recovery times in patients, said Sunday it was exporting the drug and making it available in the US through the government. In Asia, South Korea – once the second worst-hit nation on the planet – said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures." Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons, and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. – Rappler.com
3 May 23:44 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/global-affairs/259808-us-evidence-coronavirus-china-lab-europe-eases-lockdownRating: 1.64
US says ‘evidence’ virus came from China lab as Europe eases lockdown
Chinese officials have dismissed speculation the virus first emerged in a lab in Wuhan. AFP/STR Pompeo’s comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. US President Donald Trump, increasingly critical of China’s management of the first outbreak in the city of Wuhan in December, last week claimed to have proof it started in a Chinese laboratory. Scientists believe the virus jumped from animals to humans, after emerging in China, possibly from a market in Wuhan selling exotic animals for meat. Trump, without giving details, said Thursday he had seen evidence the Wuhan Institute of Virology was the source, appearing to echo speculation fueled by US right-wing radio commentators about a secret lab. – ‘History of infecting the world’ – China denies the claims and even the US Director of National Intelligence office has said analysts are still examining the exact origin of the outbreak. Pompeo, a former CIA chief, told the ABC he agreed with a statement from the US intelligence community about the “wide scientific consensus that the COVID-19 virus was not man-made or genetically modified.” But Pompeo went further than Trump, citing “significant” and “enormous” evidence that the virus originated in a Wuhan lab. “I think the whole world can see now, remember, China has a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories.” Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.” “President Trump is very clear: we’ll hold those responsible accountable.” – Pressure from demonstrators – US news reports say Trump has tasked US spies to find out more about the origins of the virus, as he makes China’s handling of the pandemic a centerpiece of his campaign for the November presidential election. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world at more 66,000 and Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain, with tens of millions left jobless. Florida is set to ease its lockdown Monday, as other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators — some armed — who have rallied against the restrictions. There are signs the pandemic is slowing in some parts of the United States. In New York, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close as virus cases decline. – ‘Rules are not clear’ – Across the Atlantic, European nations prepared for cautious easing of restrictions. Hard-hit Italy — which reported its lowest daily toll since stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10 — is set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. Italians from Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion over the rules. Romans were doing aerobics on rooftop terraces and exercising indoors while squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 meters of their homes. “On the one hand, we’re super excited for the reopening, we’re already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors,” said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. “On the other hand, it’s disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we’re not sure if just using common sense will do.” Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths. Elsewhere, Germany will continue its easing Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, an influential German minister said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country’s football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own “roadmap” to ease the lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was “past the peak” of the outbreak. But with health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing restrictions to revive businesses against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus – social distancing and masks in public — and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow — the epicenter of the contagion in Russia — urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. – Prepare for ‘bad scenarios’ – European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. The race is on to find a viable vaccine or treatment with several countries involved in trials. In Asia, South Korea — once the second worst-hit nation on the planet — said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures”. Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts caution that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen “calmly and gradually”, it should also prepare for “bad scenarios”. burs-pm/txw
3 May 20:51 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/news-world/2278211/us-says-evidence-virus-came-from-china-lab-as-europe-eases-lockdown/Rating: 1.26
Surfing and strolling, Spaniards reclaim the outdoors
3 May 15:48
•
4 articles
Weight: 2.55
Importance: 2.55
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 15:48
Average US: 14.915
Weighted average US: 17.66766946022409
Average GB: 1.3724999999999998
Weighted average GB: 1.1125234590517301
Average IN: 4.9625
Weighted average IN: 5.8133022042460025
Surfing and strolling, Spaniards reclaim the outdoors
GAVA/MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - Spaniards revelled in a second day of freedom on Sunday, heading outside in time-slots for age groups on the first weekend adults were allowed out since one of the world’s strictest coronavirus lockdowns was imposed in mid-March. Though Spain’s appalling COVID-19 outbreak has shrouded the nation in mourning for more than 25,000 dead, there was much-needed relief on a sunny spring day as people at last headed back to the streets, hills and sea. Surfer Sigrid Cervera, 44, yelled for joy as she jumped into the waves with her board in Gava, a town on the Mediterranean coast outside Barcelona. “I have not been able to go surfing for ages so I am very excited,” she said. Joggers ruled the streets early on, before it was the elderly and then children’s turn - all under orders to stay two metres apart under continued social distancing guidelines. “We can breathe,” exulted one elderly resident of Madrid, Maria Jesus, enjoying a walk in the city centre. “At home, all you can do is open a window, and you open them every day, but it is not the same as being outdoors.” One of the worst-hit nations, Spain’s death toll climbed by 164 in the previous 24 hours to 25,264, while cases reached 217,466, according to latest health ministry data on Sunday. But the declining pace of deaths and infections has led Spain to start unwinding its stay-at-home order, with children allowed out under supervision from last weekend, and adults given permission to exercise outdoors from Saturday. Walks and sports are allowed from 6-10 a.m. and 8-11 p.m., while children have the afternoons, and the elderly are given late morning and early evening windows. “This is a great relief to me to get out and run again,” said musician Jordi Jornet, 45, who went jogging along the shore in Gava on Sunday after a run in the mountains the previous evening. Not all were following the rules though: in Logroño, northwestern Spain, police stopped a car driven by a man whose wife was hiding under a blanket in the boot, according to the Interior Ministry. He had said he was taking tools to an allotment. To prevent overcrowding, Barcelona’s city council barred entry to its urban beaches, so thousands converged instead on the beachfront boardwalk. In the capital Madrid, where parks and other large public spaces remain closed, runners and walkers shared narrow pavements and walkways. Government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero described the population’s behaviour as “exemplary”. But newspaper ABC said Madrid police broke up 29 groups of teenagers drinking on Saturday night, and Cadena Ser radio cited police sources as saying a record number of arrests were made for breaking confinement rules on Sunday. Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The relaxation of exercise restrictions is one of the first steps in a four-phase plan to reopen Spain by the end of June. From Monday, businesses that operate by appointment, such as hairdressers and beauty salons, will resume limited services. In the next stage, outdoor areas of bars and restaurants can open at 50% occupancy, while groups of up to 10 people will be allowed in public places and in homes.
3 May 15:48 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-spain-idUSKBN22F0B6Rating: 4.04
Surfing and strolling, Spaniards reclaim the outdoors
GAVA/MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - Spaniards revelled in a second day of freedom on Sunday, heading outside in time-slots for age groups on the first weekend adults were allowed out since one of the world’s strictest coronavirus lockdowns was imposed in mid-March. Though Spain’s appalling COVID-19 outbreak has shrouded the nation in mourning for more than 25,000 dead, there was much-needed relief on a sunny spring day as people at last headed back to the streets, hills and sea. Surfer Sigrid Cervera, 44, yelled for joy as she jumped into the waves with her board in Gava, a town on the Mediterranean coast outside Barcelona. “I have not been able to go surfing for ages so I am very excited,” she said. Joggers ruled the streets early on, before it was the elderly and then children’s turn - all under orders to stay two metres apart under continued social distancing guidelines. “We can breathe,” exulted one elderly resident of Madrid, Maria Jesus, enjoying a walk in the city centre. “At home, all you can do is open a window, and you open them every day, but it is not the same as being outdoors.” One of the worst-hit nations, Spain’s death toll climbed by 164 in the previous 24 hours to 25,264, while cases reached 217,466, according to latest health ministry data on Sunday. But the declining pace of deaths and infections has led Spain to start unwinding its stay-at-home order, with children allowed out under supervision from last weekend, and adults given permission to exercise outdoors from Saturday. Walks and sports are allowed from 6-10 a.m. and 8-11 p.m., while children have the afternoons, and the elderly are given late morning and early evening windows. “This is a great relief to me to get out and run again,” said musician Jordi Jornet, 45, who went jogging along the shore in Gava on Sunday after a run in the mountains the previous evening. Not all were following the rules though: in Logroño, northwestern Spain, police stopped a car driven by a man whose wife was hiding under a blanket in the boot, according to the Interior Ministry. He had said he was taking tools to an allotment. To prevent overcrowding, Barcelona’s city council barred entry to its urban beaches, so thousands converged instead on the beachfront boardwalk. In the capital Madrid, where parks and other large public spaces remain closed, runners and walkers shared narrow pavements and walkways. Government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero described the population’s behaviour as “exemplary”. But newspaper ABC said Madrid police broke up 29 groups of teenagers drinking on Saturday night, and Cadena Ser radio cited police sources as saying a record number of arrests were made for breaking confinement rules on Sunday. Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The relaxation of exercise restrictions is one of the first steps in a four-phase plan to reopen Spain by the end of June. From Monday, businesses that operate by appointment, such as hairdressers and beauty salons, will resume limited services. In the next stage, outdoor areas of bars and restaurants can open at 50% occupancy, while groups of up to 10 people will be allowed in public places and in homes.
3 May 15:48 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-spain-idUSKBN22F0B6Rating: 4.04
Surfing and strolling, Spaniards reclaim the outdoors
GAVA/MADRID (Reuters) - Spaniards revelled in a second day of freedom on Sunday, flocking outdoors in time-slots for age groups on the first weekend adults were allowed out since one of the world s strictest coronavirus lockdowns was imposed in mid-March. Though Spain s appalling COVID-19 outbreak has shrouded the nation in mourning for more than 25,000 dead, there was much-needed relief on a sunny spring day as people at last headed back to the streets, hills and sea. Surfer Sigrid Cervera, 44, yelled for joy as she jumped into the waves with her board in Gava, a town on the Mediterranean coast outside Barcelona. "I have not been able to go surfing for ages so I am very excited this morning," she said. Joggers ruled the streets early on, before it was the elderly and then children s turn - all under orders to stay 2 metres apart under continued social distancing guidelines. "We can breathe," exulted one elderly resident of Madrid, Maria Jesus, enjoying a walk in the city centre. "At home, all you can do is open a window, and you open them every day, but it is not the same as being outdoors." One of the worst-hit nations, Spain s death toll climbed by 164 in the previous 24 hours to 25,264, while cases reached 217,466, according to latest health ministry data on Sunday. But the declining pace of deaths and infections has led Spain to start unwinding its stay-at-home order, with children allowed out under supervision from last weekend, and adults given permission to exercise outdoors from Saturday. "GREAT RELIEF" Walks and sports are allowed from 6-10 a.m. and 8-11 p.m., while children have the afternoons, and the elderly are given late morning and early evening windows. "This is a great relief to me to get out and run again," said musician Jordi Jornet, 45, who was jogging along the shore in Gava on Sunday after a run in the mountains the previous evening. He has been out of work since the lockdown, which has crippled Spain s economy. To prevent overcrowding, Barcelona s city council barred entry to its urban beaches, so thousands converged instead on the beachfront boardwalk. In the capital Madrid, where parks and other large public spaces remain closed, runners and walkers shared narrow pavements and walkways. The relaxation of exercise restrictions is one of the first steps in a four-phase plan to reopen Spain by the end of June. From Monday, businesses that operate by appointment, such as hairdressers and beauty salons, will resume limited services. In the next stage, outdoor areas of bars and restaurants can open at 50% occupancy, while groups of up to 10 people will be allowed in public places and in homes. Environment Minister Teresa Ribera, who heads the committee responsible for unwinding the lockdown, told El Pais newspaper people would have to be careful until at least October. Health Emergency Chief Fernando Simon echoed that caution, telling reporters there was a high risk of a new outbreak.
3 May 18:50 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543872-Surfing-and-strolling-Spaniards-reclaim-the-outdoorsRating: 1.71
Surfing and strolling, Spaniards reclaim the outdoors
MADRID: Spaniards revelled in a second day of freedom on Sunday (May 3), flocking outdoors in time-slots for age groups on the first weekend adults were allowed out since one of the world's strictest coronavirus lockdowns was imposed in mid-March. Though Spain's appalling COVID-19 outbreak has shrouded the nation in mourning for more than 25,000 dead, there was much-needed relief on a sunny spring day as people at last headed back to the streets, hills and sea. Surfer Sigrid Cervera, 44, yelled for joy as she jumped into the waves with her board in Gava, a town on the Mediterranean coast outside Barcelona. "I have not been able to go surfing for ages so I am very excited this morning," she said. Joggers ruled the streets early on, before it was the elderly and then children's turn - all under orders to stay two metres apart under continued social distancing guidelines. "We can breathe," exulted one elderly resident of Madrid, Maria Jesus, enjoying a walk in the city centre. "At home, all you can do is open a window, and you open them every day, but it is not the same as being outdoors." One of the worst-hit nations, Spain's death toll climbed by 164 in the previous 24 hours to 25,264, while cases reached 217,466, according to latest health ministry data on Sunday. But the declining pace of deaths and infections has led Spain to start unwinding its stay-at-home order, with children allowed out under supervision from last weekend, and adults given permission to exercise outdoors from Saturday. 'GREAT RELIEF' Walks and sports are allowed from 6-10am and 8-11pm, while children have the afternoons, and the elderly are given late morning and early evening windows. "This is a great relief to me to get out and run again," said musician Jordi Jornet, 45, who was jogging along the shore in Gava on Sunday after a run in the mountains the previous evening. He has been out of work since the lockdown, which has crippled Spain's economy. To prevent overcrowding, Barcelona's city council barred entry to its urban beaches, so thousands converged instead on the beachfront boardwalk. In the capital Madrid, where parks and other large public spaces remain closed, runners and walkers shared narrow pavements and walkways. The relaxation of exercise restrictions is one of the first steps in a four-phase plan to reopen Spain by the end of June. From Monday, businesses that operate by appointment, such as hairdressers and beauty salons, will resume limited services. In the next stage, outdoor areas of bars and restaurants can open at 50 per cent occupancy, while groups of up to 10 people will be allowed in public places and in homes. Environment Minister Teresa Ribera, who heads the committee responsible for unwinding the lockdown, told El Pais newspaper people would have to be careful until at least October. Health Emergency Chief Fernando Simon echoed that caution, telling reporters there was a high risk of a new outbreak. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 17:38 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/surfing-strolling-spaniards-outdoors-covid-19-coronavirus-12697984Rating: 3.25
Eight more deaths linked to coronavirus across Liverpool hospitals
3 May 14:33
•
11 articles
Weight: 2.55
Importance: 2.55
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 17:09
Average US: 13.472727272727274
Weighted average US: 32.82740944434145
Average GB: 8.327272727272726
Weighted average GB: 6.0155578149562645
Average IN: 2.3727272727272726
Weighted average IN: 2.692179189651039
Eight more deaths linked to coronavirus across Liverpool hospitals
Hospitals in Liverpool have been hit by a further eight deaths linked to coronavirus. Figures announced on Sunday also revealed six more deaths have been recorded in NHS trusts that cover the rest of the Liverpool City Region. Liverpool University Hospitals Trust, which runs The Royal, Aintree and Broadgreen hospitals, had the largest number of new coronavirus deaths across the region. Seven further deaths mean the Trust has now recorded a total of 325 tragedies linked to Covid-19. No new deaths were registered at the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, where there has been 16 to now. Alder Hey Children's Hospital also recorded no further deaths, with its total currently four - all adults who were being treated there. Mersey Care Mental Health Trust, which announced its first three virus deaths earlier this week, did not record any further deaths. But the Walton Centre recorded one more, meaning its total now stands at six. There was one new death registered at each of St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust, Wirral University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and Warrington and Halton NHS Trust. Their totals rose to 153, 168 and 89 respectively. Three new deaths took the total at Southport and Ormskirk NHS Trust to 118. The news came as a further 358 hospital deaths were announced across the UK on Sunday.
3 May 14:33 • Liverpool Echo • https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/eight-further-deaths-linked-coronavirus-18192272Rating: 0.83
American hospitals have lost dozens of medical workers to the coronavirus. Here are some of their stories., Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
While most Americans are confined to their homes amidst state and city-wide lockdowns, healthcare workers continue to live on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. In the past two months, more than 9,000 US healthcare workers have contracted the coronavirus, according to an April report from the Center for Disease Control. The vast majority of healthcare workers reported that their symptoms were mild, but several hundred had cases serious enough to warrant a hospital stay, and at least 27 US healthcare workers have died from the disease. The number reported by the CDC is likely incomplete. Earlier this month, the National Nurses United union reported that at least 48 nurses have died from the coronavirus. Worldwide, the number of healthcare workers who have succumbed to coronavirus exceeds 100. Medical centers around the country – and around the world – continue to report they lack adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) for their staff, and many have resorted to using rain ponchos, and even garbage bags to protect themselves. Business Insider has reached out to the friends and family of the doctors, nurses, and support staff who contracted and died from the disease while trying to save others. Here are the stories of some of the unsung healthcare heroes who lost their lives during the COVID-19 global crisis. This is an ongoing Business Insider project. If you know of other healthcare workers who have died from COVID-19, please reach out to Haven Orecchio-Egresitz at horecchio@businessinsider.com. captionWilkes was lauded by colleagues for her “commitment to family” and her “desire to live life to the fullest.” Diedre Heard Wilkes was a devout Christian who brought joy to those she worked with. A graduate of West Georgia Technical College, Wilkes received her Associate Degree in Radiology Technology, according to her obituary. She was a mammogram technician at Piedmont Newnan Hospital in Atlanta. “Deidre was my work daughter, whom I loved dearly. She brought me such joy in watching her professional commitment, her love of God, her commitment to family, her desire to live life to its fullest,” Cat Thompson wrote of her colleague. “I am fully blessed to have known such a person who proved to me that her generation is full of individuals who are not afraid of hard work and still believed Sunday was a day to honor God.” Wilkes, who was remembered as a kind and gentle spirit, has two children, Quintero and Khloe. She died at her home and a posthumous test came back positive for COVID-19, the local coroner told ABC News. One of her children was at home when she died. Attempts to reach several of Wilkes’ family members and friends were unsuccessful. “I love you and miss you so much my beautiful sister. It feels as if I have been stuck in a twilight zone since March 19th,” Wilkes’ sister LaSonya Heard wrote on her memorial page. “I am so thankful for the amazing relationship that we had as siblings.” captionWilson-Griffin, who died on March 20 of the coronavirus, “viewed prenatal nursing as her life’s work,” a colleague wrote. Maternal mortality rates in Missouri are among the worst in the nation, especially for black women. Judy Wilson-Griffin, a perinatal clinical nurse specialist at SSM Health-St. Mary’s Hospital-St. Louis, dedicated her career to making pregnancy safer for expectant mothers. Laura Kuensting, Director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, remembered Wilson-Griffin as a passionate advocate for evidence-based care. She had practiced nursing for 30 years before enrolling in the DNP program in 2017. “Judy did not view her role in nursing as a career,” Kuensting wrote in a tribute to Wilson-Griffin on the university’s website. “She viewed perinatal nursing as her life’s work. Judy was motivated to keep moving forward, achieving excellence and making a difference. She was revered as an expert in perinatal nursing at the local, state, and national levels.” Kuensting said that she remembered when Wilson-Griffin finished the social determinants of health tour of St. Louis, designed to expose students to health disparities among low-income and predominantly black communities. “I remember her making comments to me of how impactful that was,” Kuensting wrote. “Being a black nurse herself and overcoming adversities and implicit biases throughout her career, she could relate. She was driven to change the maternal and infant mortality for African-American women in the St. Louis area.” When Wilson-Griffin learned that maternal transport teams – which transport pregnant people to the hospital by air or ambulance – reduce deaths, she established the first program in the state at Barnes Hospital and later another St. Mary’s, according to the University. Before she died, she was working on instituting a Maternal Fetal Triage Index, an evidence-based assessment for pregnant women, at the hospital. Wilson-Griffin was the first COVID-19 patient to die in St. Louis. “The nursing profession, and particularly the perinatal nursing specialty, have greatly benefited from Judy’s work,” Kuensting wrote. “Her leadership persevered through the times when she was told, ‘That’s not the way we’ve always done it.’ She was a mentor and a preceptor to countless numbers of nursing and medical students, colleagues, and coworkers. She was motivated and determined to deliver the best care to pregnant women.” captionKelly was a professional dancer before becoming a nurse — a profession he chose because it allowed him to help others. Kious Kelly could always sense when someone in the room was feeling down and would do anything in his power to make it right, his sister Marya Patrice Sherron, told Business Insider. That’s why it didn’t surprise Sherron to learn that her brother had gone without protective equipment at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City so others didn’t have to. Medical workers at Mt. Sinai complained of a lack of PPE and had resorted to using garbage bags as protective gear. “Of course he shouldn’t have been in that position, but I know he would,” Sherron said. “That’s the kind of person he was.” Kelly, who grew up in Lansing, Michigan, had a career as a professional dancer before entering nursing school about 10 years ago, his sister said. As his dancing career wound down, he wanted to transition into a profession where he could help people. He was accepted to New York University and finished his nursing program in two years, his sister said. At Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, he was a lead nurse during the weekdays and also managed weekend shifts. Sherron said that in the days since her brother’s death, she has been hearing about the small acts of kindness he carried out on the job. One colleague told Sherron that during a chaotic shift during the winter a man who was homeless at the time wouldn’t leave the emergency room because he was cold. Kelly, she learned, took his jacket off to give to the man. “That kind of story kind of epitomizes who he was. That’s not unique,” she said. “Everything was expendable. It didn’t matter if he could help someone else.” captionGabrin and his husband were hoping to adopt a child together at the time of his death. Frank Gabin dedicated his life to emergency medicine. It wasn’t until a few years ago that he started thinking seriously about having a family. At the time of his death, he and his husband Arnold Vargas had been planning to have children, Gabrin’s best friend Debra Vasalech told BI. “They hadn’t even been married a year,” said Vasalech, who was a guest at the couple’s August wedding. “They were already doing the work to have children. They were planning to move to Florida over the next few years to raise the kids.” Six days after becoming symptomatic in March, Gabrin woke up at his New York apartment struggling to breathe. Vargas called 911 and got Vasalech on speakerphone. In the 30 minutes it took for paramedics to arrive, Gabrin died in his husband’s arms, Vasalech said. Vargas has also tested positive and is still quarantined at their home. Gabrin, who started his career in emergency medicine as a Navy doctor, had survived cancer twice, his best friend said. After that, he overcame addiction issues related to professional burnout. Gabrin channeled his experience into the book Back from Burnout,which offered advice to other medical professionals about compassion fatigue. “He discovered how compassion was what was missing in medicine,” said Vasalech, who helped Gabrin with the book. “He believed that people in emergency medicine were born with the need to care for people.” Vasalech said that her best friend wasn’t worried about working on the frontlines at first because he had the equipment he needed. But when that equipment ran short, he felt danger approaching. “The moment that happened, he got nervous,” Vasalech said. “He was going out getting aloe vera plant to make his own hand sanitizer.” captionIlagan’s family are distraught they weren’t able to be with her during her in her final days, her niece Jhoanna said. Aracelli Buendia Ilagan left her home in the Philippines when she was in her 20s to work as a nurse in the United States. Even though she was thousands of miles away from her family, she was dedicated to maintaining close relationships and supporting them in tough times. “She’s very thoughtful to her family,” her niece, Jhoanna Mariel Buendia told BI. “We cannot accept that nobody was there to help her when she was suffering. We feel very helpless, we didn’t get the chance to speak to her during her most difficult times.” Ilagan had been a nurse manager in the surgical ICU at Miami Jackson Memorial Hospital in Florida for 30 years. Buendia said that her aunt had self-quarantined after she started experiencing coronavirus symptoms. When her husband went in to check on her on March 28, he found her unresponsive on the floor, her niece said. Attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. Buendia, who is 27 and working in an ICU in the UK, said that her aunt “groomed her” to become a nurse and has been her mentor. Having no children of her own, Ilagan shared a special bond with Buendia, according to the young nurse. “I actually have two aunts whose profession is nursing,” said Buendia, who is an ICU nurse in the UK. “They always told me that helping other people is one of the best feelings.” A few days before her death, Ilagan and Buendia spoke on the phone. Ilagan gave her tips on how to best care for patients suffering from COVID-19, and to stay safe. “I told her she had to take care of herself because she’s a little bit old already,” Buendia said. “The last thing she told me is that I have to take care of myself and the other patients, as well. It hit me hard. She never mentioned her illness or what she’s going through. I view her as a selfless woman.” captionTheresa Lococo’s daughter said that her mother would always show up to work at least an hour before her scheduled shift Theresa Lococo attended nursing school at Kings County Hospital in the 1970s. On March 27, the 68-year-old pediatric nurse died from the coronavirus after serving patients at the same facility for 48 years, her daughter Lisa Lococo told Business Insider. “My mother was very committed to what she did, and she just loved the people and the hospital,” Lisa Lococo said about her mother’s long career. “I can remember when I was a kid, she worked with a lot of children who were abandoned by their parents and they would become like her children. And they were patients of hers for years on end.” Lococo made life-long friendships with her colleagues and their children grew up together, Lisa said. Even though many of the nurses she started her career with have since retired, Lococo kept showing up to work. Every day for as her son and daughter can remember, their mother would leave for work at least an hour before her scheduled shift. “She was so committed to her patients and her friends and colleagues. That nursing job was her life,” Lisa said. Outside of work, Lococo’s world revolved around Lisa and her brother Anthony, and eventually their children. “She loved her kids and her grandchildren. There is nothing she wouldn’t do for any us,” Lisa said. “She would put herself last before everyone else.” Lisa said that her mother’s passing was unexpected and that she hadn’t been tested for the virus before she died. On March 27, Lisa called her mother at the exact moment her brother had called for paramedics. She died soon after. With social distancing measures still in place, the family hasn’t been able to have a memorial for her. Theresa Lococo’s mother, who was in her 90s and living in a Brooklyn nursing home, died two weeks after she did. “My grandmother was not aware of the death of my mother. She had Alzheimer’s,” Lisa said. “We have been suffering a tremendous loss,” she added. “It’s been really rough, and it’s even harder to deal with it from so far away. I can’t go up there and do anything.” captionHickok “served family, country, and faith,” his sister Mary said. Army Captain Douglas Linn Hickok, a physician assistant and New Jersey National Guardsman, became the first US military service member to die from the coronavirus when he passed away on March 28 at the age of 57 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Poconos in Pennsylvania. Born January 15, 1963, at Oklahoma’s Norman Air Force Base, Hickok was a third-generation service member who served as a captain in the National Guard Medical Unit in Seagirt, New Jersey. He graduated from US International University in California with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy, and then went on to Cornell Medical School in New York City, where he attained a physician assistant medical degree. “Capt. Hickok provided compassionate and professional care to the Soldiers of the New Jersey Army National Guard while assigned to the Medical Command,” Col. Edwin Wymer, commander, New Jersey Army National Guard Medical Command, wrote in an emailed statement to BI. “Hickok was highly praised by subordinates and Senior Officers alike for his dedication and service to the Citizen-Soldiers of New Jersey.” After serving in New Jersey, Hickok moved to Maryland in 2009 to work as a civilian physician assistant at Andrew’s Air Force Base and then to Pennsylvania in 2017 where he worked as an orthopedic physician assistant at a clinic, according to his family. “He was my hero,” Mary Scott-Peavler, Hickok’s younger sister, told BI. “He never gave up, never ran from things, and was not afraid of anything.” “He served people. He served family, country, and faith,” Scott-Peavler said. “That sums up my brother.” Hickok’s daughter, Shandrea, described her father as a caring person who was devoted to spending time with her and her brother Noah. “My best memories of my father are the many trips he took my brother and me on,” she told BI in an email. “He loved to go outside and take us to parks, museums, battleships, military bases, movie theaters, beaches, and restaurants.” His hobbies included cooking, hiking, baseball, and scouting. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Hickok also served a church mission in Spain for two years in the 1980s and spoke fluent Spanish. A few weeks before his passing, Hickok and his daughter went on a spontaneous trip to the Sandy Hook Proving Ground in New Jersey, where Shandrea said her father excitedly took in the old canons, beautiful scenery, and wildlife on the grounds. “This memory really encompasses my father’s zest for life and sense of wonder for the outdoors,” she said. captionFreda Ocran’s son said a dearth of coronavirus tests at his mother’s hospital worried him. Freda Ocran worked as a nursing staff supervisor in Jacobi Medical Center’s psychiatric ward, the New York Post reported. About two weeks before her death, she began exhibiting mild symptoms of the illness. She continued to report to work until the hospital sent her home one day without testing her for the coronavirus, her son Kwame Ocran told the Post. On March 20, Ocran updated her Facebook profile picture with a banner reading, “I can’t stay home … I’m a healthcare worker!” She was eventually admitted to a hospital in the Bronx on March 24 and put on a ventilator. She died from coronavirus on March 28. According to Kwame Ocran, one of her three sons, Ocran was worried about the lack of testing being conducted at her facility. “Without those tests being administered, there’s no way of knowing if she was working with someone who had it or not,” Kwame Ocran told the New York Post. Mayor Bill De Blasio announced Ocran’s death the day after her passing, noting that family members relied upon her for support, including her mother who lives in Ghana. “What a horrible loss for that family, that hospital, and our city,” De Blasio said as the New York Post reports. Her son said she “gave herself undoubtedly to the church, to her work and to her kids,” according to CBS News. She leaves behind her husband of 30 years, Joseph. On March 16, almost two weeks before her death, Ocran shared a Facebook post reading, “Even in the midst of catastrophic events. Continue to speak your blessings. Dont stop!” caption“My father loved to show love through food,” Pattugalan’s son Gino told BI. Tomas Pattugalan, 70, an internal medicine doctor with over 40 years of experience, passed away from COVID-19 the morning of March 29 at Nassau University Hospital. Pattugalan was born and raised in Tuguegarao City in the Philippines and moved to New York in the late 1970s with his first wife and eldest daughter Patricia. He set up a private practice in Jamaica, Queens, in New York City, which he operated until his final days – transitioning from in-person to telehealth appointments once the city began to report more positive cases and he himself tested positive for the coronavirus on March 24. “I saw how he worked as I was growing up,” Pattugalan’s youngest daughter Tammy Justine Pattugalan, 14, told BI. “He knew every one of his patients by name. That was truly one of his most desirable traits.” Family and close friends affectionately referred to Pattugalan as “honeyboy,” according to Pattugalan’s son Gino Pattugalan. “He was just loved by everybody. He was honey, he was honeyboy,” Gino told BI. “And even if you were upset at him, he could charm you.” “My father loved to show love through food,” Gino said. “The question he would always ask was, ‘Did you eat?’ It’s one of those questions that comes from growing up in a third world country where you might go hungry. He always wanted to take care of us, to make sure we were healthy and provided for.” Pattugalan was a devout Catholic, according to family members. In January, a few months before he passed, Pattugalan traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate his 70th birthday. “It struck me when he told me that,” Gino said. “I think he started to see how thin the veil was between this life and next and he went to the Holy Land because he knew he just wouldn’t know the time or hour [of his death] and I think he knew maybe something could happen.” “I think he would want other people to know that he was a very religious man,” Tammy said, recounting her father’s words to her when his oxygen levels dropped and he had to go to the hospital. She asked him to promise her that he would live to see her graduate from middle school, get married, and live the rest of her life. “Tammy, just pray,” he responded. captionDanker was known as “Ms. Radiology” to her colleagues. Jeannie Danker spent more than 30 years at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. According to an internal letter to staff, colleagues nicknamed her “Ms. Radiology.” She met her husband of 30 years, John Danker, there as well. The two were proud Buckeyes and avid tailgaters at Ohio State football games, according to WBNS. She died on Sunday, March 29 at the age of 60, after testing positive for the coronavirus. John Danker tragically died just two months before, on January 30, after a battle with ALS, according to his obituary. They leave behind two daughters, Jill and Jennifer. Ohio State is not disclosing the specifics of how she contracted the virus, according to WBNS. Maggie Danker, who described Jeannie Danker as her aunt, posted on Facebook that her “contagious energy and loving heart will be sincerely missed.” Maggie Danker also wrote, “COVID-19 now has a face for me, it’s real, it’s happening, and affecting our loved ones.” When reached for comment, Jill Danker told BI that the family is requesting privacy at this time. In a statement to Wexner Medical Center staff obtained by WBSN, CEO Dr. Harold Paz called Danker a beloved and dedicated colleague. “She infused her administrative role with determination, selflessness, and a patient-first attitude,” Paz wrote. captionAnderson was “the backbone of the ER,” her friend Dorothy Lewis said. Larrice Anderson has been a practicing nurse since 2008 when she received her Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans, Louisiana. A longtime New Orleans resident, the 46-year-old worked on the front lines in the emergency room unit at New Orleans East Hospital treating patients infected with the coronavirus disease. “She always was the backbone of the ER,” Anderson’s friend, Dorothy Lewis, told the New Orleans Advocate. Lewis also told the local newspaper that Anderson had underlying health issues, making her more susceptible to severe symptoms of the disease. Nevertheless, Anderson bravely continued showing up to work. But in early March, Lewis said, Anderson became sick with stomach issues before being diagnosed with viral pneumonia. According to WBTV, she contracted the virus while tirelessly treating patients infected with the disease. “She only went to work and home,” Lewis told the New Orleans Advocate. “She had no room for nothing else. That tells you right there where she got it from.” She was admitted to the New Orleans East Hospital as a patient and eventually began to show signs of improvement. Her daughter, Cerrice Anderson, posted on Facebook on March 30 news of her mother being moved from the ICU to a separate unit to begin recovery. But her health dipped, and she ultimately died a day later. She leaves behind two children. “She passed away in hero fashion, doing something she truly loved which was caring for those in need, an unsung hero,” Anderson’s cousin, Donyette McGill Williams, wrote in a Facebook post. New Orleans East Hospital staff posted a video releasing balloons in honor of their fallen coworker. The hospital has also sent up a link for donations on the family’s behalf. “She was always smiling. That’s what I like to think of now. That’s what people remember, and not just remember her for this virus,” her former nursing school teacher Kristy Solis told WBTV.
3 May 17:15 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/healthcare-workers-who-died-with-the-coronavirus-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Quebec near 32,000 after missing April data found
MONTREAL -- MONDAY UPDATE: Quebec reports 75 new COVID-19 deaths. Read the full story here. ----- Quebec public health officials announced Sunday that a computer error resulted in 1,317 missing positive COVID-19 cases between April 2-30. The province also announced a daily increase of 892 new COVID-19 from Saturday, bringing the total number of infections in Quebec to 31,865. Sixty-nine people have died of the virus in the last 24 hours, which brings the total number of deaths to 2,205. Health officials said the 1,317 missed cases in April were mainly from Montreal, Laval and the Monteregie regions. However, offiicials announced just 16 more people in the hospital than the 1,738 reported Saturday, and four less people were in intensive care than there were Saturday for a total of 218. The new numbers come as Quebec gets ready to reopen retail stores in regions outside of Montreal, and take down checkpoints in some regions. Premier Francois Legault has set May 11 as reopening day for schools and daycares outside greater Montreal. The city is to follow suit on May 19, but attendance won't be mandatory. High schools, junior colleges and universities are to stay closed until September. Quebec aims to open retail stores outside Montreal by May 4 while those in the greater Montreal region are to reopen May 11. Lottery terminals are to begin reopening on May 4 after being shut down on March 20 with sales moving to online only. The construction industry is set to completely start up May 11, while manufacturing companies are to resume operations the same day with initial limits on the total number of employees who can work per shift. COVID-19 CASES IN QUEBECInfogram With reporting from The Canadian Press.
3 May 17:09 • Montreal • https://montreal.ctvnews.ca/confirmed-covid-19-cases-in-quebec-near-32-000-after-missing-april-data-found-1.4922826Rating: 0.30
96 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Alberta on Sunday and 1 more death
EDMONTON -- Alberta confirmed 96 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, and one more death. The total number of deaths in the province is now 95, with 62 in the Calgary zone, 15 in the north zone, 12 in the Edmonton zone, five in the south zone, and one in the central zone. There are currently 3,053 active cases in the province, and 2,713 recovered cases. Ninety people are currently in hospital, and 19 of them are in the intensive care unit. A total of 161,245 tests have been performed in Alberta, 3,728 of those tests were completed in the last 24 hours. The province is asking residents to download the ABTraceTogether app to help track the virus in Alberta.
3 May 21:37 • Edmonton • https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/96-new-cases-of-covid-19-confirmed-in-alberta-on-sunday-and-1-more-death-1.4923001Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus: 28 more deaths in Black Country, Staffordshire and Birmingham
The figures announced today take the total number of Covid-19 deaths in the region's hospitals to 1,954. A further 315 people have died in hospitals, care homes and the wider community in the UK, bringing the total to 28,446. Among the deaths announced in hospitals on Sunday were seven at the Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, which runs Walsall Manor Hospital, taking the total to 170. Four more deaths were confirmed at the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, which runs New Cross Hospital and Cannock Chase Hospital, taking the total to 243. At the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, which runs Sandwell and City hospitals, a further three deaths were announced – bringing the total to 300. Three more deaths were announced at the University Hospitals of North Midlands Trust, which runs Stafford's County Hospital and Royal Stoke University Hospital, taking the total to 202. No new deaths were announced at the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Russells Hall Hospital, where the total remains 221. A total of 11 more people have been confirmed to have died at the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, taking the total to 778. The trust runs Queen Elizabeth, Heartlands, Good Hope and Solihull hospitals. And seven new deaths were announced in Worcestershire, where the total deaths at the county's hospitals has risen to 230. As well as including patients who tested positive for the disease, the hospital statistics now also include patients who died in hospital and hadn't tested positive but for whom Covid-19 is documented as a direct or underlying cause of death on their death certificate. This included two deaths in the Midlands – but it not known where in the Midlands these deaths took place. A spokesman from NHS England said: "A further 327 people, who tested positive for coronavirus (Covid-19) have died, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 21,180. "Patients were aged between 46 and 101 years old. Of those, 17 of the 327 patients – aged between 47 and 97 years old – had no known underlying health condition. "Their families have been informed." Some deaths are not included in the statistics for several days due to testing or family members being informed. Sunday's figures included patients who died between March 28 and May 2.
3 May 13:40 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/health/coronavirus-covid19/2020/05/03/28-more-coronavirus-deaths-in-black-country-staffordshire-and-birmingham/Rating: 0.30
12 new cases of COVID-19 in Sask, 122 considered active
REGINA -- Saskatchewan has 12 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, according to a news release from the province. Of the new cases, four are in the far north, four in the north and four in Saskatoon. COVID CasesInfogram This brings the province to a total of 433 confirmed cases in the province, 122 of which are considered active. COVID-19 recoveriesInfogram Saskatoon continues to see the most cases with 161, 89 in the north, 81 in the far north, 76 in Regina 15 in the south and 11 in the central region. COVID-19 Case LocationsInfogram Forty-two cases in Saskatchewan are in healthcare workers. Of the cases 40 are in people under the age of 19, 159 in people aged 20 to 39, 141 in people 40 to 59, 78 in people aged 60 to 79 and 15 cases are in people over 80. Exactly half of cases are in men and women. Sask. COVID-19 DemographicsInfogram Currently there are 14 people in hospital including three in the ICU. To date, six people have died in the province and 31,572 tests have been performed. Saskatchewan COVID-19 testingInfogram
3 May 19:56 • Regina • https://regina.ctvnews.ca/12-new-cases-of-covid-19-in-sask-122-considered-active-1.4922947Rating: 0.30
American hospitals have lost dozens of medical workers to the coronavirus. Here are some of their stories.
While most Americans are confined to their homes amidst state and city-wide lockdowns, healthcare workers continue to live on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. In the past two months, more than 9,000 US healthcare workers have contracted the coronavirus, according to an April report from the Center for Disease Control. The vast majority of healthcare workers reported that their symptoms were mild, but several hundred had cases serious enough to warrant a hospital stay, and at least 27 US healthcare workers have died from the disease. The number reported by the CDC is likely incomplete. Earlier this month, the National Nurses United union reported that at least 48 nurses have died from the coronavirus. Worldwide, the number of healthcare workers who have succumbed to coronavirus exceeds 100.Medical centers around the country — and around the world — continue to report they lack adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) for their staff, and many have resorted to using rain ponchos, and even garbage bags to protect themselves. Business Insider has reached out to the friends and family of the doctors, nurses, and support staff who contracted and died from the disease while trying to save others. Here are the stories of some of the unsung healthcare heroes who lost their lives during the COVID-19 global crisis. This is an ongoing Business Insider project. If you know of other healthcare workers who have died from COVID-19, please reach out to Haven Orecchio-Egresitz at horecchio@businessinsider.com. Diedre Heard Wilkes was a devout Christian who brought joy to those she worked with. A graduate of West Georgia Technical College, Wilkes received her Associate Degree in Radiology Technology, according to her obituary. She was a mammogram technician at Piedmont Newnan Hospital in Atlanta. "Deidre was my work daughter, whom I loved dearly. She brought me such joy in watching her professional commitment, her love of God, her commitment to family, her desire to live life to its fullest," Cat Thompson wrote of her colleague. "I am fully blessed to have known such a person who proved to me that her generation is full of individuals who are not afraid of hard work and still believed Sunday was a day to honor God." Wilkes, who was remembered as a kind and gentle spirit, has two children, Quintero and Khloe. She died at her home and a posthumous test came back positive for COVID-19, the local coroner told ABC News. One of her children was at home when she died. Attempts to reach several of Wilkes' family members and friends were unsuccessful. "I love you and miss you so much my beautiful sister. It feels as if I have been stuck in a twilight zone since March 19th," Wilkes' sister LaSonya Heard wrote on her memorial page. "I am so thankful for the amazing relationship that we had as siblings." Maternal mortality rates in Missouri are among the worst in the nation, especially for black women. Judy Wilson-Griffin, a perinatal clinical nurse specialist at SSM Health-St. Mary's Hospital-St. Louis, dedicated her career to making pregnancy safer for expectant mothers. Laura Kuensting, Director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, remembered Wilson-Griffin as a passionate advocate for evidence-based care. She had practiced nursing for 30 years before enrolling in the DNP program in 2017. "Judy did not view her role in nursing as a career," Kuensting wrote in a tribute to Wilson-Griffin on the university's website. "She viewed perinatal nursing as her life's work. Judy was motivated to keep moving forward, achieving excellence and making a difference. She was revered as an expert in perinatal nursing at the local, state, and national levels." Kuensting said that she remembered when Wilson-Griffin finished the social determinants of health tour of St. Louis, designed to expose students to health disparities among low-income and predominantly black communities. "I remember her making comments to me of how impactful that was," Kuensting wrote. "Being a black nurse herself and overcoming adversities and implicit biases throughout her career, she could relate. She was driven to change the maternal and infant mortality for African-American women in the St. Louis area." When Wilson-Griffin learned that maternal transport teams — which transport pregnant people to the hospital by air or ambulance — reduce deaths, she established the first program in the state at Barnes Hospital and later another St. Mary's, according to the University. Before she died, she was working on instituting a Maternal Fetal Triage Index, an evidence-based assessment for pregnant women, at the hospital. Wilson-Griffin was the first COVID-19 patient to die in St. Louis. "The nursing profession, and particularly the perinatal nursing specialty, have greatly benefited from Judy's work," Kuensting wrote. "Her leadership persevered through the times when she was told, 'That's not the way we've always done it.' She was a mentor and a preceptor to countless numbers of nursing and medical students, colleagues, and coworkers. She was motivated and determined to deliver the best care to pregnant women." Kious Kelly could always sense when someone in the room was feeling down and would do anything in his power to make it right, his sister Marya Patrice Sherron, told Business Insider. That's why it didn't surprise Sherron to learn that her brother had gone without protective equipment at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City so others didn't have to. Medical workers at Mt. Sinai complained of a lack of PPE and had resorted to using garbage bags as protective gear. "Of course he shouldn't have been in that position, but I know he would," Sherron said. "That's the kind of person he was." Kelly, who grew up in Lansing, Michigan, had a career as a professional dancer before entering nursing school about 10 years ago, his sister said. As his dancing career wound down, he wanted to transition into a profession where he could help people. He was accepted to New York University and finished his nursing program in two years, his sister said. At Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, he was a lead nurse during the weekdays and also managed weekend shifts. Sherron said that in the days since her brother's death, she has been hearing about the small acts of kindness he carried out on the job. One colleague told Sherron that during a chaotic shift during the winter a man who was homeless at the time wouldn't leave the emergency room because he was cold. Kelly, she learned, took his jacket off to give to the man. "That kind of story kind of epitomizes who he was. That's not unique," she said. "Everything was expendable. It didn't matter if he could help someone else." Frank Gabin dedicated his life to emergency medicine. It wasn't until a few years ago that he started thinking seriously about having a family. At the time of his death, he and his husband Arnold Vargas had been planning to have children, Gabrin's best friend Debra Vasalech told BI. "They hadn't even been married a year," said Vasalech, who was a guest at the couple's August wedding. "They were already doing the work to have children. They were planning to move to Florida over the next few years to raise the kids." Six days after becoming symptomatic in March, Gabrin woke up at his New York apartment struggling to breathe. Vargas called 911 and got Vasalech on speakerphone. In the 30 minutes it took for paramedics to arrive, Gabrin died in his husband's arms, Vasalech said. Vargas has also tested positive and is still quarantined at their home. Gabrin, who started his career in emergency medicine as a Navy doctor, had survived cancer twice, his best friend said. After that, he overcame addiction issues related to professional burnout. Gabrin channeled his experience into the book Back from Burnout, which offered advice to other medical professionals about compassion fatigue. "He discovered how compassion was what was missing in medicine," said Vasalech, who helped Gabrin with the book. "He believed that people in emergency medicine were born with the need to care for people." Vasalech said that her best friend wasn't worried about working on the frontlines at first because he had the equipment he needed. But when that equipment ran short, he felt danger approaching. "The moment that happened, he got nervous," Vasalech said. "He was going out getting aloe vera plant to make his own hand sanitizer." Aracelli Buendia Ilagan left her home in the Philippines when she was in her 20s to work as a nurse in the United States. Even though she was thousands of miles away from her family, she was dedicated to maintaining close relationships and supporting them in tough times. "She's very thoughtful to her family," her niece, Jhoanna Mariel Buendia told BI. "We cannot accept that nobody was there to help her when she was suffering. We feel very helpless, we didn't get the chance to speak to her during her most difficult times." Ilagan had been a nurse manager in the surgical ICU at Miami Jackson Memorial Hospital in Florida for 30 years. Buendia said that her aunt had self-quarantined after she started experiencing coronavirus symptoms. When her husband went in to check on her on March 28, he found her unresponsive on the floor, her niece said. Attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. Buendia, who is 27 and working in an ICU in the UK, said that her aunt "groomed her" to become a nurse and has been her mentor. Having no children of her own, Ilagan shared a special bond with Buendia, according to the young nurse. "I actually have two aunts whose profession is nursing," said Buendia, who is an ICU nurse in the UK. "They always told me that helping other people is one of the best feelings." A few days before her death, Ilagan and Buendia spoke on the phone. Ilagan gave her tips on how to best care for patients suffering from COVID-19, and to stay safe. "I told her she had to take care of herself because she's a little bit old already," Buendia said. "The last thing she told me is that I have to take care of myself and the other patients, as well. It hit me hard. She never mentioned her illness or what she's going through. I view her as a selfless woman." Theresa Lococo attended nursing school at Kings County Hospital in the 1970s. On March 27, the 68-year-old pediatric nurse died from the coronavirus after serving patients at the same facility for 48 years, her daughter Lisa Lococo told Business Insider. "My mother was very committed to what she did, and she just loved the people and the hospital," Lisa Lococo said about her mother's long career. "I can remember when I was a kid, she worked with a lot of children who were abandoned by their parents and they would become like her children. And they were patients of hers for years on end." Lococo made life-long friendships with her colleagues and their children grew up together, Lisa said. Even though many of the nurses she started her career with have since retired, Lococo kept showing up to work. Every day for as her son and daughter can remember, their mother would leave for work at least an hour before her scheduled shift. "She was so committed to her patients and her friends and colleagues. That nursing job was her life," Lisa said. Outside of work, Lococo's world revolved around Lisa and her brother Anthony, and eventually their children. "She loved her kids and her grandchildren. There is nothing she wouldn't do for any us," Lisa said. "She would put herself last before everyone else." Lisa said that her mother's passing was unexpected and that she hadn't been tested for the virus before she died. On March 27, Lisa called her mother at the exact moment her brother had called for paramedics. She died soon after. With social distancing measures still in place, the family hasn't been able to have a memorial for her. Theresa Lococo's mother, who was in her 90s and living in a Brooklyn nursing home, died two weeks after she did. "My grandmother was not aware of the death of my mother. She had Alzheimer's," Lisa said. "We have been suffering a tremendous loss," she added. "It's been really rough, and it's even harder to deal with it from so far away. I can't go up there and do anything." Army Captain Douglas Linn Hickok, a physician assistant and New Jersey National Guardsman, became the first US military service member to die from the coronavirus when he passed away on March 28 at the age of 57 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Poconos in Pennsylvania. Born January 15, 1963, at Oklahoma's Norman Air Force Base, Hickok was a third-generation service member who served as a captain in the National Guard Medical Unit in Seagirt, New Jersey. He graduated from US International University in California with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy, and then went on to Cornell Medical School in New York City, where he attained a physician assistant medical degree. "Capt. Hickok provided compassionate and professional care to the Soldiers of the New Jersey Army National Guard while assigned to the Medical Command," Col. Edwin Wymer, commander, New Jersey Army National Guard Medical Command, wrote in an emailed statement to BI. "Hickok was highly praised by subordinates and Senior Officers alike for his dedication and service to the Citizen-Soldiers of New Jersey." After serving in New Jersey, Hickok moved to Maryland in 2009 to work as a civilian physician assistant at Andrew's Air Force Base and then to Pennsylvania in 2017 where he worked as an orthopedic physician assistant at a clinic, according to his family. "He was my hero," Mary Scott-Peavler, Hickok's younger sister, told BI. "He never gave up, never ran from things, and was not afraid of anything." "He served people. He served family, country, and faith," Scott-Peavler said. "That sums up my brother." Hickok's daughter, Shandrea, described her father as a caring person who was devoted to spending time with her and her brother Noah. "My best memories of my father are the many trips he took my brother and me on," she told BI in an email. "He loved to go outside and take us to parks, museums, battleships, military bases, movie theaters, beaches, and restaurants." His hobbies included cooking, hiking, baseball, and scouting. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Hickok also served a church mission in Spain for two years in the 1980s and spoke fluent Spanish. A few weeks before his passing, Hickok and his daughter went on a spontaneous trip to the Sandy Hook Proving Ground in New Jersey, where Shandrea said her father excitedly took in the old canons, beautiful scenery, and wildlife on the grounds. "This memory really encompasses my father's zest for life and sense of wonder for the outdoors," she said. Madhvi Aya, a physician's assistant in Brooklyn, New York, passed away from COVID-19 on March 29. Aya had worked at the Department of Emergency Medicine at Woodhull Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY for 12 years. She is survived by her 18-year-old daughter Minnoli, a freshman at the State University of New York at Buffalo studying pre-medicine, her husband Raj, and her 86-year-old mother. "She was beautiful. She was charismatic, very charming," Minnoli Aya told Business Insider. "She had a personality that like, if she walked into a room, people wanted to be around her and people wanted to talk to her." Minnoli said that she and her mother would talk for hours every night, and that it was a nightly occurrence for them to catch up, no matter how late it was or how early Aya had to get up the next morning. "She took that time out to talk to me and to get to know me and try to understand what I was going through as an American teen," Minnoli said. "What makes this grieving process worse is that because there are no horrible memories of my mother, all of them are good." In a statement to Business Insider, a spokesperson for the hospital would not comment on Aya's case but said, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of three members of the NYC Health + Hospitals/Woodhull community. We remain grateful for our health care workers who are bravely serving on the front lines. They are true heroes. As we continue to respond to this unprecedented global public health crisis, the safety of our staff and patients remain our first priority." On March 18, Aya was admitted to the Long Island Jewish Medical Center after being infected with the coronavirus. She told her family she most likely got it from a patient at work. Minnoli said that after experiencing first-hand a pandemic that led to her mother's death, she feels the healthcare system needs to shift to a system that values saving lives over profit. "Hospitals should be led by people who have a passion to save a life, not a passion to make money," she said. "I guess it starts with me and my generation." "My mother's death could have been prevented," Minnoli said. "I hope people don't forget about this and they don't forget about my mother." Freda Ocran worked as a nursing staff supervisor in Jacobi Medical Center's psychiatric ward, the New York Post reported. About two weeks before her death, she began exhibiting mild symptoms of the illness. She continued to report to work until the hospital sent her home one day without testing her for the coronavirus, her son Kwame Ocran told the Post. On March 20, Ocran updated her Facebook profile picture with a banner reading, "I can't stay home ... I'm a healthcare worker!" She was eventually admitted to a hospital in the Bronx on March 24 and put on a ventilator. She died from coronavirus on March 28. According to Kwame Ocran, one of her three sons, Ocran was worried about the lack of testing being conducted at her facility. "Without those tests being administered, there's no way of knowing if she was working with someone who had it or not," Kwame Ocran told the New York Post. Mayor Bill De Blasio announced Ocran's death the day after her passing, noting that family members relied upon her for support, including her mother who lives in Ghana. "What a horrible loss for that family, that hospital, and our city," De Blasio said as the New York Post reports. Her son said she "gave herself undoubtedly to the church, to her work and to her kids," according to CBS News. She leaves behind her husband of 30 years, Joseph. On March 16, almost two weeks before her death, Ocran shared a Facebook post reading, "Even in the midst of catastrophic events. Continue to speak your blessings. Dont stop!" Tomas Pattugalan, 70, an internal medicine doctor with over 40 years of experience, passed away from COVID-19 the morning of March 29 at Nassau University Hospital. Pattugalan was born and raised in Tuguegarao City in the Philippines and moved to New York in the late 1970s with his first wife and eldest daughter Patricia. He set up a private practice in Jamaica, Queens, in New York City, which he operated until his final days — transitioning from in-person to telehealth appointments once the city began to report more positive cases and he himself tested positive for the coronavirus on March 24. "I saw how he worked as I was growing up," Pattugalan's youngest daughter Tammy Justine Pattugalan, 14, told BI. "He knew every one of his patients by name. That was truly one of his most desirable traits." Family and close friends affectionately referred to Pattugalan as "honeyboy," according to Pattugalan's son Gino Pattugalan. "He was just loved by everybody. He was honey, he was honeyboy," Gino told BI. "And even if you were upset at him, he could charm you." "My father loved to show love through food," Gino said. "The question he would always ask was, 'Did you eat?' It's one of those questions that comes from growing up in a third world country where you might go hungry. He always wanted to take care of us, to make sure we were healthy and provided for." Pattugalan was a devout Catholic, according to family members. In January, a few months before he passed, Pattugalan traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate his 70th birthday. "It struck me when he told me that," Gino said. "I think he started to see how thin the veil was between this life and next and he went to the Holy Land because he knew he just wouldn't know the time or hour [of his death] and I think he knew maybe something could happen." "I think he would want other people to know that he was a very religious man," Tammy said, recounting her father's words to her when his oxygen levels dropped and he had to go to the hospital. She asked him to promise her that he would live to see her graduate from middle school, get married, and live the rest of her life. "Tammy, just pray," he responded. Jeannie Danker spent more than 30 years at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. According to an internal letter to staff, colleagues nicknamed her "Ms. Radiology." She met her husband of 30 years, John Danker, there as well. The two were proud Buckeyes and avid tailgaters at Ohio State football games, according to WBNS. She died on Sunday, March 29 at the age of 60, after testing positive for the coronavirus. John Danker tragically died just two months before, on January 30, after a battle with ALS, according to his obituary. They leave behind two daughters, Jill and Jennifer. Ohio State is not disclosing the specifics of how she contracted the virus, according to WBNS. Maggie Danker, who described Jeannie Danker as her aunt, posted on Facebook that her "contagious energy and loving heart will be sincerely missed." Maggie Danker also wrote, "COVID-19 now has a face for me, it's real, it's happening, and affecting our loved ones." When reached for comment, Jill Danker told BI that the family is requesting privacy at this time. In a statement to Wexner Medical Center staff obtained by WBSN, CEO Dr. Harold Paz called Danker a beloved and dedicated colleague. "She infused her administrative role with determination, selflessness, and a patient-first attitude," Paz wrote. Larrice Anderson has been a practicing nurse since 2008 when she received her Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans, Louisiana. A longtime New Orleans resident, the 46-year-old worked on the front lines in the emergency room unit at New Orleans East Hospital treating patients infected with the coronavirus disease. "She always was the backbone of the ER," Anderson's friend, Dorothy Lewis, told the New Orleans Advocate. Lewis also told the local newspaper that Anderson had underlying health issues, making her more susceptible to severe symptoms of the disease. Nevertheless, Anderson bravely continued showing up to work. But in early March, Lewis said, Anderson became sick with stomach issues before being diagnosed with viral pneumonia. According to WBTV, she contracted the virus while tirelessly treating patients infected with the disease. "She only went to work and home," Lewis told the New Orleans Advocate. "She had no room for nothing else. That tells you right there where she got it from." She was admitted to the New Orleans East Hospital as a patient and eventually began to show signs of improvement. Her daughter, Cerrice Anderson, posted on Facebook on March 30 news of her mother being moved from the ICU to a separate unit to begin recovery. But her health dipped, and she ultimately died a day later. She leaves behind two children. "She passed away in hero fashion, doing something she truly loved which was caring for those in need, an unsung hero," Anderson's cousin, Donyette McGill Williams, wrote in a Facebook post. New Orleans East Hospital staff posted a video releasing balloons in honor of their fallen coworker. The hospital has also sent up a link for donations on the family's behalf. "She was always smiling. That's what I like to think of now. That's what people remember, and not just remember her for this virus," her former nursing school teacher Kristy Solis told WBTV. LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 17:15 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/healthcare-workers-who-died-with-the-coronavirus-2020-4Rating: 4.40
American hospitals have lost dozens of medical workers to the coronavirus. Here are some of their stories.
While most Americans are confined to their homes amidst state and city-wide lockdowns, healthcare workers continue to live on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic. In the past two months, more than 9,000 US healthcare workers have contracted the coronavirus, according to an April report from the Center for Disease Control. The vast majority of healthcare workers reported that their symptoms were mild, but several hundred had cases serious enough to warrant a hospital stay, and at least 27 US healthcare workers have died from the disease. The number reported by the CDC is likely incomplete. Earlier this month, the National Nurses United union reported that at least 48 nurses have died from the coronavirus. Worldwide, the number of healthcare workers who have succumbed to coronavirus exceeds 100. Medical centers around the country – and around the world – continue to report they lack adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) for their staff, and many have resorted to using rain ponchos, and even garbage bags to protect themselves. Business Insider has reached out to the friends and family of the doctors, nurses, and support staff who contracted and died from the disease while trying to save others. Here are the stories of some of the unsung healthcare heroes who lost their lives during the COVID-19 global crisis. This is an ongoing Business Insider project. If you know of other healthcare workers who have died from COVID-19, please reach out to Haven Orecchio-Egresitz at horecchio@businessinsider.com. Diedre Heard Wilkes was a devout Christian who brought joy to those she worked with. A graduate of West Georgia Technical College, Wilkes received her Associate Degree in Radiology Technology, according to her obituary. She was a mammogram technician at Piedmont Newnan Hospital in Atlanta. “Deidre was my work daughter, whom I loved dearly. She brought me such joy in watching her professional commitment, her love of God, her commitment to family, her desire to live life to its fullest,” Cat Thompson wrote of her colleague. “I am fully blessed to have known such a person who proved to me that her generation is full of individuals who are not afraid of hard work and still believed Sunday was a day to honor God.” Wilkes, who was remembered as a kind and gentle spirit, has two children, Quintero and Khloe. She died at her home and a posthumous test came back positive for COVID-19, the local coroner told ABC News. One of her children was at home when she died. Attempts to reach several of Wilkes’ family members and friends were unsuccessful. “I love you and miss you so much my beautiful sister. It feels as if I have been stuck in a twilight zone since March 19th,” Wilkes’ sister LaSonya Heard wrote on her memorial page. “I am so thankful for the amazing relationship that we had as siblings.” Maternal mortality rates in Missouri are among the worst in the nation, especially for black women. Judy Wilson-Griffin, a perinatal clinical nurse specialist at SSM Health-St. Mary’s Hospital-St. Louis, dedicated her career to making pregnancy safer for expectant mothers. Laura Kuensting, Director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, remembered Wilson-Griffin as a passionate advocate for evidence-based care. She had practiced nursing for 30 years before enrolling in the DNP program in 2017. “Judy did not view her role in nursing as a career,” Kuensting wrote in a tribute to Wilson-Griffin on the university’s website. “She viewed perinatal nursing as her life’s work. Judy was motivated to keep moving forward, achieving excellence and making a difference. She was revered as an expert in perinatal nursing at the local, state, and national levels.” Kuensting said that she remembered when Wilson-Griffin finished the social determinants of health tour of St. Louis, designed to expose students to health disparities among low-income and predominantly black communities. “I remember her making comments to me of how impactful that was,” Kuensting wrote. “Being a black nurse herself and overcoming adversities and implicit biases throughout her career, she could relate. She was driven to change the maternal and infant mortality for African-American women in the St. Louis area.” When Wilson-Griffin learned that maternal transport teams – which transport pregnant people to the hospital by air or ambulance – reduce deaths, she established the first program in the state at Barnes Hospital and later another St. Mary’s, according to the University. Before she died, she was working on instituting a Maternal Fetal Triage Index, an evidence-based assessment for pregnant women, at the hospital. Wilson-Griffin was the first COVID-19 patient to die in St. Louis. “The nursing profession, and particularly the perinatal nursing specialty, have greatly benefited from Judy’s work,” Kuensting wrote. “Her leadership persevered through the times when she was told, ‘That’s not the way we’ve always done it.’ She was a mentor and a preceptor to countless numbers of nursing and medical students, colleagues, and coworkers. She was motivated and determined to deliver the best care to pregnant women.” Kious Kelly could always sense when someone in the room was feeling down and would do anything in his power to make it right, his sister Marya Patrice Sherron, told Business Insider. That’s why it didn’t surprise Sherron to learn that her brother had gone without protective equipment at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City so others didn’t have to. Medical workers at Mt. Sinai complained of a lack of PPE and had resorted to using garbage bags as protective gear. “Of course he shouldn’t have been in that position, but I know he would,” Sherron said. “That’s the kind of person he was.” Kelly, who grew up in Lansing, Michigan, had a career as a professional dancer before entering nursing school about 10 years ago, his sister said. As his dancing career wound down, he wanted to transition into a profession where he could help people. He was accepted to New York University and finished his nursing program in two years, his sister said. At Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York, he was a lead nurse during the weekdays and also managed weekend shifts. Sherron said that in the days since her brother’s death, she has been hearing about the small acts of kindness he carried out on the job. One colleague told Sherron that during a chaotic shift during the winter a man who was homeless at the time wouldn’t leave the emergency room because he was cold. Kelly, she learned, took his jacket off to give to the man. “That kind of story kind of epitomizes who he was. That’s not unique,” she said. “Everything was expendable. It didn’t matter if he could help someone else.” Frank Gabin dedicated his life to emergency medicine. It wasn’t until a few years ago that he started thinking seriously about having a family. At the time of his death, he and his husband Arnold Vargas had been planning to have children, Gabrin’s best friend Debra Vasalech told BI. “They hadn’t even been married a year,” said Vasalech, who was a guest at the couple’s August wedding. “They were already doing the work to have children. They were planning to move to Florida over the next few years to raise the kids.” Six days after becoming symptomatic in March, Gabrin woke up at his New York apartment struggling to breathe. Vargas called 911 and got Vasalech on speakerphone. In the 30 minutes it took for paramedics to arrive, Gabrin died in his husband’s arms, Vasalech said. Vargas has also tested positive and is still quarantined at their home. Gabrin, who started his career in emergency medicine as a Navy doctor, had survived cancer twice, his best friend said. After that, he overcame addiction issues related to professional burnout. Gabrin channeled his experience into the book Back from Burnout,which offered advice to other medical professionals about compassion fatigue. “He discovered how compassion was what was missing in medicine,” said Vasalech, who helped Gabrin with the book. “He believed that people in emergency medicine were born with the need to care for people.” Vasalech said that her best friend wasn’t worried about working on the frontlines at first because he had the equipment he needed. But when that equipment ran short, he felt danger approaching. “The moment that happened, he got nervous,” Vasalech said. “He was going out getting aloe vera plant to make his own hand sanitizer.” Aracelli Buendia Ilagan left her home in the Philippines when she was in her 20s to work as a nurse in the United States. Even though she was thousands of miles away from her family, she was dedicated to maintaining close relationships and supporting them in tough times. “She’s very thoughtful to her family,” her niece, Jhoanna Mariel Buendia told BI. “We cannot accept that nobody was there to help her when she was suffering. We feel very helpless, we didn’t get the chance to speak to her during her most difficult times.” Ilagan had been a nurse manager in the surgical ICU at Miami Jackson Memorial Hospital in Florida for 30 years. Buendia said that her aunt had self-quarantined after she started experiencing coronavirus symptoms. When her husband went in to check on her on March 28, he found her unresponsive on the floor, her niece said. Attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. Buendia, who is 27 and working in an ICU in the UK, said that her aunt “groomed her” to become a nurse and has been her mentor. Having no children of her own, Ilagan shared a special bond with Buendia, according to the young nurse. “I actually have two aunts whose profession is nursing,” said Buendia, who is an ICU nurse in the UK. “They always told me that helping other people is one of the best feelings.” A few days before her death, Ilagan and Buendia spoke on the phone. Ilagan gave her tips on how to best care for patients suffering from COVID-19, and to stay safe. “I told her she had to take care of herself because she’s a little bit old already,” Buendia said. “The last thing she told me is that I have to take care of myself and the other patients, as well. It hit me hard. She never mentioned her illness or what she’s going through. I view her as a selfless woman.” Theresa Lococo attended nursing school at Kings County Hospital in the 1970s. On March 27, the 68-year-old pediatric nurse died from the coronavirus after serving patients at the same facility for 48 years, her daughter Lisa Lococo told Business Insider. “My mother was very committed to what she did, and she just loved the people and the hospital,” Lisa Lococo said about her mother’s long career. “I can remember when I was a kid, she worked with a lot of children who were abandoned by their parents and they would become like her children. And they were patients of hers for years on end.” Lococo made life-long friendships with her colleagues and their children grew up together, Lisa said. Even though many of the nurses she started her career with have since retired, Lococo kept showing up to work. Every day for as her son and daughter can remember, their mother would leave for work at least an hour before her scheduled shift. “She was so committed to her patients and her friends and colleagues. That nursing job was her life,” Lisa said. Outside of work, Lococo’s world revolved around Lisa and her brother Anthony, and eventually their children. “She loved her kids and her grandchildren. There is nothing she wouldn’t do for any us,” Lisa said. “She would put herself last before everyone else.” Lisa said that her mother’s passing was unexpected and that she hadn’t been tested for the virus before she died. On March 27, Lisa called her mother at the exact moment her brother had called for paramedics. She died soon after. With social distancing measures still in place, the family hasn’t been able to have a memorial for her. Theresa Lococo’s mother, who was in her 90s and living in a Brooklyn nursing home, died two weeks after she did. “My grandmother was not aware of the death of my mother. She had Alzheimer’s,” Lisa said. “We have been suffering a tremendous loss,” she added. “It’s been really rough, and it’s even harder to deal with it from so far away. I can’t go up there and do anything.” Army Captain Douglas Linn Hickok, a physician assistant and New Jersey National Guardsman, became the first US military service member to die from the coronavirus when he passed away on March 28 at the age of 57 at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Poconos in Pennsylvania. Born January 15, 1963, at Oklahoma’s Norman Air Force Base, Hickok was a third-generation service member who served as a captain in the National Guard Medical Unit in Seagirt, New Jersey. He graduated from US International University in California with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy, and then went on to Cornell Medical School in New York City, where he attained a physician assistant medical degree. “Capt. Hickok provided compassionate and professional care to the Soldiers of the New Jersey Army National Guard while assigned to the Medical Command,” Col. Edwin Wymer, commander, New Jersey Army National Guard Medical Command, wrote in an emailed statement to BI. “Hickok was highly praised by subordinates and Senior Officers alike for his dedication and service to the Citizen-Soldiers of New Jersey.” After serving in New Jersey, Hickok moved to Maryland in 2009 to work as a civilian physician assistant at Andrew’s Air Force Base and then to Pennsylvania in 2017 where he worked as an orthopedic physician assistant at a clinic, according to his family. “He was my hero,” Mary Scott-Peavler, Hickok’s younger sister, told BI. “He never gave up, never ran from things, and was not afraid of anything.” “He served people. He served family, country, and faith,” Scott-Peavler said. “That sums up my brother.” Hickok’s daughter, Shandrea, described her father as a caring person who was devoted to spending time with her and her brother Noah. “My best memories of my father are the many trips he took my brother and me on,” she told BI in an email. “He loved to go outside and take us to parks, museums, battleships, military bases, movie theaters, beaches, and restaurants.” His hobbies included cooking, hiking, baseball, and scouting. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Hickok also served a church mission in Spain for two years in the 1980s and spoke fluent Spanish. A few weeks before his passing, Hickok and his daughter went on a spontaneous trip to the Sandy Hook Proving Ground in New Jersey, where Shandrea said her father excitedly took in the old canons, beautiful scenery, and wildlife on the grounds. “This memory really encompasses my father’s zest for life and sense of wonder for the outdoors,” she said. Freda Ocran worked as a nursing staff supervisor in Jacobi Medical Center’s psychiatric ward, the New York Post reported. About two weeks before her death, she began exhibiting mild symptoms of the illness. She continued to report to work until the hospital sent her home one day without testing her for the coronavirus, her son Kwame Ocran told the Post. On March 20, Ocran updated her Facebook profile picture with a banner reading, “I can’t stay home … I’m a healthcare worker!” She was eventually admitted to a hospital in the Bronx on March 24 and put on a ventilator. She died from coronavirus on March 28. According to Kwame Ocran, one of her three sons, Ocran was worried about the lack of testing being conducted at her facility. “Without those tests being administered, there’s no way of knowing if she was working with someone who had it or not,” Kwame Ocran told the New York Post. Mayor Bill De Blasio announced Ocran’s death the day after her passing, noting that family members relied upon her for support, including her mother who lives in Ghana. “What a horrible loss for that family, that hospital, and our city,” De Blasio said as the New York Post reports. Her son said she “gave herself undoubtedly to the church, to her work and to her kids,” according to CBS News. She leaves behind her husband of 30 years, Joseph. On March 16, almost two weeks before her death, Ocran shared a Facebook post reading, “Even in the midst of catastrophic events. Continue to speak your blessings. Dont stop!” Tomas Pattugalan, 70, an internal medicine doctor with over 40 years of experience, passed away from COVID-19 the morning of March 29 at Nassau University Hospital. Pattugalan was born and raised in Tuguegarao City in the Philippines and moved to New York in the late 1970s with his first wife and eldest daughter Patricia. He set up a private practice in Jamaica, Queens, in New York City, which he operated until his final days – transitioning from in-person to telehealth appointments once the city began to report more positive cases and he himself tested positive for the coronavirus on March 24. “I saw how he worked as I was growing up,” Pattugalan’s youngest daughter Tammy Justine Pattugalan, 14, told BI. “He knew every one of his patients by name. That was truly one of his most desirable traits.” Family and close friends affectionately referred to Pattugalan as “honeyboy,” according to Pattugalan’s son Gino Pattugalan. “He was just loved by everybody. He was honey, he was honeyboy,” Gino told BI. “And even if you were upset at him, he could charm you.” “My father loved to show love through food,” Gino said. “The question he would always ask was, ‘Did you eat?’ It’s one of those questions that comes from growing up in a third world country where you might go hungry. He always wanted to take care of us, to make sure we were healthy and provided for.” Pattugalan was a devout Catholic, according to family members. In January, a few months before he passed, Pattugalan traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate his 70th birthday. “It struck me when he told me that,” Gino said. “I think he started to see how thin the veil was between this life and next and he went to the Holy Land because he knew he just wouldn’t know the time or hour [of his death] and I think he knew maybe something could happen.” “I think he would want other people to know that he was a very religious man,” Tammy said, recounting her father’s words to her when his oxygen levels dropped and he had to go to the hospital. She asked him to promise her that he would live to see her graduate from middle school, get married, and live the rest of her life. “Tammy, just pray,” he responded. Jeannie Danker spent more than 30 years at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. According to an internal letter to staff, colleagues nicknamed her “Ms. Radiology.” She met her husband of 30 years, John Danker, there as well. The two were proud Buckeyes and avid tailgaters at Ohio State football games, according to WBNS. She died on Sunday, March 29 at the age of 60, after testing positive for the coronavirus. John Danker tragically died just two months before, on January 30, after a battle with ALS, according to his obituary. They leave behind two daughters, Jill and Jennifer. Ohio State is not disclosing the specifics of how she contracted the virus, according to WBNS. Maggie Danker, who described Jeannie Danker as her aunt, posted on Facebook that her “contagious energy and loving heart will be sincerely missed.” Maggie Danker also wrote, “COVID-19 now has a face for me, it’s real, it’s happening, and affecting our loved ones.” When reached for comment, Jill Danker told BI that the family is requesting privacy at this time. In a statement to Wexner Medical Center staff obtained by WBSN, CEO Dr. Harold Paz called Danker a beloved and dedicated colleague. “She infused her administrative role with determination, selflessness, and a patient-first attitude,” Paz wrote. Larrice Anderson has been a practicing nurse since 2008 when she received her Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans, Louisiana. A longtime New Orleans resident, the 46-year-old worked on the front lines in the emergency room unit at New Orleans East Hospital treating patients infected with the coronavirus disease. “She always was the backbone of the ER,” Anderson’s friend, Dorothy Lewis, told the New Orleans Advocate. Lewis also told the local newspaper that Anderson had underlying health issues, making her more susceptible to severe symptoms of the disease. Nevertheless, Anderson bravely continued showing up to work. But in early March, Lewis said, Anderson became sick with stomach issues before being diagnosed with viral pneumonia. According to WBTV, she contracted the virus while tirelessly treating patients infected with the disease. “She only went to work and home,” Lewis told the New Orleans Advocate. “She had no room for nothing else. That tells you right there where she got it from.” She was admitted to the New Orleans East Hospital as a patient and eventually began to show signs of improvement. Her daughter, Cerrice Anderson, posted on Facebook on March 30 news of her mother being moved from the ICU to a separate unit to begin recovery. But her health dipped, and she ultimately died a day later. She leaves behind two children. “She passed away in hero fashion, doing something she truly loved which was caring for those in need, an unsung hero,” Anderson’s cousin, Donyette McGill Williams, wrote in a Facebook post. New Orleans East Hospital staff posted a video releasing balloons in honor of their fallen coworker. The hospital has also sent up a link for donations on the family’s behalf. “She was always smiling. That’s what I like to think of now. That’s what people remember, and not just remember her for this virus,” her former nursing school teacher Kristy Solis told WBTV.
3 May 17:15 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/healthcare-workers-who-died-with-the-coronavirus-2020-4Rating: 0.30
New Mexico reports 118 new coronavirus cases, 12 more deaths
Health officials reported 12 more coronavirus-related deaths in New Mexico on Sunday, pushing the state total to 152. They also said New Mexico had 118 new positive COVID-19 tests since Saturday’s numbers were announcing, increasing the state total to 3,850 cases. Due to a technical lapse, reporting results from some labs to the state Department of Health were delayed Sunday. As a result, the data reflects only a partial total and the delayed results will be included in the state’s reporting Monday as soon as they are received and lab-confirmed. Of the 12 reported deaths, five were elderly residents of a Farmington life care center and four of them were women. All five had underlying medical conditions. Authorities say there were two deaths reported in Bernalillo and Sandoval counties and one in McKinley, San Juan and Valencia counties.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/new-mexico-reports-118-new-coronavirus-cases-12-mo/Rating: 0.79
26 new virus cases, 2 deaths
Another 26 people have been diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus in British Columbia in the past 24 hours, bringing the total cases in the province to 2,171. A single new case of the virus has been identified in the Interior Health region. Additionally, another two people have died from the virus in the province, in the Fraser Health and Vancouver Coastal Health regions, bringing the total deaths in B.C. to 114. A total of 1,376 people have since fully recovered from the virus, leaving 681 active cases in the province. Hospitalizations in the province are now at 72, down from a peak of 149 on April 6. Outbreaks remain declared at 21 long-term seniors care homes and three acute-care facilities, where 261 residents and 155 staff members have been diagnosed with the virus. There remains 120 inmates and 13 staff at the Mission Institution federal correctional facility with the COVID-19 virus. Fifty-two staff at Coquitlam's Superior Poultry and 35 at Vancouver's United Poultry have been diagnosed, and an official outbreak has been declared at Chilliwack's Fraser Valley Specialty poultry, where three cases have been identified. Dr. Henry also said the outbreak at the Northern Alberta Kearl Lake work camp continues to be challenging, after many infected workers returned to their homes in B.C. She reiterated the need for workers returning from this camp to self-isolate for 14 days.
2 May 12:20 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/298936/Dr-Bonnie-Henry-provides-an-update-on-B-C-s-COVID-19-situationRating: 1.34
Coronavirus deaths in Merseyside appear to be slowing down
Four new coronavirus death have been recorded at Liverpool hospitals today according the latest daily update from NHS England. Liverpool University Hospitals Trust, which runs The Royal, Aintree and Broadgreen hospitals, had the largest number of new coronavirus deaths across the region. The new deaths mean the Trust has now recorded a total of 318 deaths from Covid-19. The next highest increase came in Halton and Warrington where an additional two Covid-19 deaths were recorded taking the Trust's total coronavirus deaths to 88. Increases were also recorded at St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust, Wirral University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and Southport and Ormskirk NHS Trust with each reporting one more Covid-19 death each. The total coronavirus deaths at each trust stands at 152, 167, and 115 respectively. At the smaller Liverpool hospitals trusts, including Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital and the Walton Centre, no further deaths were recorded today and their totals still stand at 16 and five. Alder Hey Children's Hospital also recorded no further deaths. Mersey Care mental Health Trust which announced its first three virus deaths earlier this week, did not record any further deaths. Nationally, 425 new coronavirus deaths were announced by NHS England today with 370 of those in England's hospitals. This takes the total number of confirmed deaths to 23,788 across the UK. Honour our NHS heroes - from the surgeons to the porters, the nurses to the catering staff, the physios to the midwives, and the paramedics to the GPs - by helping to create a map of gratitude from every corner of Britain. We need our health workers now more than ever as they work superhuman hours and go above and beyond to protect us. Click HERE to drop a heart or a message on the map, and show you appreciate the efforts undertaken daily in the NHS. You can now also make a donation to NHS Heroes Help From Home, starting from £2.. As a thank you, everyone who donates will be entered into the weekly NHS Heroes Raffle. Click HERE to donate or to find out more - or click the link from within the Thanks a Million map. Thanks a million, NHS workers - we love you. Later today the Department for Health and Social Care will announce the new total coronavirus death figures including deaths from care settings alongside hospital deaths. It comes after Health Secretary Matt Hancock said his target for 100,000 Covid-19 tests per day had been met, which he hailed as an "incredible achievement". Speaking on the BBC Today Programme on Saturday morning, Professor John Newton, the national coordinator for coronavirus testing defended the government after journalists pointed out that tens of thousands of tests included in the total had simply been dispatched to people's homes and not processed. Professor Newton said: "This is a big number however you count it. All the tests are only counted once and you can count the tests when they go out or when they come back it, so whatever way you do it we still beat the target. "These are the sort of discussions you get when politicians set targets, but what we're focusing on is delivering what people really need. "The home delivery kits are essential to support contract tracing. The home kits are very popular and they're what people ask for and they are an extremely important part of the programme. "We make no apology for counting those and being proud of the fact that we've built up that capacity."
2 May 14:50 • Liverpool Echo • https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/coronavirus-deaths-merseyside-appear-slowing-18189725Rating: 0.83
Oklahoma city immediately dropped its face mask order after residents threatened violence against employees who were enforcing the rule
3 May 20:01
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5 articles
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Oklahoma city immediately dropped its face mask order after residents threatened violence against employees who were enforcing the rule
Residents of Stillwater, Oklahoma — home to Oklahoma State University — did not react well to an order that went into effect on May 1 requiring the use of face masks in stores and restaurants. Within three hours of enforcing the order, store employees reported verbal abuse and threats of physical violence, including one threat involving a firearm. Shortly thereafter, Mayor Will Joyce released an amended order strongly encouraging, but not requiring, the use of face masks. LoadingSomething is loading. In a statement, City Manager Norman McNickle called the incidents "unfortunate and distressing." "The wearing of face coverings is little inconvenience to protect both the wearer and anyone with whom they have contact," he said, noting that both the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and Oklahoma State Department of Health recommend the use of masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. McNickle also said that many of the people objecting to the order believe being required to wear face masks is unconstitutional. "No law or court supports this view," he said. As part of Oklahoma's gradual reopening strategy, personal care businesses such as hair salons were allowed to reopen across the state beginning April 24, and restaurant dining rooms were allowed to open on May 1 as long as they adhered to social distancing and sanitation protocols. Featured Health Articles:- Telehealth Industry Explained- Value-Based Care Explained- Senior Care & Assisted Living Market- Smart Medical Devices & Wearable Tech- AI in Healthcare- Remote Patient Monitoring Explained - AI in Medical Diagnosis Systems Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 20:01 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/stillwater-oklahoma-order-requiring-face-mask-use-overturned-violence-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Oklahoma city immediately dropped its face mask order after residents threatened violence against employees who were enforcing the rule
Residents of Stillwater, Oklahoma – home to Oklahoma State University – did not react well to an order that went into effect on May 1 requiring the use of face masks in stores and restaurants. Within three hours of enforcing the order, store employees reported verbal abuse and threats of physical violence, including one threat involving a firearm. Shortly thereafter, Mayor Will Joyce released an amended order strongly encouraging, but not requiring, the use of face masks. In a statement, City Manager Norman McNickle called the incidents “unfortunate and distressing.” “The wearing of face coverings is little inconvenience to protect both the wearer and anyone with whom they have contact,” he said, noting that both the Centres for Disease Control & Prevention and Oklahoma State Department of Health recommend the use of masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. McNickle also said that many of the people objecting to the order believe being required to wear face masks is unconstitutional. “No law or court supports this view,” he said. As part of Oklahoma’s gradual reopening strategy, personal care businesses such as hair salons were allowed to reopen across the state beginning April 24, and restaurant dining rooms were allowed to open on May 1 as long as they adhered to social distancing and sanitation protocols.
3 May 20:01 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/stillwater-oklahoma-order-requiring-face-mask-use-overturned-violence-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Oklahoma city immediately dropped its face mask order after residents threatened violence against employees who were enforcing the rule
Residents of Stillwater, Oklahoma – home to Oklahoma State University – did not react well to an order that went into effect on May 1 requiring the use of face masks in stores and restaurants. Within three hours of enforcing the order, store employees reported verbal abuse and threats of physical violence, including one threat involving a firearm. Shortly thereafter, Mayor Will Joyce released an amended order strongly encouraging, but not requiring, the use of face masks. In a statement, City Manager Norman McNickle called the incidents “unfortunate and distressing.” “The wearing of face coverings is little inconvenience to protect both the wearer and anyone with whom they have contact,” he said, noting that both the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and Oklahoma State Department of Health recommend the use of masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. McNickle also said that many of the people objecting to the order believe being required to wear face masks is unconstitutional. “No law or court supports this view,” he said. As part of Oklahoma’s gradual reopening strategy, personal care businesses such as hair salons were allowed to reopen across the state beginning April 24, and restaurant dining rooms were allowed to open on May 1 as long as they adhered to social distancing and sanitation protocols.
3 May 22:06 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/stillwater-oklahoma-order-requiring-face-mask-use-overturned-violence-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
Oklahoma city immediately dropped its face mask order after residents threatened violence against employees who were enforcing the rule
Residents of Stillwater, Oklahoma – home to Oklahoma State University – did not react well to an order that went into effect on May 1 requiring the use of face masks in stores and restaurants. Within three hours of enforcing the order, store employees reported verbal abuse and threats of physical violence, including one threat involving a firearm. Shortly thereafter, Mayor Will Joyce released an amended order strongly encouraging, but not requiring, the use of face masks. In a statement, City Manager Norman McNickle called the incidents “unfortunate and distressing.” “The wearing of face coverings is little inconvenience to protect both the wearer and anyone with whom they have contact,” he said, noting that both the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and Oklahoma State Department of Health recommend the use of masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. McNickle also said that many of the people objecting to the order believe being required to wear face masks is unconstitutional. “No law or court supports this view,” he said. As part of Oklahoma’s gradual reopening strategy, personal care businesses such as hair salons were allowed to reopen across the state beginning April 24, and restaurant dining rooms were allowed to open on May 1 as long as they adhered to social distancing and sanitation protocols.
3 May 20:01 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/stillwater-oklahoma-order-requiring-face-mask-use-overturned-violence-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Oklahoma city ends face mask rule for customers after threats of violence
An Oklahoma city walked back an emergency declaration requiring customers to wear face masks inside businesses after threats of violence were hurled at store employees. Officials in Stillwater announced the change Friday, less than 24 hours after the rule went into effect at stores and restaurants. “In the short time beginning on May 1, 2020, that face coverings have been required for entry into stores/restaurants, store employees have been threatened with physical violence and showered with verbal abuse,” City Manager Norman McNickle said in a statement. “In addition, there has been one threat of violence using a firearm.” No further details were provided about the alleged threats of violence. Stillwater Mayor Will Joyce said on Twitter that he didn’t expect the declaration to provoke a violent reaction. “I knew there would be some objections, but I did not expect physical confrontations with employees and threatening phone calls to city hall,” Joyce wrote. “I hate that our businesses and their employees had to deal with abuse today, and I apologize for putting them in that position.” He said that face masks still “strongly recommended” for residents when around other people — and will continue to be required for workers at public-facing businesses. “We must find common ground and work together to deal with the circumstances our society is facing,” Joyce tweeted. “Whether or not we agree on the details, we have to find ways to cooperate in the task before us.”
3 May 12:40 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/oklahoma-city-ends-face-mask-rule-after-threats-of-violence/Rating: 2.55
Russia is rapidly becoming one of the world's coronavirus hot spots, and it just reported a record 10,000 new cases in a day
3 May 15:40
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3 articles
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Russia is rapidly becoming one of the world's coronavirus hot spots, and it just reported a record 10,000 new cases in a day
Russia reported a record number of new coronavirus cases for the fourth consecutive day Sunday, and the country is fast becoming one of the global epicenters of COVID-19. Russian President Vladimir Putin said 10,633 new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed Sunday, which according to Worldometers data is some 1,000 more than were reported Saturday. At least 134,687 people are now confirmed to have had coronavirus in Russia, making it the seventh-most-infected country, with significantly more reported infections than early hot spots for the virus such as China and Iran. More than half of all cases in Russia have been reported in the capital, Moscow. Of those infected, 1,280 have died. "The daily increase in cases has relatively stabilized, but this mustn't calm us down — the situation is still very serious," Putin has said, according to CNN. "The peak is not behind us — we are about to face a new and grueling phase of the pandemic." Russia as recently as March appeared to have the virus under control, but the situation has escalated drastically in recent weeks amid a chaotic response from authorities in the country. As an illustration of how quickly the virus has evolved in Russia, on April 1 it had 2,777 confirmed cases, while at the same time the US had some 220,000. On Sunday, just over a month later, the US had 1.16 million reported cases, compared with Russia's 134,000. Russia now has about 11% of the number of US cases. The picture in Russia's healthcare system is bleak. Business Insider's Sophia Ankel reported in late April that ambulances in Moscow were forced to line up for hours to drop patients off at hospitals, such is the volume of new cases of the virus. One ambulance driver said he waited up to 15 hours to get to the hospital, The Moscow Times reported. Doctors have also complained of conditions for medical workers and have even said the government is covering up the true extent of the crisis, Ankel reported. Anastasia Vasilyeva, the head of Russia's Alliance of Doctors trade union, said in a video that authorities were referring to coronavirus cases as ordinary pneumonia, which had caused confusion. Vasilyeva also said authorities were refusing to equip medical staff properly or give them accurate information about the virus. "While the whole world is facing an outbreak of a new coronavirus, Russia is facing an outbreak of community-acquired pneumonia," Vasilyeva said. "And as usual, we're facing the lie of the authorities." Russian authorities have denied her claims. Meanwhile, a doctor who had complained about shortages of protective equipment plunged from a hospital window on Saturday night. Alexander Shulepov, 37, suffered life-threatening injuries in the fall, according to the Mail Online. He had previously attracted authorities' attention by taking part in a video that said he was ordered to work despite testing positive for COVID-19. He and colleagues also complained about the lack of personal protective equipment in Voronezh, a city in southwestern Russia. Two other doctors have died after falling from hospital windows during Russia's coronavirus pandemic. LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 15:40 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-russia-reports-record-new-number-of-cases-10000-more-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Russia is rapidly becoming one of the world's coronavirus hotspots, and it just reported a record 10,000 new cases in a day
Russia reported a record number of new coronavirus cases for the fourth consecutive day Sunday, as the virus rapidly spreads in the country, which is fast becoming one of the global epicenters of COVID-19. There were 10,633 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed on Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, some 1,000 more than were reported on Saturday, according to Worldometers data. A total of 134,687 people are now confirmed to have had coronavirus in Russia, making it the seventh most-infected country on the planet, with significantly more infections than early hotspots for the virus, such as China and Iran. More than half of all cases in Russia have been reported in the capital, Moscow. Of those 134,687 people, 1,280 have died. “The daily increase in cases has relatively stabilised but this mustn’t calm us down, the situation is still very serious,” Putin said, according to CNN. “The peak is not behind us, we are about to face a new and gruelling phase of the pandemic… the deadly threat of the virus remains.” In the early phases of the pandemic, Russia appeared to have the virus under control, but the situation has escalated drastically in recent weeks amid a chaotic response from authorities in the country. As an illustration of how quickly the virus has evolved in Russia, on April 1 it had 2,777 confirmed cases, while at the same time the US had some 220,000. On Sunday May 3, the US has 1.16 million total cases, compared to Russia’s 134,000. Russia now has around 11% of the number of US cases. The picture in Russia’s healthcare system is bleak. Business Insider’s Sophia Ankel reported in late April that ambulances in Moscow were forced to queue for many hours to drop patients off at hospitals, such is the volume of new cases of the virus. One ambulance driver said that he waited up to 15 hours to get to the hospital, The Moscow Times reported. Doctors have also complained of conditions for medical workers, and even said that the government is covering up the true extent of the crisis, Ankel reported. Anastasia Vasilyeva, the head of Russia’s Alliance of Doctors trade union, said in a video that authorities were referring to coronavirus cases as an ordinary pneumonia, which has caused confusion. Vasilyeva also said that authorities are refusing to equip medical staff properly or give them accurate information about the virus. “While the whole world is facing an outbreak of a new coronavirus, Russia is facing an outbreak of community-acquired pneumonia,” Vasilyeva said. “And as usual, we’re facing the lie of the authorities.” Russian authorities have denied her claims. Meanwhile, a doctor who complained about shortages of protective equipment plunged from a hospital window, on Saturday night. Alexander Shulepov, 37, suffered life-threatening injuries in the fall, according to the Mail Online. He had previously attracted the authorities attention by taking part in a video that claimed he was ordered to work despite testing positive for COVID-19. He and colleagues also complained about the lack of PPE in the Vorenezh, a city in southwest Russia. Two other doctors have died after falling from hospital windows during Russia’s coronavirus pandemic.
3 May 15:40 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/coronavirus-russia-reports-record-new-number-of-cases-10000-more-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Russia is rapidly becoming one of the world's coronavirus hotspots, and it just reported a record 10,000 new cases in a day, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
Russia reported a record number of new coronavirus cases for the fourth consecutive day Sunday, as the virus rapidly spreads in the country, which is fast becoming one of the global epicenters of COVID-19. There were 10,633 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed on Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin said, some 1,000 more than were reported on Saturday, according to Worldometers data. A total of 134,687 people are now confirmed to have had coronavirus in Russia, making it the seventh most-infected country on the planet, with significantly more infections than early hotspots for the virus, such as China and Iran. More than half of all cases in Russia have been reported in the capital, Moscow. Of those 134,687 people, 1,280 have died. “The daily increase in cases has relatively stabilized but this mustn’t calm us down, the situation is still very serious,” Putin said, according to CNN. “The peak is not behind us, we are about to face a new and grueling phase of the pandemic… the deadly threat of the virus remains.” In the early phases of the pandemic, Russia appeared to have the virus under control, but the situation has escalated drastically in recent weeks amid a chaotic response from authorities in the country. As an illustration of how quickly the virus has evolved in Russia, on April 1 it had 2,777 confirmed cases, while at the same time the US had some 220,000. On Sunday May 3, the US has 1.16 million total cases, compared to Russia’s 134,000. Russia now has around 11% of the number of US cases. The picture in Russia’s healthcare system is bleak. Business Insider’s Sophia Ankel reported in late April that ambulances in Moscow were forced to queue for many hours to drop patients off at hospitals, such is the volume of new cases of the virus. One ambulance driver said that he waited up to 15 hours to get to the hospital, The Moscow Times reported. Doctors have also complained of conditions for medical workers, and even said that the government is covering up the true extent of the crisis, Ankel reported. Anastasia Vasilyeva, the head of Russia’s Alliance of Doctors trade union, said in a video that authorities were referring to coronavirus cases as an ordinary pneumonia, which has caused confusion. Vasilyeva also said that authorities are refusing to equip medical staff properly or give them accurate information about the virus. “While the whole world is facing an outbreak of a new coronavirus, Russia is facing an outbreak of community-acquired pneumonia,” Vasilyeva said. “And as usual, we’re facing the lie of the authorities.” Russian authorities have denied her claims. Meanwhile, a doctor who complained about shortages of protective equipment plunged from a hospital window, on Saturday night. Alexander Shulepov, 37, suffered life-threatening injuries in the fall, according to the Mail Online. He had previously attracted the authorities attention by taking part in a video that claimed he was ordered to work despite testing positive for COVID-19. He and colleagues also complained about the lack of PPE in the Vorenezh, a city in southwest Russia. Two other doctors have died after falling from hospital windows during Russia’s coronavirus pandemic.
3 May 15:40 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/coronavirus-russia-reports-record-new-number-of-cases-10000-more-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Japan indicates could ease some coronavirus-related curbs
3 May 09:27
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3 articles
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Weighted average IN: 4.507645886731838
Japan indicates could ease some coronavirus-related curbs
TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan could ease some of the current coronavirus-related curbs on economic activity by allowing places such as parks and museums to reopen, provided proper preventive measures were in place, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said on Sunday. The remarks come a day before the government is set to announce the extension of its state of emergency after struggling to suppress the spread of the novel coronavirus that has infected 15,589 people and killed 530 in the country. “As long as the proper preventive measures are in place, it could be possible to ease some of the current restrictions on economic activities,” Nishimura said at a news conference held on Sunday morning. Places like parks, museums, art galleries, and libraries could reopen even in the 13 prefectures where the coronavirus has spread rapidly, if they take steps to disinfect their premises and ensure visitors maintain their distance, he added. Further details on how restrictions might be eased would be discussed at an expert’s meeting on Monday, Nishimura said. The government-issued state of emergency in Japan is set to expire on Wednesday, the last day of a week-long national holiday. The government is preparing to extend the state of emergency for another month. Under the state of emergency, the government has asked people to stay at home, avoid unnecessary outings, and refrain from going to crowded areas.
3 May 09:27 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-japan-emergency-idUSKBN22F07IRating: 4.04
Japan indicates could ease some coronavirus-related curbs
TOKYO: Japan could ease some of the current coronavirus-related curbs on economic activity by allowing places such as parks and museums to reopen, provided proper preventive measures were in place, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said on Sunday (May 3). The remarks come a day before the government is set to announce the extension of its state of emergency after struggling to suppress the spread of the novel coronavirus that has infected 15,589 people and killed 530 in the country. "As long as the proper preventive measures are in place, it could be possible to ease some of the current restrictions on economic activities," Nishimura said at a news conference held on Sunday morning. Places like parks, museums, art galleries, and libraries could reopen even in the 13 prefectures where the coronavirus has spread rapidly, if they take steps to disinfect their premises and ensure visitors maintain their distance, he added. Further details on how restrictions might be eased would be discussed at an expert's meeting on Monday, Nishimura said. The government-issued state of emergency in Japan is set to expire on Wednesday, the last day of a week-long national holiday. The government is preparing to extend the state of emergency for another month. Under the state of emergency, the government has asked people to stay at home, avoid unnecessary outings, and refrain from going to crowded areas.
3 May 16:50 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/japan-indicates-ease-covid-19-curbs-12697912Rating: 3.25
Japan indicates could ease some coronavirus-related curbs
Tokyo - Japan could ease some of the current coronavirus-related curbs on economic activity by allowing places such as parks and museums to reopen, provided proper preventive measures were in place, Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said on Sunday. The remarks come a day before the government is set to announce the extension of its state of emergency after struggling to suppress the spread of the novel coronavirus that has infected 15,589 people and killed 530 in the country. "As long as the proper preventive measures are in place, it could be possible to ease some of the current restrictions on economic activities," Nishimura said at a news conference held on Sunday morning. Places like parks, museums, art galleries, and libraries could reopen even in the 13 prefectures where the coronavirus has spread rapidly, if they take steps to disinfect their premises and ensure visitors maintain their distance, he added. Further details on how restrictions might be eased would be discussed at an expert's meeting on Monday, Nishimura said. The government-issued state of emergency in Japan is set to expire on Wednesday, the last day of a week-long national holiday. The government is preparing to extend the state of emergency for another month. Under the state of emergency, the government has asked people to stay at home, avoid unnecessary outings, and refrain from going to crowded areas. Read MoreWith fighter jets and army bands, India's military thank health workers In the financial capital of Mumbai, television showed fighter jets roaring over the famous Marine Drive, which runs parallel to the Arabian Sea, as some residents craned for a view from their balconies. Read MoreCycle power: Bikes emerge as a post-lockdown commuter option As countries seek to get their economies back on track after the devastation wrought by the coronavirus pandemic, bicycle use is being encouraged as a way to avoid unsafe crowding on trains and buses. Read MorePhilippines temporarily bars incoming flights to decongest quarantine facilities The Philippines barred incoming passenger flights from Sunday morning for one week to contain the spread of the coronavirus and help reduce pressure on quarantine facilities housing thousands of Filipino repatriates, officials said on Sunday.
3 May 10:42 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Japan-indicates-could-ease-some-coronavirus-related-curbsRating: 3.14
Dining out in China has drastically changed since lockdown restrictions have lifted, and it offers a glimpse into what may lie ahead for Australian restaurants
3 May 22:00
•
4 articles
Weight: 2.48
Importance: 2.50
Age penalty: 0.99
Best date: 3 May 12:00
Average US: 14.8
Weighted average US: 49.14965304172502
Average GB: 0.1
Weighted average GB: 0.3320922502819258
Average IN: 0.85
Weighted average IN: 2.822784127396369
Dining out in China has drastically changed since lockdown restrictions have lifted, and it offers a glimpse into what may lie ahead for Australian restaurants
As normal life slowly resumes in China, the rest of the world is looking toward the east for pointers on what day-to-day life will look like elsewhere after the lockdown restrictions are lifted. This includes how consumers will dine out in the future and what restaurants need to do to make the experience safe for both customers and workers. Photographs taken in cities across China and Hong Kong reveal how drastically different it is to eat out now that businesses are reopening. Temperature checks, caps on restaurant capacity, and social distancing markers have become the norm in many places, for example. Here’s what might lie ahead for the Australia: Limits on restaurant capacity are likely to become commonplace as more eateries open up again across the world. In Hong Kong, restaurants are required by the government order to keep the capacity below 50% and restrict groups to four people only, for example. Restaurant owners who don’t play by the rules risk being fined as much HK$50,000 ($US6,450) or face six months in jail. Hong Kong restauranteurs are also required to keep a 1.5-metre space or more between each table to minimise crowding. It’s likely that similar restrictions would come to Australia, building on from social distancing markers that are currently being used in stores to keep shoppers at a safe distance. In Hong Kong, temperature checks for both workers and customers are mandatory on arrival and at the point of leaving the restaurant. Temperature checks are already becoming more common in the US and other countries as restaurants reopen. In China, the government is using software, run on Alipay and WeChat’s platforms, to track people’s movements and prevent the spread of coronavirus. Anyone that wants to travel around is required to fill out a health survey on the app, which depending on their health status and travel history, will then generate a colour code – Green, Yellow, or Red. These codes dictate whether a person can travel freely, should stay at home and isolate, or is required to stay in quarantine. And increasingly, malls, cafes, and restaurants in China are requiring customers to show their codes on the app before they are able to enter these areas. Hong Kong restaurant group Black Sheep, which owns a string of popular restaurants in the city, recently released a set of guidelines advising its 1,000 person team on how to deal with the pandemic. These guidelines have been published publically for other restaurants to use too. As part of these, the restaurant chain has made it mandatory for any customers to sign a health declaration form before they are able to dine. In this form, they are asked to confirm that they haven’t tested positive from the virus in the past 14 days, experienced any symptoms in that time, been in direct contact with anyone who is known to be carrying the virus, or have travelled outside of Hong Kong. It also asks them to leave their contact details so if there’s a confirmed case in the restaurant, the owners are able to inform anyone who has visited during that time. “If guests decline to complete the form do not be afraid to turn them away,” the company wrote, adding that they turned away more than 50 people in one night. “They may be upset in the moment, but it is absolutely the right thing to do to protect your team and your guests. It feels uncomfortable because we are in the business of hospitality but we have to understand the reality of the new world we exist in,” it said. Acrylic barriers have been a fixture at some restaurants in Asia from the start of the pandemic and continue to be. These screens are becoming more prevalent at registers in grocery stores across Australia and could catch on in restaurants also as they start to reopen. Rigorous hygiene routines will be vital in encouraging customers to come back into restaurants. “Guests are very sensitive to hygiene, and anything that even looks messy will translate to unclean in their minds, so everyone’s uniforms, hair, nails, any surfaces guests can see, it all needs to be tidy and spotless, now more than ever,” Black Sheep Restaurants wrote in its guidelines. Black Sheep Restaurants cofounder Syed Asim Hussain said that employees are required to wash their hands and sanitize the tables used by customers every 30 minutes; every 10 days, they also do a deep clean. Under Hong Kong regulation, restaurants are also required to make hand sanitizer available to both guests and workers. It’s highly likely that this could become the norm in the Australia too.Experts also say we could see similar measures rolled out to retail stores with pop-up hand sanitiser stations becoming more prevalent. Masked servers and diners have become the norm in Asia. In Hong Kong, customers are required to wear a mask in a restaurant when they are not eating or drinking. In some parts of the US, which are lifting lockdown restrictions, masks are mandatory for restaurant workers. This could also become the case in Australia. The U.S. National Restaurant Association, which represents over 380,000 restaurants in the US, published a set of guidelines in April to give restaurants guidance about reopening and recommended that masks be worn even if they are not mandated by local governments.
3 May 22:00 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/what-american-restaurants-can-learn-from-chinas-example-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Dining out in China has drastically changed since lockdown restrictions have lifted, and it offers a glimpse into what lies ahead for US restaurants
As normal life slowly resumes in China, the rest of the world is looking toward the east for pointers on what day-to-day life will look like elsewhere after the lockdown restrictions are lifted. This includes how consumers will dine out in the future and what restaurants need to do to make the experience safe for both customers and workers. Photographs taken in cities across China and Hong Kong reveal how drastically different it is to eat out now that businesses are reopening. Temperature checks, caps on restaurant capacity, and social distancing markers have become the norm in many places, for example. Here's what might lie ahead for the US: Limits on restaurant capacity are likely to become commonplace as more eateries open up again in the US. In Hong Kong, restaurants are required by the government order to keep the capacity below 50% and restrict groups to four people only, for example. Restaurant owners who don't play by the rules risk being fined as much HK$50,000 ($6,450) or face six months in jail. Hong Kong restauranteurs are also required to keep a 1.5-meter space or more between each table to minimize crowding. It's likely that similar restrictions would come to the US, building on from social distancing markers that are currently being used in stores to keep shoppers at a safe distance. In Hong Kong, temperature checks for both workers and customers are mandatory on arrival and at the point of leaving the restaurant. Temperature checks are already becoming more common in the US as restaurants reopen but haven't been mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In China, the government is using software, run on Alipay and WeChat's platforms, to track people's movements and prevent the spread of coronavirus. Anyone that wants to travel around is required to fill out a health survey on the app, which depending on their health status and travel history, will then generate a color code – Green, Yellow, or Red. These codes dictate whether a person can travel freely, should stay at home and isolate, or is required to stay in quarantine. And increasingly, malls, cafes, and restaurants in China are requiring customers to show their codes on the app before they are able to enter these areas. Hong Kong restaurant group Black Sheep, which owns a string of popular restaurants in the city, recently released a set of guidelines advising its 1,000 person team on how to deal with the pandemic. These guidelines have been published publically for other restaurants to use too. As part of these, the restaurant chain has made it mandatory for any customers to sign a health declaration form before they are able to dine. In this form, they are asked to confirm that they haven't tested positive from the virus in the past 14 days, experienced any symptoms in that time, been in direct contact with anyone who is known to be carrying the virus, or have traveled outside of Hong Kong. It also asks them to leave their contact details so if there's a confirmed case in the restaurant, the owners are able to inform anyone who has visited during that time. "If guests decline to complete the form do not be afraid to turn them away," the company wrote, adding that they turned away more than 50 people in one night. "They may be upset in the moment, but it is absolutely the right thing to do to protect your team and your guests. It feels uncomfortable because we are in the business of hospitality but we have to understand the reality of the new world we exist in," it said. Acrylic barriers have been a fixture at some restaurants in Asia from the start of the pandemic and continue to be. These screens are becoming more prevalent at registers in grocery stores in the US and could catch on in restaurants also as they start to reopen. Rigorous hygiene routines will be vital in encouraging customers to come back into restaurants. "Guests are very sensitive to hygiene, and anything that even looks messy will translate to unclean in their minds, so everyone's uniforms, hair, nails, any surfaces guests can see, it all needs to be tidy and spotless, now more than ever," Black Sheep Restaurants wrote in its guidelines. Black Sheep Restaurants cofounder Syed Asim Hussain said that employees are required to wash their hands and sanitize the tables used by customers every 30 minutes; every 10 days, they also do a deep clean. Under Hong Kong regulation, restaurants are also required to make hand sanitizer available to both guests and workers. It's highly likely that this could become the norm in the US too. Experts also say we could see similar measures rolled out to retail stores with pop-up hand sanitizer stations becoming more prevalent in the US. Masked servers and diners have become the norm in Asia. In Hong Kong, customers are required to wear a mask in a restaurant when they are not eating or drinking. In some parts of the US, which are lifting lockdown restrictions, masks are mandatory for restaurant workers. The National Restaurant Association, which represents over 380,000 restaurants in the US, published a set of guidelines in April to give restaurants guidance about reopening and recommended that masks be worn even if they are not mandated by local governments. LoadingSomething is loading. Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 12:00 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/what-american-restaurants-can-learn-from-chinas-example-2020-4Rating: 4.40
Dining out in China has drastically changed since lockdown restrictions have lifted, and it offers a glimpse into what lies ahead for US restaurants
As normal life slowly resumes in China, the rest of the world is looking toward the east for pointers on what day-to-day life will look like elsewhere after the lockdown restrictions are lifted. This includes how consumers will dine out in the future and what restaurants need to do to make the experience safe for both customers and workers. Photographs taken in cities across China and Hong Kong reveal how drastically different it is to eat out now that businesses are reopening. Temperature checks, caps on restaurant capacity, and social distancing markers have become the norm in many places, for example. Here’s what might lie ahead for the US: Limits on restaurant capacity are likely to become commonplace as more eateries open up again in the US. In Hong Kong, restaurants are required by the government order to keep the capacity below 50% and restrict groups to four people only, for example. Restaurant owners who don’t play by the rules risk being fined as much HK$50,000 ($6,450) or face six months in jail. Hong Kong restauranteurs are also required to keep a 1.5-meter space or more between each table to minimize crowding. It’s likely that similar restrictions would come to the US, building on from social distancing markers that are currently being used in stores to keep shoppers at a safe distance. In Hong Kong, temperature checks for both workers and customers are mandatory on arrival and at the point of leaving the restaurant. Temperature checks are already becoming more common in the US as restaurants reopen but haven’t been mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In China, the government is using software, run on Alipay and WeChat’s platforms, to track people’s movements and prevent the spread of coronavirus. Anyone that wants to travel around is required to fill out a health survey on the app, which depending on their health status and travel history, will then generate a color code – Green, Yellow, or Red. These codes dictate whether a person can travel freely, should stay at home and isolate, or is required to stay in quarantine. And increasingly, malls, cafes, and restaurants in China are requiring customers to show their codes on the app before they are able to enter these areas. Hong Kong restaurant group Black Sheep, which owns a string of popular restaurants in the city, recently released a set of guidelines advising its 1,000 person team on how to deal with the pandemic. These guidelines have been published publically for other restaurants to use too. As part of these, the restaurant chain has made it mandatory for any customers to sign a health declaration form before they are able to dine. In this form, they are asked to confirm that they haven’t tested positive from the virus in the past 14 days, experienced any symptoms in that time, been in direct contact with anyone who is known to be carrying the virus, or have traveled outside of Hong Kong. It also asks them to leave their contact details so if there’s a confirmed case in the restaurant, the owners are able to inform anyone who has visited during that time. “If guests decline to complete the form do not be afraid to turn them away,” the company wrote, adding that they turned away more than 50 people in one night. “They may be upset in the moment, but it is absolutely the right thing to do to protect your team and your guests. It feels uncomfortable because we are in the business of hospitality but we have to understand the reality of the new world we exist in,” it said. Acrylic barriers have been a fixture at some restaurants in Asia from the start of the pandemic and continue to be. These screens are becoming more prevalent at registers in grocery stores in the US and could catch on in restaurants also as they start to reopen. Rigorous hygiene routines will be vital in encouraging customers to come back into restaurants. “Guests are very sensitive to hygiene, and anything that even looks messy will translate to unclean in their minds, so everyone’s uniforms, hair, nails, any surfaces guests can see, it all needs to be tidy and spotless, now more than ever,” Black Sheep Restaurants wrote in its guidelines. Black Sheep Restaurants cofounder Syed Asim Hussain said that employees are required to wash their hands and sanitize the tables used by customers every 30 minutes; every 10 days, they also do a deep clean. Under Hong Kong regulation, restaurants are also required to make hand sanitizer available to both guests and workers. It’s highly likely that this could become the norm in the US too. Experts also say we could see similar measures rolled out to retail stores with pop-up hand sanitizer stations becoming more prevalent in the US. Masked servers and diners have become the norm in Asia. In Hong Kong, customers are required to wear a mask in a restaurant when they are not eating or drinking. In some parts of the US, which are lifting lockdown restrictions, masks are mandatory for restaurant workers. The National Restaurant Association, which represents over 380,000 restaurants in the US, published a set of guidelines in April to give restaurants guidance about reopening and recommended that masks be worn even if they are not mandated by local governments.
3 May 12:00 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/what-american-restaurants-can-learn-from-chinas-example-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Dining out in China has drastically changed since lockdown restrictions have lifted, and it offers a glimpse into what lies ahead for US restaurants, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
As normal life slowly resumes in China, the rest of the world is looking toward the east for pointers on what day-to-day life will look like elsewhere after the lockdown restrictions are lifted. This includes how consumers will dine out in the future and what restaurants need to do to make the experience safe for both customers and workers. Photographs taken in cities across China and Hong Kong reveal how drastically different it is to eat out now that businesses are reopening. Temperature checks, caps on restaurant capacity, and social distancing markers have become the norm in many places, for example. Here’s what might lie ahead for the US: Limits on restaurant capacity are likely to become commonplace as more eateries open up again in the US. In Hong Kong, restaurants are required by the government order to keep the capacity below 50% and restrict groups to four people only, for example. Restaurant owners who don’t play by the rules risk being fined as much HK$50,000 ($6,450) or face six months in jail. Hong Kong restauranteurs are also required to keep a 1.5-meter space or more between each table to minimize crowding. It’s likely that similar restrictions would come to the US, building on from social distancing markers that are currently being used in stores to keep shoppers at a safe distance. captionA guard wearing a facemask amid concerns over the spread of the COVID-19 novel coronavirus, holds a thermal gun to check the body temperature of visitors at the entrance of a restaurant area in Shanghai. In Hong Kong, temperature checks for both workers and customers are mandatory on arrival and at the point of leaving the restaurant. Temperature checks are already becoming more common in the US as restaurants reopen but haven’t been mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. captionManagement staff check QR codes on the mobile phones of people entering a shopping mall at its entrance in Wuhan. In China, the government is using software, run on Alipay and WeChat’s platforms, to track people’s movements and prevent the spread of coronavirus. Anyone that wants to travel around is required to fill out a health survey on the app, which depending on their health status and travel history, will then generate a color code – Green, Yellow, or Red. These codes dictate whether a person can travel freely, should stay at home and isolate, or is required to stay in quarantine. And increasingly, malls, cafes, and restaurants in China are requiring customers to show their codes on the app before they are able to enter these areas. Hong Kong restaurant group Black Sheep, which owns a string of popular restaurants in the city, recently released a set of guidelines advising its 1,000 person team on how to deal with the pandemic. These guidelines have been published publically for other restaurants to use too. As part of these, the restaurant chain has made it mandatory for any customers to sign a health declaration form before they are able to dine. In this form, they are asked to confirm that they haven’t tested positive from the virus in the past 14 days, experienced any symptoms in that time, been in direct contact with anyone who is known to be carrying the virus, or have traveled outside of Hong Kong. It also asks them to leave their contact details so if there’s a confirmed case in the restaurant, the owners are able to inform anyone who has visited during that time. “If guests decline to complete the form do not be afraid to turn them away,” the company wrote, adding that they turned away more than 50 people in one night. “They may be upset in the moment, but it is absolutely the right thing to do to protect your team and your guests. It feels uncomfortable because we are in the business of hospitality but we have to understand the reality of the new world we exist in,” it said. Acrylic barriers have been a fixture at some restaurants in Asia from the start of the pandemic and continue to be. These screens are becoming more prevalent at registers in grocery stores in the US and could catch on in restaurants also as they start to reopen. Rigorous hygiene routines will be vital in encouraging customers to come back into restaurants. “Guests are very sensitive to hygiene, and anything that even looks messy will translate to unclean in their minds, so everyone’s uniforms, hair, nails, any surfaces guests can see, it all needs to be tidy and spotless, now more than ever,” Black Sheep Restaurants wrote in its guidelines. Black Sheep Restaurants cofounder Syed Asim Hussain said that employees are required to wash their hands and sanitize the tables used by customers every 30 minutes; every 10 days, they also do a deep clean. Under Hong Kong regulation, restaurants are also required to make hand sanitizer available to both guests and workers. It’s highly likely that this could become the norm in the US too. Experts also say we could see similar measures rolled out to retail stores with pop-up hand sanitizer stations becoming more prevalent in the US. Masked servers and diners have become the norm in Asia. In Hong Kong, customers are required to wear a mask in a restaurant when they are not eating or drinking. In some parts of the US, which are lifting lockdown restrictions, masks are mandatory for restaurant workers. The National Restaurant Association, which represents over 380,000 restaurants in the US, published a set of guidelines in April to give restaurants guidance about reopening and recommended that masks be worn even if they are not mandated by local governments.
3 May 12:00 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/what-american-restaurants-can-learn-from-chinas-example-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Trump's lawyers have reportedly demanded that Michael Cohen stop writing a 'tell-all' book about the president
3 May 09:28
•
5 articles
Weight: 2.45
Importance: 2.68
Age penalty: 0.91
Best date: 3 May 09:28
Average US: 13.66
Weighted average US: 47.00463751069927
Average GB: 0.08000000000000002
Weighted average GB: 0.3143057532591955
Average IN: 0.68
Weighted average IN: 2.671598902703162
Trump's lawyers have reportedly demanded that Michael Cohen stop writing a 'tell-all' book about the president
Michael Cohen, who was Donald Trump's personal lawyer for more than a decade, is planning to expose their private dealings in a 'tell-all' book. The Daily Beast reported Friday that in an attempt to suppress the revelations, lawyers for the Trump Organization last week sent Cohen, who is in prison, a cease and desist letter. Charles Harder, the attorney representing the company, said that Cohen signed a non-disclosure agreement when he joined the Trump Organization that prohibits him from disclosing certain information about the president, his family, and the company, ABC News reported. A friend of Cohen told the Daily Beast: "A lot of [the book] will be about looking at things he's said and done with women and other [politically incorrect] things. It'll be an insider's look about what it was like to be alongside the president for 12 years." The friend added that it would not break lawyer-client privilege. It had been reported that Cohen had been set from release from prison amid the coronavirus pandemic, and was likely to be allowed to serve his sentence under house arrest. The former attorney, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to tax evasion, bank fraud, and campaign-finance violations as well as making false statements to Congress, was said to have secured an early release from prison as officials look to lessen the possible spread of the virus in prisons. The New Yorker is serving a three-year sentence at a federal prison in Otisville, New York, located about 75 miles northwest of New York City, and is scheduled for release in November 2021. He was said to be preparing for release on May 1 to serve the rest of his sentence at home, but this weekend he remains in jail. According to the Daily Beast, President Trump was "seething" when he heard of the plan to free his former confidant.
3 May 09:28 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-michael-cohen-lawyers-demand-stop-writing-book-2020-5Rating: 4.40
Trump's lawyers have reportedly demanded that Michael Cohen stop writing a 'tell-all' book about the president
Michael Cohen, who was Donald Trump’s personal lawyer for more than a decade, is planning to expose their private dealings in a ‘tell-all’ book. The Daily Beast reported Friday that in an attempt to suppress the revelations, lawyers for the Trump Organization last week sent Cohen, who is in prison, a cease and desist letter. Charles Harder, the attorney representing the company, said that Cohen signed a non-disclosure agreement when he joined the Trump Organization that prohibits him from disclosing certain information about the president, his family, and the company, ABC News reported. A friend of Cohen told the Daily Beast: “A lot of [the book] will be about looking at things he’s said and done with women and other [politically incorrect] things. It’ll be an insider’s look about what it was like to be alongside the president for 12 years.” The friend added that it would not break lawyer-client privilege. It had been reported that Cohen had been set from release from prison amid the coronavirus pandemic, and was likely to be allowed to serve his sentence under house arrest. The former attorney, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to tax evasion, bank fraud, and campaign-finance violations as well as making false statements to Congress, was said to have secured an early release from prison as officials look to lessen the possible spread of the virus in prisons. The New Yorker is serving a three-year sentence at a federal prison in Otisville, New York, located about 75 miles northwest of New York City, and is scheduled for release in November 2021. He was said to be preparing for release on May 1 to serve the rest of his sentence at home, but this weekend he remains in jail. According to the Daily Beast, President Trump was “seething” when he heard of the plan to free his former confidant.
3 May 11:30 • Business Insider Nederland • https://www.businessinsider.nl/trump-michael-cohen-lawyers-demand-stop-writing-book-2020-5/Rating: 0.30
Trump's lawyers have reportedly demanded that Michael Cohen stop writing a 'tell-all' book about the president
Michael Cohen, who was Donald Trump’s personal lawyer for more than a decade, is planning to expose their private dealings in a ‘tell-all’ book. The Daily Beast reported Friday that in an attempt to suppress the revelations, lawyers for the Trump Organisation last week sent Cohen, who is in prison, a cease and desist letter. Charles Harder, the attorney representing the company, said that Cohen signed a non-disclosure agreement when he joined the Trump Organisation that prohibits him from disclosing certain information about the president, his family, and the company,ABC News reported. A friend of Cohen told the Daily Beast: “A lot of [the book] will be about looking at things he’s said and done with women and other [politically incorrect] things. It will be an insider’s look about what it was like to be alongside the president for 12 years.” The friend added that it would not break lawyer-client privilege. It had been reported that Cohen had been set from release from prison amid the coronavirus pandemic, and was likely to be allowed to serve his sentence under house arrest. The former attorney, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to tax evasion, bank fraud, and campaign-finance violations as well as making false statements to Congress, was said to have secured an early release from prison as officials look to lessen the possible spread of the virus in prisons. The New Yorker is serving a three-year sentence at a federal prison in Otisville, New York, located about 75 miles northwest of New York City, and is scheduled for release in November 2021. He was said to be preparing for release on May 1 to serve the rest of his sentence at home, but this weekend he remains in jail. According to the Daily Beast, President Trump was “seething” when he heard of the plan to free his former confidant.
3 May 09:28 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/trump-michael-cohen-lawyers-demand-stop-writing-book-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Trump’s lawyers have reportedly demanded that Michael Cohen stop writing a ‘tell-all’ book about the president
Michael Cohen, who was Donald Trump’s personal lawyer for more than a decade, is planning to expose their private dealings in a ‘tell-all’ book. The Daily Beast reported Friday that in an attempt to suppress the revelations, lawyers for the Trump Organization last week sent Cohen, who is in prison, a cease and desist letter. Charles Harder, the attorney representing the company, said that Cohen signed a non-disclosure agreement when he joined the Trump Organization that prohibits him from disclosing certain information about the president, his family, and the company, ABC News reported. A friend of Cohen told the Daily Beast: “A lot of [the book] will be about looking at things he’s said and done with women and other [politically incorrect] things. It’ll be an insider’s look about what it was like to be alongside the president for 12 years.” The friend added that it would not break lawyer-client privilege. It had been reported that Cohen had been set from release from prison amid the coronavirus pandemic, and was likely to be allowed to serve his sentence under house arrest. The former attorney, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to tax evasion, bank fraud, and campaign-finance violations as well as making false statements to Congress, was said to have secured an early release from prison as officials look to lessen the possible spread of the virus in prisons. The New Yorker is serving a three-year sentence at a federal prison in Otisville, New York, located about 75 miles northwest of New York City, and is scheduled for release in November 2021. He was said to be preparing for release on May 1 to serve the rest of his sentence at home, but this weekend he remains in jail. According to the Daily Beast, President Trump was “seething” when he heard of the plan to free his former confidant.
3 May 09:28 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/trump-michael-cohen-lawyers-demand-stop-writing-book-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Trump's lawyers have reportedly demanded that Michael Cohen stop writing a 'tell-all' book about the president
Yana Paskova/Getty Images Michael Cohen, who was Donald Trump's personal lawyer for more than a decade, is planning to expose their private dealings in a 'tell-all' book. The Daily Beast reported Friday that in an attempt to suppress the revelations, lawyers for the Trump Organization last week sent Cohen, who is in prison, a cease and desist letter. Charles Harder, the attorney representing the company, said that Cohen signed a non-disclosure agreement when he joined the Trump Organization that prohibits him from disclosing certain information about the president, his family, and the company, ABC News reported. A friend of Cohen told the Daily Beast: "A lot of [the book] will be about looking at things he's said and done with women and other [politically incorrect] things. It'll be an insider's look about what it was like to be alongside the president for 12 years." The friend added that it would not break lawyer-client privilege. It had been reported that Cohen had been set from release from prison amid the coronavirus pandemic, and was likely to be allowed to serve his sentence under house arrest. The former attorney, who pleaded guilty in 2018 to tax evasion, bank fraud, and campaign-finance violations as well as making false statements to Congress, was said to have secured an early release from prison as officials look to lessen the possible spread of the virus in prisons. The New Yorker is serving a three-year sentence at a federal prison in Otisville, New York, located about 75 miles northwest of New York City, and is scheduled for release in November 2021. He was said to be preparing for release on May 1 to serve the rest of his sentence at home, but this weekend he remains in jail. According to the Daily Beast, President Trump was "seething" when he heard of the plan to free his former confidant. Read the original article on Business Insider
3 May 09:28 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/trumps-lawyers-reportedly-demanded-michael-092806468.htmlRating: 0.30
U.S. CDC reports 1,122,486 coronavirus cases, 65,735 deaths
3 May 22:03
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Weighted average IN: 14.260612496807724
U.S. CDC reports 1,122,486 coronavirus cases, 65,735 deaths
(Reuters) - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday reported 1,122,486 U.S. cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 29,671 cases from its previous count, and said the number of deaths had risen by 1,452 to 65,735. The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. EDT (2000 GMT) on Saturday, compared with its count a day earlier. (bit.ly/2IVY1JT) The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states. The tally reported over the weekend is preliminary and will be updated on Monday.
3 May 22:03 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-usa-cdc-idUSKBN22F0WDRating: 4.04
U.S. CDC reports 1,122,486 coronavirus cases, 65,735 deaths
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Sunday reported 1,122,486 U.S. cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 29,671 cases from its previous count, and said the number of deaths had risen by 1,452 to 65,735. The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus, as of 4 p.m. EDT (2000 GMT) on Saturday, compared with its count a day earlier. (https://bit.ly/2IVY1JT) The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states. The tally reported over the weekend is preliminary and will be updated on Monday. (Reporting by Rama Venkat in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Cooney)
3 May 22:00 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/u-s-cdc-reports-1122486-coronavirus-cases-65735-deathsRating: 0.94
Russia registers record 10,633 cases in 24 hrs
Moscow: Russia on Sunday reported a new single-day record with 10,633 COVID-19 cases confirmed over the last 24 hours, raising its total number of infe... Moscow: Russia on Sunday reported a new single-day record with 10,633 COVID-19 cases confirmed over the last 24 hours, raising its total number of infections to 134,687, health authorities said. Russia has been updating its single-day record every day since April 30, Xinhua news agency quoted the country's coronavirus response centre as saying. The death toll from the pandemic increased by 58 to 1,280 on Sunday, while 16,639 people have recovered, including 1,626 over the last 24 hours, the statement said. Moscow, the country's worst-hit region, confirmed 5,948 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total to 68,606. Results of screening among various population groups indicated that about 2 per cent of Moscow's total residents -- 12.68 million in January -- may have been infected with COVID-19, according to the city's mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 20:43 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/international/russia-registers-record-10633-cases-in-24-hrs-620630Rating: 1.10
Russia tallies record 9,623 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hrs
MOSCOW: Russia has reported a daily record of 9,623 new COVID-19 cases over the last 24 hours, raising the total number of infections to 124,054 as of Saturday, the country's coronavirus response centre said in a statement. The death toll from the pandemic increased by 57 to 1,222, while 15,013 people have recovered, including 1,793 over the last 24 hours, the statement said. Moscow, the country's worst-hit region, confirmed 5,358 new cases in the past 24 hours, taking its total to 62,658. Results of screening among various population groups indicated that about two percent of Moscow's total residents may have been infected with COVID-19, the city's mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on his personal website Saturday. According to official statistics, 12.68 million people were living in the Russian capital in January. The volume of rapid tests for COVID-19 antibodies has increased 10 times over the past week, Sobyanin said. After Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said Thursday that he has tested positive for COVID-19, President Vladimir Putin has ordered First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov to temporarily perform Mishustin's duties. The Russian Ministry of Construction, Housing and Utilities said Friday that its minister Vladimir Yakushev and deputy minister Dmitry Volkov have tested positive for the coronavirus.
2 May 15:43 • Times of Oman • https://timesofoman.com/article/3014438/world/europe/russia-tallies-record-9623-new-covid-19-cases-in-last-24-hrsRating: 1.06
U.S. CDC reports 1,092,815 coronavirus cases, 64,283 deaths
(Reuters) - The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported there were 1,092,815 cases of the new coronavirus as of Friday, an increase of 30,369 from a day earlier, and said the number of deaths had risen by 1,877 to 64,283. The CDC's tally of cases bit.ly/348yQ0J of COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, was effective as of 4 p.m. ET on Friday and was released on Saturday. The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states. The tally reported over the weekend is preliminary and will be updated on Monday.
2 May 18:55 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-usa-cdc-idUSKBN22E0RORating: 4.04
U.S. CDC reports 1,092,815 coronavirus cases, 64,283 deaths
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported there were 1,092,815 cases of the new coronavirus as of Friday, an increase of 30,369 from a day earlier, and said the number of deaths had risen by 1,877 to 64,283. The CDC’s tally of cases https://bit.ly/348yQ0J of COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, was effective as of 4 p.m. ET on Friday and was released on Saturday. The CDC figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states. The tally reported over the weekend is preliminary and will be updated on Monday. (Reporting by Aishwarya Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Bernadette Baum)
2 May 18:37 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/u-s-cdc-reports-1092815-coronavirus-cases-64283-deathsRating: 0.94
Younger adults are getting seriously sick and ending up in the hospital because of the coronavirus, and it's alarming doctors
3 May 10:45
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Weighted average IN: 2.9921068287783883
Younger adults are getting seriously sick and ending up in the hospital because of the coronavirus, and it's alarming doctors
When Dr. Anar Yukhayev's patient told him she'd developed a fever after a recent trip to Italy, he ran out of the room and grabbed a mask for each of them. By that point, the 31-year-old obstetrician-gynecologist had been face-to-face with her for 20 minutes. It was the first week of March, when reports of the novel coronavirus were starting to emerge in the New York City area. Westchester County, north of the city, was already seeing a cluster of cases. Yukhayev works at Katz Women's Hospital at Long Island Jewish Medical Center on the border of Queens and Nassau County in New York. The following week, he started to feel off, with back and muscle aches. Then, he spiked a fever. He got tested March 13, two days after the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus a pandemic. The state by that point had hundreds of confirmed cases. By the following week, he was so sick that his colleagues were thinking about putting him on a ventilator. Yukhayev's experience of getting severely ill is common in hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. Patients ages 30 to 59 made up roughly a third of hospital admissions evaluated by Northwell Health, the health system Yukhayev's is a part of, according to an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The shock of finding otherwise healthy people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s in the hospital severely ill with COVID-19 has been a common refrain in Business Insider's conversations with doctors on the front lines. Other viral outbreaks, especially the flu, tend to hit the youngest and oldest Americans the hardest. Yukhayev told Business Insider he was so short of breath he could get only a few words out. "I heard a gurgle, a crackle of water in my lungs every time I took a breath," Yukhayev said. He said he couldn't get out of bed, didn't have an appetite, and had a fever. He was admitted to the hospital and given azithromycin, hydroxychloroquine, and an oxygen mask to help him breathe. Six days after he was tested, shortly after his doctors had entered him into a clinical trial for a Regeneron drug, Yukhayev was still getting worse. His doctors told him his next step would be to be put on a ventilator. "That was my worst fear," Yukhayev said. He spent the next day in the intensive-care unit, where the doctors continued to monitor him. Then, he started to get better. LoadingSomething is loading. On March 26, he was discharged, after spending nine days in the hospital. Stories of young people getting sick and even dying from the novel coronavirus are becoming common. A 38-year-old Ironman athlete in Minnesota nearly died from COVID-19 and as of mid-April still needed oxygen to help him breathe. David Lat, a 44-year-old marathon runner, was hospitalized in Manhattan for 17 days, six of which he spent on ventilator support to help him breathe. The virus almost killed a 47-year-old New Jersey doctor, who was running 16 to 20 miles a week before getting sick. As of April 12, adults ages 18 to 44 accounted for roughly 11% of all New York hospital admissions, while those ages 45 to 64 accounted for 27%. To be sure, a look at hospitalization rates from March shows that rates of hospitalization per 100,000 people were highest among older Americans, especially those 75 and up. But in a hospital on Long Island, the ICU has patients in their 20s, Dr. Dixie Harris, an ICU doctor who flew out from Utah to help with the crisis, said. It's somewhat unusual to care for so many young people, and doctors feel extra pressure to find ways to help them recover, she said. "For someone in their 40s, 50s, you want to try everything you can to get them to survive," Harris said. In Newark, New Jersey, an intensive-care doctor told Business Insider in March that in the ICU of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center he had young patients in their 20s and 30s on ventilators. One day in March, an emergency-room nurse at New York University said she had to intubate two patients in their 30s. "We've started to see a little more infection in really sick presentations in younger patients than we would've thought," Dr. Thomas Maddox, who serves as the chair of the science and quality committee of the American College of Cardiology, told Business Insider. Younger patients are often outfitted with a non-rebreather mask in the ER, and given "just oxygen and oxygen and oxygen," Dr. Cleavon Gilman, an ER physician, told Business Insider's Hilary Brueck. A week after being discharged, Yukhayev was back in the hospital — this time to care for a patient who had tested positive for the coronavirus and was about to have her baby via cesarean section. Yukhayev performed the procedure, which took about an hour, and it was uneventful, he said. After, however, he was still short of breath, a problem made worse by the need to wear extra protective gear in the operating room. Returning to the hospital where just a week ago he was a patient was surreal, Yukhayev said. In the hallways, he said, he ran into healthcare workers who had taken care of him who were happy to see him better. Knowing he wasn't fully recovered, Yukhayev took a few more days off before returning to work on April 13, a month after initially being tested. "I'm better than I was before I got sick," Yukhayev said. "After that you get a new experience of not taking life for granted." Featured Health Articles:- Telehealth Industry Explained- Value-Based Care Explained- Senior Care & Assisted Living Market- Smart Medical Devices & Wearable Tech- AI in Healthcare- Remote Patient Monitoring Explained - AI in Medical Diagnosis Systems Do you have a personal experience with the coronavirus you'd like to share? Or a tip on how your town or community is handling the pandemic? Please email covidtips@businessinsider.com and tell us your story. Get the latest coronavirus business & economic impact analysis from Business Insider Intelligence on how COVID-19 is affecting industries.
3 May 10:45 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/non-elderly-americans-are-getting-severely-ill-with-covid-19-2020-4Rating: 4.40
Younger adults are getting seriously sick and ending up in the hospital because of the coronavirus, and it’s alarming doctors
When Dr. Anar Yukhayev’s patient told him she’d developed a fever after a recent trip to Italy, he ran out of the room and grabbed a mask for each of them. By that point, the 31-year-old obstetrician-gynecologist had been face-to-face with her for 20 minutes. It was the first week of March, when reports of the novel coronavirus were starting to emerge in the New York City area. Westchester county, north of the city, was already seeing a cluster of cases. Yukhayev works at Katz Women’s Hospital at Long Island Jewish Medical Center on the border of Queens and Nassau County in New York. The following week, he started to feel off, with back and muscle aches. Then, he spiked a fever. He got tested on March 13, two days after the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus a pandemic. The state by that point had hundreds of confirmed cases. By the following week, he was so sick that his colleagues were thinking about putting him on a ventilator. Yukhayev’s experience of getting severely ill is common in hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. Patients between 30 and 59 made up roughly a third of hospital admissions evaluated by Northwell Health, the health system Yukhayev’s a part of, according to an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The shock of finding otherwise healthy people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, in the hospital severely ill with COVID-19 has been a common refrain in Business Insider’s conversations with doctors on the front lines. Other viral outbreaks, especially the flu, tend to hit the youngest and oldest Americans the hardest. Yukhayev told BI he was so short of breath he could only get a few words out. “I heard a gurgle, a crackle of water in my lungs every time I took a breath,” Yukhayev said. He said he couldn’t get out of bed, didn’t have an appetite, and had a fever. He was admitted to the hospital and given azithromycin, hydroxychloroquine, and an oxygen mask to help him breathe. Six days after he was tested, shortly after his doctors had entered him into a clinical trial for a Regeneron drug, Yukhayev was still getting worse. His doctors told him his next step would be to be put on a ventilator. “That was my worst fear,” Yukhayev said. He spent the next day in the intensive care unit, where the doctors continued to monitor him. Then, he started to get better. On March 26, he was discharged, after spending 9 days in the hospital. Stories of young people getting sick and even dying from the coronavirus are becoming commonplace. A 38-year-old Ironman athlete in Minnesota nearly died from COVID-19 and as of mid-April still needed oxygen to help him breathe. David Lat, a 44-year-old marathon runner was hospitalized in Manhattan for 17 days, six of which he spent on ventilator support to help him breathe. The virus almost killed a 47-year-old New Jersey doctor, who was running 16-20 miles a week before getting sick. As of April 12, adults between 18 and 44 accounted for roughly 11% of all New York hospital admissions, while those between 45 and 64 accounted for 27%.. To be sure, a look at hospitalization rates from March showed that rates of hospitalization per 100,000 people were highest among older Americans, especially those 75 and up. In a hospital on Long Island, the ICU has patients in their 20s, Dr. Dixie Harris, an ICU doctor who flew out from Utah to help with the crisis, said. It’s somewhat unusual to care for so many young people, and doctors feel extra pressure to find ways to help them recover, she said. “For someone in their 40s, 50s, you want to try every thing you can to get them to survive,” Harris said. In Newark, New Jersey, an intensive-care doctor told Business Insider in March that in the ICU of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center he had young patients in their 20s and 30s on ventilators. One day in March, an ER nurse at NYU said she had to intubate two patients in their 30s. “We’ve started to see a little more infection in really sick presentations in younger patients than we would’ve thought,” Dr. Thomas Maddox, who serves as chair of the science and quality committee of the American College of Cardiology, told Business Insider. Younger patients are often outfitted with a non-rebreather mask in the ER, and given “just oxygen and oxygen and oxygen,” emergency room physician Dr. Cleavon Gilman told Business Insider’s Hilary Brueck. A week after being discharged, Yukhayev was back in the hospital – this time to care for a patient who had tested positive for the coronavirus and was about to have her baby via a C-section. Yukhayev performed the procedure, which took about an hour, and it was uneventful, he said. After, however, he was still short of breath, a problem made worse by the need to wear extra protective gear in the operating room. Returning to the hospital where he was a week ago a patient was a surreal experience, Yukhayev said. In the hallways, he ran into healthcare workers who had taken care of him who were happy to see him better. Knowing he wasn’t fully recovered, Yukhayev took a few more days off before returning to work on April 13, a month after initially being tested. “I’m better than I was before I got sick,” Yukhayev said. “After that you get a new experience of not taking life for granted.”
3 May 10:45 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/non-elderly-americans-are-getting-severely-ill-with-covid-19-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Younger adults are getting seriously sick and ending up in the hospital because of the coronavirus, and it's alarming doctors, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
When Dr. Anar Yukhayev’s patient told him she’d developed a fever after a recent trip to Italy, he ran out of the room and grabbed a mask for each of them. By that point, the 31-year-old obstetrician-gynecologist had been face-to-face with her for 20 minutes. It was the first week of March, when reports of the novel coronavirus were starting to emerge in the New York City area. Westchester county, north of the city, was already seeing a cluster of cases. Yukhayev works at Katz Women’s Hospital at Long Island Jewish Medical Center on the border of Queens and Nassau County in New York. The following week, he started to feel off, with back and muscle aches. Then, he spiked a fever. He got tested on March 13, two days after the World Health Organization declared the novel coronavirus a pandemic. The state by that point had hundreds of confirmed cases. By the following week, he was so sick that his colleagues were thinking about putting him on a ventilator. Yukhayev’s experience of getting severely ill is common in hospitals overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. Patients between 30 and 59 made up roughly a third of hospital admissions evaluated by Northwell Health, the health system Yukhayev’s a part of, according to an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The shock of finding otherwise healthy people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, in the hospital severely ill with COVID-19 has been a common refrain in Business Insider’s conversations with doctors on the front lines. Other viral outbreaks, especially the flu, tend to hit the youngest and oldest Americans the hardest. Yukhayev told BI he was so short of breath he could only get a few words out. “I heard a gurgle, a crackle of water in my lungs every time I took a breath,” Yukhayev said. He said he couldn’t get out of bed, didn’t have an appetite, and had a fever. He was admitted to the hospital and given azithromycin, hydroxychloroquine, and an oxygen mask to help him breathe. Six days after he was tested, shortly after his doctors had entered him into a clinical trial for a Regeneron drug, Yukhayev was still getting worse. His doctors told him his next step would be to be put on a ventilator. “That was my worst fear,” Yukhayev said. He spent the next day in the intensive care unit, where the doctors continued to monitor him. Then, he started to get better. On March 26, he was discharged, after spending 9 days in the hospital. Stories of young people getting sick and even dying from the coronavirus are becoming commonplace. A 38-year-old Ironman athlete in Minnesota nearly died from COVID-19 and as of mid-April still needed oxygen to help him breathe. David Lat, a 44-year-old marathon runner was hospitalized in Manhattan for 17 days, six of which he spent on ventilator support to help him breathe. The virus almost killed a 47-year-old New Jersey doctor, who was running 16-20 miles a week before getting sick. As of April 12, adults between 18 and 44 accounted for roughly 11% of all New York hospital admissions, while those between 45 and 64 accounted for 27%.. To be sure, a look at hospitalization rates from March showed that rates of hospitalization per 100,000 people were highest among older Americans, especially those 75 and up. In a hospital on Long Island, the ICU has patients in their 20s, Dr. Dixie Harris, an ICU doctor who flew out from Utah to help with the crisis, said. It’s somewhat unusual to care for so many young people, and doctors feel extra pressure to find ways to help them recover, she said. “For someone in their 40s, 50s, you want to try every thing you can to get them to survive,” Harris said. In Newark, New Jersey, an intensive-care doctor told Business Insider in March that in the ICU of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center he had young patients in their 20s and 30s on ventilators. One day in March, an ER nurse at NYU said she had to intubate two patients in their 30s. “We’ve started to see a little more infection in really sick presentations in younger patients than we would’ve thought,” Dr. Thomas Maddox, who serves as chair of the science and quality committee of the American College of Cardiology, told Business Insider. Younger patients are often outfitted with a non-rebreather mask in the ER, and given “just oxygen and oxygen and oxygen,” emergency room physician Dr. Cleavon Gilman told Business Insider’s Hilary Brueck. A week after being discharged, Yukhayev was back in the hospital – this time to care for a patient who had tested positive for the coronavirus and was about to have her baby via a C-section. Yukhayev performed the procedure, which took about an hour, and it was uneventful, he said. After, however, he was still short of breath, a problem made worse by the need to wear extra protective gear in the operating room. Returning to the hospital where he was a week ago a patient was a surreal experience, Yukhayev said. In the hallways, he ran into healthcare workers who had taken care of him who were happy to see him better. Knowing he wasn’t fully recovered, Yukhayev took a few more days off before returning to work on April 13, a month after initially being tested. “I’m better than I was before I got sick,” Yukhayev said. “After that you get a new experience of not taking life for granted.”
3 May 10:45 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/non-elderly-americans-are-getting-severely-ill-with-covid-19-2020-4Rating: 0.30
Pipe-laying vessel reaches Baltic as Russia's Nord Stream 2 target looms
3 May 14:18
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5 articles
Weight: 2.43
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Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 13:57
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Weighted average GB: 0.42082524314316533
Average IN: 5.0
Weighted average IN: 5.510975214024216
Pipe-laying vessel reaches Baltic as Russia's Nord Stream 2 target looms
MOSCOW (Reuters) - A special pipe-laying vessel that could be used by Russia to complete construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Germany has arrived in the Baltic Sea, a Reuters witness said on Sunday. The arrival of the Academic Cherskiy suggests that the pipeline project remains a priority for Moscow despite U.S. sanctions on Russia. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline was designed by Moscow to increase gas supplies via the Baltic Sea to Germany, Russia’s biggest energy customer. Russia’s energy ministry said in December that the pipeline was expected to be launched before the end of 2020. Footage taken by Reuters from the coast showed the Academic Cherskiy idle in a bay near the Kaliningrad region, which is separated from Russia’s mainland and is sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania. The Academic Cherskiy, which Russian gas company Gazprom bought in 2016, was in the Russian Pacific port of Nakhodka in December when the United States imposed sanctions on Nord Stream 2. The United States says the pipeline would make the continent too reliant for energy on Russia, leaving it in Moscow’s political grip. Washington has touted exports of U.S. liquefied natural gas, or LNG, to provide Europe with alternatives to gas pipelined from Russia. As a result of the sanctions, the Swiss-Dutch company Allseas, which was laying the pipeline, suspended work on it. Russia then said it was preparing to use an alternative vessel for the project, as 160-km (100-mile) stretch near the Danish island of Bornholm has not yet been completed. Russia did not name the vessel at the time but said it was docked at a port in its far east. Another vessel that could potentially be used was in another location at the time, pointing to the use of the Academic Cherskiy. It would take less than two days for the Academic Cherskiy to reach the Bornholm area from the Kaliningrad region if it started heading that way, according to a Reuters estimate.
3 May 14:18 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-russia-nord-stream-vessel-idUSKBN22F0LHRating: 4.04
Pipe-laying vessel reaches Baltic as Russia’s Nord Stream 2 target looms
MOSCOW, May 3 — A special pipe-laying vessel that could be used by Russia to complete construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Germany has arrived in the Baltic Sea, a Reuters witness said today. The arrival of the Academic Cherskiy suggests that the pipeline project remains a priority for Moscow despite US sanctions on Russia. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline was designed by Moscow to increase gas supplies via the Baltic Sea to Germany, Russia’s biggest energy customer. Russia’s energy ministry said in December that the pipeline was expected to be launched before the end of 2020. Footage taken by Reuters from the coast showed the Academic Cherskiy idle in a bay near the Kaliningrad region, which is separated from Russia’s mainland and is sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania. The Academic Cherskiy, which Russian gas company Gazprom bought in 2016, was in the Russian Pacific port of Nakhodka in December when the United States imposed sanctions on Nord Stream 2. The United States says the pipeline would make the continent too reliant for energy on Russia, leaving it in Moscow’s political grip. Washington has touted exports of US liquefied natural gas, or LNG, to provide Europe with alternatives to gas pipelined from Russia. As a result of the sanctions, the Swiss-Dutch company Allseas, which was laying the pipeline, suspended work on it. Russia then said it was preparing to use an alternative vessel for the project, as 160-km (100-mile) stretch near the Danish island of Bornholm has not yet been completed. Russia did not name the vessel at the time but said it was docked at a port in its far east. Another vessel that could potentially be used was in another location at the time, pointing to the use of the Academic Cherskiy. It would take less than two days for the Academic Cherskiy to reach the Bornholm area from the Kaliningrad region if it started heading that way, according to a Reuters estimate. — Reuters
3 May 15:55 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/money/2020/05/03/pipe-laying-vessel-reaches-baltic-as-russias-nord-stream-2-target-looms/1862709Rating: 1.42
Pipe-laying vessel reaches Baltic as Russia's Nord Stream 2 target looms
MOSCOW — A special pipe-laying vessel that could be used by Russia to complete construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Germany has arrived in the Baltic Sea, a Reuters witness said on Sunday. The arrival of the Academic Cherskiy suggests that the pipeline project remains a priority for Moscow despite U.S. sanctions on Russia. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline was designed by Moscow to increase gas supplies via the Baltic Sea to Germany, Russia’s biggest energy customer. Russia’s energy ministry said in December that the pipeline was expected to be launched before the end of 2020. Footage taken by Reuters from the coast showed the Academic Cherskiy idle in a bay near the Kaliningrad region, which is separated from Russia’s mainland and is sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania. The Academic Cherskiy, which Russian gas company Gazprom bought in 2016, was in the Russian Pacific port of Nakhodka in December when the United States imposed sanctions on Nord Stream 2. The United States says the pipeline would make the continent too reliant for energy on Russia, leaving it in Moscow’s political grip. Washington has touted exports of U.S. liquefied natural gas, or LNG, to provide Europe with alternatives to gas pipelined from Russia. As a result of the sanctions, the Swiss-Dutch company Allseas, which was laying the pipeline, suspended work on it. Russia then said it was preparing to use an alternative vessel for the project, as 160-km (100-mile) stretch near the Danish island of Bornholm has not yet been completed. Russia did not name the vessel at the time but said it was docked at a port in its far east. Another vessel that could potentially be used was in another location at the time, pointing to the use of the Academic Cherskiy. It would take less than two days for the Academic Cherskiy to reach the Bornholm area from the Kaliningrad region if it started heading that way, according to a Reuters estimate. (Reporting by Vitaly Nevar; writing by Polina Devitt; editing by Timothy Heritage)
3 May 13:57 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/pipe-laying-vessel-reaches-baltic-as-russias-nord-stream-2-target-loomsRating: 0.94
Russian Ship That Could Finish Nord Stream 2 Link Reaches Baltic
A Russian pipe-laying ship that could help finish the Nord Stream 2 gas link to Europe has anchored at the Baltic Sea port of Kaliningrad after sailing for three months from the Pacific. The Akademik Cherskiy, which has changed destinations several times on its way, recently signaled it was set to arrive in Kaliningrad on Sunday, tanker tracking data show. Late last year, Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak mentioned that vessel as an option to complete the pipeline that will bring Russian gas to Germany via the Baltic Sea. Why World Frets About Russia’s Nord Stream 2 Pipeline: QuickTake The pipeline, one of the key export projects for Russia’s Gazprom PJSC, was just weeks away from completion when U.S. sanctions stopped work last year. There’s a small section in Denmark’s waters still to be completed. Even as the U.S. imposed a ban on completion of construction, Gazprom Chief Executive Officer Alexey Miller said Russia has the means to build the remaining section on its own, without specifying how. It’s not clear whether the Akademik Cherskiy is part of the solution. Novak said last year exports via the link would start by end-2020. The line would feed as much as 55 billion cubic meters per year of natural gas from fields in Siberia directly into Germany, circumventing the current main transport corridor through Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump has said Europe should cut its reliance on Russian gas and instead buy liquefied fuel from America.
3 May 10:30 • Bloomberg.com • https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-03/russian-ship-that-could-finish-nord-stream-2-link-reaches-balticRating: 4.04
Nord Stream 2 Pipe-Laying Ship Approaches Russia's Kaliningrad - Report
The Russian pipe-laying vessel Akademik Cherskiy, which Moscow earlier said is capable of completing the construction of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, has arrived at the port city of Kaliningrad, the ship-tracking website Marine Traffic said. It added that the ship docked on Saturday evening. Earlier this week, the Akademik Cherskiy, which has been operated by Gazprom Fleet since 2016, entered the pipeline construction zone not far from the Danish island of Bornholm and headed towards Kaliningrad. In February, the pipe-laying ship made its way from the Russian port of Nakhodka to Singapore, and since then has changed its course multiple times. It took the ship 83 days to reach Kaliningrad. In late 2019, the US adopted the National Defence Authorisation Act for 2020 which outlined sanctions against companies involved in the implementation of the Nord Stream 2 project. Almost immediately, the Swiss-based offshore contractor Allseas Group suspended work on the project amid the risk of US sanctions. Commenting on the situation with the Nord Stream 2 project in December 2019, Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Novak said that the use of the Akademik Cherskiy ship remained one of several options to finish the construction of the pipeline, adding that it would take some time to carry out additional preparations for the mission. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that it was possible to complete the Nord Stream 2 construction without foreign companies' assistance, though this would require extra time. According to him, the pipeline will be operational no later than the first quarter of 2021. Nord Stream 2 is a joint venture between Russian energy giant Gazprom and five European companies, including France's ENGIE, Austria's OMV, the UK-Dutch company Royal Dutch Shell, and Germany's Uniper and Wintershall. The 1,198-km (745-mile) twin gas pipeline is expected to carry up to 55 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year from Russia to Germany, bypassing the existing route via Ukraine and Poland. The US has been seeking to undermine the construction of the pipeline, threatening every company involved with sanctions. Moscow has repeatedly called against politicising the Nord Stream 2 project, emphasizing its purely economic purpose.
3 May 17:26 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/europe/202005031079183423-nord-stream-2-pipe-laying-ship-approaches-russias-kaliningrad---report/Rating: 3.96
Europe prepares to ease lockdowns as signs pandemic ebbing
3 May 21:15
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Europe prepares to ease lockdowns as signs pandemic ebbing
ROME — European nations on Sunday prepared for further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside after weeks of confinement. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure on populations weary of confinement. After a two-month lockdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. Romans were doing aerobics on their rooftop terraces and exercising indoors on Sunday and the squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 metres of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organizing various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world after the United States. Several industries including automobile sector and construction have already restarted work. But Italy's 20 regions have imposed their own regulations, leading to some confusion over what people can and cannot do. Veneto and Calabria lifted their lockdowns early and allowed bars and restaurants to open with outdoor tables. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own "roadmap" to ease the country out of lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing up restrictions to help battered economies against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Despite moves to ease curbs across the globe, more than 4.6 billion people are still on some form of lockdown or obligation to stay confined at home. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow -- the epicentre of the contagion in Russia -- urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel gave their support in an open letter in weekend newspapers. With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar easing measures. South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". U.S. leaders face immense pressure to ease virus measures as the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have rallied against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already broken out in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell." © 2020 AFP
3 May 21:15 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/europe-prepares-to-ease-lockdowns-as-signs-pandemic-ebbingRating: 2.09
Europe prepares to ease lockdowns as pandemic shows signs of ebbing
ROME: European nations on Sunday (May 3) prepared for further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside after weeks of confinement. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure on populations weary of confinement. After a two-month lockdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. Romans were doing aerobics on their rooftop terraces and exercising indoors on Sunday and the squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 metres of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." 'PAST THE PEAK' Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world after the United States. Several industries including automobile sector and construction have already restarted work. But Italy's 20 regions have imposed their own regulations, leading to some confusion over what people can and cannot do. Veneto and Calabria lifted their lockdowns early and allowed bars and restaurants to open with outdoor tables. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own "roadmap" to ease the country out of lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing up restrictions to help battered economies against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Despite moves to ease curbs across the globe, more than 4.6 billion people are still on some form of lockdown or obligation to stay confined at home. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow - the epicentre of the contagion in Russia - urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. PREPARE FOR 'BAD SCENARIOS' European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros (US$8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel gave their support in an open letter in weekend newspapers. With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar easing measures. South Korea - once the second worst-hit nation on the planet - said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". 'BEYOND BREAKING POINT' US leaders face immense pressure to ease virus measures as the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators - some armed - who have rallied against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population - the world's largest at 2.3 million - with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already broken out in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell."
3 May 21:47 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/europe-prepares-to-ease-lockdowns-as-pandemic-shows-signs-of-12698260Rating: 3.25
Coronavirus | Hard-hit Italy prepares to lift lockdown
European nations on Sunday prepared for further cautious easing of COVID-19 restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside after weeks of confinement. More than 2,43,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the U.S. have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure on populations weary of confinement. After a two-month lockdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. Romans were doing aerobics on their rooftop terraces and exercising indoors on Sunday and the squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 m of their homes. “On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them,” said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. “On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do.” Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world after the United States. Several industries, including automobile sector and construction, have already restarted work. But Italy’s 20 regions have imposed their own regulations, leading to some confusion over what people can and cannot do. Veneto and Calabria lifted their lockdowns early and allowed bars and restaurants to open with outdoor tables. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, Germany’s Minister for the Interior and Sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country’s football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own “roadmap” to ease the country out of lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was “past the peak” of the outbreak. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing up restrictions to help battered economies against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Despite moves to ease curbs across the globe, more than 4.6 billion people are still on some form of lockdown or obligation to stay confined at home. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow — the epicentre of the contagion in Russia — urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise €7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel gave their support in an open letter in weekend newspapers. With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar easing measures. South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures”. Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Mr. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen “calmly and gradually”, it should also prepare for “bad scenarios”. U.S. leaders face immense pressure to ease virus measures as the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have rallied against the lockdowns. There are also signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the U.S. outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said on Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already broken out in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” said Brian Miller, an officer at Marion prison in Ohio. “Right now it's hell.”
3 May 17:15 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-hard-hit-italy-prepares-to-lift-lockdown/article31495758.eceRating: 0.30
Spain eases strict lockdown as US approves virus drug
- Advertisement - by Laurence Boutreux with AFP bureaus Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time after 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased virus lockdowns and Russia faced a large spike in new infections. As governments across the globe weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. - Advertisement - The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people worldwide and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. “After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world,” said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid’s Chueca district who got up a 7am to enjoy some time outside. “Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve.” Near the city’s Retiro park, many residents were out to running, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of the deserted avenue and on the pavement. Crowds of runners mingled with cyclists and skateboarders enjoying sports in the sun in Barcelona’s seaside neighbourhood. “This all seems a bit crazy to me. On the first day we get some freedom I don’t see any safe distancing at all,” said Christian, an Italian living in Barcelona. “I didn’t expect to see thousands of people running like this.” Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez however said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday, and children and elderly will still face some time restrictions on when they can go outside. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all gradually easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday decided to extend a health emergency by two months until late July. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeout and wholesale stores can resume business. “We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We’ve done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it’s up to you,” emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said at a press conference. “I implore you, do not lower your guards.” In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia’s outbreak, around 2 percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. “The threat is apparently on the rise,” Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier Saturday. – Treatment hopes –More than 3.3 million cases of infection have been officially diagnosed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million in Europe alone. That number is likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,000, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain with 25,100 deaths and France with 24,594 fatalities. US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. “It’s really a very promising situation,” Trump said on Friday at the White House. The drug incorporates itself into the virus’s genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world’s largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states — including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce the shutdown order. “Open California!” chanted protesters near the closed beaches, carrying signs that read “All jobs are essential” or “Freedom is essential”. – Hong Kong shops opening –In Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people — the world’s biggest — would continue for two more weeks from May 4. In Singapore, the government said Saturday that pet food stores and hair salons will be allowed to reopen on May 12. Most of the city-state’s infections have been detected at dormitories housing migrant workers, and their confinement was extended to June 1. Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed case of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week. The city’s social distancing regulations including limits on gathering of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. The city’s chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. During the long weekend with public holidays to celebrate Buddha’s birthday and Labour Day, residents flocked to country parks and the city’s outlying islands to get some fresh air. Shops and restaurants started to resume business in normal opening hours with more consumers going out to streets and shopping malls. May Day on Friday carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic with the global economy in a tailspin. burs-qan/gle/pma/ach/jh © Agence France-Presse /AFP - Advertisement -
3 May 20:10 • The Independent • http://theindependent.sg/spain-eases-strict-lockdown-as-us-approves-virus-drug/Rating: 0.39
Europe prepares to ease lockdowns as signs pandemic ebbing
Italy will follow Spain this week in allowing people out to exercise more as virus curbs are eased. AFP/PAU BARRENA More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure on populations weary of confinement. After a two-month lockdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. Romans were doing aerobics on their rooftop terraces and exercising indoors on Sunday and the squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 metres of their homes. “On the one hand, we’re super excited for the reopening, we’re already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can’t wait to see them,” said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. “On the other hand, it’s disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we’re not sure if just using common sense will do.” – ‘Past the peak’ – Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world after the United States. Several industries including automobile sector and construction have already restarted work. But Italy’s 20 regions have imposed their own regulations, leading to some confusion over what people can and cannot do. Veneto and Calabria lifted their lockdowns early and allowed bars and restaurants to open with outdoor tables. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, Germany’s minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country’s football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own “roadmap” to ease the country out of lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was “past the peak” of the outbreak. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing up restrictions to help battered economies against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Despite moves to ease curbs across the globe, more than 4.6 billion people are still on some form of lockdown or obligation to stay confined at home. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus – social distancing and masks in public — and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow — the epicentre of the contagion in Russia — urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. – Prepare for ‘bad scenarios’ – European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel gave their support in an open letter in weekend newspapers. With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar easing measures. South Korea — once the second worst-hit nation on the planet — said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures”. Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen “calmly and gradually”, it should also prepare for “bad scenarios”. – ‘Beyond breaking point’ – US leaders face immense pressure to ease virus measures as the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators — some armed — who have rallied against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America’s prison population — the world’s largest at 2.3 million — with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already broken out in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” said Brian Miller, an officer at Marion prison in Ohio. “Right now it’s hell.” burs-pm/txw
3 May 20:53 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/news-world/2278087/europe-prepares-to-ease-lockdowns-as-signs-pandemic-ebbing/Rating: 1.26
Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as virus hopes rise
Europe on Sunday prepared for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, after Spaniards flocked to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time after 48 days of confinement. More than 242,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of captivity. After a two-month lockdown in Italy -- with the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world -- people on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business. And in Hungary, some stores and museums, outdoor spaces of restaurants and hotels, beaches and baths can reopen from Monday -- but restrictions will remain in the capital Budapest, which has recorded about 70 percent of the country's cases. Germany will also continue its easing at the start of the week, with schools in some areas expected to reopen, while Slovenia and Poland will allow some businesses and public spaces to operate again. France has said it will partially lift its lockdown on May 11. But with health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, they are sticking to social distancing measures, the use of masks and more testing to try to track infections. "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," Italian emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said. Despite the lingering concerns, there was joy and relief in Spain on Saturday, where people were allowed to exercise and walk freely after the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of deaths at more than 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid. "Yesterday I was like a child on Christmas Eve." 'Beyond breaking point' Across the Atlantic, the pressure to ease virus measures is intense on leaders in the United States, where the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless and anti-lockdown protests erupting in many areas. Crowds of demonstrators, some armed, denounced the lockdowns in New Hampshire and Kentucky, while at California's Huntington Beach, some surfers defied orders to stay away from the shore. "Surfing is essential business around here, dude!" 25-year-old Todd told AFP. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Billionaire investor Warren Buffett was optimistic, saying Saturday he's confident the American economy will bounce back because "American magic has always prevailed" -- though it is far from certain if that recovery will come in time to help Trump win reelection in November. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicenter of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell." Emotional toll In addition to Europe, countries elsewhere are also relaxing some coronavirus measures. Singapore has announced it would gradually ease some of its restrictions, while Turkey on Saturday said it would lift curbs on the export of medical supplies. Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen Sunday so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have warned that some countries are still in the first stages of their outbreaks and things could get worse there. In a sign of the pandemic's emotional toll, families of coronavirus victims in the Philippines are being denied traditional death rites in favor of hurried, impersonal cremations, with virus restrictions often meaning they cannot take a last look at their loved ones. Leandro Resurreccion IV, 26, was not allowed to visit his father as he was dying from the virus in hospital, and never saw his corpse -- just the plastic he was wrapped in. "The fact that... my family wasn't able to say goodbye could probably be the second most tragic thing that happened after my dad's death," he said. If you want to help in the fight against COVID-19, we have compiled an up-to-date list of community initiatives designed to aid medical workers and low-income people in this article. Link: [UPDATED] Anti-COVID-19 initiatives: Helping Indonesia fight the outbreak
3 May 13:10 • The Jakarta Post • https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/05/03/europe-prepares-for-more-lockdown-easing-as-virus-hopes-rise.htmlRating: 1.40
Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as Spain records lowest daily death toll in seven weeks
EUROPE IS PREPARING for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the great depression. With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of confinement. After a two-month lockdown in Italy – with the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world – people on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business. However, Italian authorities have stressed that preventative measures are still needed. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Spain today counted another 164 coronavirus deaths, the lowest daily number in nearly seven weeks as the country begins to gradually lift its strict lockdown. The figures from the health ministry bring the total number of fatalities from the pandemic in Spain to 25,264 – the fourth-highest after the United States, Italy and Britain. It is the lowest daily increase since 18 March when 107 deaths were recorded but the ministry’s emergencies coordinator, Fernando Simon, said the figure had to be interpreted with “caution” as it comes on a long holiday weekend when reporting of fatalities by hospitals is usually slower. “The figures are very good and confirm the trend we have observed. We have to see if they are consolidated in the coming days,” he told a news conference. Confirmed cases of the virus rose by just 838 to 217,466, although the government recently began counting in its total only patients who test positive using a technique known as PCR. It was the tenth straight day that the number of cured, at 1,654, surpassed new infections. Health experts believe Spain’s outbreak peaked on 2 April when 950 people died over 24 hours. Since then, the toll has been gradually dropping. Spain’s nearly 47 million people have since March 14 lived under one of the strictest virus lockdowns in the world, with only adults authorised to leave home to buy food, medicine or walk the dog. But Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Tuesday unveiled a plan to gradually begin easing the restrictions in four phases that should be completed by the end of June. Lockdowns ease in Asia With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar measures. South Korea – once the second worst-hit nation on the planet - said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures”. Thailand meanwhile allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen today so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. Despite the reopenings, experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst of their outbreaks yet. In the latest sign that the pandemic remains a serious threat, the Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting today in a bid to ease the pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. And to boost morale in what many expect to be a long fight, the armed forces of India – where the world’s biggest lockdown is in force – organised tributes to the nation’s medical workers, including helicopters showering petals on hospitals. Elsewhere, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen “calmly and gradually”, it should also prepare for “bad scenarios”. ‘Beyond breaking point’ Across the Pacific, the pressure to ease virus measures is intense on leaders in the United States, where the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown tomorrow, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators – some armed – who have protested against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America’s prison population – the world’s largest at 2.3 million – with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” said Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison in Ohio. “Right now it’s hell.” - © AFP 2020 #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
3 May 12:34 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/europe-easing-lockdown-restrictions-spain-italy-5090751-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Europe prepares to ease lockdowns as signs pandemic ebbing
European nations on Sunday prepared for further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside after weeks of confinement. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure on populations weary of confinement. After a two-month lockdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. Romans were doing aerobics on their rooftop terraces and exercising indoors on Sunday and the squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 metres of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world after the United States. Several industries including automobile sector and construction have already restarted work. But Italy's 20 regions have imposed their own regulations, leading to some confusion over what people can and cannot do. Veneto and Calabria lifted their lockdowns early and allowed bars and restaurants to open with outdoor tables. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own "roadmap" to ease the country out of lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing up restrictions to help battered economies against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Despite moves to ease curbs across the globe, more than 4.6 billion people are still on some form of lockdown or obligation to stay confined at home. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow -- the epicentre of the contagion in Russia -- urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. - Prepare for 'bad scenarios' - European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel gave their support in an open letter in weekend newspapers. With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar easing measures. South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". US leaders face immense pressure to ease virus measures as the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have rallied against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already broken out in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell." burs-pm/txw https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 12:43 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/europe-prepares-to-ease-lockdowns-as-signs-pandemic-ebbing/8cfg4dfRating: 0.51
Europe prepares to ease lockdowns as signs pandemic ebbing
European nations on Sunday prepared for further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside after weeks of confinement. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the disease is coming under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure on populations weary of confinement. After a two-month lockdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. Romans were doing aerobics on their rooftop terraces and exercising indoors on Sunday and the squares in the city centre were mostly empty on the last day Italians were obliged to remain within 200 metres of their homes. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Rome resident Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." - 'Past the peak' - Italian authorities have said some preventative measures are still needed in a country that has the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world after the United States. Several industries including automobile sector and construction have already restarted work. But Italy's 20 regions have imposed their own regulations, leading to some confusion over what people can and cannot do. Veneto and Calabria lifted their lockdowns early and allowed bars and restaurants to open with outdoor tables. Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. In another sign of life returning, Germany's minister for the interior and sport said Sunday he supports a resumption of the country's football season this month as long as teams respect hygiene conditions. The British government will unveil its own "roadmap" to ease the country out of lockdown this week, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are trying to balance easing up restrictions to help battered economies against the risk of fresh outbreaks. Despite moves to ease curbs across the globe, more than 4.6 billion people are still on some form of lockdown or obligation to stay confined at home. Most governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus - social distancing and masks in public -- and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors to exercise and walk freely on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Even as some European countries gradually lift restrictions, officials in Moscow -- the epicentre of the contagion in Russia -- urged residents to stay home. With cases increasing by several thousand each day, Russia is now the European country registering the most new infections. - Prepare for 'bad scenarios' - European leaders are backing an initiative from Brussels to raise 7.5 billion euros ($8.3 billion) to tackle the pandemic and raise funds for efforts to find a vaccine for COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus. Italy's Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel gave their support in an open letter in weekend newspapers. With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar easing measures. South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. But experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst. The Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". - 'Beyond breaking point' - US leaders face immense pressure to ease virus measures as the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have rallied against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already broken out in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell." burs-pm/txw
3 May 12:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/europe-prepares-to-ease-lockdowns-as-signs-pandemic-ebbing/article/571132Rating: 0.78
Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as virus hopes rise
ROME (AFP) -- Europe on Sunday prepared for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside.More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression.With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of confinement.After a two-month lockdown in Italy -- with the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world -- people on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing."I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear up some of the many questions about what we can and can't do," said Pietro Garlanti, a 53-year-old cleaner, as he queued at a kiosk. "I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?"Italian authorities have stressed that preventative measures are still needed."On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Marghe Lodoli, who has three children."On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do."Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen.With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement.Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Lockdowns ease in AsiaWith pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar measures.South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures".Thailand meanwhile allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen on Sunday so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out.Despite the reopenings, experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst of their outbreaks yet.In the latest sign that the pandemic remains a serious threat, the Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease the pressure on its congested quarantine facilities.And to boost morale in what many expect to be a long fight, the armed forces of India -- where the world's biggest lockdown is in force -- organised tributes to the nation's medical workers, including helicopters showering petals on hospitals.Elsewhere, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak.Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". 'Beyond breaking point'Across the Pacific, the pressure to ease virus measures is intense on leaders in the United States, where the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless.The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain.Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have protested against the lockdowns.There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States.In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city.But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States.A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country.Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas."Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell." (AFP)
3 May 11:00 • Koreaherald • http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200503000241Rating: 1.56
Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns
Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time following 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections. As governments weigh lifting restrictions to restart economies, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 242,000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic is slowing in the hardest-hit nations, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside after the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at more than 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." Near the city's Retiro park, residents were out running, sometimes in groups. Crowds of joggers mingled with cyclists and skateboarders in Barcelona's seaside neighbourhood. Spain, Germany, Austria, and Scandinavian nations are gradually easing lockdowns as virus cases slow though they will keep social distancing measures, the use of masks, and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday extended a health emergency by two months until late July as it reported 166 new deaths, its lowest single-day toll in more than five weeks. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Health Minister Olivier Veran said. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business. "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said. Italy—with the second most fatalities after the United States -- reported Saturday that its daily death toll had jumped by 474, the highest in nearly two weeks. Italian media said the total included 282 previously unaccounted deaths outside hospitals. But in Russia, authorities reported the largest spike in their coronavirus cases with new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia's outbreak, around two percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in his first detailed comments about his bout of coronavirus, said doctors were prepared to announce his death last month after he was taken to intensive care. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario. Treatment hopes Virus cases have been confirmed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million cases in Europe alone. But they're likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 66,200, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom with 28,131. In New York City, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. US President Donald Trump announced Friday that remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. Its approval came as US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Crowds of protesters, some armed, denounced the lockdowns in New Hampshire and Kentucky, while in Huntington Beach, California, some surfers defied orders to stay away from the shore. "Surfing is essential business around here, dude!" 25-year-old Todd told AFP. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Billionaire investor Warren Buffet said Saturday he's confident the US economy will bounce back because "American magic has always prevailed" -- though it's far from certain if that recovery will come in time to help Trump win reelection in November. Hong Kong shops opening In Asia, Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed cases of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week, as shops and restaurants started to resume business during normal opening hours. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gatherings of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. In India, where cases are surging, rock legend Mick Jagger and Hollywood's Will Smith will be among dozens of international and Bollywood stars taking part in a live-streamed concert Sunday to raise funds for the battle against coronavirus. Cricket superstar Virat Kohli, actors Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan are among the top domestic names set to perform or read messages from their homes.
3 May 10:30 • manilastandard.net • https://manilastandard.net/news/world-news/322884/spaniards-flock-outdoors-as-european-countries-ease-lockdowns.htmlRating: 0.30
Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as virus hopes rise
Europe on Sunday prepared for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of confinement. After a two-month lockdown in Italy — with the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world — people on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. “I’m hoping this morning’s paper will clear up some of the many questions about what we can and can’t do,” said Pietro Garlanti, a 53-year-old cleaner, as he queued at a kiosk. “I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?” Italian authorities have stressed that preventative measures are still needed. “On the one hand, we’re super excited for the reopening, we’re already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can’t wait to see them,” said Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. “On the other hand, it’s disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we’re not sure if just using common sense will do.” Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. Lockdowns ease in Asia With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar measures. South Korea — once the second worst-hit nation on the planet — said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they “follow disinfection measures”. Thailand meanwhile allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen on Sunday so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. Despite the reopenings, experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst of their outbreaks yet. In the latest sign that the pandemic remains a serious threat, the Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease the pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. And to boost morale in what many expect to be a long fight, the armed forces of India — where the world’s biggest lockdown is in force — organised tributes to the nation’s medical workers, including helicopters showering petals on hospitals. Elsewhere, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East’s deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen “calmly and gradually”, it should also prepare for “bad scenarios”.‘Beyond breaking point’Across the Pacific, the pressure to ease virus measures is intense on leaders in the United States, where the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators — some armed — who have protested against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America’s prison population — the world’s largest at 2.3 million — with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” said Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison in Ohio. “Right now it’s hell.”
3 May 09:47 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/europe-prepares-for-more-lockdown-easing-as-virus-hopes-rise/Rating: 0.30
Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns
Madrid, Spain | AFP | Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time following 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections. As governments weigh lifting restrictions to restart economies, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 242,000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic is slowing in the hardest-hit nations, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside after the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at more than 25,000. “After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world,” said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid. “Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve.” Near the city’s Retiro park, residents were out running, sometimes in groups. Crowds of joggers mingled with cyclists and skateboarders in Barcelona’s seaside neighbourhood. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are gradually easing lockdowns as virus cases slow though they will keep social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday extended a health emergency by two months until late July as it reported 166 new deaths, its lowest single-day toll in more than five weeks. “We are going to have to perform a long-distance run,” Health Minister Olivier Veran said. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business. “We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We’ve done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it’s up to you,” emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said. Italy — with the second most fatalities after the United States — reported Saturday that its daily death toll had jumped by 474, the highest in nearly two weeks. Italian media said the total included 282 previously unaccounted deaths outside hospitals. But in Russia, authorities reported the largest spike in their coronavirus cases with new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia’s outbreak, around two percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, officials said. “The threat is apparently on the rise,” said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in his first detailed comments about his bout of coronavirus, said doctors were prepared to announce his death last month after he was taken to intensive care. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. – Treatment hopes – Virus cases have been confirmed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million cases in Europe alone. But they’re likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 66,200, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom with 28,131. In New York City, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. US President Donald Trump announced Friday that remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. Its approval came as US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Crowds of protesters, some armed, denounced the lockdowns in New Hampshire and Kentucky, while in Huntington Beach, California, some surfers defied orders to stay away from the shore. “Surfing is essential business around here, dude!” 25-year-old Todd told AFP. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world’s largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Billionaire investor Warren Buffet said Saturday he’s confident the US economy will bounce back because “American magic has always prevailed” — though it’s far from certain if that recovery will come in time to help Trump win reelection in November. – Hong Kong shops opening – In Asia, Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed cases of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week, as shops and restaurants started to resume business during normal opening hours. The city’s social distancing regulations including limits on gatherings of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. In India, where cases are surging, rock legend Mick Jagger and Hollywood’s Will Smith will be among dozens of international and Bollywood stars taking part in a live-streamed concert Sunday to raise funds for the battle against coronavirus. Cricket superstar Virat Kohli, actors Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan are among the top domestic names set to perform or read messages from their homes. Share on: WhatsApp
3 May 09:00 • The Independent Uganda: • https://www.independent.co.ug/spaniards-flock-outdoors-as-european-countries-ease-lockdowns/Rating: 0.30
Covid-19 wrap | Spaniards venture outside, US prison population suffers under coronavirus, and lockdown fight in Las Vegas
Keeping you up to date on the latest novel coronavirus (Covid-19) news from around the world. FOLLOW THE LIVE UPDATE | All the latest coronavirus and lockdown updates Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and roller-skate for the first time following 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections. As governments weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new outbreaks, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 241 000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year. - AFP Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation's capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. - AFP Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80% of its nearly 2 500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for Covid-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options - they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. - AFP Las Vegas torn by virus as casinos clamour to reopen A smattering of cars drove past the eerily quiet hotels and casinos, shuttered since mid-March, while a handful of tourists gathered by the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign to take photos. But beneath the quiet of the world-famous Strip, Sin City is in turmoil. A tug of war has emerged between the need for safety during the coronavirus pandemic and the survival of the gambling capital's tourism industry, which some casino operators fear will never be the same. Nevada's Culinary Union Local 226, which represents some 60 000 casino and hotel workers, has had 98% of its members laid off, according to secretary-treasurer Geoconda Arguello-Kline. At least 12 union members have died from the Covid-19 outbreak, out of Nevada's total death toll of 243. Arguello-Kline said the union fully supports Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak's decision to extend the lockdown until at least 15 May. "He is doing what he can to protect us," she said. "I know it is tough for people, but if you lose your life, you have lost what is most important." But the length of time of the shutdown - and whether it was even necessary - has triggered heated debate in Las Vegas. Mayor Carolyn Goodman has called the shutdown "insanity", and has pleaded for the city to be reopened. Last month, Goodman faced some national backlash after a controversial television interview with CNN anchor Anderson Cooper. In a statement released last week, Goodman - who still enjoys support among many Las Vegas residents eager to get back to work - emphasised the need to reopen in the "safest" way. - AFP US coronavirus deaths climb by 1 435 in 24 hours: Johns Hopkins Coronavirus deaths in the United States climbed by 1 435 in the past 24 hours, a tally by Johns Hopkins University showed on Saturday, bringing the total number of fatalities to more than 66,000. The Baltimore-based university had recorded more than 1.1 million cases in the country as of 20:30 on Saturday (00:30 GMT on Sunday), with 66 224 deaths, a 2% rise from a day earlier. The US has by far the highest death toll of any country in the global pandemic. - AFP
3 May 08:16 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/World/News/covid-19-wrap-spaniards-venture-outside-us-prison-population-suffers-under-coronavirus-and-lockdown-fight-in-las-vegas-20200503Rating: 2.83
Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns
As governments weigh lifting restrictions to restart economies, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for use on coronavirus patients. HEALTH VIRUSSpaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and roller-skate for the first time following 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections.As governments weigh lifting restrictions to restart economies, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for use on coronavirus patients.The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 242,000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year.With signs the pandemic is slowing in the hardest-hit nations, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure.From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside after the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at more than 25,000."After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve."Near the city's Retiro park, residents were out running, sometimes in groups. Crowds of joggers mingled with cyclists and skateboarders in Barcelona's seaside neighbourhood.Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are gradually easing lockdowns as virus cases slow though they will keep social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday extended a health emergency by two months until late July as it reported 166 new deaths, its lowest single-day toll in more than five weeks."We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Health Minister Olivier Veran said.After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business."We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said.Italy -- with the second most fatalities after the United States -- reported Saturday that its daily death toll had jumped by 474, the highest in nearly two weeks.Italian media said the total included 282 previously unaccounted deaths outside hospitals. But in Russia, authorities reported the largest spike in their coronavirus cases with new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day.In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia's outbreak, around two percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, officials said."The threat is apparently on the rise," said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin.British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in his first detailed comments about his bout of coronavirus, said doctors were prepared to announce his death last month after he was taken to intensive care."It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario.- Treatment hopes -Virus cases have been confirmed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million cases in Europe alone. But they're likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 66,200, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom with 28,131.In New York City, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city.US President Donald Trump announced Friday that remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients.Its approval came as US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders.Crowds of protesters, some armed, denounced the lockdowns in New Hampshire and Kentucky, while in Huntington Beach, California, some surfers defied orders to stay away from the shore."Surfing is essential business around here, dude!" 25-year-old Todd told AFP.Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Billionaire investor Warren Buffet said Saturday he's confident the US economy will bounce back because "American magic has always prevailed" -- though it's far from certain if that recovery will come in time to help Trump win reelection in November.- Hong Kong shops opening -In Asia, Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed cases of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week, as shops and restaurants started to resume business during normal opening hours.The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gatherings of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them.In India, where cases are surging, rock legend Mick Jagger and Hollywood's Will Smith will be among dozens of international and Bollywood stars taking part in a live-streamed concert Sunday to raise funds for the battle against coronavirus.Cricket superstar Virat Kohli, actors Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan are among the top domestic names set to perform or read messages from their homes.
3 May 06:40 • New Vision • https://www.newvision.co.ug/new_vision/news/1518454/spaniards-flock-outdoors-european-countries-ease-lockdownsRating: 0.79
Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns
MADRID, May 3 — Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and roller-skate for the first time following 48 days of confinement yesterday as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections. As governments weigh lifting restrictions to restart economies, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 242,000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic is slowing in the hardest-hit nations, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside after the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at more than 25,000. “After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world,” said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid. “Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve.” Near the city’s Retiro park, residents were out running, sometimes in groups. Crowds of joggers mingled with cyclists and skateboarders in Barcelona’s seaside neighbourhood. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are gradually easing lockdowns as virus cases slow though they will keep social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, yesterday extended a health emergency by two months until late July as it reported 166 new deaths, its lowest single-day toll in more than five weeks. “We are going to have to perform a long-distance run,” Health Minister Olivier Veran said. After a two-month shutdown, Italians tomorrow will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business. “We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We’ve done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it’s up to you,” emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said. Italy — with the second most fatalities after the United States — reported yesterday that its daily death toll had jumped by 474, the highest in nearly two weeks. Italian media said the total included 282 previously unaccounted deaths outside hospitals. But in Russia, authorities reported the largest spike in their coronavirus cases with new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia’s outbreak, around two per cent of the population is infected by Covid-19, officials said. “The threat is apparently on the rise,” said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in his first detailed comments about his bout of coronavirus, said doctors were prepared to announce his death last month after he was taken to intensive care. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he was quoted as saying by the Sun on Sunday newspaper. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. Treatment hopes Virus cases have been confirmed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million cases in Europe alone. But they’re likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 66,200, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom with 28,131. In New York City, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said yesterday, as virus cases decline in the city. US President Donald Trump announced Friday that remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found it boosted recovery in serious Covid-19 patients. Its approval came as US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Crowds of protesters, some armed, denounced the lockdowns in New Hampshire and Kentucky, while in Huntington Beach, California, some surfers defied orders to stay away from the shore. “Surfing is essential business around here, dude!” 25-year-old Todd told AFP. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world’s largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Billionaire investor Warren Buffet said yesterday he’s confident the US economy will bounce back because “American magic has always prevailed” — though it’s far from certain if that recovery will come in time to help Trump win re-election in November. Hong Kong shops opening In Asia, Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed cases of coronavirus yesterday, for the sixth day within a week, as shops and restaurants started to resume business during normal opening hours. The city’s social distancing regulations including limits on gatherings of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. In India, where cases are surging, rock legend Mick Jagger and Hollywood’s Will Smith will be among dozens of international and Bollywood stars taking part in a live-streamed concert today to raise funds for the battle against coronavirus. Cricket superstar Virat Kohli, actors Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan are among the top domestic names set to perform or read messages from their homes. — AFP
3 May 02:44 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/spaniards-flock-outdoors-as-european-countries-ease-lockdowns/1862536Rating: 1.42
Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns
MADRID, Spain – Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle, and rollerskate for the first time following 48 days of confinement on Saturday, May 2, as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections. As governments weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new outbreaks, United States authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 241,000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic is slowing in the hardest-hit nations, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside after the government eased 7 weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." Near the city's Retiro park, residents were out running, sometimes in groups. Crowds of joggers also mingled with cyclists and skateboarders in Barcelona's seaside neighborhood. "This all seems a bit crazy to me. On the first day, we get some freedom. I don't see any safe distancing at all," said Christian, an Italian living in Barcelona. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday, May 4, and children and the elderly still face restrictions on when they can go outside. Spain, Germany, Austria, and Scandinavian nations are gradually easing lockdowns as virus cases slow, though they will keep social distancing measures, the use of masks, and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday extended a health emergency by two months until late July as it reported 166 new deaths, its lowest single-day toll in more than 5 weeks. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Health Minister Olivier Veran said. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business. "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said. Italy – with the second most fatalities after the US – reported Saturday that its daily death toll had jumped by 474, the highest in nearly two weeks. Italian media said the total included 282 previously unaccounted deaths outside hospitals. But in Russia, authorities reported the largest spike in their coronavirus cases with new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia's outbreak, around two percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Treatment hopes Virus cases have been confirmed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million cases in Europe alone. But they're likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The US has the most deaths with more than 65,900, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 28,131, Spain with 25,100, and France with 24,594 fatalities. In New York City, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park to treat virus patients is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as cases decline in the city. US President Donald Trump announced Friday that remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Dozens of protesters, some armed, denounced the orders at a rally in Concord, New Hampshire while other demonstrations were expected later in Kentucky and California. On Friday, Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Hong Kong shops opening In Asia, Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed cases of coronavirus on Saturday, for the 6th day within a week, as shops and restaurants started to resume business during normal opening hours. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gatherings of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. Hong Kong's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. In India, where cases are surging, rock legend Mick Jagger and Hollywood's Will Smith will be among dozens of international and Bollywood stars taking part in a live-streamed concert Sunday to raise funds for the battle against coronavirus. Cricket superstar Virat Kohli, actors Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan are among the top domestic names set to perform or read messages from their homes. – Rappler.com
3 May 02:34 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/europe/259760-spaniards-flock-outdoors-european-countries-ease-lockdowns-may-2-2020Rating: 1.64
Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as virus hopes rise
Rome, Italy. Europe on Sunday prepared for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside.More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression.With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of confinement.After a two-month lockdown in Italy -- with the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world -- people on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing."I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear up some of the many questions about what we can and can't do," said Pietro Garlanti, a 53-year-old cleaner, as he queued at a kiosk. "I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?"Italian authorities have stressed that preventative measures are still needed."On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Marghe Lodoli, who has three children."On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do."Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen.With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement.Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown.- Lockdowns ease in Asia -With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar measures.South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures".Thailand meanwhile allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen on Sunday so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out.Despite the reopenings, experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst of their outbreaks yet.In the latest sign that the pandemic remains a serious threat, the Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease the pressure on its congested quarantine facilities.And to boost morale in what many expect to be a long fight, the armed forces of India -- where the world's biggest lockdown is in force -- organised tributes to the nation's medical workers, including helicopters showering petals on hospitals.Elsewhere, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak.Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios".- 'Beyond breaking point' -Across the Pacific, the pressure to ease virus measures is intense on leaders in the United States, where the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless.The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain.Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have protested against the lockdowns.There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States.
3 May 00:00 • THE CITIZEN • https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/news/Europe-prepares-for-more-lockdown-easing-as-virus-hopes-rise/1840386-5541348-544kol/index.htmlRating: 0.30
Europe prepares for more lockdown easing as virus hopes rise
Europe on Sunday prepared for a further cautious easing of coronavirus restrictions following signs the pandemic may be slowing, with hard-hit Italy set to follow Spain in allowing people outside. More than 243,000 people have been killed and 3.4 million infected worldwide by the virus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression. With signs that the spread of the contagion has been brought under control, parts of Europe, Asia and the United States have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closures and ease the pressure from populations wearying of confinement. After a two-month lockdown in Italy -- with the second-highest number of virus deaths in the world -- people on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaway and wholesale stores can resume business, but there was some confusion about the extent of the easing. "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear up some of the many questions about what we can and can't do," said Pietro Garlanti, a 53-year-old cleaner, as he queued at a kiosk. "I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?" Italian authorities have stressed that preventative measures are still needed. "On the one hand, we're super excited for the reopening, we're already organising various activities the kids will be able to do with their grandparents outdoors, workshops in the garden, that sort of thing. The kids can't wait to see them," said Marghe Lodoli, who has three children. "On the other hand, it's disorientating. The rules are not clear, and we're not sure if just using common sense will do." Elsewhere in Europe, Germany will continue its easing on Monday, while Slovenia, Poland and Hungary will allow public spaces and businesses to partially reopen. With health experts warning the disease could hit hard once again, governments are sticking to measures to control the spread of the virus and more testing to try to track infections even as they relax curbs on movement. Face masks will be mandatory on public transport starting Monday in Spain, where people were allowed to go outdoors on Saturday after a 48-day lockdown. - Lockdowns ease in Asia - With pressure growing on governments worldwide to balance public health requirements with the need to ease intense economic pain, some nations in Asia announced similar measures. South Korea -- once the second worst-hit nation on the planet -- said Sunday it would ease a ban on some gatherings and events as long as they "follow disinfection measures". Thailand meanwhile allowed businesses such as restaurants, hair salons and outdoor markets to reopen on Sunday so long as social distancing was maintained and temperature checks carried out. Despite the reopenings, experts have cautioned that many countries are still not through the worst of their outbreaks yet. In the latest sign that the pandemic remains a serious threat, the Philippines suspended all flights into and out of the country for a week starting Sunday in a bid to ease the pressure on its congested quarantine facilities. And to boost morale in what many expect to be a long fight, the armed forces of India -- where the world's biggest lockdown is in force -- organised tributes to the nation's medical workers, including helicopters showering petals on hospitals. Elsewhere, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani announced that mosques would reopen across large parts of the Islamic Republic, after they were closed in early March to try to contain the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. Rouhani warned, however, that while Iran would reopen "calmly and gradually", it should also prepare for "bad scenarios". - 'Beyond breaking point' - Across the Pacific, the pressure to ease virus measures is intense on leaders in the United States, where the economy has been hammered with tens of millions left jobless. The United States has the most coronavirus deaths in the world and President Donald Trump is keen for a turnaround to help reduce the economic pain. Florida is set to ease its lockdown on Monday, as authorities in other states wrestle with pressure from demonstrators -- some armed -- who have protested against the lockdowns. There are signs that the pandemic is slowing down in some parts of the United States. In New York City, the epicentre of the US outbreak, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as virus cases decline in the city. But authorities are wary of letting their guard down too fast, with fears the virus could wreak havoc in the most vulnerable communities in the United States. A massive wave of infections is sweeping through America's prison population -- the world's largest at 2.3 million -- with coronavirus deaths on the rise in jails and penitentiaries across the country. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," said Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison in Ohio. "Right now it's hell." burs-qan/aph
2 May 20:30 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/spainards-flock-outdoors-as-european-countries-ease-lockdowns/article/571102Rating: 0.78
Spainards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns
Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time following 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased coronavirus lockdowns while Russia reported a sudden surge of infections. As governments weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new outbreaks, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has now killed more than 241,000 people worldwide, according to an AFP tally of official figures, and infected 3.4 million since it first emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic is slowing in the hardest-hit nations, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside after the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." Near the city's Retiro park, residents were out running, sometimes in groups. Crowds of joggers also mingled with cyclists and skateboarders in Barcelona's seaside neighbourhood. "This all seems a bit crazy to me. On the first day we get some freedom I don't see any safe distancing at all," said Christian, an Italian living in Barcelona. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday, and children and the elderly still face restrictions on when they can go outside. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are gradually easing lockdowns as virus cases slow though they will keep social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday extended a health emergency by two months until late July as it reported 166 new deaths, its lowest single-day toll in more than five weeks. "We are going to have to perform a long-distance run," Health Minister Olivier Veran said. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeaways and wholesale stores can resume business. "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said. Italy -- with the second most fatalities after the United States -- reported Saturday that its daily death toll had jumped by 474, the highest in nearly two weeks. Italian media said the total included 282 previously unaccounted deaths outside hospitals. But in Russia, authorities reported the largest spike in their coronavirus cases with new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicenter of Russia's outbreak, around two percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," said Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Virus cases have been confirmed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million cases in Europe alone. But they're likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,900, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 28,131, Spain with 25,100 and France with 24,594 fatalities. In New York City, an emergency field hospital erected in Central Park to treat virus patients is set to close, the Christian charity running it said Saturday, as cases decline in the city. US President Donald Trump announced Friday that remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Dozens of protesters, some armed, denounced the orders at a rally in Concord, New Hampshire while other demonstrations were expected later in Kentucky and California. On Friday, Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. In Asia, Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed cases of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week, as shops and restaurants started to resume business during normal opening hours. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gatherings of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. Hong Kong's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. In India, where cases are surging, rock legend Mick Jagger and Hollywood's Will Smith will be among dozens of international and Bollywood stars taking part in a live-streamed concert Sunday to raise funds for the battle against coronavirus. Cricket superstar Virat Kohli, actors Priyanka Chopra and Shah Rukh Khan are among the top domestic names set to perform or read messages from their homes. burs-pdh/acb https://www.facebook.com/policies
2 May 20:33 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/spainards-flock-outdoors-as-european-countries-ease-lockdowns/n49cycxRating: 0.51
Spain begins to ease its strict lockdown from today, as parts of Europe slowly open up
SPAIN’S CITIZENS HAVE returned to jogging, cycling and exercising in public for the first time after 48 days of confinement ended today, as some European nations cautiously eased virus lockdowns. As governments across the globe weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people worldwide and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. “After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world,” said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid’s Chueca district who got up a 7am to enjoy some time outside. “Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve.” Near the city’s Retiro Park, many residents were out to running, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of the deserted avenue and on the pavement. Crowds of runners mingled with cyclists and skateboarders enjoying sports in the sun in Barcelona’s seaside neighbourhood. “This all seems a bit crazy to me. On the first day we get some freedom I don’t see any safe distancing at all,” said Christian, an Italian living in Barcelona. “I didn’t expect to see thousands of people running like this.” Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez however said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday, and children and elderly will still face some time restrictions on when they can go outside. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all gradually easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France has decided to extend a health emergency by two months until 24 July, but still plans to lift parts of its lockdown on 11 May (including reopening primary schools). Health Minister Olivier Veran told a news conference that to lift the health emergency, which began on 24 March, at the same time would be premature and carry the risk of a resurgence of the outbreak. “We are going to have to perform a long-distance run,” Veran said, adding he was aware that the French people had already been asked for “colossal efforts” in the fight against the virus. As part of the planned measures, Veran said anybody entering France will have to remain confined for two weeks. This would typically concern “French people who travelled abroad and who want to come home”, he said. Anyone arriving from abroad and infected with the virus would be obliged by law to be quarantined. Infected people already in France will, however, not be forced to accept isolation and treatment, as “we trust French people’s sense of responsibility”, Veran said. “We are going to have to live with the virus for a while,” Interior Minister Christophe Castaner said after Saturday’s cabinet meeting deciding the extension. The UK, meanwhile, has announced 621 more deaths in the coronavirus outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131, just behind Europe’s worst-hit country Italy. The British government said that 182,260 people had tested positive for Covid-19, up 4,806 on yesterday. But hospital admissions had fallen, it added. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday that the country had “past the peak” of the virus, as he comes under mounting pressure to ease lockdown restrictions imposed in late March. A review is expected this Thursday and Johnson said the government would outline a plan to lift social distancing measures that would keep transmissions rates down. “The very strong advice today is that moment has not yet come,” housing minister Robert Jenrick told a daily briefing on the government’s response to the outbreak. Italy‘s death toll jumped by the highest number since 21 April, after previously uncounted deaths outside hospitals were added in. The 474 fatalities reported by the civil protection service took the Mediterranean country’s total since February to 28,710, second only to the US. But the toll included 282 uncounted deaths in April that Milan’s Lombardy region said it had reported to the civil protection service on Saturday. The northern region recorded most of Italy’s initial deaths, and its toll now accounts for just under half of the country’s total. Italy’s real number of fatalities is believed to be substantially higher than the official figure because few deaths in care homes or in the community are reported. After a two-month shutdown, from Monday Italians will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeout and wholesale stores can resume business. “We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We’ve done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it’s up to you,” emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said at a press conference. In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia’s outbreak, around 2% of the population is infected by Covid-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. “The threat is apparently on the rise,” Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier today. #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
2 May 18:21 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/spain-lockdown-europe-opens-5090409-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Spain eases strict lockdown as U.S. approves virus drug
MADRID, Spain – Spaniards were allowed out of their homes to exercise and walk freely after 48 days of confinement on Saturday, May 2, as some European nations began cautiously easing virus lockdowns while others like Russia faced a spike in new infections. As governments across the globe balance lifting restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The measure was the latest step in a global push to find viable treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown, hammered the world economy and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections. The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions and to try to inject life into economies battered by weeks of closure. In Madrid and Barcelona, Spaniards took to the streets to exercise and walk freely as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district who got up a 7am to enjoy some time outside. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." In the city's Retiro park, many residents were out to running, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of deserted avenue and on the pavement. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez however said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all slowly easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, demand the use of masks or increase testing to try to track infections. France on Saturday decided it would extend a health emergency, in place since March 24, by two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran announced after a cabinet meeting. Italy is preparing to ease restrictions in coming days while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who spent time in intensive care with the virus, said Britain had past the peak of its outbreak. Ireland extended its lockdown by two weeks to May 18, with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar saying the nation will reopen "in a slow, phased, staged way" after that. In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, around 2 percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier Saturday. Treatment hopes More than 3.3 million cases of infection have been officially diagnosed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million in Europe alone. That number is likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,000, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain with 25,100 deaths and France with 24,594 fatalities. US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. "It's really a very promising situation," Trump said on Friday at the White House. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states – including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce Governor Gavin Newsom's beach shutdown order. "Open California!" chanted protesters near the closed beaches, carrying signs that read "All jobs are essential" or "Freedom is essential". Hong Kong shops opening In Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people – the world's biggest – would continue for two more weeks from May 4. And in Singapore, the government said Saturday that pet food stores and hair salons will be allowed to reopen on May 12. Most of the city-state's infections have been detected at dormitories housing migrant workers, and their confinement was extended to June 1. Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed case of coronavirus on Saturday, the sixth day within a week. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gathering of more than four people are due to expire on May 7, but authorities have not decided whether to extend them. The city's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. During the long weekend with public holidays to celebrate Buddha's birthday and Labour Day, residents flocked to country parks and the city's outlying islands to get some fresh air. Shops and restaurants started to resume business in normal opening hours with more consumers going out to streets and shopping malls. The virus restrictions put a damper on May Day celebrations worldwide on Friday as many labour unions delayed their rallies and some held online events, while a determined few hit the streets in face masks. May Day carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic, with the global economy in a tailspin and facing its worst downturn since the Great Depression. Stock markets tumbled again on Friday after Trump's unproven allegation that the virus may have come from a lab in Wuhan – the central Chinese city where the disease first emerged. – Rappler.com
2 May 15:33 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/europe/259753-spain-eases-strict-lockdownRating: 1.64
Spain eases strict lockdown as US approves virus drug
Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time after 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased virus lockdowns and Russia faced a large spike in new infections. As governments across the globe weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people worldwide and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest numbers of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district who got up a 7 am to enjoy some time outside. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." Near the city's Retiro park, many residents were out to run, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of the deserted avenue and on the pavement. Crowds of runners mingled with cyclists and skateboarders enjoying sports in the sun in Barcelona's seaside neighbourhood. "This all seems a bit crazy to me. On the first day we get some freedom I don't see any safe distancing at all," said Christian, an Italian living in Barcelona. "I didn't expect to see thousands of people running like this." Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, however, said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday, and children and elderly will still face some time restrictions on when they can go outside. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all gradually easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday decided to extend a health emergency by two months until late July. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeout and wholesale stores can resume business. "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said at a press conference. "I implore you, do not lower your guards." In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, around 2 percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by a coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier Saturday. - Treatment hopes -More than 3.3 million cases of infection have been officially diagnosed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million in Europe alone. That number is likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,000, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain with 25,100 deaths and France with 24,594 fatalities. US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. "It's really a very promising situation," Trump said on Friday at the White House. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states -- including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce the shutdown order. "Open California!" chanted protesters near the closed beaches, carrying signs that read "All jobs are essential" or "Freedom is essential". - Hong Kong shops opening -In Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people -- the worlds biggest -- would continue for two more weeks from May 4. In Singapore, the government said Saturday that pet food stores and hair salons will be allowed to reopen on May 12. Most of the city-state's infections have been detected at dormitories housing migrant workers, and their confinement was extended to June 1. Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed case of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on the gathering of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. The city's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. During the long weekend with public holidays to celebrate Buddha's birthday and Labour Day, residents flocked to country parks and the city's outlying islands to get some fresh air. Shops and restaurants started to resume business in normal opening hours with more consumers going out to streets and shopping malls. May Day on Friday carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic with the global economy in a tailspin.
2 May 18:35 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/spain-eases-strict-lockdown-as-us-approves-virus-drug/Rating: 0.30
Spain eases strict lockdown as US approves virus drug
Spaniards took to the streets to jog, cycle and rollerskate for the first time after 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations cautiously eased virus lockdowns and Russia faced a large spike in new infections. As governments across the globe weigh how to lift restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The decision was the latest step in a global push to find treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the world economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression in the 1930s. The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people worldwide and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions to try to inject life into economies crippled by weeks of closure. From Madrid to Mallorca, Spaniards flocked to the streets as they were allowed to exercise and walk freely outside as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district who got up a 7am to enjoy some time outside. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." Near the city's Retiro park, many residents were out to running, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of the deserted avenue and on the pavement. Crowds of runners mingled with cyclists and skateboarders enjoying sports in the sun in Barcelona's seaside neighbourhood. "This all seems a bit crazy to me. On the first day we get some freedom I don't see any safe distancing at all," said Christian, an Italian living in Barcelona. "I didn't expect to see thousands of people running like this." Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez however said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday, and children and elderly will still face some time restrictions on when they can go outside. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all gradually easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, the use of masks and testing to try to track infections. France, which will lift parts of its lockdown on May 11, on Saturday decided to extend a health emergency by two months until late July. After a two-month shutdown, Italians on Monday will be allowed to stroll in parks and visit relatives. Restaurants can open for takeout and wholesale stores can resume business. "We must maintain social distancing, maximum hygiene levels, and masks. We've done our bit to the best of our ability. From Monday, it's up to you," emergency response official Domenico Arcuri said at a press conference. "I implore you, do not lower your guards." In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, around 2 percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier Saturday. - Treatment hopes - More than 3.3 million cases of infection have been officially diagnosed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million in Europe alone. That number is likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,000, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain with 25,100 deaths and France with 24,594 fatalities. US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. "It's really a very promising situation," Trump said on Friday at the White House. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states -- including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce the shutdown order. "Open California!" chanted protesters near the closed beaches, carrying signs that read "All jobs are essential" or "Freedom is essential". - Hong Kong shops opening - In Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people -- the world's biggest -- would continue for two more weeks from May 4. In Singapore, the government said Saturday that pet food stores and hair salons will be allowed to reopen on May 12. Most of the city-state's infections have been detected at dormitories housing migrant workers, and their confinement was extended to June 1. Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed case of coronavirus on Saturday, for the sixth day within a week. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gathering of more than four people are due to expire on May 7. Authorities have not decided whether to extend them. The city's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. During the long weekend with public holidays to celebrate Buddha's birthday and Labour Day, residents flocked to country parks and the city's outlying islands to get some fresh air. Shops and restaurants started to resume business in normal opening hours with more consumers going out to streets and shopping malls. May Day on Friday carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic with the global economy in a tailspin. burs-qan/gle/pma/ach/jh
2 May 15:30 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/spain-eases-strict-lockdown-as-us-approves-virus-drug/article/571098Rating: 0.78
Spain eases strict lockdown as US approves virus drug
Spaniards were allowed out of their homes to exercise and walk freely after 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations began cautiously easing virus lockdowns while others like Russia faced a spike in new infections. As governments across the globe balance lifting restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The measure was the latest step in a global push to find viable treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown, hammered the world economy and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections. The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions and to try to inject life into economies battered by weeks of closure. In Madrid and Barcelona, Spaniards took to the streets to exercise and walk freely as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district who got up a 7am to enjoy some time outside. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." In the city's Retiro park, many residents were out to running, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of deserted avenue and on the pavement. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez however said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all slowly easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, demand the use of masks or increase testing to try to track infections. France on Saturday decided it would extend a health emergency, in place since March 24, by two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran announced after a cabinet meeting. Italy is preparing to ease restrictions in coming days while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who spent time in intensive care with the virus, said Britain had past the peak of its outbreak. Ireland extended its lockdown by two weeks to May 18, with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar saying the nation will reopen "in a slow, phased, staged way" after that. In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, around 2 percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier Saturday. - Treatment hopes - More than 3.3 million cases of infection have been officially diagnosed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million in Europe alone. That number is likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,000, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain with 25,100 deaths and France with 24,594 fatalities. US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. "It's really a very promising situation," Trump said on Friday at the White House. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states -- including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce Governor Gavin Newsom's beach shutdown order. "Open California!" chanted protesters near the closed beaches, carrying signs that read "All jobs are essential" or "Freedom is essential". - Hong Kong shops opening - In Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people -- the world's biggest -- would continue for two more weeks from May 4. And in Singapore, the government said Saturday that pet food stores and hair salons will be allowed to reopen on May 12. Most of the city-state's infections have been detected at dormitories housing migrant workers, and their confinement was extended to June 1. Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed case of coronavirus on Saturday, the sixth day within a week. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gathering of more than four people are due to expire on May 7, but authorities have not decided whether to extend them. The city's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. During the long weekend with public holidays to celebrate Buddha's birthday and Labour Day, residents flocked to country parks and the city's outlying islands to get some fresh air. Shops and restaurants started to resume business in normal opening hours with more consumers going out to streets and shopping malls. The virus restrictions put a damper on May Day celebrations worldwide on Friday as many labour unions delayed their rallies and some held online events, while a determined few hit the streets in face masks. May Day carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic, with the global economy in a tailspin and facing its worst downturn since the Great Depression. Stock markets tumbled again on Friday after Trump's unproven allegation that the virus may have come from a lab in Wuhan -- the central Chinese city where the disease first emerged. burs-qan/gle/pma/ach
2 May 13:20 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/spain-eases-strict-lockdown-as-us-approves-virus-drug/article/571091Rating: 0.78
Spain eases strict lockdown as US approves virus drug
Spaniards were allowed out of their homes to exercise and walk freely after 48 days of confinement on Saturday as some European nations began cautiously easing virus lockdowns while others like Russia faced a spike in new infections. As governments across the globe balance lifting restrictions to restart economies against the risk of new infections, US authorities brought some hope by approving an experimental drug for emergency use on coronavirus patients. The measure was the latest step in a global push to find viable treatments and a vaccine for the coronavirus, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown, hammered the world economy and caused more than 3.3 million confirmed infections. The virus has killed nearly 239,000 people since it emerged in China late last year. With signs the pandemic in their hardest-hit nations is slowing, European countries and some parts of the US have begun to lift restrictions and to try to inject life into economies battered by weeks of closure. In Madrid and Barcelona, Spaniards took to the streets to exercise and walk freely as the government eased seven weeks of strict lockdown in a country with one of the highest number of fatalities at nearly 25,000. "After so many weeks in confinement, I badly wanted to go out, run, see the world," said financial advisor Marcos Abeytua in Madrid's Chueca district who got up a 7am to enjoy some time outside. "Yesterday, I was like a child on Christmas Eve." In the city's Retiro park, many residents were out to running, sometimes in groups, as a policeman used a loudspeaker to urge them to keep out of deserted avenue and on the pavement. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez however said masks would be obligatory on public transport from Monday. Spain, Germany, Austria and Scandinavian nations are all slowly easing lockdowns as the virus cases slow though they will keep in place social distancing measures, demand the use of masks or increase testing to try to track infections. France on Saturday decided it would extend a health emergency, in place since March 24, by two months until July 24, Health Minister Olivier Veran announced after a cabinet meeting. Italy is preparing to ease restrictions in coming days while British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who spent time in intensive care with the virus, said Britain had past the peak of its outbreak. Ireland extended its lockdown by two weeks to May 18, with Prime Minister Leo Varadkar saying the nation will reopen "in a slow, phased, staged way" after that. In Russia, though, authorities reported the largest increase in coronavirus cases with the new infections rising by nearly 10,000 in a single day. In Moscow, the epicentre of Russia's outbreak, around 2 percent of the population is infected by COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, officials said. "The threat is apparently on the rise," Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, said on his blog earlier Saturday. More than 3.3 million cases of infection have been officially diagnosed in 195 countries, including 1.5 million in Europe alone. That number is likely only a fraction of true cases as testing is still limited. The United States has the most deaths with more than 65,000, followed by Italy with 28,236, the United Kingdom with 27,510, Spain with 25,100 deaths and France with 24,594 fatalities. US President Donald Trump on Friday announced that Remdesivir, an antiviral drug initially developed to treat Ebola, was given the green light for use after a major trial found that it boosted recovery in serious COVID-19 patients. "It's really a very promising situation," Trump said on Friday at the White House. The drug incorporates itself into the virus's genome, short-circuiting its replication process. Its approval came as the US leaders struggled with growing pressure from citizens wearying of stay-at-home orders. Trump is keen for a turnaround as the world's largest economy reels with tens of millions left jobless. Texas became the largest US state yet to ease curbs, while anti-lockdown demonstrations were held in several states -- including California, where officials had re-closed beaches beginning Friday to avoid a repeat of last weekend when crowds flocked to the shoreline. In Huntington Beach, about 35 miles (55 kilometers) south of Los Angeles, several thousand people rallied to denounce Governor Gavin Newsom's beach shutdown order. "Open California!" chanted protesters near the closed beaches, carrying signs that read "All jobs are essential" or "Freedom is essential". In Asia, India announced that the lockdown on its 1.3 billion people -- the world's biggest -- would continue for two more weeks from May 4. And in Singapore, the government said Saturday that pet food stores and hair salons will be allowed to reopen on May 12. Most of the city-state's infections have been detected at dormitories housing migrant workers, and their confinement was extended to June 1. Hong Kong recorded zero confirmed case of coronavirus on Saturday, the sixth day within a week. The city's social distancing regulations including limits on gathering of more than four people are due to expire on May 7, but authorities have not decided whether to extend them. The city's chief executive has said that civil servants will return to work in the office starting from May 4. During the long weekend with public holidays to celebrate Buddha's birthday and Labour Day, residents flocked to country parks and the city's outlying islands to get some fresh air. Shops and restaurants started to resume business in normal opening hours with more consumers going out to streets and shopping malls. The virus restrictions put a damper on May Day celebrations worldwide on Friday as many labour unions delayed their rallies and some held online events, while a determined few hit the streets in face masks. May Day carried extra significance this year because of the staggering number of people put out of work by the pandemic, with the global economy in a tailspin and facing its worst downturn since the Great Depression. Stock markets tumbled again on Friday after Trump's unproven allegation that the virus may have come from a lab in Wuhan -- the central Chinese city where the disease first emerged. burs-qan/gle/pma/ach https://www.facebook.com/policies
2 May 13:18 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/spain-eases-strict-lockdown-as-us-approves-virus-drug/f9jzwvfRating: 0.51
Top Israel court hears bids to bar Benjamin Netanyahu from forming new govt
3 May 20:24
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Top Israel court hears bids to bar Benjamin Netanyahu from forming new govt
Israel's top court Sunday started hearing arguments to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government as he faces a criminal trial on corruption charges. The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel's parliament. Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government and left the country in a grinding political deadlock. "Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed," Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings. "Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement," she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with COVID-19 precautions. The hearing was broadcast live on the court website. Neither Netanyahu, the right-wing premier in power since 2009, nor the centrist ex-military chief Gantz, was able after a March election to form a viable governing coalition in the deeply divided 120-seat Knesset. They agreed to a power-sharing deal last month, aiming to avert a fourth poll that is opposed across the political spectrum. Under the three-year coalition deal, the government's first six months will be dedicated primarily to combatting the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 16,000 Israelis and ravaged the economy. But eight separate petitions to the Supreme Court seek to declare the deal illegal, including one from former Gantz ally Yair Lapid, head of the opposition Yesh Atid. Lapid broke with Gantz last month when the ex-military commander was elected parliament speaker and decided to pursue a deal with Netanyahu. As a long list of lawyers representing the eight petitioners and the dozens of respondents filed in front of the judges on Sunday, Israelis in protective masks protested near the courtroom and outside Netanyahu's official Jerusalem residence. Demonstrator Tmira Stareck said that his unsuitability for another term was so blatant that there should be no need for a court hearing. "The very fact that we even need to discuss the obvious issue - a criminally-charged man forming a government is already a failure, it's already abnormal," she told AFP in Hebrew. "Would you hire someone who is criminally charged? No. You wouldn't even let him be the school janitor. Sunday's court session deals with indictments filed against Netanyahu in January. The veteran premier has been charged with accepting improper gifts and illegally trading favours in exchange for favourable media coverage. He denies wrongdoing and his trial is set to start May 24. Israeli law bars an indicted person from serving as an ordinary cabinet minister, but does not compel a criminally-charged prime minister to leave office. The complication regarding Netanyahu is that he is not currently an ordinary prime minister. He has been serving as the caretaker head of a transitional government through Israel's period of political deadlock. According to some interpretations of Israeli law, that makes Netanyahu merely a candidate to become prime minister. Interviewed on public radio Saturday, energy minister and Netanyahu ally Yuval Steinitz said that if the court rules Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to "an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy". The Gantz-Netanyahu agreement, Steinitz said, is "a necessity, the result of three election campaigns and a desire among Israelis to avoid a fourth election". The main argument against the coalition deal concerns specific provisions opponents say violate the law. The agreement sees Netanyahu serving as prime minister for 18 months, with Gantz as his "alternate", a new title in Israeli governance. They will swap roles midway through the deal before likely taking voters back to the polls in 36 months. But Israeli law traditionally endows governments with four-year mandates, an issue pounced on by the deal's opponents. There is also a provision freezing certain public appointments during the government's initial six-month pandemic emergency phase, which critics also say is illegal. An opinion delivered to the Supreme Court this week by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who indicted Netanyahu, said that while "certain arrangements in the coalition agreement raise major difficulties... at this time there are no grounds to disqualify (it)." He advised that problematic provisions be reviewed "at the implementation stage".
3 May 20:24 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/top-israel-court-hears-bids-to-bar-benjamin-netanyahu-from-forming-new-govt-833125.htmlRating: 2.25
Top Israel court hears bids to bar Netanyahu from forming new govt
Kindly Share This Story: Israel’s top court Sunday started hearing arguments to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government as he faces a criminal trial on corruption charges. The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament. Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government and left the country in a grinding political deadlock. “Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed,” Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings. “Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement,” she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with COVID-19 precautions. The hearing was broadcast live on the court website. Neither Netanyahu, the right-wing premier in power since 2009, nor the centrist ex-military chief Gantz, was able after a March election to form a viable governing coalition in the deeply divided 120-seat Knesset. They agreed to a power-sharing deal last month, aiming to avert a fourth poll that is opposed across the political spectrum. Under the three-year coalition deal, the government’s first six months will be dedicated primarily to combatting the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 16,000 Israelis and ravaged the economy. But eight separate petitions to the Supreme Court seek to declare the deal illegal, including one from former Gantz ally Yair Lapid, head of the opposition Yesh Atid. Lapid broke with Gantz last month when the ex-military commander was elected parliament speaker and decided to pursue a deal with Netanyahu. As a long list of lawyers representing the eight petitioners and the dozens of respondents filed in front of the judges on Sunday, Israelis in protective masks protested near the courtroom and outside Netanyahu’s official Jerusalem residence. Demonstrator Tmira Stareck said that his unsuitability for another term was so blatant that there should be no need for a court hearing. “The very fact that we even need to discuss the obvious issue – a criminally-charged man forming a government is already a failure, it’s already abnormal,” she told AFP in Hebrew. “Would you hire someone who is criminally charged? No. You wouldn’t even let him be the school janitor. Sunday’s court session deals with indictments filed against Netanyahu in January. The veteran premier has been charged with accepting improper gifts and illegally trading favours in exchange for favourable media coverage. He denies wrongdoing and his trial is set to start May 24. Israeli law bars an indicted person from serving as an ordinary cabinet minister, but does not compel a criminally-charged prime minister to leave office. The complication regarding Netanyahu is that he is not currently an ordinary prime minister. He has been serving as the caretaker head of a transitional government through Israel’s period of political deadlock. According to some interpretations of Israeli law, that makes Netanyahu merely a candidate to become prime minister. Interviewed on public radio Saturday, energy minister and Netanyahu ally Yuval Steinitz said that if the court rules Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to “an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy”. The Gantz-Netanyahu agreement, Steinitz said, is “a necessity, the result of three election campaigns and a desire among Israelis to avoid a fourth election”. The main argument against the coalition deal concerns specific provisions opponents say violate the law. The agreement sees Netanyahu serving as prime minister for 18 months, with Gantz as his “alternate”, a new title in Israeli governance. They will swap roles midway through the deal before likely taking voters back to the polls in 36 months. But Israeli law traditionally endows governments with four-year mandates, an issue pounced on by the deal’s opponents. There is also a provision freezing certain public appointments during the government’s initial six-month pandemic emergency phase, which critics also say is illegal. An opinion delivered to the Supreme Court this week by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who indicted Netanyahu, said that while “certain arrangements in the coalition agreement raise major difficulties… at this time there are no grounds to disqualify (it).” He advised that problematic provisions be reviewed “at the implementation stage”. [AFP] Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 16:26 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/top-israel-court-hears-bids-to-bar-netanyahu-from-forming-new-govt/Rating: 2.43
Top Israel court hears bids to bar Netanyahu from forming new govt
JERUSALEM: Israel’s top court Sunday started hearing arguments to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government as he faces a criminal trial on corruption charges. The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament. Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government and left the country in a grinding political deadlock. “Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed,” Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings. “Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement,” she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with Covid-19 precautions. The hearing was broadcast live on the court website. Neither Netanyahu, the right-wing premier in power since 2009, nor the centrist ex-military chief Gantz, was able after a March election to form a viable governing coalition in the deeply divided 120-seat Knesset. They agreed to a power-sharing deal last month, aiming to avert a fourth poll that is opposed across the political spectrum. – Netanyahu indictments – Under the three-year coalition deal, the government’s first six months will be dedicated primarily to combatting the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 16,000 Israelis and ravaged the economy. But eight separate petitions to the Supreme Court seek to declare the deal illegal, including one from former Gantz ally Yair Lapid, head of the opposition Yesh Atid. Lapid broke with Gantz last month when the ex-military commander was elected parliament speaker and decided to pursue a deal with Netanyahu. Hundreds of Israelis demonstrated against the deal in Tel Aviv on Saturday, the latest in a series of protests over a unity government. Sunday’s court session deals with indictments filed against Netanyahu in January. The veteran premier has been charged with accepting improper gifts and illegally trading favours in exchange for favourable media coverage. He denies wrongdoing and his trial is set to start May 24. Israeli law bars an indicted person from serving as an ordinary cabinet minister, but does not compel a criminally-charged prime minister to leave office. The complication regarding Netanyahu is that he is not currently an ordinary prime minister. He has been serving as the caretaker head of a transitional government through Israel’s period of political deadlock. According to some interpretations of Israeli law, that makes Netanyahu merely a candidate to become prime minister. Interviewed on public radio Saturday, energy minister and Netanyahu ally Yuval Steinitz said that if the court rules Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to “an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy”. The Gantz-Netanyahu agreement, Steinitz said, is “a necessity, the result of three election campaigns and a desire among Israelis to avoid a fourth election”. – The deal’s terms – The main argument against the coalition deal concerns specific provisions opponents say violate the law. The agreement sees Netanyahu serving as prime minister for 18 months, with Gantz as his “alternate”, a new title in Israeli governance. They will swap roles midway through the deal before likely taking voters back to the polls in 36 months. But Israeli law traditionally endows governments with four-year mandates, an issue pounced on by the deal’s opponents. There is also a provision freezing certain public appointments during the government’s initial six-month pandemic emergency phase, which critics also say is illegal. An opinion delivered to the Supreme Court this week by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who indicted Netanyahu, said that while “certain arrangements in the coalition agreement raise major difficulties… at this time there are no grounds to disqualify (it).” He advised that problematic provisions be reviewed “at the implementation stage”.
3 May 13:55 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213210/3-top-israel-court-hears-bids-bar-netanyahu-forming-new-govt/Rating: 1.80
Israeli court to hear petitions against PM Netanyahu forming a government
Israel’s high court is set to begin hearing petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The Sunday proceedings, held by a large panel of 11 justices and, in a rare instance, to also be broadcast live, will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment — something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Mr Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Mr Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of over-reach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest against Mr Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against his rule. Mr Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general Avichai Mandelblit said in an opinion to the court that while Mr Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Mr Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections. On Monday, the court will address petitions concerning Mr Netanyahu’s power-sharing coalition deal with his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz. The petitions were filed by advocacy groups that have asked the high court to ban any indicted politician, including Mr Netanyahu, from being allowed to form a new government. They also say that parts of the coalition deal are illegal.
3 May 12:39 • Jersey Evening Post • https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/israeli-court-to-hear-petitions-against-pm-netanyahu-forming-a-government/Rating: 0.38
Israel's High Court hears arguments on barring Netanyahu as prime minister
May 3 (UPI) -- Israel's High Court of Justice on Sunday heard arguments on whether to allow Benjamin Netanyahu to form a coalition government to lead the country despite his indictment on corruption charges. The court heard eight petitions filed by advocacy groups and opposition figures arguing that members of Israel's parliament, known as the Knesset, who are indicted of corruption charges cannot be appointed prime minister. During the hearing, the court heard from members anti-corruption watchdog groups that brought the challenge to Netanyahu's appointment as prime minister and representatives of various government parties who urged the court not to intervene. The hearing comes after Netanyahu and his political rival Benny Gantzreached an agreement last month to establish a unity government following three national elections that failed to produce a clear winner. Under the agreement, Netanyahu would remain prime minister for 18 months, with Gantz replacing him afterward. The petitions filed against Netanyahu argue that while serving as a caretaker leader, Netanyahu is not protected by an Israeli law stating prime ministers are not legally required to step down if charged with a crime. "This is part of the difficult problem in Israel today. Corruption has become acceptable," Eliad Shraga, founder of the Movement for Quality of Government in Israel told the court. Shimi Brown, a lawyer representing Gant's Blue and White Party, told judges Sunday it would be "improper and extremely unreasonable" to rule in favor of barring Netanyahu's appointment after the Blue and White and his Likud Party reached the agreement. Chief Justice Esther Hayut called on the petitioners to provide legal basis for the court to keep Netanyahu from power despite approval from his peers in the government. "Show us something! A law! A verdict! From this country's [history]! From [somewhere else] in the world! Something!" Hayut said. "After all, [you're asking us to set] a global precedent! You want us to rule without a basis simply according to your personal opinion?" Protesters also gathered for demonstrations on Saturday evening and during the trial on Sunday calling for the court to rule against Netanyahu and the government. It wasn't immediately clear when the judges would issue a verdict and on Monday the court is set to weigh separate petitions questioning the legality of the deal between Netanyahu and Gantz as it would reduce the legally mandated term for prime ministers from four years to three.
3 May 20:02 • UPI • https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2020/05/03/Israels-High-Court-hears-arguments-on-barring-Netanyahu-as-prime-minister/6621588529318/Rating: 0.76
Israeli high court could determine Netanyahu's future
JERUSALEM -- With the fate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the line, Israel's Supreme Court began discussions Sunday on the question of whether the embattled leader can form a new government while facing criminal indictments. The court's decision, expected later this week, is shaping up as a watershed moment in Israeli history. A ruling preventing Netanyahu from returning for another term would almost certainly trigger an unprecedented fourth consecutive election in just over a year and draw angry, perhaps violent, reactions from Netanyahu's supporters accusing the court of inappropriate political meddling. A ruling in favour will be seen by critics as further weakening the country's fragile democratic institutions and a victory for a prime minister bent on escaping prosecution. "The High Court of Justice is facing its most important verdict ever," former Prime Minister Ehud Barak, a staunch critic of Netanyahu's, wrote in the Haaretz daily. "The High Court can make its name for generations in one moment's brave decision," he wrote. "On the other hand, should the court opt for legalistic niceties, irrespective under what intricate pretexts, it too will be crushed further down the road." The court challenge comes in the wake of Netanyahu's agreement last month to form an "emergency" government with his rival, Benny Gantz. After battling each other in three inconclusive elections over the past year, the two men cited the country's coronavirus outbreak for their power-sharing agreement. But the deal includes a number of provisions -- including the creation of the new office of "designated prime minister" -- that appear to have little to do with the pandemic. Critics say they are meant to allow Netanyahu to remain in office throughout his upcoming trial. Netanyahu has been charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in a series of scandals in which he is accused of offering favours to media moguls in exchange for favourable press coverage. Netanyahu denies the accusations and says he is the victim of a witch hunt. His trial was postponed in March due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. In Sunday's proceedings, the court heard arguments on whether an indicted politician like Netanyahu can be given authority to form a new government. On Monday, the justices will look at whether the coalition agreement violated the law. Under the deal, Netanyahu and Gantz would be sworn in together, with Netanyahu serving first as prime minister and Gantz as the designated premier. After 18 months, the two will swap positions. The new position will enjoy all the trappings of the prime minister, including an official residence and, key for Netanyahu, an exemption from a law that requires public officials who are not prime minister to resign if charged with a crime. Netanyahu is eager to remain in office throughout his trial, using his position to lash out at the judicial system and rally support among his base. The coalition deal also gives him influence over key judicial appointments, creating a potential conflict of interest during an appeals process if he is convicted. In a reflection of the case's importance, a panel of 11 justices are hearing the case -- a much larger number than the usual three- or five-judge panels. In another rarity, the hearings were broadcast live on national television and on the court's website. Due to the outbreak, the judges, attorneys and clerks wore face masks, and plastic barriers separated each of the 11 justices on the bench. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of overreach and political interference. The long-time leader's opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Michael Rabello, an attorney representing Netanyahu's Likud party, said that over 1 million Israelis had voted for him with the knowledge he could be prime minister. "How can you say that this panel can replace the voters?" he asked the court. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest Netanyahu's continued rule, keeping their distance from one another in line with social-distancing rules. On Sunday, several dozen demonstrators gathered outside the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in support of the court and watched a screening of the hearing. Eliad Shraga, head of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, one of the groups petitioning the court, said it was "unconscionable that a man like this will go in the morning to court to sit in the dock and in the evening will manage the Security Cabinet and send us and our children to battle." The justices have little time. They need to rule by Thursday, the deadline for parliament to choose a new prime minister. If that deadline is missed, a new election would be triggered. Eli Salzberger, a law professor at the University of Haifa, said the panel consisted of the court's 11 most senior justices and it was impossible to predict which way the diverse group would lean. "We cannot really map the court ideologically," he said. Last week, Israel's attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, said in an opinion to the court that while Netanyahu's indictments "raise significant problems," there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Salzberger said Mandelblit's recommendation gave a boost to Netanyahu's side, but noted the court has disagreed with the attorney general in the past. "It's not a final decision," he said. ------ Associated Press writer Ilan Ben Zion contributed to this report.
3 May 17:56 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/israeli-high-court-could-determine-netanyahu-s-future-1.4922872Rating: 2.87
Israeli high court begins hearing that could determine Netanyahu’s future
With the fate of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the line, Israel’s Supreme Court began discussions Sunday on the question of whether the embattled leader can form a new government while facing criminal indictments. The court’s decision, expected later this week, is shaping up as a watershed moment in Israeli history. A ruling preventing Mr. Netanyahu from returning for another term would almost certainly trigger an unprecedented fourth consecutive election in just over a year and draw angry, perhaps violent, reactions from Mr. Netanyahu’s supporters accusing the court of inappropriate political meddling. A ruling in favour will be seen by critics as further weakening the country’s fragile democratic institutions and a victory for a prime minister bent on escaping prosecution. “The High Court of Justice is facing its most important verdict ever,” former prime minister Ehud Barak, a staunch critic of Mr. Netanyahu, wrote in the Haaretz newspaper. “The High Court can make its name for generations in one moment’s brave decision,” he wrote. “On the other hand, should the court opt for legalistic niceties, irrespective under what intricate pretexts, it too will be crushed further down the road.” The court challenge comes in the wake of Mr. Netanyahu’s agreement last month to form an “emergency” government with his rival, Benny Gantz. After battling each other in three inconclusive elections over the past year, the two men cited the country’s coronavirus outbreak for their power-sharing agreement. But the deal includes a number of provisions – including the creation of the new office of “designated prime minister” – that appear to have little to do with the pandemic. Critics say they are meant to allow Mr. Netanyahu to remain in office throughout his upcoming trial. Mr. Netanyahu has been charged with fraud, breach of trust and accepting bribes in a series of scandals in which he is accused of offering favours to media moguls in exchange for favourable press coverage. Mr. Netanyahu denies the accusations and says he is the victim of a witch hunt. His trial was postponed in March due to restrictions his hand-picked interim Justice Minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. In Sunday’s proceedings, the court heard arguments on whether an indicted politician such as Mr. Netanyahu can be given authority to form a new government. On Monday, the justices will look at whether the coalition agreement violated the law. Under the deal, Mr. Netanyahu and Mr. Gantz would be sworn in together, with Mr. Netanyahu serving first as prime minister and Gantz as the designated premier. After 18 months, the two will swap positions. The new position will enjoy all the trappings of the prime minister, including an official residence and, key for Mr. Netanyahu, an exemption from a law that requires public officials who are not prime minister to resign if charged with a crime. Mr. Netanyahu is eager to remain in office throughout his trial, using his position to lash out at the judicial system and rally support among his base. The coalition deal also gives him influence over key judicial appointments, creating a potential conflict of interest during an appeals process if he is convicted. In a reflection of the case’s importance, a panel of 11 justices are hearing the case – a much larger number than the usual three- or five-judge panels. In another rarity, the hearings were broadcast live on national television and on the court’s website. Due to the outbreak, the judges, attorneys and clerks wore face masks, and plastic barriers separated each of the 11 justices on the bench. The justices have little time. They need to rule by Thursday, the deadline for parliament to choose a new prime minister. If that deadline is missed, a new election would be triggered. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Mr. Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of overreach and political interference. The long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Michael Rabello, an attorney representing Mr. Netanyahu’s Likud party, said that more than one million Israelis had voted for him with the knowledge he could be prime minister. “How can you say that this panel can replace the voters?” he asked the court. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest Mr. Netanyahu’s continued rule, keeping their distance from one another in line with social-distancing rules. On Sunday, several dozen demonstrators gathered outside the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, in support of the court and watched a screening of the hearing. Eliad Shraga, head of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, one of the groups petitioning the court, said it was “unconscionable that a man like this will go in the morning to court to sit in the dock and in the evening will manage the security cabinet and send us and our children to battle.” Eli Salzberger, a law professor at the University of Haifa, said the panel consisted of the court’s 11 most senior justices and it was impossible to predict which way the diverse group would lean. “We cannot really map the court ideologically,” he said. Last week, Israel’s Attorney-General, Avichai Mandelblit, said in an opinion to the court that while Mr. Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Professor Salzberger said Mr. Mandelblit’s recommendation gave a boost to Mr. Netanyahu’s side, but noted the court has disagreed with the Attorney-General in the past. “It’s not a final decision,” he said. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 13:10 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-israels-high-court-to-hear-petitions-against-benjamin-netanyahu-rule/Rating: 2.18
Israel SC Begins Hearing Petitions Against Benjamin Netanyahu Seeking To Prevent Him From Making Govt
The Israel Supreme Court on Sunday (3 May) began hearing petitions calling to prevent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government while facing a criminal trial. An unusually large panel of 11 justices held the proceedings, reports Xinhua news agency. The hearing was broadcast live on the Supreme Court's website and the country's main TV channels. Eight separate petitions were submitted to the court. Esther Hayut, president of the Supreme Court and chairwoman of the panel, said at the beginning of the discussion that on Sunday, the court will hear the petitions that call to prevent Netanyahu from forming a new government due to his criminal indictment. On Monday, the court will hear the petitions calling to ban a new unity deal signed between Netanyahu and Benny Gantz, leader of the centrist party of Blue and White, to form a governing coalition. Under the deal, Netanyahu will continue to serve as the Prime Minister for 18 months before being replaced by Gantz. The deal was signed on 20 April after neither party succeeded in forming a governing coalition in the country's deeply divided 120-member parliament. If the Supreme Court will rule against the deal, the country might face fourth elections after three rounds of votes in less than a year produced inconclusive results. On Saturday evening, hundreds of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv against the unity government, the latest in a string of dozens of rallies against a government in which Netanyahu serves as the Prime Minister. The protesters said that a person indicted with criminal charges should not lead the government. Netanyahu, a hardline leader of the right-wing Likud party, has served as the Prime Minister since 2009. He is indicted with bribery, fraud and breach of trust in three separate cases. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)
3 May 16:28 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/israel-sc-begins-hearing-petitions-against-benjamin-netanyahu-seeking-to-prevent-him-from-making-govtRating: 1.22
Top Israel court hears bids to bar Netanyahu from forming new govt
Israel’s top court Sunday started hearing arguments to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government as he faces a criminal trial on corruption charges. The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel’s parliament. Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government and left the country in a grinding political deadlock. “Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed,” Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings. “Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement,” she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with COVID-19 precautions. The hearing was broadcast live on the court website. Neither Netanyahu, the right-wing premier in power since 2009, nor the centrist ex-military chief Gantz, was able after a March election to form a viable governing coalition in the deeply divided 120-seat Knesset. They agreed to a power-sharing deal last month, aiming to avert a fourth poll that is opposed across the political spectrum. Netanyahu indictments Under the three-year coalition deal, the government’s first six months will be dedicated primarily to combatting the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 16,000 Israelis and ravaged the economy. But eight separate petitions to the Supreme Court seek to declare the deal illegal, including one from former Gantz ally Yair Lapid, head of the opposition Yesh Atid. Lapid broke with Gantz last month when the ex-military commander was elected parliament speaker and decided to pursue a deal with Netanyahu. Hundreds of Israelis demonstrated against the deal in Tel Aviv on Saturday, the latest in a series of protests over a unity government. Sunday’s court session deals with indictments filed against Netanyahu in January. The veteran premier has been charged with accepting improper gifts and illegally trading favours in exchange for favourable media coverage. He denies wrongdoing and his trial is set to start May 24. Israeli law bars an indicted person from serving as an ordinary cabinet minister, but does not compel a criminally-charged prime minister to leave office. The complication regarding Netanyahu is that he is not currently an ordinary prime minister. He has been serving as the caretaker head of a transitional government through Israel’s period of political deadlock. According to some interpretations of Israeli law, that makes Netanyahu merely a candidate to become prime minister. Interviewed on public radio Saturday, energy minister and Netanyahu ally Yuval Steinitz said that if the court rules Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to “an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy”. The Gantz-Netanyahu agreement, Steinitz said, is “a necessity, the result of three election campaigns and a desire among Israelis to avoid a fourth election”. The deal’s terms The main argument against the coalition deal concerns specific provisions opponents say violate the law. The agreement sees Netanyahu serving as prime minister for 18 months, with Gantz as his “alternate”, a new title in Israeli governance. They will swap roles midway through the deal before likely taking voters back to the polls in 36 months. But Israeli law traditionally endows governments with four-year mandates, an issue pounced on by the deal’s opponents. There is also a provision freezing certain public appointments during the government’s initial six-month pandemic emergency phase, which critics also say is illegal. An opinion delivered to the Supreme Court this week by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who indicted Netanyahu, said that while “certain arrangements in the coalition agreement raise major difficulties... at this time there are no grounds to disqualify (it).” He advised that problematic provisions be reviewed “at the implementation stage”.
3 May 09:35 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/top-israel-court-hears-bids-to-bar-netanyahu-from-forming-new-govt/story-GgYe5UteAfEyaCwnc4p7yJ.htmlRating: 0.30
Israel's top court hears petition against Netanyahu in PM role
Israel's Supreme Court has begun hearing arguments to determine whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been indicted for corruption, will be allowed to form a new government. The top court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel's parliament. "Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed," Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings on Sunday."Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement," she added, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with coronavirus precautions. The proceedings on Sunday came after hundreds of Israelis took to the streets of Tel Aviv the previous day to protest against Netanyahu's recent coalition deal with Gantz. A ruling against Netanyahu would likely trigger a snap election, the fourth since April 2019, as Israel grapples with the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic as well as its economic fallout. Following three inconclusive elections, Netanyahu and Gantz last month signed an agreement to form a unity government under which they would take turns leading Israel. In power for more than a decade and currently head of a caretaker government, right-wing Netanyahu will serve as prime minister of a new administration for 18 months before handing the reins to centrist Gantz, according to the unity deal. But several groups, including opposition parties and democracy watchdogs, have petitioned the country's highest court to nullify the deal and bar Netanyahu from leading the government, citing the criminal proceedings against him. Responding to the petition, Israel's Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit said there was no sufficient legal ground to disqualify Netanyahu. Al Jazeera's Harry Fawcett, reporting from Jerusalem near an anti-coalition sit-in, said the judges, apart from looking into the eligibility of Netanyahu to form a new government, would also investigate the "legality of the deal". This is because both Netanyahu and Gantz have "tried to engineer a deal that somehow safeguards each man's position", Fawcett said. While judges have indicated that there is a "huge amount of political pressure and momentum" for a government to be formed after the three elections, they also seem to be exploring ways to try and limit some of that power, Fawcett said. Some Israeli analysts have said the court was unlikely to bar Netanyahu from heading a new government. Netanyahu was indicted in January on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. He denies any wrongdoing in all three cases against him and has said he is a victim of a political witch-hunt. Netanyahu's trial is due to start on May 24. Israeli law says a prime minister under indictment is not obligated to step down until a final conviction. Netanyahu is suspected of wrongfully accepting $264,000 worth of gifts from businessmen, which prosecutors said included cigars and champagne, and of promoting regulatory favours in alleged bids for improved coverage by a popular news website and Israel's best-selling newspaper. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison on bribery charges and a maximum three-year term for fraud and breach of trust.
3 May 09:23 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/israel-high-court-hears-petitions-coalition-gov-200503082653534.htmlRating: 2.44
Israeli court to hear petitions against PM Netanyahu forming a government
Israel’s high court is set to begin hearing petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The Sunday proceedings, held by a large panel of 11 justices and, in a rare instance, to also be broadcast live, will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment — something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Mr Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Mr Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of over-reach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest against Mr Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against his rule. In an unprecedented move, Sunday’s hearing would be broadcast live on the high court’s website while most of the country remains under coronavirus movement restrictions. Mr Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general Avichai Mandelblit said in an opinion to the court that while Mr Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Mr Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections. On Monday, the court will address petitions concerning Mr Netanyahu’s power-sharing coalition deal with his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz. The petitions were filed by advocacy groups that have asked the high court to ban any indicted politician, including Mr Netanyahu, from being allowed to form a new government. They also say that parts of the coalition deal are illegal.
3 May 07:23 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/israeli-court-to-hear-petitions-against-pm-netanyahu-forming-a-government/Rating: 0.30
Israeli court to hear petitions against PM Netanyahu forming a government
The Sunday hearings will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment. Israel’s high court is set to begin hearing petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The Sunday proceedings, held by a large panel of 11 justices and, in a rare instance, to also be broadcast live, will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment — something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Mr Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Mr Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of over-reach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest against Mr Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against his rule. In an unprecedented move, Sunday’s hearing would be broadcast live on the high court’s website while most of the country remains under coronavirus movement restrictions. Mr Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general Avichai Mandelblit said in an opinion to the court that while Mr Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Mr Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections. On Monday, the court will address petitions concerning Mr Netanyahu’s power-sharing coalition deal with his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz. The petitions were filed by advocacy groups that have asked the high court to ban any indicted politician, including Mr Netanyahu, from being allowed to form a new government. They also say that parts of the coalition deal are illegal.
3 May 07:23 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/israeli-court-to-hear-petitions-against-pm-netanyahu-forming-a-government/Rating: 0.30
Israeli court to hear petitions against PM Netanyahu forming a government
Israel’s high court is set to begin hearing petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The Sunday proceedings, held by a large panel of 11 justices and, in a rare instance, to also be broadcast live, will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment — something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Mr Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Mr Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of over-reach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest against Mr Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against his rule. In an unprecedented move, Sunday’s hearing would be broadcast live on the high court’s website while most of the country remains under coronavirus movement restrictions. Mr Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general Avichai Mandelblit said in an opinion to the court that while Mr Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Mr Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections. On Monday, the court will address petitions concerning Mr Netanyahu’s power-sharing coalition deal with his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz. The petitions were filed by advocacy groups that have asked the high court to ban any indicted politician, including Mr Netanyahu, from being allowed to form a new government. They also say that parts of the coalition deal are illegal.
3 May 07:22 • independent • https://www.independent.ie/world-news/israeli-court-to-hear-petitions-against-pm-netanyahu-forming-a-government-39176854.htmlRating: 1.21
Israel's high court to hear petitions against Netanyahu rule
JERUSALEM — Israel’s high court was set Sunday to begin hearing petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The proceedings, held by an exceptionally large panel of 11 justices and in a rare instance to also be broadcast live, will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment — something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos, and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth consecutive election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of overreach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against Netanyahu’s rule. In an unprecedented move, Sunday’s hearing would be broadcast live on the high court’s website while most of the country remains under coronavirus movement restrictions. Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, said in an opinion to the court that while Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections. On Monday, the court will address petitions concerning Netanyahu’s power-sharing coalition deal with his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz. Netanyahu and Gantz signed the agreement to form a national government last month after Israel’s third consecutive, deadlocked election in just over a year. The deal would have Netanyahu serve the first 18 months as prime minister, after which Gantz would assume power for the next 18 months. The coalition deal and Netanyahu’s upcoming corruption trials have triggered large protests in Tel Aviv’s main square. Participants in the demonstrations observed social distance in accordance with public health regulations. The petitions against Netanyahu were filed by advocacy groups that have asked the high court to ban any indicted politician, including Netanyahu, from being allowed to form a new government. They also say that parts of the coalition deal are illegal. Eliad Shraga, head of one of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, one of the groups petitioning the court, said in a statement ahead of Sunday’s proceedings that it was “unconscionable that a man like this will go in the morning to court to sit in the dock and in the evening will manage the security cabinet and send us and our children to battle.” Netanyahu, Israel’s longest serving prime minister, has held onto power as a caretaker leader for more than a year as political stalemate prevented the creation of a government and triggered successive elections. Ilan Ben Zion, The Associated Press
3 May 06:59 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/israels-high-court-to-hear-petitions-against-netanyahu-rule/Rating: 0.61
Supreme Court hears petitions against Netanyahu forming gov't - Inside Israel
A panel of 11 Supreme Court judges on Sunday morning began discussing the arguments to bar Netanyahu from forming a government. The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging the Likud-Blue and White coalition deal. Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government, leaving Israel in political deadlock. "Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed," Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings. "Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement," she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with COVID-19 precautions. At the beginning of the hearing, Attorney Anar Helman, representing the Attorney General’s office, argued that there is nothing preventing Netanyahu from forming a government. “The central consideration that must be taken into account is the realizing the will of the voter. That is the founding principle of Israeli democracy. There were elections and their results must be honored. The government being formed reflects the will of the voter and the court must honor it.” Attorney Michael Ravillo, representing Netanyahu, said that “the connection between elected representatives and the voter is sacred, even when talking about an MK at the end of the list that no voter has even heard of. Certainly this is true when talking about the candidate for prime minister. How dare the petitioners come before this court in its broadest composition, how can it be said that this panel can replace voters?" The hearing was broadcast live on the court website.
3 May 00:30 • Israel National News • http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/279569Rating: 0.83
Top Israel court hears bids to bar Netanyahu from forming new government
Jerusalem. Israel's top court Sunday started hearing arguments to bar Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from forming a new government as he faces a criminal trial on corruption charges.The Supreme Court will also hear petitions challenging a coalition deal with his rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz, who is currently speaker of the Knesset, Israel's parliament.Either case carries with it the danger of forcing another election, after three polls in less than a year failed to produce a government and left the country in a grinding political deadlock."Today we shall hear arguments on the question of bestowing the duty of forming a government on a Knesset member against whom an indictment has been filed," Chief Justice Esther Hayut said as she opened proceedings."Tomorrow there will be a hearing on the second issue, regarding the coalition agreement," she said, sitting at the head of a panel of 11 judges, all wearing face masks in line with COVID-19 precautions.The hearing was broadcast live on the court website.Neither Netanyahu, the right-wing premier in power since 2009, nor the centrist ex-military chief Gantz, was able after a March election to form a viable governing coalition in the deeply divided 120-seat Knesset.They agreed to a power-sharing deal last month, aiming to avert a fourth poll that is opposed across the political spectrum.- Netanyahu indictments -Under the three-year coalition deal, the government's first six months will be dedicated primarily to combatting the novel coronavirus that has infected more than 16,000 Israelis and ravaged the economy.But eight separate petitions to the Supreme Court seek to declare the deal illegal, including one from former Gantz ally Yair Lapid, head of the opposition Yesh Atid.Lapid broke with Gantz last month when the ex-military commander was elected parliament speaker and decided to pursue a deal with Netanyahu.Hundreds of Israelis demonstrated against the deal in Tel Aviv on Saturday, the latest in a series of protests over a unity government.Sunday's court session deals with indictments filed against Netanyahu in January.The veteran premier has been charged with accepting improper gifts and illegally trading favours in exchange for favourable media coverage. He denies wrongdoing and his trial is set to start May 24.Israeli law bars an indicted person from serving as an ordinary cabinet minister, but does not compel a criminally-charged prime minister to leave office.The complication regarding Netanyahu is that he is not currently an ordinary prime minister. He has been serving as the caretaker head of a transitional government through Israel's period of political deadlock.According to some interpretations of Israeli law, that makes Netanyahu merely a candidate to become prime minister.Interviewed on public radio Saturday, energy minister and Netanyahu ally Yuval Steinitz said that if the court rules Netanyahu cannot serve, it would amount to "an unprecedented attack on Israeli democracy".The Gantz-Netanyahu agreement, Steinitz said, is "a necessity, the result of three election campaigns and a desire among Israelis to avoid a fourth election".
3 May 00:00 • THE CITIZEN • https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/news/1840386-5541646-ysl9jf/index.htmlRating: 0.30
Israel's high court to hear petitions against Netanyahu rule
JERUSALEM (AP) - Israel’s high court began hearing petitions on Sunday against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The proceedings, held by an exceptionally large panel of 11 justices and in a rare instance also broadcast live, are focusing on the issue of whether a politician can form a government while under indictment - something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos, and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth consecutive election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of overreach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against Netanyahu’s rule. In an exceptional move, Sunday’s hearing was broadcast live on the high court’s website while most of the country remains under coronavirus movement restrictions. The judges, attorneys and clerks wore face masks, and plastic barriers separated each of the 11 justices on the bench. Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, said in an opinion to the court that while Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/israels-high-court-to-hear-petitions-against-netan/Rating: 0.79
Israel's high court to hear petitions against Netanyahu rule
JERUSALEM — Israel’s high court was set Sunday to begin hearing petitions against Benjamin Netanyahu forming a government while facing criminal indictments. The proceedings, held by an exceptionally large panel of 11 justices and in a rare instance to also be broadcast live, will focus on the issue of whether an politician can form a government while under indictment — something the Israeli legal code does not explicitly prohibit. If the court voids Netanyahu’s ability to serve as prime minister, Israel could be plunged into political chaos, and it would likely trigger the country’s fourth consecutive election in just over 12 months. The high court has become a lightning rod for criticism by Netanyahu and his political allies, who accuse it of overreach and political interference, while the long-time leader’s opponents consider it a bastion of democracy under dangerous assault. Pro-democracy demonstrators have been taking to the streets weekly to protest Netanyahu’s continued rule. Last week, counter-protesters against the court demonstrated against its hearing the petitions against Netanyahu’s rule. In an unprecedented move, Sunday’s hearing would be broadcast live on the high court’s website while most of the country remains under coronavirus movement restrictions. Netanyahu was indicted earlier this year on charges of accepting bribes, fraud and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing. His trial was postponed due to restrictions his hand-picked interim justice minister placed on the courts after the coronavirus crisis erupted and is scheduled to commence later this month. Last week, Israel’s attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, said in an opinion to the court that while Netanyahu’s indictments “raise significant problems,” there was no legal basis for barring him from serving while facing criminal charges. Israeli law mandates that Cabinet ministers and mayors resign if indicted, but prime ministers are not specifically required to step down. In January, the Supreme Court declined to rule on whether Netanyahu could form a government under indictment, saying the matter remained “theoretical” ahead of March’s elections. On Monday, the court will address petitions concerning Netanyahu’s power-sharing coalition deal with his main rival, former military chief Benny Gantz. Netanyahu and Gantz signed the agreement to form a national government last month after Israel’s third consecutive, deadlocked election in just over a year. The deal would have Netanyahu serve the first 18 months as prime minister, after which Gantz would assume power for the next 18 months. The coalition deal and Netanyahu’s upcoming corruption trials have triggered large protests in Tel Aviv’s main square. Participants in the demonstrations observed social distance in accordance with public health regulations. The petitions against Netanyahu were filed by advocacy groups that have asked the high court to ban any indicted politician, including Netanyahu, from being allowed to form a new government. They also say that parts of the coalition deal are illegal. Eliad Shraga, head of one of the Movement for Quality Government in Israel, one of the groups petitioning the court, said in a statement ahead of Sunday’s proceedings that it was “unconscionable that a man like this will go in the morning to court to sit in the dock and in the evening will manage the security cabinet and send us and our children to battle.” Netanyahu, Israel’s longest serving prime minister, has held onto power as a caretaker leader for more than a year as political stalemate prevented the creation of a government and triggered successive elections. Ilan Ben Zion, The Associated Press
2 May 19:59 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/02/israels-high-court-to-hear-petitions-against-netanyahu-rule/Rating: 0.77
Reports of a tiger escape in Kent see armed police rush to scene
3 May 21:52
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3 articles
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Reports of a tiger escape in Kent see armed police rush to scene
A wild cat was reported to be on the loose in Kent, leading armed police to begin a frantic search across the countryside of the southern county. The tiger was really just a model made out of chicken wire and resin and constructed by local sculptor Juliet Simpson, reports The Guardian. The 85-year-old sculptor made the life-sized tiger model 20 years ago and it now lies in the countryside near her home in the village of Underriver, near Sevenoaks. So you can imagine her surprise when a neighbour called her to say the police were on the hunt for a wild cat near where she lives after someone had claimed to have spotted one. The next thing she knew, armed police and a helicopter from the National Police Air Service were circling overhead looking for the reported wild animal. Kent police confirmed that a member of the public reported seeing a “large wild cat” on Saturday, May 2 at 10.23am and they were subsequently called to Mote Road in Ightham, which is close to Underriver, to investigate. Simpson said her son Duncan rang her to tell her there were armed police on the hill leading to her house and she looked out to see ten of them. “So then I walked up the road and saw the police Land Rover. I went up and said: ‘Do you want to be introduced to this tiger?’” she told The Guardian. Her life-sized tiger model lies very calmly in the grass among some trees. Simpson said she’d never really had a trouble with people mistaking her model for a real tiger before, adding that the only impact it has had is to scare passing dogs. The officers stayed for a short time, Simpson explaining: “They liked the model and said they thought it was very lifelike. They said they had to respond to people’s concerns.” Simpson’s granddaughter, Martha, shared a photo of police surrounding the tiger on Twitter. She wrote: “My Granny is a sculptress. Today 10 armed police and a helicopter were called to her house after walkers reported a tiger in the woods. This is the tiger.” Simpson explained that back when she made the sculpture 20 years ago she had been planning to sell it. But then she put the model in the woods, where she felt it “soon became a landmark” so she decided to leave it there.
3 May 21:52 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/reports-tiger-escape-kent-see-21968369Rating: 2.39
Underriver tiger sculpture sparks armed police response
Armed police and a helicopter were scrambled to reports of a tiger on the loose in the countryside - only to find the wild animal was a life-size model. Officers responding to the call in Underriver, Kent, on Saturday were met by the sculpture's creator. "I took them down to the sculpture where they all had a good laugh and took a lot of photographs," artist Juliet Simpson, 85, said. Kent Police said it found there was "no animal and no risk to the public". Told by a neighbour that police were investigating reports of a loose big cat, Mrs Simpson set off up the lane near her home. "Out of the field opposite came a whole crowd of armed police, who by then knew that it was all a false alarm and I said 'would they like to be introduced to my real live tiger?'" she told BBC Radio Kent. "It looks quite real, it's meant to look real and it is about 30 metres from the footpath so you can't see it very closely." The wire and resin artwork has been in place in woodlands near a public path for at least 20 years and is now "rather dilapidated", she said. "When I put this one in the wood behind my house, he seemed to sort of own the wood, so I never sold him, so he's just sat there." Kent Police said officers were sent to Mote Road in Ightham, near Underriver, "following a report from a member of the public that a large wild cat had been seen in the area". "Officers, including armed officers, attended as a precaution and, following a search of the area, have established there was no animal and no risk to the public." A helicopter from the National Police Air Service also briefly attended.
3 May 12:05 • BBC News • https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-52520773Rating: 4.85
Armed police called to catch ‘TIGER’ on the loose in Kent village…only to find it was a gran’s 20-year-old sculpture
ARMED cops and a helicopter were scrambled to track down a tiger prowling the Kent countryside - only to discover it was a sculpture made by a local gran. Police deployed the armed response unit following reports from terrified locals claiming a deadly predator was stalking the posh village of Ightham, near Sevenoaks. But they were left red faced when the big cat turned out to be a full-scale model made from resin and chicken wire by local sculptor Juliet Simpson. The grandmother, 85, laughed the bizarre incident off after revealing she had been alerted to the drama by her son. She told the Guardian: “Duncan rang up and said there were armed police on the hill leading up to my house. Ten of them! “By then I could see the helicopter above, and I thought ‘Goodness me.’ “So then I walked up the road and saw the police Land Rover. I went up and said: ‘Do you want to be introduced to this tiger?” The sculpture - made 20 years ago - lies next to a public footpath about 30 metres away from Ms Simpson’s house. The road it is near leads to the National Trust’s Ightham Mote, a medieval manor house. Cyclists who encountered police on the scene say they were told to swiftly move on, in case of danger. “There have been dogs who have been alarmed by it but no serious fears. Some people may have had a moment of thinking it’s a real tiger,” Ms Simpson went on. One police officer apparently speculated that escapee tigers were on the public’s mind following the success of the hit Tiger King series on Netflix. The bizarre show focuses on the lifestyle of big cat zoo owner Joe Exotic and his long-running battle with animal rights activist Carole Baskin. The officers were introduced to the ‘tiger’ and stayed to chat for about 20 minutes, revealed Ms Simpson. “They liked the model and said they thought it was very lifelike. They said they had to respond to people’s concerns,” she added. “So many people have so little real knowledge of how animals behave in the countryside. "Any escaped cat of any sort would be in a state of terror, and would not be basking in the sun, amiably looking up at the nearest footpath." Kent police confirmed they were called to Mote Road in Ightham at 10.23am on Saturday morning after a report from a member of public who had seen “a large wild cat”. A spokesperson said: “Officers, including armed officers, attended as a precaution and, following a search of the area, have established there was no animal and no risk to the public. "The national police air service did briefly attend the scene.”
3 May 11:56 • The Scottish Sun • https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/5556977/armed-police-tiger-statue/Rating: 0.30
Phoning it in: Pandemic forces Supreme Court to hear cases in a new way
3 May 10:19
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4 articles
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Phoning it in: Pandemic forces Supreme Court to hear cases in a new way
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court are typically a formal affair, dictated by adherence to tradition by an institution historically resistant to altering its ways. Come Monday, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, all that changes. In a first, the nine justices are set to participate in arguments in 10 cases - each scheduled for an hour - this week and next week conducted remotely by teleconference rather than in-person to combat the spread of the pathogen. In another break with tradition, the court will provide a live audio feed of the arguments to the news media. The changes reflect the new reality of working from home during the pandemic. The new format means than many formalities will be set aside. Some of the lawyers who will argue the cases have said they plan on wearing comfortable clothing - jeans and T-shirts - and will address the justices from kitchens and spare bedrooms, not from behind a lectern in the courtroom. The cases include one of the biggest disputes of the court’s current term - whether President Donald Trump, arguing for expansive presidential powers, can keep his financial records including tax returns secret. Three cases will be argued on the subject on May 12, two involving congressional subpoenas to third parties for his records and one involving a subpoena by a local prosecutor in New York City in a criminal investigation into Trump and his family real estate business. Jay Sekulow, a Trump personal lawyer who is arguing one of the financial records cases, said the dynamic will be quite a contrast to the dozen Supreme Court cases he has argued previously. “The difference here is, because we have a situation where we’re doing this over the phone, we’re trying to replicate that kind of feeling, because it’s different. Tone is different. Pausing is different. Listening is different,” Sekulow said. Arguments often are rough and tumble affairs - intellectually speaking - in the grand marble-columned courtroom, with the justices interjecting their comments at any time and sometimes talking over one another. To avoid chaos, the court has tweaked the format for the teleconference arguments so justices will take turn asking questions in order of seniority. Justice Clarence Thomas is the court’s longest-serving member, though he typically refrains from asking questions during arguments. The next most senior justice is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a frequent questioner. The new process will present a challenge including trying to cram all of the justices’ questions into an hour, said Ian Gershengorn, another experienced Supreme Court lawyer, who will be arguing a case on May 11 from his home in the Washington suburb of Bethesda, Maryland. “It will put a premium on concise questions and concise answers,” Gershengorn said. Gershengorn is representing Jimcy McGirt, a member of a Native American tribe challenging his conviction on charges of rape, molestation and sodomy of a 4-year-old girl. The ruling could have broad ramifications for tribal authority in Oklahoma. Gershengorn will be interacting with the justices sight unseen. So, despite the seriousness of the case, he said he plans to wear casual clothes - jeans and a T-shirt - instead of his usual formal suit. Riyaz Kanji, a lawyer representing the Muscogee (Creek) Nation tribe in the same case, said he plans to address the justices sitting from his kitchen table in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The first case being heard on Monday involves a bid by a federal agency to prevent the popular hotel reservation website Booking.com, a unit of Booking Holdings Inc, from trademarking the site’s name. The company, along with the rest of the travel industry, has been clobbered by the pandemic, which has caused tourism and business travel to evaporate worldwide. Adding to its troubles, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office contends in the case that the name Booking.com is too generic to deserve legal protection. The Supreme Court building has been closed to the public since March 13 due to the pandemic. The justices have met only via teleconference, and have issued rulings only online. The coronavirus has proven to be particularly dangerous in elderly people, especially those with underlying medical issues. Three of the nine justices are over age 70: Ginsburg (87), Stephen Breyer (81) and Thomas (71). The court is notoriously averse to change, including adopting new technology. The justices in the past have rebuffed news media requests for live audio and video of arguments. The court has not stated whether it will continue to allow a live audio feed in the future when cases again are argued in-person. (For a graphic on major cases before the Supreme Court, click tmsnrt.rs/2mZn6MJ)
3 May 10:19 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-court-arguments-idUSKBN22F0DPRating: 4.04
Phoning it in: Pandemic forces US Supreme Court to hear cases in a new way
Oral arguments before the US Supreme Court are typically a formal affair, dictated by adherence to tradition by an institution historically resistant to altering its ways. Come Monday, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, all that changes. In a first, the nine justices are set to participate in arguments in 10 cases - each scheduled for an hour - this week and next week conducted remotely by teleconference rather than in-person to combat the spread of the pathogen. In another break with tradition, the court will provide a live audio feed of the arguments to the news media. The changes reflect the new reality of working from home during the pandemic. The new format means than many formalities will be set aside. Some of the lawyers who will argue the cases have said they plan on wearing comfortable clothing - jeans and T-shirts - and will address the justices from kitchens and spare bedrooms, not from behind a lectern in the courtroom. The cases include one of the biggest disputes of the court's current term - whether President Donald Trump, arguing for expansive presidential powers, can keep his financial records including tax returns secret. Three cases will be argued on the subject on May 12, two involving congressional subpoenas to third parties for his records and one involving a subpoena by a local prosecutor in New York City in a criminal investigation into Trump and his family real estate business. Jay Sekulow, a Trump personal lawyer who is arguing one of the financial records cases, said the dynamic will be quite a contrast to the dozen Supreme Court cases he has argued previously. "The difference here is, because we have a situation where we're doing this over the phone, we're trying to replicate that kind of feeling, because it's different. Tone is different. Pausing is different. Listening is different," Sekulow said. Arguments often are rough and tumble affairs - intellectually speaking - in the grand marble-columned courtroom, with the justices interjecting their comments at any time and sometimes talking over one another. To avoid chaos, the court has tweaked the format for the teleconference arguments so justices will take turn asking questions in order of seniority. Justice Clarence Thomas is the court's longest-serving member, though he typically refrains from asking questions during arguments. The next most senior justice is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a frequent questioner. The new process will present a challenge including trying to cram all of the justices' questions into an hour, said Ian Gershengorn, another experienced Supreme Court lawyer, who will be arguing a case on May 11 from his home in the Washington suburb of Bethesda, Maryland. "It will put a premium on concise questions and concise answers," Gershengorn said. Gershengorn is representing Jimcy McGirt, a member of a Native American tribe challenging his conviction on charges of rape, molestation and sodomy of a 4-year-old girl. The ruling could have broad ramifications for tribal authority in Oklahoma. Gershengorn will be interacting with the justices sight unseen. So, despite the seriousness of the case, he said he plans to wear casual clothes - jeans and a T-shirt - instead of his usual formal suit. Riyaz Kanji, a lawyer representing the Muscogee (Creek) Nation tribe in the same case, said he plans to address the justices sitting from his kitchen table in Ann Arbor, Michigan. HOTEL RESERVATION WEBSITE The first case being heard on Monday involves a bid by a federal agency to prevent the popular hotel reservation website Booking.com, a unit of Booking Holdings Inc, from trademarking the site's name. The company, along with the rest of the travel industry, has been clobbered by the pandemic, which has caused tourism and business travel to evaporate worldwide. Adding to its troubles, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office contends in the case that the name Booking.com is too generic to deserve legal protection. The Supreme Court building has been closed to the public since March 13 due to the pandemic. The justices have met only via teleconference, and have issued rulings only online. The coronavirus has proven to be particularly dangerous in elderly people, especially those with underlying medical issues. Three of the nine justices are over age 70: Ginsburg (87), Stephen Breyer (81) and Thomas (71). The court is notoriously averse to change, including adopting new technology. The justices in the past have rebuffed news media requests for live audio and video of arguments. The court has not stated whether it will continue to allow a live audio feed in the future when cases again are argued in-person.
3 May 17:31 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/03/phoning-it-in-pandemic-forces-us-supreme-court-to-hear-cases-in-a-new-wayRating: 2.85
Phoning it in: Pandemic forces U.S. Supreme Court to hear cases in a new way
WASHINGTON — Oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court are typically a formal affair, dictated by adherence to tradition by an institution historically resistant to altering its ways. Come Monday, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, all that changes. In a first, the nine justices are set to participate in arguments in 10 cases – each scheduled for an hour – this week and next week conducted remotely by teleconference rather than in-person to combat the spread of the pathogen. In another break with tradition, the court will provide a live audio feed of the arguments to the news media. The changes reflect the new reality of working from home during the pandemic. The new format means than many formalities will be set aside. Some of the lawyers who will argue the cases have said they plan on wearing comfortable clothing – jeans and T-shirts – and will address the justices from kitchens and spare bedrooms, not from behind a lectern in the courtroom. The cases include one of the biggest disputes of the court’s current term – whether President Donald Trump, arguing for expansive presidential powers, can keep his financial records including tax returns secret. Three cases will be argued on the subject on May 12, two involving congressional subpoenas to third parties for his records and one involving a subpoena by a local prosecutor in New York City in a criminal investigation into Trump and his family real estate business. Jay Sekulow, a Trump personal lawyer who is arguing one of the financial records cases, said the dynamic will be quite a contrast to the dozen Supreme Court cases he has argued previously. “The difference here is, because we have a situation where we’re doing this over the phone, we’re trying to replicate that kind of feeling, because it’s different. Tone is different. Pausing is different. Listening is different,” Sekulow said. Arguments often are rough and tumble affairs – intellectually speaking – in the grand marble-columned courtroom, with the justices interjecting their comments at any time and sometimes talking over one another. To avoid chaos, the court has tweaked the format for the teleconference arguments so justices will take turn asking questions in order of seniority. Justice Clarence Thomas is the court’s longest-serving member, though he typically refrains from asking questions during arguments. The next most senior justice is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a frequent questioner. The new process will present a challenge including trying to cram all of the justices’ questions into an hour, said Ian Gershengorn, another experienced Supreme Court lawyer, who will be arguing a case on May 11 from his home in the Washington suburb of Bethesda, Maryland. “It will put a premium on concise questions and concise answers,” Gershengorn said. Gershengorn is representing Jimcy McGirt, a member of a Native American tribe challenging his conviction on charges of rape, molestation and sodomy of a 4-year-old girl. The ruling could have broad ramifications for tribal authority in Oklahoma. Gershengorn will be interacting with the justices sight unseen. So, despite the seriousness of the case, he said he plans to wear casual clothes – jeans and a T-shirt – instead of his usual formal suit. Riyaz Kanji, a lawyer representing the Muscogee (Creek) Nation tribe in the same case, said he plans to address the justices sitting from his kitchen table in Ann Arbor, Michigan. HOTEL RESERVATION WEBSITE The first case being heard on Monday involves a bid by a federal agency to prevent the popular hotel reservation website Booking.com, a unit of Booking Holdings Inc, from trademarking the site’s name. The company, along with the rest of the travel industry, has been clobbered by the pandemic, which has caused tourism and business travel to evaporate worldwide. Adding to its troubles, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office contends in the case that the name Booking.com is too generic to deserve legal protection. The Supreme Court building has been closed to the public since March 13 due to the pandemic. The justices have met only via teleconference, and have issued rulings only online. The coronavirus has proven to be particularly dangerous in elderly people, especially those with underlying medical issues. Three of the nine justices are over age 70: Ginsburg (87), Stephen Breyer (81) and Thomas (71). The court is notoriously averse to change, including adopting new technology. The justices in the past have rebuffed news media requests for live audio and video of arguments. The court has not stated whether it will continue to allow a live audio feed in the future when cases again are argued in-person. [For a graphic on major cases before the Supreme Court, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2mZn6MJ ] (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley in Washington and Andrew Chung in New York; Additional reporting by Karen Freifeld in New York; Editing by Will Dunham)
3 May 10:01 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/phoning-it-in-pandemic-forces-u-s-supreme-court-to-hear-cases-in-a-new-wayRating: 1.59
Phoning it in: Pandemic forces Supreme Court to hear cases in a new way
By Lawrence Hurley and Andrew Chung WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court are typically a formal affair, dictated by adherence to tradition by an institution historically resistant to altering its ways. Come Monday, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, all that changes. In a first, the nine justices are set to participate in arguments in 10 cases - each scheduled for an hour - this week and next week conducted remotely by teleconference rather than in-person to combat the spread of the pathogen. In another break with tradition, the court will provide a live audio feed of the arguments to the news media. The changes reflect the new reality of working from home during the pandemic. The new format means than many formalities will be set aside. Some of the lawyers who will argue the cases have said they plan on wearing comfortable clothing - jeans and T-shirts - and will address the justices from kitchens and spare bedrooms, not from behind a lectern in the courtroom. The cases include one of the biggest disputes of the court's current term - whether President Donald Trump, arguing for expansive presidential powers, can keep his financial records including tax returns secret. Three cases will be argued on the subject on May 12, two involving congressional subpoenas to third parties for his records and one involving a subpoena by a local prosecutor in New York City in a criminal investigation into Trump and his family real estate business. Jay Sekulow, a Trump personal lawyer who is arguing one of the financial records cases, said the dynamic will be quite a contrast to the dozen Supreme Court cases he has argued previously. "The difference here is, because we have a situation where we're doing this over the phone, we're trying to replicate that kind of feeling, because it's different. Tone is different. Pausing is different. Listening is different," Sekulow said. Arguments often are rough and tumble affairs - intellectually speaking - in the grand marble-columned courtroom, with the justices interjecting their comments at any time and sometimes talking over one another. To avoid chaos, the court has tweaked the format for the teleconference arguments so justices will take turn asking questions in order of seniority. Justice Clarence Thomas is the court's longest-serving member, though he typically refrains from asking questions during arguments. The next most senior justice is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a frequent questioner. The new process will present a challenge including trying to cram all of the justices' questions into an hour, said Ian Gershengorn, another experienced Supreme Court lawyer, who will be arguing a case on May 11 from his home in the Washington suburb of Bethesda, Maryland. "It will put a premium on concise questions and concise answers," Gershengorn said. Gershengorn is representing Jimcy McGirt, a member of a Native American tribe challenging his conviction on charges of rape, molestation and sodomy of a 4-year-old girl. The ruling could have broad ramifications for tribal authority in Oklahoma. Gershengorn will be interacting with the justices sight unseen. So, despite the seriousness of the case, he said he plans to wear casual clothes - jeans and a T-shirt - instead of his usual formal suit. Riyaz Kanji, a lawyer representing the Muscogee (Creek) Nation tribe in the same case, said he plans to address the justices sitting from his kitchen table in Ann Arbor, Michigan. HOTEL RESERVATION WEBSITE The first case being heard on Monday involves a bid by a federal agency to prevent the popular hotel reservation website Booking.com, a unit of Booking Holdings (NASDAQ:BKNG) Inc, from trademarking the site's name. The company, along with the rest of the travel industry, has been clobbered by the pandemic, which has caused tourism and business travel to evaporate worldwide. Adding to its troubles, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office contends in the case that the name Booking.com is too generic to deserve legal protection. The Supreme Court building has been closed to the public since March 13 due to the pandemic. The justices have met only via teleconference, and have issued rulings only online. The coronavirus has proven to be particularly dangerous in elderly people, especially those with underlying medical issues. Three of the nine justices are over age 70: Ginsburg (87), Stephen Breyer (81) and Thomas (71). The court is notoriously averse to change, including adopting new technology. The justices in the past have rebuffed news media requests for live audio and video of arguments. The court has not stated whether it will continue to allow a live audio feed in the future when cases again are argued in-person. (For a graphic on major cases before the Supreme Court, click https://tmsnrt.rs/2mZn6MJ)
3 May 00:00 • Investing.com • https://www.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/phoning-it-in-pandemic-forces-supreme-court-to-hear-cases-in-a-new-way-2158930Rating: 0.30
UK shadows Italy as worst hit in Europe: virus death toll passes 28,000
3 May 09:09
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UK shadows Italy as worst hit in Europe: virus death toll passes 28,000
LONDON (Reuters) - The United Kingdom’s COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world’s second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity, but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled COVID-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work on Monday, telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom’s “apparent success”. He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still to early to relax the lockdown he imposed on March 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals. The $3.0 trillion British economy, the world’s fifth largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases. He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown - with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones. Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while.
3 May 09:09 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-death-toll-idUSKBN22E0LDRating: 4.04
UK shadows Italy as worst hit in Europe: virus death toll passes 28,000
LONDON (Reuters) - The United Kingdom’s COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world’s second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity, but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled COVID-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work on Monday, telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom’s “apparent success”. He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still to early to relax the lockdown he imposed on March 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals. The $3.0 trillion British economy, the world’s fifth largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases. He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown - with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones. Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while.
3 May 09:09 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-death-toll-idUSKBN22E0LDRating: 4.04
U.K. Shadows Italy as Worst Hit in Europe: Virus Death Toll Passes 28,000
The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world's second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity, but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled COVID-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work on Monday, telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom's "apparent success". TESTS FOR EASING LOCKDOWN He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still to early to relax the lockdown he imposed on March 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals. The $3.0 trillion British economy, the world's fifth largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases. He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown - with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones. Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while.
3 May 07:55 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/world-news/u-k-shadows-italy-as-worst-hit-in-europe-virus-death-toll-passes-28-000-1.8816147Rating: 1.13
UK right behind Italy as worst hit in Europe
London: The United Kingdom’s COVID-19 death toll rose by 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world’s second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled COVID-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom’s “apparent success”. Tests for easing lockdown He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still to early to relax the lockdown he imposed on March 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals. The $3.0 trillion British economy, the world’s fifth-largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases. He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown - with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones. Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while.
3 May 09:02 • Deccan Chronicle • https://www.deccanchronicle.com/world/europe/030520/uk-right-behind-italy-as-worst-hit-in-europe.htmlRating: 1.64
UK shadows Italy as worst-hit in Europe; COVID-19 death toll passes 28,000
LONDON: The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world's second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst-hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity, but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled COVID-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work on Monday, telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom's "apparent success". TESTS FOR EASING LOCKDOWN He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still too early to relax the lockdown he imposed on Mar 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals.The US$3 trillion British economy, the world's fifth-largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases.He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown - with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones.Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
2 May 23:28 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/uk-shadows-italy-as-worst-hit-in-europe-covid-19-death-toll-12697020Rating: 3.25
UK COVID-19 death toll rises to 28,131, shadowing Italy
LONDON: The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has had the deadliest novel coronavirus outbreak among European countries. "Sadly of those tested positive for coronavirus ... 28,131 have now died," housing minister Robert Jenrick told reporters at a Downing Street briefing. "That's an increase of 621 fatalities since yesterday." Italy reported a death toll of 28,236 on May 1. The United Kingdom's previous death toll was 27,510 as of April 30 at 1600. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
2 May 23:28 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/uk-covid-19-death-toll-rises-to-28-131--shadowing-italy-12697020Rating: 3.25
UK virus death toll passes 28,000
LONDON — The United Kingdom's COVID-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world's second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity, but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled COVID-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work on Monday, telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom's "apparent success". He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still to early to relax the lockdown he imposed on March 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals. The $3.0 trillion British economy, the world's fifth largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases. He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown - with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones. Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while. © Thomson Reuters 2020.
2 May 21:15 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/update-2-uk-shadows-italy-as-worst-hit-in-europe-virus-death-toll-passes-28-000Rating: 2.09
UK shadows Italy as worst hit in Europe: virus death toll passes 28,000
LONDON: The United Kingdom’s Covid-19 death toll rose 621 to 28,131 as of May 1, just short of Italy which has so far had the world’s second most deadly outbreak of the disease after the United States. As Britain shadows Italy for the grim status of being the worst-hit country in Europe, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is facing criticism from opposition parties who say his government stumbled in the early stages of the outbreak. Housing minister Robert Jenrick gave the latest UK figures at a Downing Street briefing on Saturday. The United States has had 64,740 deaths, followed by Italy with 28,710 and the United Kingdom on 28,131 and then Spain on 25,100, according to a Reuters tally. Italy, which has a population of 60 million, said its death toll rose 474 as of Saturday. The United Kingdom has a population of about 67 million. Johnson, 55, initially resisted introducing a lockdown to restrict economic and public activity, but changed course when projections showed a quarter of a million people could die. Johnson himself battled Covid-19 last month, spending three days in intensive care. He returned to work on Monday, telling the nation that people around the world were looking at the United Kingdom’s “apparent success”. Tests for easing lockdown He has said the country is over the peak but that it is still to early to relax the lockdown he imposed on March 23 because there could be a second peak that he fears might overwhelm hospitals. The $3.0 trillion British economy, the world’s fifth-largest, is stalling and Johnson is due next week to present a possible way to get the country back to work without triggering a second spike in cases. He has set five tests that must be met before he can lift the lockdown – with a reduction in the daily death toll and prevention of a second deadly peak among the key ones. Government scientists say that while the daily death tolls show a downward trend they expect them to plateau for a while.
2 May 18:05 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2212627/3-uk-shadows-italy-worst-hit-europe-virus-death-toll-passes-28000/Rating: 1.80
UK coronavirus death toll rises to 28,131 after another 621 fatalities
The number of people who have died from coronavirus in the UK has risen to 28,131. Speaking at today's Downing Street briefing, Housing Minister Robert Jenrick confirmed another 621 people had lost their lives across the country from the disease. The death toll includes fatalities in hospitals, care homes, and the wider comminuty. Today's number is down slightly from yesterday's daily death toll, which was 739. We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story. Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story here at Mirror.co.uk. For the latest news and breaking news visit Mirror.co.uk/news. Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you. Follow us on Twitter @DailyMirror - the official Daily Mirror & Mirror Online Twitter account - real news in real time. We're also on Facebook /dailymirror - your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the Daily Mirror, Sunday Mirror and Mirror Online.
2 May 15:15 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/breaking-uk-coronavirus-death-toll-21963457Rating: 2.39
Coronavirus live news - UK death toll passes 28,000 and testing latest
A total of 621 more people have died of coronavirus in the UK, with 454 of these people having died in hospitals after having been diagnosed with the virus. The Government’s official figures now include deaths in care homes and the wider community after the Department of Health began counting them on Wednesday. Previously, the Government only counted people who had died in hospitals after testing positive for coronavirus. Of the 739 deaths yesterday, 427 occurred in hospitals. Here, we bring you the live updates on the latest news, developments and guidance on the Covid-19 pandemic.
2 May 08:33 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/02/coronavirus-news-live-uk-death-toll-covid-19-testing-hospital-ppe-nhs-boris-johnson-12643358/Rating: 2.18
UK chafes at COVID-19 death toll comparison with Italy
3 May 19:13
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4 articles
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Best date: 3 May 19:13
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UK chafes at COVID-19 death toll comparison with Italy
LONDON (Reuters) - The British government sought on Sunday to deflect questions over a coronavirus death toll that is Europe’s second worst after Italy, with officials saying it would take a long time before the full picture became clear. Deaths rose to 28,446 as of May 2 - just short of Italy - increasing pressure on the government which has been accused of acting too slowly in the early stages of the outbreak. Cabinet minister Michael Gove, leading a daily coronavirus briefing, sidestepped a question on whether many lives could have been saved if mass testing had been rolled out earlier. “This government, like all governments, will have made mistakes, but it will be impossible to determine exactly which were the areas of greatest concern until some time in the future, when we have all the information that we need,” he said. Only the United States has suffered more deaths than Italy and Britain. Ministers dislike comparisons of the headline death toll, saying that excess mortality - the number of deaths from all causes that exceed the average for the time of year - is a more meaningful metric. The most recent available data showed there were almost 12,000 excess deaths in England and Wales in the week to April 17. Of these, just under 9,000 were linked on death certificates to the COVID-19 respiratory disease. Analysis by media including Sky News and the Financial Times suggests those figures are worse than other European countries including Italy. However, the medical director of England’s health service, Stephen Powis, said during the briefing it would be some time before international comparisons of excess deaths could be made. Earlier, the UK National Statistician Ian Diamond also cautioned against relying on rankings. “I’m not saying that we’re at the bottom of any potential league table - it’s almost impossible to calculate a league table - but I’m not prepared to say that we’re heading for the top,” he told BBC News. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who returned to work on April 27 after a life-threatening, month-long battle with COVID-19, is due to announce later this week how the government plans to ease a lockdown since March 23 that has battered the economy. Businesses have been clamouring for information. Gove said a new system to impede any new outbreak by identifying people infected and warning those who had come close to them to self-isolate would be trialled this week on the Isle of Wight, off the southern English coast. Addressing complaints by some health and care workers that they were still not being provided with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), Gove said French and German doctors had protested about similar problems. “That doesn’t take away for a second from our responsibility to do even better, but it does mean I think that people recognise that this is a global challenge,” he said.
3 May 19:13 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-idUSKBN22F0J6Rating: 4.04
U.K. chafes at COVID-19 death toll comparison with Italy
The British government sought on Sunday to deflect questions over a coronavirus death toll that is Europe's second worst after Italy, with officials saying it would take a long time before the full picture became clear. Deaths rose to 28,446 as of May 2 — just short of Italy — increasing pressure on the government which has been accused of acting too slowly in the early stages of the outbreak. Cabinet minister Michael Gove, leading a daily COVID-19 briefing, sidestepped a question on whether many lives could have been saved if mass testing had been rolled out earlier. “This government, like all governments, will have made mistakes, but it will be impossible to determine exactly which were the areas of greatest concern until some time in the future, when we have all the information that we need,” he said. Only the United States has suffered more deaths than Italy and Britain. Ministers dislike comparisons of the headline death toll, saying that excess mortality — the number of deaths from all causes that exceed the average for the time of year — is a more meaningful metric. The most recent available data showed there were almost 12,000 excess deaths in England and Wales in the week to April 17. Of these, just under 9,000 were linked on death certificates to the COVID-19 respiratory disease. Analysis by media including Sky News and the Financial Times suggests those figures are worse than other European countries including Italy. However, the medical director of England's health service, Stephen Powis, said during the briefing it would be some time before international comparisons of excess deaths could be made. Earlier, the U.K. National Statistician Ian Diamond also cautioned against relying on rankings. “I'm not saying that we're at the bottom of any potential league table - it's almost impossible to calculate a league table - but I'm not prepared to say that we're heading for the top,” he told BBC News. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who returned to work on April 27 after a life-threatening, month-long battle with COVID-19, is due to announce later this week how the government plans to ease a lockdown since March 23 that has battered the economy. Businesses have been clamouring for information. Mr. Gove said a new system to impede any new outbreak by identifying people infected and warning those who had come close to them to self-isolate would be trialled this week on the Isle of Wight, off the southern English coast. Addressing complaints by some health and care workers that they were still not being provided with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), Mr. Gove said French and German doctors had protested about similar problems. “That doesn't take away for a second from our responsibility to do even better, but it does mean I think that people recognise that this is a global challenge,” he said.
3 May 23:00 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/uk-chafes-at-covid-19-death-toll-comparison-with-italy/article31496771.eceRating: 0.30
UK chafes at COVID-19 death toll comparison with Italy
LONDON — The British government sought on Sunday to deflect questions over a coronavirus death toll that is Europe's second worst after Italy, with officials saying it would take a long time before the full picture became clear. Deaths rose to 28,446 as of May 2 - just short of Italy - increasing pressure on the government which has been accused of acting too slowly in the early stages of the outbreak. Cabinet minister Michael Gove, leading a daily coronavirus briefing, sidestepped a question on whether many lives could have been saved if mass testing had been rolled out earlier. "This government, like all governments, will have made mistakes, but it will be impossible to determine exactly which were the areas of greatest concern until some time in the future, when we have all the information that we need," he said. Only the United States has suffered more deaths than Italy and Britain. Ministers dislike comparisons of the headline death toll, saying that excess mortality - the number of deaths from all causes that exceed the average for the time of year - is a more meaningful metric. The most recent available data showed there were almost 12,000 excess deaths in England and Wales in the week to April 17. Of these, just under 9,000 were linked on death certificates to the COVID-19 respiratory disease. Analysis by media including Sky News and the Financial Times suggests those figures are worse than other European countries including Italy. However, the medical director of England's health service, Stephen Powis, said during the briefing it would be some time before international comparisons of excess deaths could be made. Earlier, the UK National Statistician Ian Diamond also cautioned against relying on rankings. "I'm not saying that we're at the bottom of any potential league table - it's almost impossible to calculate a league table - but I'm not prepared to say that we're heading for the top," he told BBC News. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who returned to work on April 27 after a life-threatening, month-long battle with COVID-19, is due to announce later this week how the government plans to ease a lockdown since March 23 that has battered the economy. Businesses have been clamoring for information. Gove said a new system to impede any new outbreak by identifying people infected and warning those who had come close to them to self-isolate would be trialed this week on the Isle of Wight, off the southern English coast. Addressing complaints by some health and care workers that they were still not being provided with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), Gove said French and German doctors had protested about similar problems. "That doesn't take away for a second from our responsibility to do even better, but it does mean I think that people recognize that this is a global challenge," he said. © (c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2020.
3 May 21:00 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/update-1-uk-chafes-at-covid-19-death-toll-comparison-with-italyRating: 2.09
UK chafes at Covid-19 death toll comparison with Italy
LONDON, May 4 — The British government sought yesterday to deflect questions over a coronavirus death toll that is Europe's second worst after Italy, with officials saying it would take a long time before the full picture became clear. Deaths rose to 28,446 as of May 2 — just short of Italy — increasing pressure on the government which has been accused of acting too slowly in the early stages of the outbreak. Cabinet minister Michael Gove, leading a daily coronavirus briefing, sidestepped a question on whether many lives could have been saved if mass testing had been rolled out earlier. “This government, like all governments, will have made mistakes, but it will be impossible to determine exactly which were the areas of greatest concern until some time in the future, when we have all the information that we need,” he said. Only the United States has suffered more deaths than Italy and Britain. Ministers dislike comparisons of the headline death toll, saying that excess mortality — the number of deaths from all causes that exceed the average for the time of year — is a more meaningful metric. The most recent available data showed there were almost 12,000 excess deaths in England and Wales in the week to April 17. Of these, just under 9,000 were linked on death certificates to the Covid-19 respiratory disease. Coronavirus 'leagues' Analysis by media including Sky News and the Financial Times suggests those figures are worse than other European countries including Italy. However, the medical director of England's health service, Stephen Powis, said during the briefing it would be some time before international comparisons of excess deaths could be made. Earlier, the UK National Statistician Ian Diamond also cautioned against relying on rankings. “I'm not saying that we're at the bottom of any potential league table — it's almost impossible to calculate a league table — but I'm not prepared to say that we're heading for the top,” he told BBC News. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who returned to work on April 27 after a life-threatening, month-long battle with Covid-19, is due to announce later this week how the government plans to ease a lockdown since March 23 that has battered the economy. Businesses have been clamouring for information. Gove said a new system to impede any new outbreak by identifying people infected and warning those who had come close to them to self-isolate would be trialled this week on the Isle of Wight, off the southern English coast. Addressing complaints by some health and care workers that they were still not being provided with sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), Gove said French and German doctors had protested about similar problems. “That doesn't take away for a second from our responsibility to do even better, but it does mean I think that people recognise that this is a global challenge,” he said. — Reuters
3 May 22:55 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/04/uk-chafes-at-covid-19-death-toll-comparison-with-italy/1862720Rating: 1.42
Vienna Airport to offer coronavirus tests to avoid quarantine
3 May 12:37
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3 articles
Weight: 2.35
Importance: 2.36
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 12:30
Average US: 21.0
Weighted average US: 24.873983989957733
Average GB: 0.3
Weighted average GB: 0.6718631953162832
Average IN: 10.299999999999999
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Vienna Airport to offer coronavirus tests to avoid quarantine
ZURICH (Reuters) - Vienna Airport will offer onsite coronavirus testing from Monday to enable passengers entering Austria to avoid having to be quarantined for 14 days. Passengers arriving at the airport have been required to present a health certificate showing a negative COVID-19 result which is no older than four days, or go into quarantine. From Monday passengers can have a molecular biological (polymerise chain reaction or PCR) COVID-19 test at the airport, and get the result in two to three hours, the airport said. “Air travel, whether business journeys or urgent trips...will thus become safer and easier,” it added on Sunday. Last month Emirates, in coordination with Dubai Health Authority (DHA), said it was the first airline to conduct on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers. Austrian quarantines that have already begun can be ended if the person is found to be clear of COVID-19, Vienna Airport said. The airport tests, which cost 190 euros ($209), can also be taken by passengers leaving Vienna to demonstrate their virus-free status at their destination. Vienna Airport is operating scheduled flights to Doha, Dortmund, Duesseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Lisbon, Minsk and Sofia, as well as charter flights and business trips. It has landing bans in force from flights from high risk areas. Austria has recorded 15,526 cases of the new coronavirus, and 598 deaths. It has started to loosen its seven-week lockdown, with shopping centres, larger shops and service providers including hairdressers reopening last week. ($1 = 0.9105 euros)
3 May 12:37 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-austria-airport-idUSKBN22F0IORating: 4.04
Vienna Airport to offer coronavirus tests to avoid quarantine
ZURICH — Vienna Airport will offer onsite coronavirus testing from Monday to enable passengers entering Austria to avoid having to be quarantined for 14 days. Passengers arriving at the airport have been required to present a health certificate showing a negative COVID-19 result which is no older than four days, or go into quarantine. From Monday passengers can have a molecular biological (polymerise chain reaction or PCR) COVID-19 test at the airport, and get the result in two to three hours, the airport said. “Air travel, whether business journeys or urgent trips…will thus become safer and easier,” it added on Sunday. Last month Emirates, in coordination with Dubai Health Authority (DHA), said it was the first airline to conduct on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers. Austrian quarantines that have already begun can be ended if the person is found to be clear of COVID-19, Vienna Airport said. The airport tests, which cost 190 euros ($209), can also be taken by passengers leaving Vienna to demonstrate their virus-free status at their destination. Vienna Airport is operating scheduled flights to Doha, Dortmund, Duesseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Lisbon, Minsk and Sofia, as well as charter flights and business trips. It has landing bans in force from flights from high risk areas. Austria has recorded 15,526 cases of the new coronavirus, and 598 deaths. It has started to loosen its seven-week lockdown, with shopping centers, larger shops and service providers including hairdressers reopening last week. ($1 = 0.9105 euros) (Reporting by John Revill; Editing by Alexander Smith)
3 May 12:30 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/vienna-airport-to-offer-coronavirus-tests-to-avoid-quarantineRating: 0.94
Vienna airport offers arrivals Covid-19 test to avoid quarantine
Vienna airport is now offering coronavirus testing for arriving passengers, with the aim of avoiding 14 days of quarantine under Austria’s current entry rules. The molecular-biological Covid-19 test (also known as a PCR test) costs €190, and is carried out in a laboratory at Office Park 3 on the ground floor at Vienna Airport. The result is available within two to three hours, and those presenting negative will be provided with a medical certificate meaning they do not have to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival into the country. Current regulations mean that arriving travellers must either present a medical certificate not more than four days old showing a negative Covid-19 result, or begin quarantine. Vienna airport said that this meant its private service (provided by Confidence DNA Analysen GmbH) could also be used for passengers departing on short trips up to four days, to avoid quarantine on return to Austria. The airport said that the service meant that “flights are now safer and easier – regardless of whether they involve business trips or urgent trips with on-demand aircraft within the context of general aviation, in particular if they last no more than four days, as well as arrivals and departures on scheduled flights from and to currently available destinations and via the General Aviation Center”. It added that positive test results would be “immediately reported to public authorities, who will initiate appropriate steps to treat the affected person”. Travellers wishing to avail of the test should call (+43) 1 368 45 54, or email office@confidence.at. The airport said that travellers entering Austria from abroad can reserve an appointment in advance “and thus gain clarity promptly after arriving in Vienna as to whether or not they have to quarantine themselves”. In addition to the optional testing, all passengers are subject to temperature checks on arrival, and are required to wear face coverings when inside the terminal building. In addition various social distancing measures are in place including a limit on the number of passengers on boarding buses, and plexi-glass shields at check-in, boarding and information desks. Flag carrier and Vienna-based Austrian Airlines has grounded all flights until at least the end of May, but flights are currently operating between Vienna and Doha, Dortmund, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Lisbon, Minsk and Sofia. Note that entry by air into Austria is currently prohibited to third country nationals from states outside the Schengen area. viennaairport.com
3 May 00:00 • Business Traveller • https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2020/05/03/vienna-airport-offers-arrivals-covid-19-test-to-avoid-quarantine/Rating: 0.43
The coronavirus pandemic makes it clear: Europe must decide between the US and China
3 May 15:03
•
3 articles
Weight: 2.35
Importance: 2.35
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 15:03
Average US: 39.46666666666667
Weighted average US: 57.24891318360892
Average GB: 0.26666666666666666
Weighted average GB: 0.3868169809703305
Average IN: 2.2666666666666666
Weighted average IN: 3.2879443382478093
The coronavirus pandemic makes it clear: Europe must decide between the US and China
Crises always have a habit of clarifying things. The coronavirus crisis is no different. Once a treatment for the virus has been found, the debates about shutdown and easing restrictions have passed, and the recession has reared its ugly head, nothing less than the world order itself must be clarified. Or to be more specific: the matter of alliance. Where does Europe stand? On the side of the US or China? Let us first look at a few assumptions and a few facts. America, the democratic world power, is currently governed by a narcissistic president — a man seen to be vulgar, uneducated, and with a volatile character who lacks any sense whatsoever for institutions. Half of Americans and three quarters of Europeans have no respect for him. And yet, whether by accident, thanks to good advisers or a keen instinct, this president has managed to make some correct decisions. He lowered taxes to stabilize the US economy, withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, supported Israel, increased pressure on Europe to show more solidarity in NATO funding, and pressured the dysfunctional WHO. China, on the other hand, the non-democratic world power, is currently controlled by a president with a measured vanity — a man who is supposedly sensitive, highly educated and cultivated, a personality who thinks and acts with a highly consistent and long-term perspective demonstrating great sensibility for the interests of China's unitary state. And because Xi Jinping is said to look a little like Winnie the Pooh, the bear from the eponymous children's book, Chinese censorship forbids the use of either the name or the image of Winnie Pooh. Anyone who explicitly criticizes the government is punished. Xi Jinping has been General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission since 2012, and President of the People's Republic of China since 2013. In 2018, he lifted all limitations on his term of office, meaning he could continue to rule China for life. He is a politician who, more than anything else, has continued and accelerated the economic reforms that were first introduced by Deng Xiaoping in the 1970s and reached new dimensions under Jiang Zemin. And thanks to tightened digital surveillance, he has been able to push China towards a position of global dominance as part of a seemingly friendly and peaceful international expansion. The key date of this strategy is December 11, 2001, when China was accepted as a full member of the WTO following 15 years of negotiations. A great decision for China. But perhaps the biggest mistake made in recent history by the western market economies. Since then, the US's share in the gross world product (GWP) dropped from 20.18% in 2001 to 15.03% (2019). Europe's share dropped from 23.5% to 16.05%, a drop of 7.45 percentage points in less than two decades. While China's share increased from 7.84% to 19.24% in the same period, with an average annual growth rate of around 9%. The big mistake was to expose democratic market economies to a non-democratic state capitalism that exploits easier trading and competitive conditions without subjecting itself to the same rules. Asymmetry instead of reciprocity was the result. The process of "change through trade" actually did take place. However, not quite in the way expected by the West. China has become even more authoritarian and economically stronger, while the West has become weaker. What is our conclusion from all this? America has clearly decided to pursue a policy of 'decoupling' from China. If Europe does not want to see its freedom subverted by Beijing, it must decide which of the two countries to ally with, and it must do so soon. We are told time and again that it is not a case of either-or, that it's about having the best of both worlds. The opposite is true. There is no need for finely crafted rhetoric here, we need to make a fundamental political decision. China or the US. It is no longer possible to go with both. The issue has come to a head under Trump. But it is ultimately not about him. The truth is that US policy towards China would likely not change if the Democrats were in power. The issue of China is now a bipartisan one. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi does not cede an inch to the US President. And yet, responding to my question at the Munich Security Conference whether she agreed in substance to Trump's China policy, she answered they had "agreement in that regard" to the surprise of everyone present. Pelosi described China as a "government that does not share our values" and spoke of an authoritarian "form of aggression." Many in the room that day do business with China. It suddenly seemed a little naïve that they hoped a Democrat in the White House might be more China-friendly. A Democratic president might distance the US distance even further from China, despite Trump's attempts to discredit the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden by accusing him of being soft on China. "China wants Sleepy Joe soo badly" the president cajoled on Twitter. But there is little evidence to support this. Biden was one of the first and few international politicians to speak out against the Chinese re-education camps holding hundreds of thousands of Uighurs. The rise of China to become a global economic power is increasingly seen as a threat to US interests. A friend of the enemy soon becomes an enemy itself. If Germany decides to expand its 5G infrastructure with Huawei, that will place an enormous strain on transatlantic relations. It would be a turning point, as America could no longer trust Germany. Washington has made it clear that there will be no cooperation on intelligence matters with the secret service of a country that allows highly sensitive data to end up in the hands of the Chinese Communist Party. If Washington gave up its close intelligence cooperation with Europe, this would have devastating consequences. A decoupling from the US would hit us much harder than a decoupling from China, both in terms of our economy and security. Decoupling Germany and the US would mean relegating to the dustbin of history the alliance that helped rebuild a democratic Germany after World War II, that secured supplies to the city during the Berlin Blockade by organizing the airlift guaranteeing West Berlin's survival, and which directly and indirectly made German reunification possible. Europe has been avoiding the alliance question for a long time, but is the time to make that decision. This does not directly have to do with the coronavirus crisis. And it certainly has nothing to do with the question of where the virus originated. The crisis focuses the way we look at long-standing dependencies, even those in so-called vital supply chains, how we see fundamental differences in communication and crisis management, and our regard for what is ultimately a completely different concept of humanity. Employees from the Robert Koch Institute estimate that China kept the virus secret during very decisive weeks, then played it down and, by doing so, facilitated its spread worldwide. However, it is the global recession unleashed by the pandemic that has brought vital questions to a head. Should we allow the state capitalism of a totalitarian global power to continue to infiltrate or even take over key industries like banking (Deutsche Bank), automotive (Daimler, Volvo), robotics (Kuka) and trading hubs (Port of Piraeus)? That is precisely why the alliance question must be clarified now, and fast! The current crisis is massively weakening the European economy, which could very soon place us before extremely unpleasant decisions: Should we offer our companies to China in the post-corona era for bargain prices driven downwards by economic depression? Our should we finally draw a clear line in the sand? If we do not assert the principle of true reciprocity now — that is, China can only do here what we are allowed to do in China — then we never will. If we do not manage to assert ourselves, then Europe could suffer a similar fate to Africa, on a gradual descent towards becoming a Chinese colony. Or, to put it in Henry Kissinger's words: If America and Europe do not manage to become a community of interest again, America will become a giant island. And the European Union will become "an appendage of Eurasia." However, Europe has failed so far to clearly state where it stands, preferring to play piggy in the middle, able to tip the scales either way. Even believing its opportunism to be a sign of independence and courage. However, Europe will never be able to hold onto its position as everybody's darling. When it comes to questions of world order, you cannot have your cake and eat it. Europe's economy likes making deals with China and does not want to be interrupted in those pursuits. Politicians are dithering. The Italians have even been willing to subjugate themselves to China's ridiculous euphemism of the "New Silk Road." We increasingly hear words of admiration in Europe about the speed and efficiency of the Chinese market economy, the rigorous nature of its crisis management. All the time gladly ignoring the fact that China's successes rest on a highly perfected system of digital surveillance that translates the perversions of the KGB and Stasi into the 21st century. Europe has two options in terms of an alliance. It can continue to expand on the traditional transatlantic alliance despite Trump, including the explicit and closer involvement of a post-Brexit UK and other allies such as Canada, Australia, Switzerland and the democratic countries of Asia. Or it can decide in favor of closer economic ties to China, bearing in mind the economic ties are always political ties as well. If this latter path is chosen, then we might all wake up one day to find ourselves in a gruesome society, on the side of China and the states loosely associated with it — like Russia, Iran and other autocracies. A shifting world order. Economic relations with China might seem harmless to many Europeans today, but they could soon lead to political dependence and ultimately to the end of a free and liberal Europe. The European Union has the choice. But above all Germany, Europe's economic motor, has the choice. Should we make a pact with an authoritarian regime or should we work to strengthen a community of free, constitutionally governed market economies with liberal societies? It is remarkable that German politics, with its love of moralizing, seems to throw its values out the window when dealing with China. What is at stake here is nothing less than what kind of society we want to live in and our concept of humanity. Germany and Europe should decide to remain with the US and pursue a strict process of decoupling from China. The exact details of this decoupling will be one of the most interesting questions of the future. It would happen late, but not too late. It would be expensive, but not too expensive. Germany, for example, has an annual trade volume of around 200 billion euros with China. All German trade is valued at 2.4 trillion euros, so the loss of Chinese trade would be massive, but not insupportable. The coroanvirus recession is already bringing Germany to a new and devastating bottom line, but that gives us a unique opportunity to get us back on the right track. The question as to which leader — Trump or Xi Jinping — is presented by the media as a more likeable figure is of little import in this decision. And there is no question that the American president is making it difficult for us. But the transatlantic alliance, our community of interests and values that has grown historically over time, should be more important in the long term than our widespread frustration about the current American administration. We must concentrate on the post-Trump era. For all its weaknesses, America is still the free world's largest and most successful power. Just as misleading are references to the fact that America also violates data protection rights, or the principles of the rule of law, that it disregards human rights and makes many other terrible mistakes. There is a difference: China has no data protection for its citizens at all, no rule of law. China has no opposition in parliament, no freedom of the press, no freedom of opinion. And China has no human rights as we understand them. When both sides make mistakes, that does not mean that the truth automatically lies somewhere in the middle. It depends on the context in which these mistakes are made, whether they can be called mistakes at all or recognized as such. States need a suitable constitution as a self-correcting mechanism. Democracy may die in darkness, but dictatorship thrives in it. In America, people laugh at their president. Something that is forbidden in China. And the authoritarian power of the latter even stretches as far as Germany. When the Daimler Group (whose biggest single shareholder is Chinese) quoted the Dalai Lama – an enemy of the state in China – in an Instagram post, the company's CEO Dieter Zetsche had to apologize twice to the government in Beijing. Is that Europe's future? If current European and, above all, German policy on China continues, this will lead to a gradual decoupling from America and a step-by-step infiltration and subjugation by China. Economic dependence will only be the first step. Political influence will follow. In the future, whoever dominates the field of artificial intelligence will dominate first economically and then politically. At the present time, this race is between the US and China alone. China's great advantage is that it does not have any regulation as a democratic corrective. Whatever serves to strengthen the unitary Chinese state is allowed. This makes the Chinese state more unscrupulous but, more than anything, it makes it faster. It is no small probability that Beijing will eventually overtake Silicon Valley. This is where European research excellence can become a decisive factor. On what side do we want to use it? In the end, it is quite simple. What kind of future do we want for Europe? An alliance with an imperfect democracy or with a perfect dictatorship? It should be an easy decision for us to make. It is about more than just money. It is about our freedom, about Article 1 of Germany's Basic Law, the greatest legal term that ever existed: human dignity. This is an opinion column. The thoughts expressed are those of the author(s).
3 May 15:03 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-pandemic-crisis-clear-europe-must-choose-us-china-2020-5Rating: 4.40
The coronavirus pandemic makes it clear: Europe must decide between the US and China
Crises always have a habit of clarifying things. The coronavirus crisis is no different. Once a treatment for the virus has been found, the debates about shutdown and easing restrictions have passed, and the recession has reared its ugly head, nothing less than the world order itself must be clarified. Or to be more specific: the matter of alliance. Where does Europe stand? On the side of the US or China? Let us first look at a few assumptions and a few facts. America, the democratic world power, is currently governed by a narcissistic president — a man seen to be vulgar, uneducated, and with a volatile character who lacks any sense whatsoever for institutions. Half of Americans and three quarters of Europeans have no respect for him. And yet, whether by accident, thanks to good advisers or a keen instinct, this president has managed to make some correct decisions. He lowered taxes to stabilize the US economy, withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, supported Israel, increased pressure on Europe to show more solidarity in NATO funding, and pressured the dysfunctional WHO. China, on the other hand, the non-democratic world power, is currently controlled by a president with a measured vanity — a man who is supposedly sensitive, highly educated and cultivated, a personality who thinks and acts with a highly consistent and long-term perspective demonstrating great sensibility for the interests of China's unitary state. And because Xi Jinping is said to look a little like Winnie the Pooh, the bear from the eponymous children's book, Chinese censorship forbids the use of either the name or the image of Winnie Pooh. Anyone who explicitly criticizes the government is punished. Xi Jinping has been General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission since 2012, and President of the People's Republic of China since 2013. In 2018, he lifted all limitations on his term of office, meaning he could continue to rule China for life. He is a politician who, more than anything else, has continued and accelerated the economic reforms that were first introduced by Deng Xiaoping in the 1970s and reached new dimensions under Jiang Zemin. And thanks to tightened digital surveillance, he has been able to push China towards a position of global dominance as part of a seemingly friendly and peaceful international expansion. The key date of this strategy is December 11, 2001, when China was accepted as a full member of the WTO following 15 years of negotiations. A great decision for China. But perhaps the biggest mistake made in recent history by the western market economies. Since then, the US's share in the gross world product (GWP) dropped from 20.18% in 2001 to 15.03% (2019). Europe's share dropped from 23.5% to 16.05%, a drop of 7.45 percentage points in less than two decades. While China's share increased from 7.84% to 19.24% in the same period, with an average annual growth rate of around 9%. The big mistake was to expose democratic market economies to a non-democratic state capitalism that exploits easier trading and competitive conditions without subjecting itself to the same rules. Asymmetry instead of reciprocity was the result. The process of "change through trade" actually did take place. However, not quite in the way expected by the West. China has become even more authoritarian and economically stronger, while the West has become weaker. What is our conclusion from all this? America has clearly decided to pursue a policy of 'decoupling' from China. If Europe does not want to see its freedom subverted by Beijing, it must decide which of the two countries to ally with, and it must do so soon. We are told time and again that it is not a case of either-or, that it's about having the best of both worlds. The opposite is true. There is no need for finely crafted rhetoric here, we need to make a fundamental political decision. China or the US. It is no longer possible to go with both. The issue has come to a head under Trump. But it is ultimately not about him. The truth is that US policy towards China would likely not change if the Democrats were in power. The issue of China is now a bipartisan one. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi does not cede an inch to the US President. And yet, responding to my question at the Munich Security Conference whether she agreed in substance to Trump's China policy, she answered they had "agreement in that regard" to the surprise of everyone present. Pelosi described China as a "government that does not share our values" and spoke of an authoritarian "form of aggression." Many in the room that day do business with China. It suddenly seemed a little naïve that they hoped a Democrat in the White House might be more China-friendly. A Democratic president might distance the US distance even further from China, despite Trump's attempts to discredit the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden by accusing him of being soft on China. "China wants Sleepy Joe soo badly" the president cajoled on Twitter. But there is little evidence to support this. Biden was one of the first and few international politicians to speak out against the Chinese re-education camps holding hundreds of thousands of Uighurs. The rise of China to become a global economic power is increasingly seen as a threat to US interests. A friend of the enemy soon becomes an enemy itself. If Germany decides to expand its 5G infrastructure with Huawei, that will place an enormous strain on transatlantic relations. It would be a turning point, as America could no longer trust Germany. Washington has made it clear that there will be no cooperation on intelligence matters with the secret service of a country that allows highly sensitive data to end up in the hands of the Chinese Communist Party. If Washington gave up its close intelligence cooperation with Europe, this would have devastating consequences. A decoupling from the US would hit us much harder than a decoupling from China, both in terms of our economy and security. Decoupling Germany and the US would mean relegating to the dustbin of history the alliance that helped rebuild a democratic Germany after World War II, that secured supplies to the city during the Berlin Blockade by organizing the airlift guaranteeing West Berlin's survival, and which directly and indirectly made German reunification possible. Europe has been avoiding the alliance question for a long time, but is the time to make that decision. This does not directly have to do with the coronavirus crisis. And it certainly has nothing to do with the question of where the virus originated. The crisis focuses the way we look at long-standing dependencies, even those in so-called vital supply chains, how we see fundamental differences in communication and crisis management, and our regard for what is ultimately a completely different concept of humanity. Employees from the Robert Koch Institute estimate that China kept the virus secret during very decisive weeks, then played it down and, by doing so, facilitated its spread worldwide. However, it is the global recession unleashed by the pandemic that has brought vital questions to a head. Should we allow the state capitalism of a totalitarian global power to continue to infiltrate or even take over key industries like banking (Deutsche Bank), automotive (Daimler, Volvo), robotics (Kuka) and trading hubs (Port of Piraeus)? That is precisely why the alliance question must be clarified now, and fast! The current crisis is massively weakening the European economy, which could very soon place us before extremely unpleasant decisions: Should we offer our companies to China in the post-corona era for bargain prices driven downwards by economic depression? Our should we finally draw a clear line in the sand? If we do not assert the principle of true reciprocity now — that is, China can only do here what we are allowed to do in China — then we never will. If we do not manage to assert ourselves, then Europe could suffer a similar fate to Africa, on a gradual descent towards becoming a Chinese colony. Or, to put it in Henry Kissinger's words: If America and Europe do not manage to become a community of interest again, America will become a giant island. And the European Union will become "an appendage of Eurasia." However, Europe has failed so far to clearly state where it stands, preferring to play piggy in the middle, able to tip the scales either way. Even believing its opportunism to be a sign of independence and courage. However, Europe will never be able to hold onto its position as everybody's darling. When it comes to questions of world order, you cannot have your cake and eat it. Europe's economy likes making deals with China and does not want to be interrupted in those pursuits. Politicians are dithering. The Italians have even been willing to subjugate themselves to China's ridiculous euphemism of the "New Silk Road." We increasingly hear words of admiration in Europe about the speed and efficiency of the Chinese market economy, the rigorous nature of its crisis management. All the time gladly ignoring the fact that China's successes rest on a highly perfected system of digital surveillance that translates the perversions of the KGB and Stasi into the 21st century. Europe has two options in terms of an alliance. It can continue to expand on the traditional transatlantic alliance despite Trump, including the explicit and closer involvement of a post-Brexit UK and other allies such as Canada, Australia, Switzerland and the democratic countries of Asia. Or it can decide in favor of closer economic ties to China, bearing in mind the economic ties are always political ties as well. If this latter path is chosen, then we might all wake up one day to find ourselves in a gruesome society, on the side of China and the states loosely associated with it — like Russia, Iran and other autocracies. A shifting world order. Economic relations with China might seem harmless to many Europeans today, but they could soon lead to political dependence and ultimately to the end of a free and liberal Europe. The European Union has the choice. But above all Germany, Europe's economic motor, has the choice. Should we make a pact with an authoritarian regime or should we work to strengthen a community of free, constitutionally governed market economies with liberal societies? It is remarkable that German politics, with its love of moralizing, seems to throw its values out the window when dealing with China. What is at stake here is nothing less than what kind of society we want to live in and our concept of humanity. Germany and Europe should decide to remain with the US and pursue a strict process of decoupling from China. The exact details of this decoupling will be one of the most interesting questions of the future. It would happen late, but not too late. It would be expensive, but not too expensive. Germany, for example, has an annual trade volume of around 200 billion euros with China. All German trade is valued at 2.4 trillion euros, so the loss of Chinese trade would be massive, but not insupportable. The coroanvirus recession is already bringing Germany to a new and devastating bottom line, but that gives us a unique opportunity to get us back on the right track. The question as to which leader — Trump or Xi Jinping — is presented by the media as a more likeable figure is of little import in this decision. And there is no question that the American president is making it difficult for us. But the transatlantic alliance, our community of interests and values that has grown historically over time, should be more important in the long term than our widespread frustration about the current American administration. We must concentrate on the post-Trump era. For all its weaknesses, America is still the free world's largest and most successful power. Just as misleading are references to the fact that America also violates data protection rights, or the principles of the rule of law, that it disregards human rights and makes many other terrible mistakes. There is a difference: China has no data protection for its citizens at all, no rule of law. China has no opposition in parliament, no freedom of the press, no freedom of opinion. And China has no human rights as we understand them. When both sides make mistakes, that does not mean that the truth automatically lies somewhere in the middle. It depends on the context in which these mistakes are made, whether they can be called mistakes at all or recognized as such. States need a suitable constitution as a self-correcting mechanism. Democracy may die in darkness, but dictatorship thrives in it. In America, people laugh at their president. Something that is forbidden in China. And the authoritarian power of the latter even stretches as far as Germany. When the Daimler Group (whose biggest single shareholder is Chinese) quoted the Dalai Lama – an enemy of the state in China – in an Instagram post, the company's CEO Dieter Zetsche had to apologize twice to the government in Beijing. Is that Europe's future? If current European and, above all, German policy on China continues, this will lead to a gradual decoupling from America and a step-by-step infiltration and subjugation by China. Economic dependence will only be the first step. Political influence will follow. In the future, whoever dominates the field of artificial intelligence will dominate first economically and then politically. At the present time, this race is between the US and China alone. China's great advantage is that it does not have any regulation as a democratic corrective. Whatever serves to strengthen the unitary Chinese state is allowed. This makes the Chinese state more unscrupulous but, more than anything, it makes it faster. It is no small probability that Beijing will eventually overtake Silicon Valley. This is where European research excellence can become a decisive factor. On what side do we want to use it? In the end, it is quite simple. What kind of future do we want for Europe? An alliance with an imperfect democracy or with a perfect dictatorship? It should be an easy decision for us to make. It is about more than just money. It is about our freedom, about Article 1 of Germany's Basic Law, the greatest legal term that ever existed: human dignity. This is an opinion column. The thoughts expressed are those of the author(s).
3 May 15:03 • Business Insider • https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-pandemic-crisis-clear-europe-must-choose-us-china-2020-5Rating: 4.40
The coronavirus pandemic makes it clear: Europe must decide between the US and China
Crises always have a habit of clarifying things. The coronavirus crisis is no different. Once a treatment for the virus has been found, the debates about shutdown and easing restrictions have passed, and the recession has reared its ugly head, nothing less than the world order itself must be clarified. Or to be more specific: the matter of alliance. Where does Europe stand? On the side of the US or China? Let us first look at a few assumptions and a few facts. America, the democratic world power, is currently governed by a narcissistic president – a man seen to be vulgar, uneducated, and with a volatile character who lacks any sense whatsoever for institutions. Half of Americans and three quarters of Europeans have no respect for him. And yet, whether by accident, thanks to good advisers or a keen instinct, this president has managed to make some correct decisions. He lowered taxes to stabilise the US economy, withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, supported Israel, increased pressure on Europe to show more solidarity in NATO funding, and pressured the dysfunctional WHO. China, on the other hand, the non-democratic world power, is currently controlled by a president with a measured vanity – a man who is supposedly sensitive, highly educated and cultivated, a personality who thinks and acts with a highly consistent and long-term perspective demonstrating great sensibility for the interests of China’s unitary state. And because Xi Jinping is said to look a little like Winnie the Pooh, the bear from the eponymous children’s book, Chinese censorship forbids the use of either the name or the image of Winnie Pooh. Anyone who explicitly criticises the government is punished. Xi Jinping has been General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission since 2012, and President of the People’s Republic of China since 2013. In 2018, he lifted all limitations on his term of office, meaning he could continue to rule China for life. He is a politician who, more than anything else, has continued and accelerated the economic reforms that were first introduced by Deng Xiaoping in the 1970s and reached new dimensions under Jiang Zemin. And thanks to tightened digital surveillance, he has been able to push China towards a position of global dominance as part of a seemingly friendly and peaceful international expansion. The key date of this strategy is December 11, 2001, when China was accepted as a full member of the WTO following 15 years of negotiations. A great decision for China. But perhaps the biggest mistake made in recent history by the western market economies. Since then, the US’s share in the gross world product (GWP) dropped from 20.18% in 2001 to 15.03% (2019). Europe’s share dropped from 23.5% to 16.05%, a drop of 7.45 percentage points in less than two decades. While China’s share increased from 7.84% to 19.24% in the same period, with an average annual growth rate of around 9%. The big mistake was to expose democratic market economies to a non-democratic state capitalism that exploits easier trading and competitive conditions without subjecting itself to the same rules. Asymmetry instead of reciprocity was the result. The process of “change through trade” actually did take place. However, not quite in the way expected by the West. China has become even more authoritarian and economically stronger, while the West has become weaker. What is our conclusion from all this? America has clearly decided to pursue a policy of ‘decoupling’ from China. If Europe does not want to see its freedom subverted by Beijing, it must decide which of the two countries to ally with, and it must do so soon. We are told time and again that it is not a case of either-or, that it’s about having the best of both worlds. The opposite is true. There is no need for finely crafted rhetoric here, we need to make a fundamental political decision. China or the US. It is no longer possible to go with both. The issue has come to a head under Trump. But it is ultimately not about him. The truth is that US policy towards China would likely not change if the Democrats were in power. The issue of China is now a bipartisan one. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi does not cede an inch to the US President. And yet, responding to my question at the Munich Security Conference whether she agreed in substance to Trump’s China policy, she answered they had “agreement in that regard” to the surprise of everyone present. Pelosi described China as a “government that does not share our values” and spoke of an authoritarian “form of aggression.” Many in the room that day do business with China. It suddenly seemed a little naïve that they hoped a Democrat in the White House might be more China-friendly. A Democratic president might distance the US distance even further from China, despite Trump’s attempts to discredit the presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden by accusing him of being soft on China. “China wants Sleepy Joe soo badly” the president cajoled on Twitter. But there is little evidence to support this. Biden was one of the first and few international politicians to speak out against the Chinese re-education camps holding hundreds of thousands of Uighurs. The rise of China to become a global economic power is increasingly seen as a threat to US interests. A friend of the enemy soon becomes an enemy itself. If Germany decides to expand its 5G infrastructure with Huawei, that will place an enormous strain on transatlantic relations. It would be a turning point, as America could no longer trust Germany. Washington has made it clear that there will be no cooperation on intelligence matters with the secret service of a country that allows highly sensitive data to end up in the hands of the Chinese Communist Party. If Washington gave up its close intelligence cooperation with Europe, this would have devastating consequences. A decoupling from the US would hit us much harder than a decoupling from China, both in terms of our economy and security. Decoupling Germany and the US would mean relegating to the dustbin of history the alliance that helped rebuild a democratic Germany after World War II, that secured supplies to the city during the Berlin Blockade by organising the airlift guaranteeing West Berlin’s survival, and which directly and indirectly made German reunification possible. Europe has been avoiding the alliance question for a long time, but is the time to make that decision. This does not directly have to do with the coronavirus crisis. And it certainly has nothing to do with the question of where the virus originated. The crisis focuses the way we look at long-standing dependencies, even those in so-called vital supply chains, how we see fundamental differences in communication and crisis management, and our regard for what is ultimately a completely different concept of humanity. Employees from the Robert Koch Institute estimate that China kept the virus secret during very decisive weeks, then played it down and, by doing so, facilitated its spread worldwide. However, it is the global recession unleashed by the pandemic that has brought vital questions to a head. Should we allow the state capitalism of a totalitarian global power to continue to infiltrate or even take over key industries like banking (Deutsche Bank), automotive (Daimler, Volvo), robotics (Kuka) and trading hubs (Port of Piraeus)? That is precisely why the alliance question must be clarified now, and fast! The current crisis is massively weakening the European economy, which could very soon place us before extremely unpleasant decisions: Should we offer our companies to China in the post-corona era for bargain prices driven downwards by economic depression? Our should we finally draw a clear line in the sand? If we do not assert the principle of true reciprocity now – that is, China can only do here what we are allowed to do in China – then we never will. If we do not manage to assert ourselves, then Europe could suffer a similar fate to Africa, on a gradual descent towards becoming a Chinese colony. Or, to put it in Henry Kissinger’s words: If America and Europe do not manage to become a community of interest again, America will become a giant island. And the European Union will become “an appendage of Eurasia.” However, Europe has failed so far to clearly state where it stands, preferring to play piggy in the middle, able to tip the scales either way. Even believing its opportunism to be a sign of independence and courage. However, Europe will never be able to hold onto its position as everybody’s darling. When it comes to questions of world order, you cannot have your cake and eat it. Europe’s economy likes making deals with China and does not want to be interrupted in those pursuits. Politicians are dithering. The Italians have even been willing to subjugate themselves to China’s ridiculous euphemism of the “New Silk Road.” We increasingly hear words of admiration in Europe about the speed and efficiency of the Chinese market economy, the rigorous nature of its crisis management. All the time gladly ignoring the fact that China’s successes rest on a highly perfected system of digital surveillance that translates the perversions of the KGB and Stasi into the 21st century. Europe has two options in terms of an alliance. It can continue to expand on the traditional transatlantic alliance despite Trump, including the explicit and closer involvement of a post-Brexit UK and other allies such as Canada, Australia, Switzerland and the democratic countries of Asia. Or it can decide in favour of closer economic ties to China, bearing in mind the economic ties are always political ties as well. If this latter path is chosen, then we might all wake up one day to find ourselves in a gruesome society, on the side of China and the states loosely associated with it – like Russia, Iran and other autocracies. A shifting world order. Economic relations with China might seem harmless to many Europeans today, but they could soon lead to political dependence and ultimately to the end of a free and liberal Europe. The European Union has the choice. But above all Germany, Europe’s economic motor, has the choice. Should we make a pact with an authoritarian regime or should we work to strengthen a community of free, constitutionally governed market economies with liberal societies? It is remarkable that German politics, with its love of moralizing, seems to throw its values out the window when dealing with China. What is at stake here is nothing less than what kind of society we want to live in and our concept of humanity. Germany and Europe should decide to remain with the US and pursue a strict process of decoupling from China. The exact details of this decoupling will be one of the most interesting questions of the future. It would happen late, but not too late. It would be expensive, but not too expensive. Germany, for example, has an annual trade volume of around 200 billion euros with China. All German trade is valued at 2.4 trillion euros, so the loss of Chinese trade would be massive, but not insupportable. The coroanvirus recession is already bringing Germany to a new and devastating bottom line, but that gives us a unique opportunity to get us back on the right track. The question as to which leader – Trump or Xi Jinping – is presented by the media as a more likeable figure is of little import in this decision. And there is no question that the American president is making it difficult for us. But the transatlantic alliance, our community of interests and values that has grown historically over time, should be more important in the long term than our widespread frustration about the current American administration. We must concentrate on the post-Trump era. For all its weaknesses, America is still the free world’s largest and most successful power. Just as misleading are references to the fact that America also violates data protection rights, or the principles of the rule of law, that it disregards human rights and makes many other terrible mistakes. There is a difference: China has no data protection for its citizens at all, no rule of law. China has no opposition in parliament, no freedom of the press, no freedom of opinion. And China has no human rights as we understand them. When both sides make mistakes, that does not mean that the truth automatically lies somewhere in the middle. It depends on the context in which these mistakes are made, whether they can be called mistakes at all or recognised as such. States need a suitable constitution as a self-correcting mechanism. Democracy may die in darkness, but dictatorship thrives in it. In America, people laugh at their president. Something that is forbidden in China. And the authoritarian power of the latter even stretches as far as Germany. When the Daimler Group (whose biggest single shareholder is Chinese) quoted the Dalai Lama – an enemy of the state in China – in an Instagram post, the company’s CEO Dieter Zetsche had to apologise twice to the government in Beijing. Is that Europe’s future? If current European and, above all, German policy on China continues, this will lead to a gradual decoupling from America and a step-by-step infiltration and subjugation by China. Economic dependence will only be the first step. Political influence will follow. In the future, whoever dominates the field of artificial intelligence will dominate first economically and then politically. At the present time, this race is between the US and China alone. China’s great advantage is that it does not have any regulation as a democratic corrective. Whatever serves to strengthen the unitary Chinese state is allowed. This makes the Chinese state more unscrupulous but, more than anything, it makes it faster. It is no small probability that Beijing will eventually overtake Silicon Valley. This is where European research excellence can become a decisive factor. On what side do we want to use it? In the end, it is quite simple. What kind of future do we want for Europe? An alliance with an imperfect democracy or with a perfect dictatorship? It should be an easy decision for us to make. It is about more than just money. It is about our freedom, about Article 1 of Germany’s Basic Law, the greatest legal term that ever existed: human dignity.
3 May 15:03 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/coronavirus-pandemic-crisis-clear-europe-must-choose-us-china-2020-5Rating: 0.30
Rohingya survivors tell of misery and death at sea; hundreds still adrift
3 May 22:20
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Rohingya survivors tell of misery and death at sea; hundreds still adrift
Rohingya refugee Shahab Uddin thought the wooden trawler he boarded in February would be his ticket out of a camp in Bangladesh to a better life in Malaysia. Instead, the voyage nearly killed him. The 20-year-old was among almost 400 survivors pulled from the water, starving, emaciated and traumatized after the boat failed to reach Malaysia and spent weeks adrift before returning to Bangladesh in mid-April. Hundreds more refugees are stranded on at least two other trawlers, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus, threatening a repeat of a 2015 boat crisis when hundreds of people died. The United Nations has implored authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. In interviews, seven survivors from the rescued boat recalled two harrowing months. Estimates of the number of people who died on the boat ranged from several dozen to more than 100 - nobody kept count - but their accounts were consistent. The survivors described hundreds of men, women, and children crammed on the boat, unable to move, squatting in rain and scorching sun until, as food and water ran out, they began to die of starvation, thirst, and beatings, their bodies tossed overboard. Some wept as they spoke. “I thought I would not come back home alive,” said Uddin. “I missed my family, especially my parents.” The group Fortify Rights said in a statement last week the operators of the boat “held their victims in conditions similar to slavery for the purposes of exploitation”. Amnesty International urged governments to protect stranded Rohingya and allow them to land. It estimated 800 more people were at sea. Several dozen people from one boat landed on the south coast of Bangladesh on Saturday. Malaysia defends its policy of turning boats away. Authorities have acted lawfully to defend the countrys sovereignty and are ready to do so again, its minister for internal affairs said in a statement on Thursday. More than a million Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, live in camps in southern Bangladesh after fleeing from largely Buddhist Myanmars Rakhine State. Most fled an army crackdown in 2017 that the United Nations says was carried out with genocidal intent. Myanmar denies genocide and says it was responding to insurgent attacks. Although the Rohingya people trace their ancestry in Rakhine back centuries, Myanmar says they are illegal immigrants from South Asia. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea. In Bangladesh, Uddin made a little money driving motorized tuk-tuks but said refugees were becoming more confined. The government restricts internet and cell phone access and has begun putting up barbed-wire fences around the camps, citing security. Uddin said it began to feel like prison. “I thought going to Malaysia by whatever way would at least save me. Many have made it to Malaysia and are better off. He said he and several friends met a man in a shanty town who took them by boat to a trawler where hundreds of people were already crowded on board - men on the lower deck, women on the top. Many of the young women were due to be married in Malaysia. Another refugee, Enamul Hasan, also 20, said an uncle in Malaysia urged him to go there. I wanted to go to Malaysia to end my family’s poverty, he said. Six of the seven survivors Reuters interviewed said they had gone willingly. The seventh, aged 16, said he was taken by unknown men against his will. The misery began as soon as they set out. “We ate almost nothing,” said Uddin. “Little kids would cry for water.” After a week the boat arrived off Malaysia, where it waited for several days before the crew said they could not disembark and would have to return to Bangladesh. They crossed back over the Bay of Bengal. “We faced storms three times, said Uddin. He said he was made to serve as an enforcer for the crew and beat anyone who stepped out of line. If I didnt want to beat them, I myself would be beaten, he said. Meanwhile, some desperate passengers began to drink sea water. “By the wonderful grace of God, the water would seem sweet, said Hasan. “Many jumped into the water ... everyone was saying that it was much better to die in the water than dying in the ship. At night, the passengers held one another, weeping and praying. Eventually the boat stopped again, off Myanmar, survivors said, but again it could not dock. “People kept dying and would be thrown overboard, said Hasan. “I began to wonder when I would die.” The refugees eventually forced the captain to take them back to Bangladesh where, one night, they made landfall. A coastguard official there at the time said they were a shocking sight: “Many of them were stick-thin, some unable to stand. Muriel Boursier, head of mission for Doctors Without Borders in Bangladesh, who met survivors later, said many could not walk. Some grieved for lost relatives, staring blankly. Some survivors were taken to hospital but most went to a quarantine camp, unaware of the coronavirus that had taken hold during their voyage. “It’s difficult to understand that no state is able to open its doors,” Boursier said. Uddin said his parents hardly recognised him but he was thankful to be back, though he had little hope for his future. “It’s better to die here than to die at sea,” he said.
3 May 22:20 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/rohingya-survivors-tell-of-misery-and-death-at-sea-hundreds-still-adrift/article31496635.eceRating: 0.30
Rohingya survivors tell of misery and death at sea; hundreds still adrift
Rohingya refugee Shahab Uddin thought the wooden trawler he boarded in February would be his ticket out of a camp in Bangladesh to a better life in Malaysia. Instead, the voyage nearly killed him. The 20-year-old was among almost 400 survivors pulled from the water, starving, emaciated and traumatised after the boat failed to reach Malaysia and spent weeks adrift before returning to Bangladesh in mid-April. Hundreds more refugees are stranded on at least two other trawlers, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus, threatening a repeat of a 2015 boat crisis when hundreds of people died. The United Nations has implored authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. In interviews with Reuters, seven survivors from the rescued boat recalled two harrowing months. Estimates of the number of people who died on the boat ranged from several dozen to more than 100 - nobody kept count - but their accounts were consistent. The survivors described hundreds of men, women, and children crammed on the boat, unable to move, squatting in rain and scorching sun until, as food and water ran out, they began to die of starvation, thirst, and beatings, their bodies tossed overboard. Some wept as they spoke. "I thought I would not come back home alive," said Uddin. "I missed my family, especially my parents." The group Fortify Rights said in a statement last week the operators of the boat "held their victims in conditions similar to slavery for the purposes of exploitation". Reuters was unable to identify or contact the crew for comment. Amnesty International urged governments to protect stranded Rohingya and allow them to land. It estimated 800 more people were at sea. Several dozen people from one boat landed on the south coast of Bangladesh on Saturday. Malaysia defends its policy of turning boats away. Authorities have acted lawfully to defend the country’s sovereignty and are ready to do so again, its minister for internal affairs said in a statement on Thursday. More than a million Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, live in camps in southern Bangladesh after fleeing from largely Buddhist Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Most fled an army crackdown in 2017 that the United Nations says was carried out with genocidal intent. Myanmar denies genocide and says it was responding to insurgent attacks. 'BETTER OFF IN MALAYSIA' Although the Rohingya people trace their ancestry in Rakhine back centuries, Myanmar says they are illegal immigrants from South Asia. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea. In Bangladesh, Uddin made a little money driving motorised tuk-tuks but said refugees were becoming more confined. The government restricts internet and cell phone access and has begun putting up barbed-wire fences around the camps, citing security. Uddin said it began to feel like prison. "I thought going to Malaysia by whatever way would at least save me. Many have made it to Malaysia and are better off.” He said he and several friends met a man in a shanty town who took them by boat to a trawler where hundreds of people were already crowded on board - men on the lower deck, women on the top. Many of the young women were due to be married in Malaysia. Another refugee, Enamul Hasan, also 20, said an uncle in Malaysia urged him to go there. “I wanted to go to Malaysia to end my family's poverty,” he said. Six of the seven survivors Reuters interviewed said they had gone willingly. The seventh, aged 16, said he was taken by unknown men against his will. The misery began as soon as they set out. "We ate almost nothing," said Uddin. "Little kids would cry for water." WEEPING AND PRAYING After a week the boat arrived off Malaysia, where it waited for several days before the crew said they could not disembark and would have to return to Bangladesh. They crossed back over the Bay of Bengal. "We faced storms three times,” said Uddin. He said he was made to serve as an enforcer for the crew and beat anyone who stepped out of line. “If I didn’t want to beat them, I myself would be beaten,” he said. Meanwhile, some desperate passengers began to drink sea water. "By the wonderful grace of God, the water would seem sweet,” said Hasan. "Many jumped into the water ... everyone was saying that it was much better to die in the water than dying in the ship.” At night, the passengers held one another, weeping and praying. Eventually the boat stopped again, off Myanmar, survivors said, but again it could not dock. "People kept dying and would be thrown overboard,” said Hasan. "I began to wonder when I would die." The refugees eventually forced the captain to take them back to Bangladesh where, one night, they made landfall. A coastguard official there at the time said they were a shocking sight: "Many of them were stick-thin, some unable to stand.” Muriel Boursier, head of mission for Doctors Without Borders in Bangladesh, who met survivors later, said many could not walk. Some grieved for lost relatives, staring blankly. Some survivors were taken to hospital but most went to a quarantine camp, unaware of the coronavirus that had taken hold during their voyage. "It's difficult to understand that no state is able to open its doors," Boursier said. Uddin said his parents hardly recognised him but he was thankful to be back, though he had little hope for his future. "It's better to die here than to die at sea," he said.
3 May 21:39 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/03/rohingya-survivors-tell-of-misery-and-death-at-sea-hundreds-still-adriftRating: 2.85
Rohingya survivors tell of misery and death at sea, hundreds still adrift
COX'S BAZAR, May 4 — Rohingya refugee Shahab Uddin thought the wooden trawler he boarded in February would be his ticket out of a camp in Bangladesh to a better life in Malaysia. Instead, the voyage nearly killed him. The 20-year-old was among almost 400 survivors pulled from the water, starving, emaciated and traumatized after the boat failed to reach Malaysia and spent weeks adrift before returning to Bangladesh in mid-April. Hundreds more refugees are stranded on at least two other trawlers, rights groups say, as South-east Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus, threatening a repeat of a 2015 boat crisis when hundreds of people died. The United Nations has implored authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. In interviews with Reuters, seven survivors from the rescued boat recalled two harrowing months. Estimates of the number of people who died on the boat ranged from several dozen to more than 100 — nobody kept count — but their accounts were consistent. The survivors described hundreds of men, women, and children crammed on the boat, unable to move, squatting in rain and scorching sun until, as food and water ran out, they began to die of starvation, thirst, and beatings, their bodies tossed overboard. Some wept as they spoke. “I thought I would not come back home alive,” said Uddin. “I missed my family, especially my parents.” The group Fortify Rights said in a statement last week the operators of the boat “held their victims in conditions similar to slavery for the purposes of exploitation.” Reuters was unable to identify or contact the crew for comment. Amnesty International urged governments to protect stranded Rohingya and allow them to land. It estimated 800 more people were at sea. Several dozen people from one boat landed on the south coast of Bangladesh on Saturday. Malaysia defends its policy of turning boats away. Authorities have acted lawfully to defend the country’s sovereignty and are ready to do so again, its minister for internal affairs said in a statement on Thursday. More than a million Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, live in camps in southern Bangladesh after fleeing from largely Buddhist Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Most fled an army crackdown in 2017 that the United Nations says was carried out with genocidal intent. Myanmar denies genocide and says it was responding to insurgent attacks. 'Better off in Malaysia' Although the Rohingya people trace their ancestry in Rakhine back centuries, Myanmar says they are illegal immigrants from South Asia. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea. In Bangladesh, Uddin made a little money driving motorized tuk-tuks but said refugees were becoming more confined. The government restricts internet and cell phone access and has begun putting up barbed-wire fences around the camps, citing security. Uddin said it began to feel like prison. “I thought going to Malaysia by whatever way would at least save me. Many have made it to Malaysia and are better off.” He said he and several friends met a man in a shanty town who took them by boat to a trawler where hundreds of people were already crowded on board — men on the lower deck, women on the top. Many of the young women were due to be married in Malaysia. Another refugee, Enamul Hasan, also 20, said an uncle in Malaysia urged him to go there. “I wanted to go to Malaysia to end my family's poverty,” he said. Six of the seven survivors Reuters interviewed said they had gone willingly. The seventh, aged 16, said he was taken by unknown men against his will. The misery began as soon as they set out. “We ate almost nothing,” said Uddin. “Little kids would cry for water.” Weeping and praying After a week the boat arrived off Malaysia, where it waited for several days before the crew said they could not disembark and would have to return to Bangladesh. They crossed back over the Bay of Bengal. “We faced storms three times,” said Uddin. He said he was made to serve as an enforcer for the crew and beat anyone who stepped out of line. “If I didn’t want to beat them, I myself would be beaten,” he said. Meanwhile, some desperate passengers began to drink sea water. “By the wonderful grace of God, the water would seem sweet,” said Hasan. “Many jumped into the water ... everyone was saying that it was much better to die in the water than dying in the ship.” At night, the passengers held one another, weeping and praying. Eventually the boat stopped again, off Myanmar, survivors said, but again it could not dock. “People kept dying and would be thrown overboard,” said Hasan. “I began to wonder when I would die.” The refugees eventually forced the captain to take them back to Bangladesh where, one night, they made landfall. A coastguard official there at the time said they were a shocking sight: “Many of them were stick-thin, some unable to stand.” Muriel Boursier, head of mission for Doctors Without Borders in Bangladesh, who met survivors later, said many could not walk. Some grieved for lost relatives, staring blankly. Some survivors were taken to hospital but most went to a quarantine camp, unaware of the coronavirus that had taken hold during their voyage. “It's difficult to understand that no state is able to open its doors,” Boursier said. Uddin said his parents hardly recognised him but he was thankful to be back, though he had little hope for his future. “It's better to die here than to die at sea,” he said. — Reuters
3 May 23:07 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/04/rohingya-survivors-tell-of-misery-and-death-at-sea-hundreds-still-adrift/1862722Rating: 1.42
Rohingya survivors tell of misery and death at sea; hundreds still adrift
COX S BAZAR (Reuters) - Rohingya refugee Shahab Uddin thought the wooden trawler he boarded in February would be his ticket out of a camp in Bangladesh to a better life in Malaysia. Instead, the voyage nearly killed him. The 20-year-old was among almost 400 survivors pulled from the water, starving, emaciated and traumatized after the boat failed to reach Malaysia and spent weeks adrift before returning to Bangladesh in mid-April. Hundreds more refugees are stranded on at least two other trawlers, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus, threatening a repeat of a 2015 boat crisis when hundreds of people died. The United Nations has implored authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. In interviews with Reuters, seven survivors from the rescued boat recalled two harrowing months. Estimates of the number of people who died on the boat ranged from several dozen to more than 100 - nobody kept count - but their accounts were consistent. The survivors described hundreds of men, women, and children crammed on the boat, unable to move, squatting in rain and scorching sun until, as food and water ran out, they began to die of starvation, thirst, and beatings, their bodies tossed overboard. Some wept as they spoke. "I thought I would not come back home alive," said Uddin. "I missed my family, especially my parents." The group Fortify Rights said in a statement last week the operators of the boat "held their victims in conditions similar to slavery for the purposes of exploitation". Reuters was unable to identify or contact the crew for comment. Amnesty International urged governments to protect stranded Rohingya and allow them to land. It estimated 800 more people were at sea. Several dozen people from one boat landed on the south coast of Bangladesh on Saturday. Malaysia defends its policy of turning boats away. Authorities have acted lawfully to defend the country’s sovereignty and are ready to do so again, its minister for internal affairs said in a statement on Thursday. More than a million Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, live in camps in southern Bangladesh after fleeing from largely Buddhist Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Most fled an army crackdown in 2017 that the United Nations says was carried out with genocidal intent. Myanmar denies genocide and says it was responding to insurgent attacks. BETTER OFF IN MALAYSIA Although the Rohingya people trace their ancestry in Rakhine back centuries, Myanmar says they are illegal immigrants from South Asia. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea. In Bangladesh, Uddin made a little money driving motorized tuk-tuks but said refugees were becoming more confined. The government restricts internet and cell phone access and has begun putting up barbed-wire fences around the camps, citing security. Uddin said it began to feel like prison. "I thought going to Malaysia by whatever way would at least save me. Many have made it to Malaysia and are better off.” He said he and several friends met a man in a shanty town who took them by boat to a trawler where hundreds of people were already crowded on board - men on the lower deck, women on the top. Many of the young women were due to be married in Malaysia. Another refugee, Enamul Hasan, also 20, said an uncle in Malaysia urged him to go there. “I wanted to go to Malaysia to end my family s poverty,” he said. Six of the seven survivors Reuters interviewed said they had gone willingly. The seventh, aged 16, said he was taken by unknown men against his will. The misery began as soon as they set out. "We ate almost nothing," said Uddin. "Little kids would cry for water." WEEPING AND PRAYING After a week the boat arrived off Malaysia, where it waited for several days before the crew said they could not disembark and would have to return to Bangladesh. They crossed back over the Bay of Bengal. "We faced storms three times,” said Uddin. He said he was made to serve as an enforcer for the crew and beat anyone who stepped out of line. “If I didn’t want to beat them, I myself would be beaten,” he said. Meanwhile, some desperate passengers began to drink sea water. "By the wonderful grace of God, the water would seem sweet,” said Hasan. "Many jumped into the water ... everyone was saying that it was much better to die in the water than dying in the ship.” At night, the passengers held one another, weeping and praying. Eventually the boat stopped again, off Myanmar, survivors said, but again it could not dock. "People kept dying and would be thrown overboard,” said Hasan. "I began to wonder when I would die." The refugees eventually forced the captain to take them back to Bangladesh where, one night, they made landfall. A coastguard official there at the time said they were a shocking sight: "Many of them were stick-thin, some unable to stand.” Muriel Boursier, head of mission for Doctors Without Borders in Bangladesh, who met survivors later, said many could not walk. Some grieved for lost relatives, staring blankly. Some survivors were taken to hospital but most went to a quarantine camp, unaware of the coronavirus that had taken hold during their voyage. "It s difficult to understand that no state is able to open its doors," Boursier said. Uddin said his parents hardly recognised him but he was thankful to be back, though he had little hope for his future. "It s better to die here than to die at sea," he said.
3 May 22:23 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543893-Rohingya-survivors-tell-of-misery-and-death-at-sea-hundreds-still-adriftRating: 1.71
Rohingya Refugees Tell of Misery and Death at Sea in Attempt to Leave Bangladesh for Malaysia
Rohingya refugee Shahab Uddin thought the wooden trawler he boarded in February would be his ticket out of a camp in Bangladesh to a better life in Malaysia. Instead, the voyage nearly killed him. The 20-year-old was among almost 400 survivors pulled from the water, starving, emaciated and traumatized after the boat failed to reach Malaysia and spent weeks adrift before returning to Bangladesh in mid-April. Hundreds more refugees are stranded on at least two other trawlers, rights groups say, as Southeast Asian governments tighten borders to keep out the new coronavirus, threatening a repeat of a 2015 boat crisis when hundreds of people died. The United Nations has implored authorities to let the boats land, but anti-refugee sentiment is surging in Malaysia and governments say borders are sealed to keep out the coronavirus. In interviews with Reuters, seven survivors from the rescued boat recalled two harrowing months. Estimates of the number of people who died on the boat ranged from several dozen to more than 100 - nobody kept count - but their accounts were consistent. The survivors described hundreds of men, women, and children crammed on the boat, unable to move, squatting in rain and scorching sun until, as food and water ran out, they began to die of starvation, thirst, and beatings, their bodies tossed overboard. Some wept as they spoke. "I thought I would not come back home alive," said Uddin. "I missed my family, especially my parents." The group Fortify Rights said in a statement last week the operators of the boat "held their victims in conditions similar to slavery for the purposes of exploitation". Reuters was unable to identify or contact the crew for comment. Amnesty International urged governments to protect stranded Rohingya and allow them to land. It estimated 800 more people were at sea. Several dozen people from one boat landed on the south coast of Bangladesh on Saturday. Malaysia defends its policy of turning boats away. Authorities have acted lawfully to defend the country's sovereignty and are ready to do so again, its minister for internal affairs said in a statement on Thursday. More than a million Rohingya, members of a Muslim minority from Myanmar, live in camps in southern Bangladesh after fleeing from largely Buddhist Myanmar's Rakhine State. Most fled an army crackdown in 2017 that the United Nations says was carried out with genocidal intent. Myanmar denies genocide and says it was responding to insurgent attacks. 'BETTER OFF IN MALAYSIA' Although the Rohingya people trace their ancestry in Rakhine back centuries, Myanmar says they are illegal immigrants from South Asia. For years, Rohingya from Myanmar and Bangladesh have fled by boat for Thailand and Malaysia when the seas are calm between October and April. Hundreds died in 2015 after a crackdown in Thailand led smugglers to abandon their human cargo at sea. In Bangladesh, Uddin made a little money driving motorized tuk-tuks but said refugees were becoming more confined. The government restricts internet and cell phone access and has begun putting up barbed-wire fences around the camps, citing security. Uddin said it began to feel like prison. "I thought going to Malaysia by whatever way would at least save me. Many have made it to Malaysia and are better off." He said he and several friends met a man in a shanty town who took them by boat to a trawler where hundreds of people were already crowded on board - men on the lower deck, women on the top. Many of the young women were due to be married in Malaysia. Another refugee, Enamul Hasan, also 20, said an uncle in Malaysia urged him to go there. "I wanted to go to Malaysia to end my family's poverty," he said. Six of the seven survivors Reuters interviewed said they had gone willingly. The seventh, aged 16, said he was taken by unknown men against his will. The misery began as soon as they set out. "We ate almost nothing," said Uddin. "Little kids would cry for water." WEEPING AND PRAYING After a week the boat arrived off Malaysia, where it waited for several days before the crew said they could not disembark and would have to return to Bangladesh. They crossed back over the Bay of Bengal. "We faced storms three times," said Uddin. He said he was made to serve as an enforcer for the crew and beat anyone who stepped out of line. "If I didn't want to beat them, I myself would be beaten," he said. Meanwhile, some desperate passengers began to drink sea water. "By the wonderful grace of God, the water would seem sweet," said Hasan. "Many jumped into the water ... everyone was saying that it was much better to die in the water than dying in the ship." At night, the passengers held one another, weeping and praying. Eventually the boat stopped again, off Myanmar, survivors said, but again it could not dock. "People kept dying and would be thrown overboard," said Hasan. "I began to wonder when I would die." The refugees eventually forced the captain to take them back to Bangladesh where, one night, they made landfall. A coastguard official there at the time said they were a shocking sight: "Many of them were stick-thin, some unable to stand." Muriel Boursier, head of mission for Doctors Without Borders in Bangladesh, who met survivors later, said many could not walk. Some grieved for lost relatives, staring blankly. Some survivors were taken to hospital but most went to a quarantine camp, unaware of the coronavirus that had taken hold during their voyage. "It's difficult to understand that no state is able to open its doors," Boursier said. Uddin said his parents hardly recognised him but he was thankful to be back, though he had little hope for his future. "It's better to die here than to die at sea," he said.
3 May 18:19 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/world-news/asia-and-australia/rohingya-refugees-tell-of-misery-and-death-at-sea-in-attempt-to-leave-bangladesh-1.8817495Rating: 1.13
England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1: Telegraph
3 May 09:10
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England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1: Telegraph
(This May 2 story corrects headline and lead to show England (not England and Wales) could reopen primary schools) LONDON (Reuters) - England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1 under plans being discussed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Telegraph newspaper reported. Johnson is expected to unveil the government’s “roadmap” out of the coronavirus lockdown in an address to the nation next Sunday, the newspaper said. The Sunday Times said that the government will only tweak the lockdown this week, encouraging building sites to reopen, relaxing rules on outdoor activities and urging people to cover their faces on public transport. Johnson is due next week to present a possible way out of the lockdown to get the world’s fifth largest economy back to work without triggering a second spike in coronavirus cases.
3 May 09:10 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-lockdown-idUSKBN22E0TPRating: 4.04
England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1: Telegraph
(This May 2 story corrects headline and lead to show England (not England and Wales) could reopen primary schools) LONDON (Reuters) - England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1 under plans being discussed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Telegraph newspaper reported. Johnson is expected to unveil the government’s “roadmap” out of the coronavirus lockdown in an address to the nation next Sunday, the newspaper said. The Sunday Times said that the government will only tweak the lockdown this week, encouraging building sites to reopen, relaxing rules on outdoor activities and urging people to cover their faces on public transport. Johnson is due next week to present a possible way out of the lockdown to get the world’s fifth largest economy back to work without triggering a second spike in coronavirus cases.
3 May 09:10 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-britain-lockdown-idUSKBN22E0TPRating: 4.04
England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1 - Telegraph
LONDON — England could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1 under plans being discussed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Telegraph newspaper reported. Johnson is expected to unveil the government’s “roadmap” out of the coronavirus lockdown in an address to the nation next Sunday, the newspaper said. The Sunday Times said that the government will only tweak the lockdown this week, encouraging building sites to reopen, relaxing rules on outdoor activities and urging people to cover their faces on public transport. Johnson is due next week to present a possible way out of the lockdown to get the world’s fifth largest economy back to work without triggering a second spike in coronavirus cases. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
3 May 09:02 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/england-could-allow-primary-schools-to-reopen-as-soon-as-june-1-telegraphRating: 1.59
Coronavirus | U.K. could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1: media
The United Kingdom could allow primary schools in England and Wales to reopen as soon as June 1 under plans being discussed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Telegraph newspaper reported. Mr. Johnson is expected to unveil the government's “roadmap” out of the coronavirus lockdown in an address to the nation next Sunday, the newspaper said. The Sunday Times said that the government will only tweak the lockdown this week, encouraging building sites to reopen, relaxing rules on outdoor activities and urging people to cover their faces on public transport. Mr. Johnson is due next week to present a possible way out of the lockdown to get the world's fifth largest economy back to work without triggering a second spike in coronavirus cases.
2 May 21:59 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-uk-could-allow-primary-schools-to-reopen-as-soon-as-june-1-media/article31492554.eceRating: 0.30
Coronavirus: Primary schools 'to reopen in June' as part of plans to get UK out of lockdown
The UK could allow primary schools in England to reopen as soon as June 1 under plans being discussed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, according to a report. Johnson is reportedly expected to unveil the Government's "roadmap" out of the coronavirus lockdown in an address to the nation next Sunday. Under the plan, primary schools would be the first to accept students back, with Year 10 and Year 12 pupils set to follow at a later date, according to the Sunday Telegraph. These older pupils would only be allowed to return if the move did not increase transmissions to the point of causing a second outbreak, it is claimed. The Government is keen to get children back in the classroom as soon as possible to reduce the damage to 'early years development' and enable parents to return to work. Today, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said: "Home learning is not easy, particularly when one or both parents are trying to work from home as well.” The Sunday Times said the government will only tweak the lockdown this week, encouraging building sites to reopen, relaxing rules on outdoor activities and urging people to cover their faces on public transport. Johnson is due next week to present a possible way out of the lockdown to get the country back to work without triggering another spike in cases. It comes after the Prime Minister reportedly revealed that doctors were preparing to announce his death as he fought coronavirus. He said he received 'litres and litres of oxygen' to help him fight the deadly virus. Mr Johnson has now described how a 'death of Stalin'-style scenario was prepared in case he passed away. The 55-year-old added that his time in hospital was a 'tough old moment' in an interview with the Sun on Sunday.
2 May 21:47 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/primary-schools-reopen-june-part-21965098Rating: 2.39
UK could allow primary schools to reopen as soon as June 1 - Telegraph
LONDON — The United Kingdom could allow primary schools in England and Wales to reopen as soon as June 1 under plans being discussed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the Telegraph newspaper reported. Johnson is expected to unveil the government’s “roadmap” out of the coronavirus lockdown in an address to the nation next Sunday, the newspaper said. The Sunday Times said that the government will only tweak the lockdown this week, encouraging building sites to reopen, relaxing rules on outdoor activities and urging people to cover their faces on public transport. Johnson is due next week to present a possible way out of the lockdown to get the world’s fifth largest economy back to work without triggering a second spike in coronavirus cases. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
2 May 21:14 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/uk-could-allow-primary-schools-to-reopen-as-soon-as-june-1-telegraphRating: 1.59
Syria Slams Israeli Intentions to Annex West Bank Territories - Foreign Ministry
3 May 17:59
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Syria Slams Israeli Intentions to Annex West Bank Territories - Foreign Ministry
BEIRUT (Sputnik) - The Syrian authorities on Sunday condemned Israel's plans to annex Palestinian territories in the West Bank of the Jordan River, describing them as an act of aggression, the Syrian Foreign Ministry said. On 20 April, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his main political rival Benny Gantz signed an agreement to form a unity government. According to the deal, Israel can begin the process of annexation based on the peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump. Netanyahu has long been known as a vocal proponent of such measures. Israel occupied the West Bank during the Sixth-Day War in 1967. Since then, Palestine has been demanding the return of seized territories to no avail. In late January, Trump presented his plan to reconcile Israel and Palestine. The deal calls for creating a demilitarized Palestinian state with Israel retaining control over the West Bank and keeping Jerusalem as its undivided capital. The plan provoked strong reactions among all sides and kickstarted another round of conversations on how best to settle the long-standing dispute.
3 May 17:59 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/middleeast/202005031079184255-syria-slams-israeli-intentions-to-annex-west-bank-territories---foreign-ministry/Rating: 3.96
Abbas Threatens to Dissolve PA If Israel Annexes an Inch of Judea and Samaria
Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the PLO, threatened that if Israel annexes the Biblical areas in Judea and Samaria he would respond by…going away, thereby dissolving the terrorist organization that has been killing Jews for the past 60 years. The newly formed unity government joining political rivals Benny Gantz and Benjamin Netanyahu announced that they will annex Judea and Samaria, leading Mahmoud Abbas, President of the Palestinian Authority, to threaten that such a move would lead him to dissolve the Palestinian Authority. Debka Files reported that Abbas called his government’s leaders for a meeting this week in Ramallah to discuss this decision. Though it seems self-destructive, Debka reported that dissolving the Palestinian government would “saddle Israel with the administration and care for all civic needs of two million Palestinian denizens of the territory – health, water, economy, jobs, etc.” Netanyahu and Gantz, political rivals, agreed to form a unity government two weeks ago in which Netanyahu would remain prime minister for 18 months before handing over the position to Gantz for the remainder of a three-year term. The agreement also stated that the new government would bring Donald Trump’s “vision for peace” to a government vote from 1 July. The plan gives Israel full military control over Judea and Samaria. This would hopefully prevent the region from being used as a base of terrorism, as Gaza has become since the IDF exited in 2005 and ethnically cleansed all Jews from what was once a thriving community. The Netanyahu-Gantz deal stipulates that any Israeli action would need US backing, and must take into account Israel’s peace treaties with neighboring Jordan and Egypt. The Palestinian Authority has already rejected Trump’s peace plan. The European Union and several European states, including Germany, France and the United Kingdom made public statements saying that Israeli annexation of Judea and Samaria would endanger their relations with Israel. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said last week that the United States remains ready to recognize Israel’s annexation of territory in the West Bank, but expects Israel to continue negotiations with the Palestinians. Abbas has threatened to dissolve the Palestinian Parliament several times in the past as a means to pressure Hamas into forming a unity government, most recently at the end of 2018, but these threats went unnoticed as the parliament, known as the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), ceased to function in 2007 when Abbas’ party split with Hamas. Both the PLC and the PA were formed in 1996 as a result of the Oslo Accords. Abbas was elected his post in January 2005 and is currently in the 15th year of a four year term. If Israel annexes Judea and Samaria and Abbas dissolves the PA government, it is unclear what the future of the PA will be. Abbas became the head of the Fatah Party, known in English as the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) when its founder, Yasser Arafat, died in 2004. Founded in 1959 as a terrorist organization dedicated to murdering Jews in Israel and around the world. The Oslo Accords transformed the PLO into a political party headed by Arafat in 1993.
3 May 15:30 • Breaking Israel News • https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/149596/abbas-threatens-dissolve-pa-israel-annexes-judea-samaria/Rating: 0.30
Likud MK May Golan submits sovereignty bill - Inside Israel
MK May Golan (Likud) has submitted a Knesset bill for the application of Israeli law in the Jordan Valley, northern Dead Sea area, and Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. Minister Eli Cohen (Likud) also joined the initiative. MK Golan said, "This is an area that is a political, security, and economic asset, and there are thousands of Zionist Israelis and true pioneers who are an integral part of the State of Israel [there]." "The bill is intended to rectify the existing situation and end all historical injustice. I have no doubt that there is a broad consensus in all parts of the Knesset that supports the proposal and it is time to implement it," she added. Trump's "Deal of the Century," in principle provides Israel a green light to apply sovereignty in the Jordan Valley and Judea and Samaria. As of now, the US administration has yet to declare support for the measure, and at this stage it is unclear what the application of sovereignty would entail. Yesha Council Chairman David Elhayani said, "I applaud MK May Golan, who today received an exemption from the initial reading of the bill to apply Israeli sovereignty in the Jordan Valley, Northern Dead Sea area, and Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. The bill can already be introduced for preliminary reading at the Knesset plenum." "The proposed law would apply Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria and the Jordan Valley without recognition of a "Palestinian state" that endangers the future of the State of Israel, nor does it refer to President Trump's 'Deal of the Century.' We urge all Knesset members of the national camp to stand behind the bill in order to promote sovereignty and prevent the establishment of an Palestinian state, God forbid," Elhayani concluded.
3 May 18:20 • Israel National News • http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/279600Rating: 0.83
Op-Ed: US approves Israeli annexation without a Palestinian state
Announcement in effect approves annexation without a Palestinian state The Trump plan did involve creation of a nominal Palestinian state. However, the Palestinians rejected the plan as favoring Israel with Reuters reporting: "Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East peace plan the “slap of the century” on Tuesday as thousands of Palestinians held protests in Gaza and the West Bank. " Palestinians were not involved with or even consulted on the plan. The US statement indicates that US is comfortable with annexation going ahead even though the Trump plan has not been accepted by the Palestinians and will not go ahead. The Israelis is as the US stated previously free to decide whether to annex or not. It is up to them as US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said near the end of April. . Annexation of West Bank without Palestinian state ends any track to statehood Effectively there would be no track to statehood. There is no pressure on Israel to move forward to provide the Palestinians with a state. They have already achieved their main goal. The Israeli far-right will be fine with this. The Trump administration may see annexation as a punishment of the Palestinians for not embracing Trump's deal of the century. A spokesperson for the US embassy told reporters: “Our position has not changed. As we have made consistently clear, we are prepared to recognize Israeli actions to extend Israeli sovereignty and the application of Israeli law to areas of the West Bank that the [Trump peace plan] foresees as being part of the State of Israel.” In return for the US recognizing the annexation, Israel is to agree to freezing all further settlement activity for four years in areas the Trump plan sees as part of a Palestinian state. Israel would also negotiate with Palestinians on the basis of the US plan. However, the Palestinians have rejected that plan so there are unlikely to be any such negotiations. The US has offered assistance to negotiations should they take place. As noted on the appended video most nations believe that without Palestinian agreement the Israeli annexation of the occupied territories would violate international law. This opinion article was written by an independent writer. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily intended to reflect those of DigitalJournal.com
3 May 01:13 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/politics/op-ed-us-approves-israeli-annexation-without-a-palestinian-state/article/571112Rating: 0.78
Singapore reports 657 new coronavirus cases, mostly foreign workers
3 May 15:37
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Singapore reports 657 new coronavirus cases, mostly foreign workers
(Reuters) - Singapore confirmed 657 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, the vast majority of them foreign workers living in dormitories, taking the city-state’s total to 18,205. The health ministry reported one death, an 86-year-old Singaporean woman, bringing the virus-related death toll in the country to 18. Among the new cases, ten were Singaporeans or permanent residents, while 626 cases were foreign workers living in dormitories, the ministry said. Singapore has among the highest number of coronavirus infections in Asia, mainly due to outbreaks in cramped migrant-worker dormitories. It has managed to curb the spread of the disease among locals outside the dormitories. Singapore will start easing coronavirus restrictions over the next few weeks, authorities said on Saturday.
3 May 15:37 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-singapore-cases-idUSKBN22F06XRating: 4.04
Singapore reports 657 new coronavirus cases, mostly foreign workers
Singapore confirmed 657 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, the vast majority of them foreign workers living in dormitories, taking the city-state's total to 18,205. The health ministry reported one death, an 86-year-old Singaporean woman, bringing the virus-related death toll in the country to 18. Among the new cases, ten were Singaporeans or permanent residents, while 626 cases were foreign workers living in dormitories, the ministry said. Follow DH Coronavirus page for all the latest updates Singapore has among the highest number of coronavirus infections in Asia, mainly due to outbreaks in cramped migrant-worker dormitories. It has managed to curb the spread of the disease among locals outside the dormitories. Singapore will start easing coronavirus restrictions over the next few weeks, authorities said on Saturday.
3 May 21:53 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/singapore-reports-657-new-coronavirus-cases-mostly-foreign-workers-833148.htmlRating: 2.25
Singapore reports 657 new coronavirus cases, mostly foreign workers
SINGAPORE — Singapore confirmed 657 new coronavirus infections on Sunday, the vast majority of them foreign workers living in dormitories, taking the city-state's total to 18,205. The health ministry reported one death, an 86-year-old Singaporean woman, bringing the virus-related death toll in the country to 18. Among the new cases, ten were Singaporeans or permanent residents, while 626 cases were foreign workers living in dormitories, the ministry said. Singapore has among the highest number of coronavirus infections in Asia, mainly due to outbreaks in cramped migrant-worker dormitories. It has managed to curb the spread of the disease among locals outside the dormitories. Singapore will start easing coronavirus restrictions over the next few weeks, authorities said on Saturday. © (c) Copyright Thomson Reuters 2020.
3 May 17:25 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/update-1-singapore-reports-657-new-coronavirus-cases-mostly-foreign-workersRating: 2.09
Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
3 May 21:41
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Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
NEW YORK — A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after levelling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “There will unquestionably be a careful look at what happened there,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. Wright had not been arraigned as of Sunday afternoon, prosecutors said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they’re applied. The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video — including some tweeted out by the police department — showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. “This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said. Carolyn Martinez-Class, of the police watchdog Communities United for Police Reform, said: “This incident illustrates why public health professions and community partners should be responsible for social distancing education and creating norms — not police.” The police department assigned 1,000 officers to social distancing patrols over the weekend as temperatures reached the high 70s (about 25 degrees Celsius). On Saturday, they issued 51 summonses, including 43 in city parks. At a news conference Sunday, Shea said he was aware of just three arrests. Minutes before the confrontation with Wright, video from a nearby security camera showed officers used force in arresting a couple for allegedly failing to comply when asked to disperse. O’Donnell said officers saw that one of them, a 31-year-old man, had a “bag of alleged marijuana in plain view.” The bystander video of Wright’s arrest showed the plainclothes officer, Francisco Garcia, helping take one of those people to the ground before turning his attention to Wright, who was moving toward the area of that arrest from about 10 to 15 feet away. Garcia — in a black T-shirt, jeans and a Yankees cap — turned toward Wright and cursed at him to “(get) back right now,” according to the video. At the same time, the officer pulls up his Taser and points it toward Wright. Garcia continued toward Wright and eventually holstered his Taser. It wasn’t clear what Wright was doing because he wasn’t in the frame the entire time, though just before Garcia tackled him, he was seen stopping and standing in front of the officer with what appeared to be a clenched fist at his side. “What you flexing for? Don’t flex,” Garcia said, before grabbing Wright and wrestling him to the ground, slapping and punching him in the process. The officer then took Wright’s arm and dragged him from the crosswalk where he landed back onto the sidewalk and pushed him onto his stomach. The video then showed another officer stepping in and helping handcuff Wright. Kneeling on the top of Wright’s back or neck to keep him down, the plainclothes officer started jawing and cursing at bystanders. One of them yelled back: “he didn’t even do nothing.” ___ Follow Sisak on Twitter at twitter.com/mikesisak Michael R. Sisak, The Associated Press
3 May 21:41 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/violent-arrest-raises-concerns-about-nypd-distancing-patrols/Rating: 0.61
Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
NEW YORK — A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after leveling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “The behavior I saw in that video is simply not acceptable,” Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted Sunday. He said earlier in the day that there will be a careful look into what happened. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. Wright had not been arraigned as of Sunday afternoon, prosecutors said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they're applied. The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video — including some tweeted out by the police department — showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. "This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said. Carolyn Martinez-Class, of the police watchdog Communities United for Police Reform, said: “This incident illustrates why public health professions and community partners should be responsible for social distancing education and creating norms — not police.” The police department assigned 1,000 officers to social distancing patrols over the weekend as temperatures reached the high 70s (about 25 degrees Celsius). On Saturday, they issued 51 summonses, including 43 in city parks. At a news conference Sunday, Shea said he was aware of just three arrests. Minutes before the confrontation with Wright, video from a nearby security camera showed officers used force in arresting a couple for allegedly failing to comply when asked to disperse. O’Donnell said officers saw that one of them, a 31-year-old man, had a “bag of alleged marijuana in plain view.” The bystander video of Wright’s arrest showed the plainclothes officer, Francisco Garcia, helping take one of those people to the ground before turning his attention to Wright, who was moving toward the area of that arrest from about 10 to 15 feet away. Garcia — in a black T-shirt, jeans and a Yankees cap — turned toward Wright and cursed at him to “(get) back right now,” according to the video. At the same time, the officer pulls up his Taser and points it toward Wright, possibly triggering the device. Garcia continued toward Wright and eventually holstered his Taser. It wasn't clear what Wright was doing because he wasn't in the frame the entire time, though just before Garcia tackled him, he was seen stopping and standing in front of the officer with what appeared to be a clenched fist at his side. “What you flexing for? Don’t flex,” Garcia said, before grabbing Wright and wrestling him to the ground, slapping and punching him in the process. The officer then took Wright’s arm and dragged him from the crosswalk where he landed back onto the sidewalk and pushed him onto his stomach. The video then showed another officer stepping in and helping handcuff Wright. Kneeling on the top of Wright's back or neck to keep him down, the plainclothes officer started jawing and cursing at bystanders. One of them yelled back: “he didn’t even do nothing.” © Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
3 May 21:16 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/violent-arrest-raises-concerns-about-nypd-distancing-patrolsRating: 2.09
Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
NEW YORK (AP) — A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after leveling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “The behavior I saw in that video is simply not acceptable,” Mayor Bill de Blasio tweeted Sunday. He said earlier in the day that there will be a careful look into what happened. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. The charges have been deferred pending further investigation, a Manhattan District Attorney's Office spokesperson said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they're applied. The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video — including some tweeted out by the police department — showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. "This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said. Carolyn Martinez-Class, of the police watchdog Communities United for Police Reform, said: “This incident illustrates why public health professions and community partners should be responsible for social distancing education and creating norms — not police.” The police department assigned 1,000 officers to social distancing patrols over the weekend as temperatures reached the high 70s (about 25 degrees Celsius). On Saturday, they issued 51 summonses, including 43 in city parks. At a news conference Sunday, Shea said he was aware of just three arrests. Minutes before the confrontation with Wright, video from a nearby security camera showed officers used force in arresting a couple for allegedly failing to comply when asked to disperse. O’Donnell said officers saw that one of them, a 31-year-old man, had a “bag of alleged marijuana in plain view.” The bystander video of Wright’s arrest showed the plainclothes officer, Francisco Garcia, helping take one of those people to the ground before turning his attention to Wright, who was moving toward the area of that arrest from about 10 to 15 feet away. Garcia — in a black T-shirt, jeans and a Yankees cap — turned toward Wright and cursed at him to “(get) back right now,” according to the video. At the same time, the officer pulls up his Taser and points it toward Wright, possibly triggering the device. Garcia continued toward Wright and eventually holstered his Taser. It wasn't clear what Wright was doing because he wasn't in the frame the entire time, though just before Garcia tackled him, he was seen stopping and standing in front of the officer with what appeared to be a clenched fist at his side. “What you flexing for? Don’t flex,” Garcia said, before grabbing Wright and wrestling him to the ground, slapping and punching him in the process. The officer then took Wright’s arm and dragged him from the crosswalk where he landed back onto the sidewalk and pushed him onto his stomach. The video then showed another officer stepping in and helping handcuff Wright. Kneeling on the top of Wright's back or neck to keep him down, the plainclothes officer started jawing and cursing at bystanders. One of them yelled back: “he didn’t even do nothing.” ___ Follow Sisak on Twitter at twitter.com/mikesisak
3 May 23:54 • THE OKLAHOMAN • https://oklahoman.com/article/feed/10046657/violent-arrest-raises-concerns-about-nypd-distancing-patrolsRating: 0.30
NYC cop brutally beats bystander and kneels on his neck over social distancing
A New York City police officer enforcing social distancing guidelines was filmed brutally beating a bystander and kneeling on his neck. The violent altercation caught on camera by Daquan Owens led to the arrest of three people in the city’s East Village on Saturday. Owens said the incident began after undercover officers approached a couple talking outside of a deli and demanded they separate, although Owens said they were maintaining the six-foot distance recommended by health officials. As police tried to handcuff the couple, identified as 31-year-old Shakiem Brunson and 22-year-old Ashley Serrano, one of the officers can be seen pointing a taser at the bystander, 33-year-old Donni Wright. The officer can be heard calling Wright a racial slur before slamming him to the ground, punching him and kneeling on his neck. ‘They were social distancing,’ Owens told Gothamist, referring to Brunson and Serrano. ‘The girl was standing by the phone booth, the guy was sitting on a milk crate. When the cops pulled up she said he’s not doing anything. They grabbed her and started tussling with her. Then the guy on the milk crate got mad and started yelling at police.’ ‘Donni wasn’t being aggressive, he was just talking. He never raised his hands or hit him. Cop just took it upon himself to start beating him. I was standing right next to him. I could hear everything,’ Owens continued. NYPD spokesperson Sergeant Mary O’Donnell responded to the incident in a statement, saying ‘a group was observed…in violation with social distancing orders.’ The statement went on to say that when the officers approached the group, ‘they observed a bag of alleged marijuana in plain view.’ O’Donnell said Wright ‘took a fighting stance against the officer,’ although the footage shows Wright’s hands at his sides, although he can be seen making a fist with his right hand. Another video taken from a different angle appears to show the officer approaching Wright without any provocation, but it is unclear what ultimately led to Wright’s arrest. Wright has since been charged with assaulting an officer, menacing, recisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration and disorderly conduct. ‘He doesn’t have a criminal record. He was going to the store after work, and the officer punched him to the floor,’ Wright’s mother, Donna, said. The clip has since been viewed over 74,000 times, sparking calls for an investigation into the officer’s actions.
3 May 21:24 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/nyc-cop-brutally-beats-bystander-kneels-neck-social-distancing-12649327/Rating: 2.18
Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
NEW YORK (AP) — A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after leveling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “There will unquestionably be a careful look at what happened there,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. Wright had not been arraigned as of Sunday afternoon, prosecutors said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they’re applied. Advertising The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video — including some tweeted out by the police department — showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. “This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said. Carolyn Martinez-Class, of the police watchdog Communities United for Police Reform, said: “This incident illustrates why public health professions and community partners should be responsible for social distancing education and creating norms — not police.” The police department assigned 1,000 officers to social distancing patrols over the weekend as temperatures reached the high 70s (about 25 degrees Celsius). On Saturday, they issued 51 summonses, including 43 in city parks. At a news conference Sunday, Shea said he was aware of just three arrests. Minutes before the confrontation with Wright, video from a nearby security camera showed officers used force in arresting a couple for allegedly failing to comply when asked to disperse. O’Donnell said officers saw that one of them, a 31-year-old man, had a “bag of alleged marijuana in plain view.” Advertising The bystander video of Wright’s arrest showed the plainclothes officer, Francisco Garcia, helping take one of those people to the ground before turning his attention to Wright, who was moving toward the area of that arrest from about 10 to 15 feet away. Garcia — in a black T-shirt, jeans and a Yankees cap — turned toward Wright and cursed at him to “(get) back right now,” according to the video. At the same time, the officer pulls up his Taser and points it toward Wright, possibly triggering the device. Garcia continued toward Wright and eventually holstered his Taser. It wasn’t clear what Wright was doing because he wasn’t in the frame the entire time, though just before Garcia tackled him, he was seen stopping and standing in front of the officer with what appeared to be a clenched fist at his side. “What you flexing for? Don’t flex,” Garcia said, before grabbing Wright and wrestling him to the ground, slapping and punching him in the process. The officer then took Wright’s arm and dragged him from the crosswalk where he landed back onto the sidewalk and pushed him onto his stomach. The video then showed another officer stepping in and helping handcuff Wright. Kneeling on the top of Wright’s back or neck to keep him down, the plainclothes officer started jawing and cursing at bystanders. One of them yelled back: “he didn’t even do nothing.” ___ Follow Sisak on Twitter at twitter.com/mikesisak MICHAEL R. SISAK
3 May 14:41 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/violent-arrest-raises-concerns-about-nypd-distancing-patrols/Rating: 0.74
Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
NEW YORK — A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after levelling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “There will unquestionably be a careful look at what happened there,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. Wright had not been arraigned as of Sunday afternoon, prosecutors said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they’re applied. The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video — including some tweeted out by the police department — showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. “This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said. Carolyn Martinez-Class, of the police watchdog Communities United for Police Reform, said: “This incident illustrates why public health professions and community partners should be responsible for social distancing education and creating norms — not police.” The police department assigned 1,000 officers to social distancing patrols over the weekend as temperatures reached the high 70s (about 25 degrees Celsius). On Saturday, they issued 51 summonses, including 43 in city parks. At a news conference Sunday, Shea said he was aware of just three arrests. Minutes before the confrontation with Wright, video from a nearby security camera showed officers used force in arresting a couple for allegedly failing to comply when asked to disperse. O’Donnell said officers saw that one of them, a 31-year-old man, had a “bag of alleged marijuana in plain view.” The bystander video of Wright’s arrest showed the plainclothes officer, Francisco Garcia, helping take one of those people to the ground before turning his attention to Wright, who was moving toward the area of that arrest from about 10 to 15 feet away. Garcia — in a black T-shirt, jeans and a Yankees cap — turned toward Wright and cursed at him to “(get) back right now,” according to the video. At the same time, the officer pulls up his Taser and points it toward Wright. Garcia continued toward Wright and eventually holstered his Taser. It wasn’t clear what Wright was doing because he wasn’t in the frame the entire time, though just before Garcia tackled him, he was seen stopping and standing in front of the officer with what appeared to be a clenched fist at his side. “What you flexing for? Don’t flex,” Garcia said, before grabbing Wright and wrestling him to the ground, slapping and punching him in the process. The officer then took Wright’s arm and dragged him from the crosswalk where he landed back onto the sidewalk and pushed him onto his stomach. The video then showed another officer stepping in and helping handcuff Wright. Kneeling on the top of Wright’s back or neck to keep him down, the plainclothes officer started jawing and cursing at bystanders. One of them yelled back: “he didn’t even do nothing.” Follow Sisak on Twitter at twitter.com/mikesisak Michael R. Sisak, The Associated Press
3 May 10:41 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/violent-arrest-raises-concerns-about-nypd-distancing-patrols/Rating: 0.77
NYPD officer's violent arrest of social distance violator prompts probe
NEW YORK — A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after leveling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “There will unquestionably be a careful look at what happened there,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. Wright had not been arraigned as of Sunday afternoon, prosecutors said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they’re applied. The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video – including some tweeted out by the police department – showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. “This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/francisco-garcia-new-york-officer-arrest-social-di/Rating: 0.79
Violent arrest raises concerns about NYPD distancing patrols
NEW YORK (AP) - A New York City police officer who was caught on video Saturday pointing a stun gun at a man and violently taking him to the ground over an alleged social distancing violation has been stripped of his gun and badge and placed on desk duty pending an internal investigation. Bystander video showed the plainclothes officer, who was not wearing a protective face mask, slapping 33-year-old Donni Wright in the face, punching him in the shoulder and dragging him to a sidewalk after leveling him in a crosswalk in Manhattan’s East Village. “There will unquestionably be a careful look at what happened there,” Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday. Police spokeswoman Sgt. Mary Frances O’Donnell said Wright “took a fighting stance against the officer” when he was ordered to disperse and was arrested on charges including assault on a police officer and resisting arrest. Wright had not been arraigned as of Sunday afternoon, prosecutors said. A message seeking comment was left with the police officers union. Wright’s arrest and that of two other people minutes earlier on the same block across from a public housing complex raised new questions about the police department’s use of force, the role of officers in enforcing social distancing measures and inconsistency in how they’re applied. The manner of Wright’s arrest appeared to echo that of 20-year-old Fitzroy Gayle, who was seen on bystander video pleading for help as several officers wrestled him into submission on a Brooklyn sidewalk in early March. Jennvine Wong, a lawyer with the Legal Aid Society’s Cop Accountability Project, said footage of the arrests Saturday stood in sharp contrast to photos and video - including some tweeted out by the police department - showing officers in crowded city parks handing out face masks and gently reminding people to stay 6 feet apart. “This certainly isn’t the first time and this isn’t even the first time in this pandemic that we’ve seen evidence of discriminatory policing by the NYPD,” Wong said.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/violent-arrest-raises-concerns-about-nypd-distanci/Rating: 0.79
US deploys B-1 bombers, troops to Guam for ‘China deterrence’
3 May 11:20
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US deploys B-1 bombers, troops to Guam for ‘China deterrence’
The US military has deployed four B-1B heavy bombers and hundreds of troops to its western pacific territory of Guam to carry out “deterrence missions” aimed at Beijing after days of provocative maneuvers near contested territory in the South China Sea. The warplanes and airmen arrived at Andersen Air Force Base on Guam Island on Friday, according to a statement by the US Strategic Command that further noted that three of the B-1B Lancers flew directly to the base, while another diverted to waters near Japan to train with the US Navy. “Four bombers and approximately 200 airmen from the 9th Bomb Squadron, 7th Bomb Wing… deployed to support Pacific Air Forces’ training efforts with allies, partners and joint forces,” read the statement, pointing out that the warplanes would also take part in “strategic deterrence missions to reinforce the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.” The US Air Force, however, did not specify for how long the new deployment would continue. The deployments came just one day after a pair of B-1s conducted a flyover of the South China Sea, making a 32-hour round trip from the Ellsworth Air Force Base in the US state of South Dakota as part of a ‘show of force’ operation in the region. The US military regularly conducts what it refers to as “freedom of navigation” missions and air patrols over the South China Sea, aimed at sending a message to Beijing, which has repeatedly censured the operations as provocative and in violation of its sovereignty. The Chinese government has yet to respond to the latest US deployment, but denounced the American naval missions near the Paracel Islands earlier this week. Over the past week, US naval warships have also made their presence known around disputed waters in the South China Sea, with a US guided missile destroyer sailing through the Taiwan Strait twice – shadowed both times by a Chinese aircraft carrier sailing close by. The destroyer was eventually escorted out of the area on Tuesday by Chinese air and naval forces after it, “trespassed” near the contested Xisha Islands — also known as the Paracels — according to Beijing. According to the statement, although the Air Force recalled all five of its B-52 Stratofortress bombers from Guam earlier this month, the B-1s replacing them are capable of carrying larger payloads, including 2,000-pound guided JDAM munitions and anti-ship cruise missiles. The growing American military presence in the region follows escalating rhetoric from US President Donald Trump against Beijing, increasingly blaming the country for the ongoing coronavirus pandemic without pointing to any evidence to back his claims. Source: PressTV
3 May 11:20 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/us-deploys-b-1-bombers-troops-to-guam-for-china-deterrence/Rating: 0.63
China would open fire to force US aircraft to change course from Syrian coast: media
BEIRUT, LEBANON (5:10 P.M.) – A Chinese news agency said the Russian military’s decision to intercept two U.S. aircraft along the Syrian coast would have ended differently if it was their air force involved. “According to reports, the Russian military stationed in Syria discovered an air target approaching its military base in Syria on April 19 above the neutral waters of the Mediterranean Sea, after which a Su-35 fighter belonging to the air defense forces of the Russian Khmeimim Airbase took off,” China’s East Day News Agency began. They continued: “Takeoff was made to identify the target, intercept and escort the U.S. military aircraft, designated as the P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine patrol aircraft. After changing course, the Russian fighter returned to base.” “Coincidentally, on April 15, a Russian Su-35 fighter over the eastern Mediterranean Sea also intercepted the P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine patrol aircraft. It was an ‘intimate contact.’ After the incident, the U.S. protested against Russia, accusing them of violating international law,” East Day News said. However, the publication argued that if it had been the Chinese Air Force, their pilots would have also intercepted the aircraft and likely opened fire to warn it to change change. “Our pilots would have done the same, and if the American military plane flew up to the borders of China, they probably would have opened fire to warn them – this would have discouraged them from provoking for a long time ,” the East Day article added.
3 May 14:24 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/china-would-open-fire-to-force-us-aircraft-to-change-course-from-syrian-coast-media/Rating: 0.63
US Deploys Heavy Bombers, Hundreds of Airmen to Guam to ‘Deter China’ – Reports
The deployment comes following the quiet withdrawal of five B-52 nuclear-capable Stratofortress bombers from Guam to the US mainland in mid-April, which temporarily froze the Pentagon’s 16-year-long ‘Continuous Bomber Presence’ mission on the Pacific island. The US Air Force has transferred four B-1B Lancer conventional strike bombers and a complement of about 200 airmen from a base in Texas to the Andersen Air Force Base on the island of Guam, US Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) has confirmed. The deployment, described as a temporary one, comes amid growing tensions between Beijing and Washington, both in the South China Sea territorial dispute, and the back and forth claims about who’s responsible for the global coronavirus crisis. Last week, Beijing reported “expelling” the USS Barry, a US guided-missile destroyer, out of waters in the South China Sea after shadowing it from an island chain contested by China and Vietnam. The Pentagon did not disclose exactly how long the bombers were expected to remain on the island. The B-1s from the group are ordinarily based at the Dyess Air Force Base in Texas. The US pulled a group of B-52 strategic bombers out of Guam on April 17. In the weeks that followed Pentagon sent B-1s to the region, flying a pair of the planes to South China Sea and back to base in South Dakota late last month. Also in April, the Air Force sent two B-1s to Japan for training. Carl Schuster, former director of Pacific Command’s Joint Intelligence Centre, told CNN that the bombers’ deployment was designed to “complicate any bad actors’ decision-making assumptions.” However, RAND Corporation senior researcher Timothy Heath suggested the bombers’ deployment at Guam leaves them vulnerable. “A planner in China’s military could have easily plotted ways of destroying the bombers due to their well-known presence,” he said. The B-1 Guam deployment is the first of its kind since 2017, when the bombers were flown to Japan and South Korea amid tensions with North Korea over its nuclear programme. Introduced in the mid-1980s, the Rockwell B-1 Lancer was initially designed as a nuclear-capable heavy bomber. After the Cold War, the bombers were refitted for a conventional role, carrying up to 50,000 pounds (23,000 kg) of bombs and missiles on its external hard points, or 75,000 pounds of bombs and missiles in its internal bomb bays. In addition to the LRASM, the bomber is capable of carrying the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon glide bomb, and the AGM-158 Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile. China has yet to comment on the Guam B-1 deployment, but has blasted the US last week over what it called its “militarization of the South China Sea,” and “trouble-maker” behaviour. “The [People’s Liberation Army] will remain on high alert, and adamantly safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, as well as peace and prosperity of the region,” Chinese Defence Ministry spokesperson Col. Wu Qian said last week following the encounter between Chinese and US warships.
3 May 17:01 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/military/202005031079184062-us-deploys-heavy-bombers-hundreds-of-airmen-to-guam-to-deter-china--reports/Rating: 3.96
US Air Force sends B-1 bombers back to Guam on temporary deployment after ending its 16-year continuous presence on the Pacific Island just weeks ago
The United States Air Force has dispatched a fleet of B-1 bombers to Guam just weeks after ending its 16-year continuous bomber presence in the Indo-Pacific region. Four bombers and approximately 200 Airman arrived at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam on May 1 to conduct training and ‘strategic deterrence missions’. The B-1s, from Dyess Air Force Base in Texas, have been deployed as part of the US Pacific Air Forces’ bomber task force, a procedure designed to demonstrate ‘operational unpredictability’ and keep Washington’s adversaries guessing about where US firepower will be and when. Analysts say the tactic makes US forces harder to target, rather than keeping fleets stationed on specific bases as had been the case in the now-ended Continuous Bomber Presence in Guam. ‘The consistency and predictability of the [Guam] deployment raised serious operational vulnerabilities. A planner in China's military could have easily plotted ways of destroying the bombers due to their well-known presence,’ Timothy Heath, senior international defense researcher with the RAND Corp. think tank, told CNN. The USAF pulled a fleet of B-52 bombers from Guam on April 17, just days after the aircrafts participated in a military might 'elephant walk' exercise aimed at China. Ever since, the service has been increasing the presence of its B-1s in the Pacific, with several missions being flown over from bases in the US. Last Thursday, a 32-hour flight was conducted by two B-1s from Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota to the South China Sea. That mission followed an operation earlier in April where two Ellsworth B-1s conducted 30-hour round trip to Japan, where they carried out training exercises alongside Japanese F-15 and F-2 fighters, as well as US F-16 jets. In announcing the B-1 deployment in Guam, Lt. Col. Frank Welton, PACAF's chief of operations force management, spoke of the US' ability to be able to carry more powerful weapons with the B-1s than the B-52s that left Guam a few weeks ago. ‘The B-1 is able to carry a larger payload of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles and a larger payload of 2,000-pound class Joint Direct Attack Munitions,’ Lt. Col. Frank Welton, Pacific Air Forces’ chief of operations force management, said in a statement. ‘Additionally, the B-1 is able to carry the [anti-ship cruise missile], giving it an advanced stand-off, counter-ship capability. It also has an advanced self-protection suite and is able to transit at supersonic speeds to enhance offensive and defensive capabilities.” The bomber’s precision guided missile is designed to strike enemy warships with a fragmentation and penetrating warhead, while keeping bombers at a low risk of a counterattack. B-1s were last deployed to the Indo-Pacific region in 2017. The Air Force had used those Guam-based bomber missions to patrol over the East and South China Seas as a means of projecting U.S. airpower and resolve to North Korea, China and Russia. The Air Force declined to specify how long the temporary deployment will last. Analysts say deployments of this kind can now be considered the new normal in the region. ‘We will stage bombers through Guam periodically,’ said Carl Schuster, a former director of operations at the US Pacific Command's Joint Intelligence Center told CNN. ‘Sometimes they will participate in exercises with our allies and partners, sometimes they will continue on to the Indian Ocean by way of the South China Sea.’
3 May 13:17 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8282091/US-Air-Force-sends-B-1-bombers-Guam-temporary-deployment.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Russian stealth jets flew ‘unnoticed’ over 6 US bases in Syria and Iraq: media
BEIRUT, LEBANON (6:45 P.M.) – The Russian Su-57 stealth jets flew ‘unnoticed’ over several U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria, the Russian publication Avia.Pro reported on Sunday. “The Russian Su-57 fighter managed to pass unnoticed over American military airbases in northern Iraq. The incident occurred during the last appearance of a fifth-generation Russian fighter in Syria – according to a source, the Russian combat aircraft followed its own course, and was not transported aboard the An-124,” the publication said. According to Avia.Pro’s sources, since Turkey does not allow Russian combat jets over their territory, the Su-57 could only get to Iraqi airspace from Syria by flying over U.S. military installations. “Given the likely route of the Russian Su-57 fighter, a combat aircraft flew through the corridor with at least three U.S. military bases in Iraq and three military bases in Syria,” they continued. Citing a military specialist, the publication claimed: “Until recently, the Russian Su-57 was ridiculed in the United States, claiming that it could not claim the title of stealth, however, given the fact that the Russian fighter unimpededly covered several thousand kilometers directly over the U.S. military bases in Iraq and Syria, it’s quite obvious that we are really talking about an “invisible plane” that successfully clicked Washington’s nose.”
3 May 16:10 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-stealth-jets-flew-unnoticed-over-6-us-bases-in-syria-and-iraq-media/Rating: 0.63
Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
3 May 16:07
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Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
TORONTO -- As the deadly toll of COVID-19 on Canada's nursing homes gives rise to a growing number of proposed class-action lawsuits, some legal experts say the cases will turn on what's considered reasonable care during a pandemic. The ongoing global health crisis that has disproportionately affected the elderly poses a unique and unprecedented backdrop for such civil actions, which have emerged in Ontario and Quebec in recent weeks, experts say. While nursing homes can't be blamed for the pandemic, they can be held accountable for unnecessary and preventable deaths, said Michael Smitiuch, a Toronto-based lawyer who previously led a successful negligence lawsuit against a Brampton, Ont. facility for seniors. "A crisis like this does not give nursing homes a free pass to neglect the elderly. So I think what will happen is...we're going to look back at this through a lens of what was reasonable under the circumstances," he said. "The interesting question will be, what is the standard of care during a pandemic?" The courts will likely look to the requirements and guidelines issued by health ministries, the World Health Organization and other similar bodies in gauging whether any defendants were negligent, Smitiuch said. The novel coronavirus has ravaged private and government-run seniors' homes, particularly in Canada's two largest provinces, causing a large proportion of the country's more than 3,000 deaths. Rules and standards for nursing homes have evolved rapidly as public health officials respond to the crisis, with several provinces now banning staff from working in multiple facilities. However, a number of proposed class-action lawsuits allege negligence on the part of governments or nursing home operators in their handling of the virus. In Quebec, the son of a 94-year-old woman who died of COVID-19 at one of the province's hardest-hit facilities has filed a class-action application against the government-run CHSLD Ste-Dorothee. A Toronto law firm, meanwhile, has served the provincial government with notice of a proposed class proceeding on behalf of all Ontarians in long-term care homes. It alleges the province's failures in overseeing the facilities have resulted in widespread, avoidable illness and death during the pandemic. Another such lawsuit launched by two Ontario men whose mothers died from COVID-19 targets Revera, a privately owned nursing home company. None of the cases have been certified as class actions so far and their claims have not been tested in court. Scott Stanley, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, said these lawsuits and any others that surface in the coming months will face multiple hurdles in meeting the criteria for negligence. First, he said, it may be difficult for plaintiffs to show the actions of the operators or government caused the deaths. "If the theory is, well, workers were able to go from one home to the other and transmit the virus -- that's a theory, but you have to show factually that that actually caused other people to be affected or infected," he said. It may also be challenging to demonstrate that the care given fell below established standards, particularly when suing governments, since they are measured against the standards they created, Stanley said. Governments could also introduce legislation to protect themselves against COVID-19 related lawsuits, although there is a "very live debate" over whether they can preclude cases involving breaches of charter rights, he said. Such laws are generally "very unpopular" politically, he said. Even if any of the proposed class actions are successful, plaintiffs may be shocked to find the damages they receive are minimal, he said. "People are not compensated for the loss of companionship, the loss of friendship, from an older person that's deceased," he said. "You're basically compensating for the loss of economic benefits they brought to you. And most older people are not in a position where they're providing economic benefits...so in many instances those claims are actually worth nothing." In truly egregious cases, a nursing home could face punitive damages, which are meant to deter certain conduct, said Smitiuch, the Toronto lawyer. Governments should also consider an inquiry into how care homes responded to the crisis, he said. "It would be something that would be valuable for the future, because no doubt we'll be facing something like this sometime in the future," he said. Three professional orders in Quebec have said they will hold a joint investigation into the situation at seniors' homes and long-term care centres since the COVID-19 pandemic struck. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 2, 2020.
3 May 16:07 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/lawsuits-over-covid-19-handling-in-nursing-homes-raise-questions-about-standard-of-care-1.4922796Rating: 2.87
Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
TORONTO -- As the deadly toll of COVID-19 on Canada's nursing homes gives rise to a growing number of proposed class-action lawsuits, some legal experts say the cases will turn on what's considered reasonable care during a pandemic. The ongoing global health crisis that has disproportionately affected the elderly poses a unique and unprecedented backdrop for such civil actions, which have emerged in Ontario and Quebec in recent weeks, experts say. While nursing homes can't be blamed for the pandemic, they can be held accountable for unnecessary and preventable deaths, said Michael Smitiuch, a Toronto-based lawyer who previously led a successful negligence lawsuit against a Brampton, Ont. facility for seniors. "A crisis like this does not give nursing homes a free pass to neglect the elderly. So I think what will happen is...we're going to look back at this through a lens of what was reasonable under the circumstances," he said. "The interesting question will be, what is the standard of care during a pandemic?" The courts will likely look to the requirements and guidelines issued by health ministries, the World Health Organization and other similar bodies in gauging whether any defendants were negligent, Smitiuch said. The novel coronavirus has ravaged private and government-run seniors' homes, particularly in Canada's two largest provinces, causing a large proportion of the country's more than 3,000 deaths. Rules and standards for nursing homes have evolved rapidly as public health officials respond to the crisis, with several provinces now banning staff from working in multiple facilities. However, a number of proposed class-action lawsuits allege negligence on the part of governments or nursing home operators in their handling of the virus. In Quebec, the son of a 94-year-old woman who died of COVID-19 at one of the province's hardest-hit facilities has filed a class-action application against the government-run CHSLD Ste-Dorothee. A Toronto law firm, meanwhile, has served the provincial government with notice of a proposed class proceeding on behalf of all Ontarians in long-term care homes. It alleges the province's failures in overseeing the facilities have resulted in widespread, avoidable illness and death during the pandemic. Another such lawsuit launched by two Ontario men whose mothers died from COVID-19 targets Revera, a privately owned nursing home company. None of the cases have been certified as class actions so far and their claims have not been tested in court. Scott Stanley, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, said these lawsuits and any others that surface in the coming months will face multiple hurdles in meeting the criteria for negligence. First, he said, it may be difficult for plaintiffs to show the actions of the operators or government caused the deaths. "If the theory is, well, workers were able to go from one home to the other and transmit the virus -- that's a theory, but you have to show factually that that actually caused other people to be affected or infected," he said. It may also be challenging to demonstrate that the care given fell below established standards, particularly when suing governments, since they are measured against the standards they created, Stanley said. Governments could also introduce legislation to protect themselves against COVID-19 related lawsuits, although there is a "very live debate" over whether they can preclude cases involving breaches of charter rights, he said. Such laws are generally "very unpopular" politically, he said. Even if any of the proposed class actions are successful, plaintiffs may be shocked to find the damages they receive are minimal, he said. "People are not compensated for the loss of companionship, the loss of friendship, from an older person that's deceased," he said. "You're basically compensating for the loss of economic benefits they brought to you. And most older people are not in a position where they're providing economic benefits...so in many instances those claims are actually worth nothing." In truly egregious cases, a nursing home could face punitive damages, which are meant to deter certain conduct, said Smitiuch, the Toronto lawyer. Governments should also consider an inquiry into how care homes responded to the crisis, he said. "It would be something that would be valuable for the future, because no doubt we'll be facing something like this sometime in the future," he said. Three professional orders in Quebec have said they will hold a joint investigation into the situation at seniors' homes and long-term care centres since the COVID-19 pandemic struck. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 2, 2020.
3 May 16:05 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/lawsuits-over-covid-19-handling-in-nursing-homes-raise-questions-about-standard-of-care-1.4922801Rating: 1.66
Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
As the deadly toll of COVID-19 on Canada’s nursing homes gives rise to a growing number of proposed class-action lawsuits, some legal experts say the cases will turn on what’s considered reasonable care during a pandemic. The continuing global health crisis that has disproportionately affected the elderly poses a unique and unprecedented backdrop for such civil actions, which have emerged in Ontario and Quebec in recent weeks, experts say. While nursing homes can’t be blamed for the pandemic, they can be held accountable for unnecessary and preventable deaths, said Michael Smitiuch, a Toronto-based lawyer who previously led a successful negligence lawsuit against a Brampton, Ont. facility for seniors. “A crisis like this does not give nursing homes a free pass to neglect the elderly. So I think what will happen is…we’re going to look back at this through a lens of what was reasonable under the circumstances,” he said. “The interesting question will be, what is the standard of care during a pandemic?” The courts will likely look to the requirements and guidelines issued by health ministries, the World Health Organization and other similar bodies in gauging whether any defendants were negligent, Mr. Smitiuch said. The novel coronavirus has ravaged private and government-run seniors’ homes, particularly in Canada’s two largest provinces, causing a large proportion of the country’s more than 3,000 deaths. Rules and standards for nursing homes have evolved rapidly as public-health officials respond to the crisis, with several provinces now banning staff from working in multiple facilities. However, a number of proposed class-action lawsuits allege negligence on the part of governments or nursing-home operators in their handling of the virus. In Quebec, the son of a 94-year-old woman who died of COVID-19 at one of the province’s hardest-hit facilities has filed a class-action application against the government-run CHSLD Ste-Dorothée. A Toronto law firm, meanwhile, has served the provincial government with notice of a proposed class proceeding on behalf of all Ontarians in long-term care homes. It alleges the province’s failures in overseeing the facilities have resulted in widespread, avoidable illness and death during the pandemic. Another such lawsuit launched by two Ontario men whose mothers died from COVID-19 targets Revera, a privately owned nursing home company. None of the cases have been certified as class actions so far and their claims have not been tested in court. Scott Stanley, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, said these lawsuits and any others that surface in the coming months will face multiple hurdles in meeting the criteria for negligence. First, he said, it may be difficult for plaintiffs to show the actions of the operators or government caused the deaths. “If the theory is, well, workers were able to go from one home to the other and transmit the virus – that’s a theory, but you have to show factually that that actually caused other people to be affected or infected,” he said. It may also be challenging to demonstrate that the care given fell below established standards, particularly when suing governments, since they are measured against the standards they created, Mr. Stanley said. Governments could also introduce legislation to protect themselves against COVID-19 related lawsuits, although there is a “very live debate” over whether they can preclude cases involving breaches of charter rights, he said. Such laws are generally “very unpopular” politically, he said. Even if any of the proposed class actions are successful, plaintiffs may be shocked to find the damages they receive are minimal, he said. “People are not compensated for the loss of companionship, the loss of friendship, from an older person that’s deceased,” he said. “You’re basically compensating for the loss of economic benefits they brought to you. And most older people are not in a position where they’re providing economic benefits … so in many instances those claims are actually worth nothing.” In truly egregious cases, a nursing home could face punitive damages, which are meant to deter certain conduct, Mr. Smitiuch said. Governments should also consider an inquiry into how care homes responded to the crisis, he said. “It would be something that would be valuable for the future, because no doubt we’ll be facing something like this some time in the future,” he said. Three professional orders in Quebec have said they will hold a joint investigation into the situation at seniors’ homes and long-term care centres since the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Sign up for the Coronavirus Update newsletter to read the day’s essential coronavirus news, features and explainers written by Globe reporters and editors.
3 May 21:37 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-lawsuits-over-covid-19-handling-in-nursing-homes-raise-questions-about-2/Rating: 2.18
Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
As the deadly toll of COVID-19 on Canada’s nursing homes gives rise to a growing number of proposed class-action lawsuits, some legal experts say the cases will turn on what’s considered reasonable care during a pandemic. The ongoing global health crisis that has disproportionately affected the elderly poses a unique and unprecedented backdrop for such civil actions, which have emerged in Ontario and Quebec in recent weeks, experts say. While nursing homes can’t be blamed for the pandemic, they can be held accountable for unnecessary and preventable deaths, said Michael Smitiuch, a Toronto-based lawyer who previously led a successful negligence lawsuit against a Brampton, Ont. facility for seniors. “A crisis like this does not give nursing homes a free pass to neglect the elderly. So I think what will happen is…we’re going to look back at this through a lens of what was reasonable under the circumstances,” he said. “The interesting question will be, what is the standard of care during a pandemic?” The courts will likely look to the requirements and guidelines issued by health ministries, the World Health Organization and other similar bodies in gauging whether any defendants were negligent, Smitiuch said. The novel coronavirus has ravaged private and government-run seniors’ homes, particularly in Canada’s two largest provinces, causing a large proportion of the country’s more than 3,000 deaths. Rules and standards for nursing homes have evolved rapidly as public health officials respond to the crisis, with several provinces now banning staff from working in multiple facilities. However, a number of proposed class-action lawsuits allege negligence on the part of governments or nursing home operators in their handling of the virus. In Quebec, the son of a 94-year-old woman who died of COVID-19 at one of the province’s hardest-hit facilities has filed a class-action application against the government-run CHSLD Ste-Dorothee. A Toronto law firm, meanwhile, has served the provincial government with notice of a proposed class proceeding on behalf of all Ontarians in long-term care homes. It alleges the province’s failures in overseeing the facilities have resulted in widespread, avoidable illness and death during the pandemic. Another such lawsuit launched by two Ontario men whose mothers died from COVID-19 targets Revera, a privately owned nursing home company. None of the cases have been certified as class actions so far and their claims have not been tested in court. Scott Stanley, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, said these lawsuits and any others that surface in the coming months will face multiple hurdles in meeting the criteria for negligence. First, he said, it may be difficult for plaintiffs to show the actions of the operators or government caused the deaths. “If the theory is, well, workers were able to go from one home to the other and transmit the virus _ that’s a theory, but you have to show factually that that actually caused other people to be affected or infected,” he said. It may also be challenging to demonstrate that the care given fell below established standards, particularly when suing governments, since they are measured against the standards they created, Stanley said. Governments could also introduce legislation to protect themselves against COVID-19 related lawsuits, although there is a “very live debate” over whether they can preclude cases involving breaches of charter rights, he said. Such laws are generally “very unpopular” politically, he said. Even if any of the proposed class actions are successful, plaintiffs may be shocked to find the damages they receive are minimal, he said. “People are not compensated for the loss of companionship, the loss of friendship, from an older person that’s deceased,” he said. “You’re basically compensating for the loss of economic benefits they brought to you. And most older people are not in a position where they’re providing economic benefits…so in many instances those claims are actually worth nothing.” In truly egregious cases, a nursing home could face punitive damages, which are meant to deter certain conduct, said Smitiuch, the Toronto lawyer. Governments should also consider an inquiry into how care homes responded to the crisis, he said. “It would be something that would be valuable for the future, because no doubt we’ll be facing something like this sometime in the future,” he said. Three professional orders in Quebec have said they will hold a joint investigation into the situation at seniors’ homes and long-term care centres since the COVID-19 pandemic struck.
3 May 19:32 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/lawsuits-over-covid-19-handling-in-nursing-homes-raise-questions-about-standard-of-care-2/Rating: 0.61
Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
TORONTO - As the deadly toll of COVID-19 on Canada's nursing homes gives rise to a growing number of proposed class-action lawsuits, some legal experts say the cases will turn on what's considered reasonable care during a pandemic. The ongoing global health crisis that has disproportionately affected the elderly poses a unique and unprecedented backdrop for such civil actions, which have emerged in Ontario and Quebec in recent weeks, experts say. While nursing homes can't be blamed for the pandemic, they can be held accountable for unnecessary and preventable deaths, said Michael Smitiuch, a Toronto-based lawyer who previously led a successful negligence lawsuit against a Brampton, Ont. facility for seniors. "A crisis like this does not give nursing homes a free pass to neglect the elderly. So I think what will happen is...we're going to look back at this through a lens of what was reasonable under the circumstances," he said. "The interesting question will be, what is the standard of care during a pandemic?" The courts will likely look to the requirements and guidelines issued by health ministries, the World Health Organization and other similar bodies in gauging whether any defendants were negligent, Smitiuch said. The novel coronavirus has ravaged private and government-run seniors' homes, particularly in Canada's two largest provinces, causing a large proportion of the country's more than 3,000 deaths. Rules and standards for nursing homes have evolved rapidly as public health officials respond to the crisis, with several provinces now banning staff from working in multiple facilities. However, a number of proposed class-action lawsuits allege negligence on the part of governments or nursing home operators in their handling of the virus. In Quebec, the son of a 94-year-old woman who died of COVID-19 at one of the province's hardest-hit facilities has filed a class-action application against the government-run CHSLD Ste-Dorothee. A Toronto law firm, meanwhile, has served the provincial government with notice of a proposed class proceeding on behalf of all Ontarians in long-term care homes. It alleges the province's failures in overseeing the facilities have resulted in widespread, avoidable illness and death during the pandemic. Another such lawsuit launched by two Ontario men whose mothers died from COVID-19 targets Revera, a privately owned nursing home company. None of the cases have been certified as class actions so far and their claims have not been tested in court. Scott Stanley, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, said these lawsuits and any others that surface in the coming months will face multiple hurdles in meeting the criteria for negligence. First, he said, it may be difficult for plaintiffs to show the actions of the operators or government caused the deaths. "If the theory is, well, workers were able to go from one home to the other and transmit the virus — that's a theory, but you have to show factually that that actually caused other people to be affected or infected," he said. It may also be challenging to demonstrate that the care given fell below established standards, particularly when suing governments, since they are measured against the standards they created, Stanley said. Governments could also introduce legislation to protect themselves against COVID-19 related lawsuits, although there is a "very live debate" over whether they can preclude cases involving breaches of charter rights, he said. Such laws are generally "very unpopular" politically, he said. Even if any of the proposed class actions are successful, plaintiffs may be shocked to find the damages they receive are minimal, he said. "People are not compensated for the loss of companionship, the loss of friendship, from an older person that's deceased," he said. "You're basically compensating for the loss of economic benefits they brought to you. And most older people are not in a position where they're providing economic benefits...so in many instances those claims are actually worth nothing." In truly egregious cases, a nursing home could face punitive damages, which are meant to deter certain conduct, said Smitiuch, the Toronto lawyer. Governments should also consider an inquiry into how care homes responded to the crisis, he said. "It would be something that would be valuable for the future, because no doubt we'll be facing something like this sometime in the future," he said. Three professional orders in Quebec have said they will hold a joint investigation into the situation at seniors' homes and long-term care centres since the COVID-19 pandemic struck. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 2, 2020.
3 May 15:04 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-class-actions/cp1170564337Rating: 0.30
Lawsuits over COVID-19 handling in nursing homes raise questions about standard of care
TORONTO — As the deadly toll of COVID-19 on Canada's nursing homes gives rise to a growing number of proposed class-action lawsuits, some legal experts say the cases will turn on what's considered reasonable care during a pandemic. The ongoing global health crisis that has disproportionately affected the elderly poses a unique and unprecedented backdrop for such civil actions, which have emerged in Ontario and Quebec in recent weeks, experts say. While nursing homes can't be blamed for the pandemic, they can be held accountable for unnecessary and preventable deaths, said Michael Smitiuch, a Toronto-based lawyer who previously led a successful negligence lawsuit against a Brampton, Ont. facility for seniors. "A crisis like this does not give nursing homes a free pass to neglect the elderly. So I think what will happen is...we're going to look back at this through a lens of what was reasonable under the circumstances," he said. "The interesting question will be, what is the standard of care during a pandemic?" The courts will likely look to the requirements and guidelines issued by health ministries, the World Health Organization and other similar bodies in gauging whether any defendants were negligent, Smitiuch said. The novel coronavirus has ravaged private and government-run seniors' homes, particularly in Canada's two largest provinces, causing a large proportion of the country's more than 3,000 deaths. Rules and standards for nursing homes have evolved rapidly as public health officials respond to the crisis, with several provinces now banning staff from working in multiple facilities. However, a number of proposed class-action lawsuits allege negligence on the part of governments or nursing home operators in their handling of the virus. In Quebec, the son of a 94-year-old woman who died of COVID-19 at one of the province's hardest-hit facilities has filed a class-action application against the government-run CHSLD Ste-Dorothee. A Toronto law firm, meanwhile, has served the provincial government with notice of a proposed class proceeding on behalf of all Ontarians in long-term care homes. It alleges the province's failures in overseeing the facilities have resulted in widespread, avoidable illness and death during the pandemic. Another such lawsuit launched by two Ontario men whose mothers died from COVID-19 targets Revera, a privately owned nursing home company. None of the cases have been certified as class actions so far and their claims have not been tested in court. Scott Stanley, a personal injury lawyer in Vancouver, said these lawsuits and any others that surface in the coming months will face multiple hurdles in meeting the criteria for negligence. First, he said, it may be difficult for plaintiffs to show the actions of the operators or government caused the deaths. "If the theory is, well, workers were able to go from one home to the other and transmit the virus — that's a theory, but you have to show factually that that actually caused other people to be affected or infected," he said. It may also be challenging to demonstrate that the care given fell below established standards, particularly when suing governments, since they are measured against the standards they created, Stanley said. Governments could also introduce legislation to protect themselves against COVID-19 related lawsuits, although there is a "very live debate" over whether they can preclude cases involving breaches of charter rights, he said. Such laws are generally "very unpopular" politically, he said. Even if any of the proposed class actions are successful, plaintiffs may be shocked to find the damages they receive are minimal, he said. "People are not compensated for the loss of companionship, the loss of friendship, from an older person that's deceased," he said. "You're basically compensating for the loss of economic benefits they brought to you. And most older people are not in a position where they're providing economic benefits...so in many instances those claims are actually worth nothing." In truly egregious cases, a nursing home could face punitive damages, which are meant to deter certain conduct, said Smitiuch, the Toronto lawyer. Governments should also consider an inquiry into how care homes responded to the crisis, he said. "It would be something that would be valuable for the future, because no doubt we'll be facing something like this sometime in the future," he said. Three professional orders in Quebec have said they will hold a joint investigation into the situation at seniors' homes and long-term care centres since the COVID-19 pandemic struck. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 2, 2020. Paola Loriggio, The Canadian Press
3 May 15:04 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/lawsuits-over-covid-19-handling-in-nursing-homes-raise-questions-about-standard-of-care-2320667Rating: 0.30
Security guards in high demand, face more stress on job during COVID-19 pandemic
3 May 14:00
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Weighted average IN: 1.7568394761238573
Security guards in high demand, face more stress on job during COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred an enormous demand for security guards, whose job descriptions have been expanded to include temperature checks, grocery store crowd control and — in at least one case — removing bodies from a morgue. United Food and Commercial Workers Local 333 says 1,500 security jobs are immediately available in Ontario, many of them well-paying. But union secretary-treasurer Jeff Ketelaars said would-be guards can't take licence tests because government offices are closed. He has written to Premier Doug Ford urging an alternative like Quebec's temporary online system. "There's a lot of Canadians that would rather be working, would rather be doing social good, would rather be protecting their neighbourhoods and their family and friends than sitting at home and not working," Ketelaars said. He added other union members who have been laid off from hotel jobs are keen to get into security, but can't until licensing is worked out. Ketelaars said security guards often earn minimum wage, making it tough for many to justify going for those jobs when there's equivalent government aid. And the pandemic has increased stress on guards, he added. "Members of the public have just been absolutely brutal to them to the point where some of our members have been assaulted at work where they usually wouldn't." The union intervened in one Ontario case where guards were asked to remove bodies from a hospital because funeral home staff did not want to expose themselves to the virus. Scott Young, with security firm Garda World, said there were initial problems with guards booking off because they feared for their safety, but the company has worked to allay those concerns. "We're seeing less and less of that and the guards are really stepping up in a major way across the country to fill this increased need that we're facing," said Young, Garda's vice-president for the Prairies. Young added his company has been pressing clients to pay wage premiums. "Some have been able to and some haven't," he said. "We're doing what we can to support the staff in the front lines as much as possible." Young said Garda's billable hours are up 25 per cent over the past eight weeks, as the need from essential retail outlets and hospitals by far offsets the drop from special events and airports. Over the past two months, Garda has hired 2,500 staff, about double what it normally would over that time period. Young added training guards has been a challenge as first-aid, handcuff and non-violent crisis intervention courses are done in-person. It's also becoming the new normal to have guards check temperatures to avoid sick people entering buildings. Garda has equipment that can be integrated into metal-detector archways or card-access turnstiles. Calgary-based security consultant Glen Kitteringham said guards are having to do more patrols of empty buildings because employees and visitors — their usual eyes and ears — aren't around to report anything suspicious. He said he's also heard from guard company clients that shoplifting is up, but police have understandably been too preoccupied to get involved. He said staffing has been an issue as guards exposed to COVID-19 have to isolate. Within a pool of 1,000 or so guards his client base represents, between 130 and 180 have been off work at any given time during the past six weeks. Kitteringham said he hopes there's a newfound appreciation for security guards, who normally fade into the background. "What I hope that comes out of all this is a true recognition of the value that they bring to the organization all the time, and not just during emergencies when it's glaringly obvious that they're providing a valuable service." This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020.
3 May 14:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-security/cp933975258Rating: 0.30
Security guards in high demand, face more stress on job during COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred an enormous demand for security guards, whose job descriptions have been expanded to include temperature checks, grocery store crowd control and -- in at least one case -- removing bodies from a morgue. United Food and Commercial Workers Local 333 says 1,500 security jobs are immediately available in Ontario, many of them well-paying. But union secretary-treasurer Jeff Ketelaars said would-be guards can't take licence tests because government offices are closed. He has written to Premier Doug Ford urging an alternative like Quebec's temporary online system. "There's a lot of Canadians that would rather be working, would rather be doing social good, would rather be protecting their neighbourhoods and their family and friends than sitting at home and not working," Ketelaars said. He added other union members who have been laid off from hotel jobs are keen to get into security, but can't until licensing is worked out. Ketelaars said security guards often earn minimum wage, making it tough for many to justify going for those jobs when there's equivalent government aid. And the pandemic has increased stress on guards, he added. "Members of the public have just been absolutely brutal to them to the point where some of our members have been assaulted at work where they usually wouldn't." The union intervened in one Ontario case where guards were asked to remove bodies from a hospital because funeral home staff did not want to expose themselves to the virus. Scott Young, with security firm Garda World, said there were initial problems with guards booking off because they feared for their safety, but the company has worked to allay those concerns. "We're seeing less and less of that and the guards are really stepping up in a major way across the country to fill this increased need that we're facing," said Young, Garda's vice-president for the Prairies. Young added his company has been pressing clients to pay wage premiums. "Some have been able to and some haven't," he said. "We're doing what we can to support the staff in the front lines as much as possible." Young said Garda's billable hours are up 25 per cent over the past eight weeks, as the need from essential retail outlets and hospitals by far offsets the drop from special events and airports. Over the past two months, Garda has hired 2,500 staff, about double what it normally would over that time period. Young added training guards has been a challenge as first-aid, handcuff and non-violent crisis intervention courses are done in-person. It's also becoming the new normal to have guards check temperatures to avoid sick people entering buildings. Garda has equipment that can be integrated into metal-detector archways or card-access turnstiles. Calgary-based security consultant Glen Kitteringham said guards are having to do more patrols of empty buildings because employees and visitors -- their usual eyes and ears -- aren't around to report anything suspicious. He said he's also heard from guard company clients that shoplifting is up, but police have understandably been too preoccupied to get involved. He said staffing has been an issue as guards exposed to COVID-19 have to isolate. Within a pool of 1,000 or so guards his client base represents, between 130 and 180 have been off work at any given time during the past six weeks. Kitteringham said he hopes there's a newfound appreciation for security guards, who normally fade into the background. "What I hope that comes out of all this is a true recognition of the value that they bring to the organization all the time, and not just during emergencies when it's glaringly obvious that they're providing a valuable service." This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020.
3 May 14:27 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/security-guards-in-high-demand-face-more-stress-on-job-during-covid-19-pandemic-1.4922735Rating: 2.87
Security guards in high demand, face more stress on job during COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred an enormous demand for security guards, whose job descriptions have been expanded to include temperature checks, grocery store crowd control and – in at least one case – removing bodies from a morgue. United Food and Commercial Workers Local 333 says 1,500 security jobs are immediately available in Ontario, many of them well-paying. But union secretary-treasurer Jeff Ketelaars said would-be guards can’t take licence tests because government offices are closed. He has written to Premier Doug Ford urging an alternative like Quebec’s temporary online system. “There’s a lot of Canadians that would rather be working, would rather be doing social good, would rather be protecting their neighbourhoods and their family and friends than sitting at home and not working,” Ketelaars said. He added other union members who have been laid off from hotel jobs are keen to get into security, but can’t until licensing is worked out. Ketelaars said security guards often earn minimum wage, making it tough for many to justify going for those jobs when there’s equivalent government aid. And the pandemic has increased stress on guards, he added. “Members of the public have just been absolutely brutal to them to the point where some of our members have been assaulted at work where they usually wouldn’t.” The union intervened in one Ontario case where guards were asked to remove bodies from a hospital because funeral home staff did not want to expose themselves to the virus. Scott Young, with security firm Garda World, said there were initial problems with guards booking off because they feared for their safety, but the company has worked to allay those concerns. “We’re seeing less and less of that and the guards are really stepping up in a major way across the country to fill this increased need that we’re facing,” said Young, Garda’s vice-president for the Prairies. Young added his company has been pressing clients to pay wage premiums. “Some have been able to and some haven’t,” he said. “We’re doing what we can to support the staff in the front lines as much as possible.” Young said Garda’s billable hours are up 25 per cent over the past eight weeks, as the need from essential retail outlets and hospitals by far offsets the drop from special events and airports. Over the past two months, Garda has hired 2,500 staff, about double what it normally would over that time period. Young added training guards has been a challenge as first-aid, handcuff and non-violent crisis intervention courses are done in-person. It’s also becoming the new normal to have guards check temperatures to avoid sick people entering buildings. Garda has equipment that can be integrated into metal-detector archways or card-access turnstiles. Calgary-based security consultant Glen Kitteringham said guards are having to do more patrols of empty buildings because employees and visitors – their usual eyes and ears – aren’t around to report anything suspicious. He said he’s also heard from guard company clients that shoplifting is up, but police have understandably been too preoccupied to get involved. He said staffing has been an issue as guards exposed to COVID-19 have to isolate. Within a pool of 1,000 or so guards his client base represents, between 130 and 180 have been off work at any given time during the past six weeks. Kitteringham said he hopes there’s a new-found appreciation for security guards, who normally fade into the background. “What I hope that comes out of all this is a true recognition of the value that they bring to the organization all the time, and not just during emergencies when it’s glaringly obvious that they’re providing a valuable service.” Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 14:56 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-security-guards-in-high-demand-face-more-stress-on-job-during-covid-2/Rating: 2.18
WHO's Ryan says world is in 'fight of our lives', but there is hope
3 May 16:33
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3 articles
Weight: 2.26
Importance: 2.26
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 16:31
Average US: 8.933333333333334
Weighted average US: 18.78682105492791
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Weighted average GB: 0.6309007070684746
Average IN: 2.6666666666666665
Weighted average IN: 5.29016532020527
WHO's Ryan says world is in 'fight of our lives', but there is hope
LONDON/GENEVA (Reuters) - Parts of the world are starting to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and to cautiously resume some sort of normal life, but the new coronavirus will pose significant risks until vaccines are developed, the WHO’s top emergencies expert said on Sunday. Mike Ryan, executive director of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) emergencies programme, said while many countries are still in the eye of the storm, others were beginning to show it is possible to contain the disease to some extent. “In that sense, there’s hope,” Ryan told Reuters in an online interview from Geneva. “At a global level the situation is still very, very serious but the pattern of the disease and the trajectory of the virus is very different in different parts of the world right now,” he said. “What we’re learning is that it is possible to get this disease under control and it is possible to begin resuming normal economic and social life, with a new way of having to do that, and with extreme caution and vigilance.” However, some countries in Africa and in central and South America are still seeing “an upwards trajectory in cases” and although they may not appear to have a big problem yet, the availability of tests remains an issue, Ryan added. More than 3.44 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 243,015 have died, according to a Reuters tally as of Sunday. Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December. “We’re in the middle of the fight of our lives - all of us around the world,” Ryan said. “There’s going to be a significant and extended risk until we reach a point where we have a safe and effective vaccine available to all.” Ryan said some countries, including China, South Korea, Singapore, New Zealand and others, had reached what he described as “a steady state” with regard to the spread of COVID-19. Meanwhile Europe and North America are beginning to emerge from “very intense epidemics” of the disease and are now trying to navigate a safe exit from severe restrictions on economic and social activities imposed in the past few months, he said. After months of severe lockdown, people in Italy and Spain were starting to enjoy a little more freedom on Sunday. Israel has opened some schools, while South Korea said it would further relax social distancing rules from May 6, allowing a phased re-opening of businesses. Ryan said this showed “not that the virus can be beaten absolutely, but that we can reach a point where we have enough control over the virus that our social and economic lives can begin again”. He reiterated, however, that any government seeking to relax restrictions should do so with extreme caution. The WHO warned on Friday that countries must lift lockdowns gradually, while still being “on the look-out” for COVID-19 and ready to restore restrictions if the virus jumps back.
3 May 16:33 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-who-ryan-idUSKBN22F0PGRating: 4.04
WHO director says world’s in ‘fight of our lives’, but there’s hope
Parts of the world are starting to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic and to cautiously resume some sort of normal life, but the new coronavirus will pose significant risks until vaccines are developed, the WHO’s top emergencies expert said on Sunday. Mike Ryan, executive director of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) emergencies programme, said while many countries are still in the eye of the storm, others were beginning to show it is possible to contain the disease to some extent. “In that sense, there’s hope,” Ryan told Reuters in an online interview from Geneva. “At a global level the situation is still very, very serious but the pattern of the disease and the trajectory of the virus is very different in different parts of the world right now,” he said. “What we’re learning is that it is possible to get this disease under control and it is possible to begin resuming normal economic and social life, with a new way of having to do that, and with extreme caution and vigilance.” However, some countries in Africa and in central and South America are still seeing “an upwards trajectory in cases” and although they may not appear to have a big problem yet, the availability of tests remains an issue, Ryan added. Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December. “We’re in the middle of the fight of our lives – all of us around the world,” Ryan said. “There’s going to be a significant and extended risk until we reach a point where we have a safe and effective vaccine available to all.” Ryan said some countries, including China, South Korea, Singapore, New Zealand and others, had reached what he described as “a steady state” with regard to the spread of Covid-19. Meanwhile Europe and North America are beginning to emerge from “very intense epidemics” of the disease and are now trying to navigate a safe exit from severe restrictions on economic and social activities imposed in the past few months, he said. After months of severe lockdown, people in Italy and Spain were starting to enjoy a little more freedom on Sunday. Israel has opened some schools, while South Korea said it would further relax social distancing rules from May 6, allowing a phased re-opening of businesses. Ryan said this showed “not that the virus can be beaten absolutely, but that we can reach a point where we have enough control over the virus that our social and economic lives can begin again”. He reiterated, however, that any government seeking to relax restrictions should do so with extreme caution. The WHO warned on Friday that countries must lift lockdowns gradually, while still being “on the look-out” for Covid-19 and ready to restore restrictions if the virus jumps back.
3 May 18:54 • Moneyweb • https://www.moneyweb.co.za/news/international/who-director-says-worlds-in-fight-of-our-lives-but-theres-hope/Rating: 1.42
WHO's Ryan says world is in 'fight of our lives', but there is hope
By Kate Kelland and Stephanie Nebehay LONDON/GENEVA (Reuters) - Parts of the world are starting to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and to cautiously resume some sort of normal life, but the new coronavirus will pose significant risks until vaccines are developed, the WHO's top emergencies expert said on Sunday. Mike Ryan, executive director of the World Health Organization's (WHO) emergencies programme, said while many countries are still in the eye of the storm, others were beginning to show it is possible to contain the disease to some extent. "In that sense, there's hope," Ryan told Reuters in an online interview from Geneva. "At a global level the situation is still very, very serious but the pattern of the disease and the trajectory of the virus is very different in different parts of the world right now," he said. "What we're learning is that it is possible to get this disease under control and it is possible to begin resuming normal economic and social life, with a new way of having to do that, and with extreme caution and vigilance." However, some countries in Africa and in central and South America are still seeing "an upwards trajectory in cases" and although they may not appear to have a big problem yet, the availability of tests remains an issue, Ryan added. More than 3.44 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 243,015 have died, according to a Reuters tally as of Sunday. Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December. "We're in the middle of the fight of our lives - all of us around the world," Ryan said. "There's going to be a significant and extended risk until we reach a point where we have a safe and effective vaccine available to all." Ryan said some countries, including China, South Korea, Singapore, New Zealand and others, had reached what he described as "a steady state" with regard to the spread of COVID-19. Meanwhile Europe and North America are beginning to emerge from "very intense epidemics" of the disease and are now trying to navigate a safe exit from severe restrictions on economic and social activities imposed in the past few months, he said. After months of severe lockdown, people in Italy and Spain were starting to enjoy a little more freedom on Sunday. Israel has opened some schools, while South Korea said it would further relax social distancing rules from May 6, allowing a phased re-opening of businesses. Ryan said this showed "not that the virus can be beaten absolutely, but that we can reach a point where we have enough control over the virus that our social and economic lives can begin again". He reiterated, however, that any government seeking to relax restrictions should do so with extreme caution. The WHO warned on Friday that countries must lift lockdowns gradually, while still being "on the look-out" for COVID-19 and ready to restore restrictions if the virus jumps back. (Reporting by Kate Kelland and Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Frances Kerry)
3 May 16:31 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/whos-ryan-says-world-fight-163133597.html/Rating: 0.30
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. in Lego-like animation
4 May 06:54
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14 articles
Weight: 2.26
Importance: 2.26
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 14:11
Average US: 7.0699999999999985
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Average GB: 1.077142857142857
Weighted average GB: 2.477069685039306
Average IN: 1.5642857142857143
Weighted average IN: 3.0866440717335815
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China has published a short animation titled “Once Upon a Virus” mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year and has spread to become a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China’s official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. “We discovered a new virus,” says the warrior. “So what?” replies the Statue of Liberty. “It’s only a flu.” As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China’s outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump’s press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. “Are you listening to yourselves?” asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. “We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves,” the statue replies. “That’s what I love about you Americans, your consistency,” says the warrior. Since its April 29 release on Xinhua’s official YouTube channel, “New China TV”, the video has been viewed more than 960,000 times and was retweeted by some Chinese diplomats. Both YouTube and Twitter are blocked in China, although China’s diplomats have increasingly taken to global social media platforms to broadcast their messages. The United States has accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. Social media reaction to the video was mixed. Twitter user “masood mortazavi” agreed with the video’s messaging, saying “US follies bemuse no one anymore.” But some comments came with the hashtag “ChinaLiedPeopleDied” or show Chinese President Xi Jinping in a variety of virus-related visuals. Others were scathing about the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). “Clever propaganda. Where is the bit where the CCP covered it up and publicly shamed a hero doctor who then died?” said Twitter user “AC”. Along with clips of English-language Xinhua video news stories, New China TV has previously uploaded publicity videos such as one of children of different ethnicities singing praises of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Lego said it was not involved in the animation.
4 May 06:54 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-china-usa-idUSKBN22E0C4Rating: 4.04
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks US coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the US response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: "We weren't involved in making the animation in any way." If you want to help in the fight against COVID-19, we have compiled an up-to-date list of community initiatives designed to aid medical workers and low-income people in this article. Link: [UPDATED] Anti-COVID-19 initiatives: Helping Indonesia fight the outbreak
3 May 14:13 • The Jakarta Post • https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/05/03/once-upon-a-virus-china-mocks-us-coronavirus-response-in-lego-like-animation.htmlRating: 1.40
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI - China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: "We weren't involved in making the animation in any way." Read MoreMilitary jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. Read MoreMore people hit China roads in first major holiday since coronavirus easing The country recorded more than 23 million domestic tourists on May 1, according to China's culture and tourism ministry. Read MoreTrump says evidence ties China lab to virus Malaysia said Friday it would re-open for business next week, while Australia's government said it could begin easing restrictions soon.
3 May 14:11 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Once-Upon-a-Virus-China-mocks-U.S.-coronavirus-response-in-Lego-like-animationRating: 3.14
‘Once Upon a Virus’: China mocks US coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
China has published a short animation titled “Once Upon a Virus” mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China’s official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. “We discovered a new virus,” says the warrior. “So what?” replies the Statue of Liberty. “It’s only a flu.” As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China’s outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump’s press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. “Are you listening to yourselves?” asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. “We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves,” the statue replies. “That’s what I love about you Americans, your consistency,” says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego’s press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: “We weren’t involved in making the animation in any way.”
3 May 10:07 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/china-mocks-us-coronavirus-response-in-lego-like-animation-6391807/Rating: 0.30
'Once upon a virus': China mocks US coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
China has published a short animation titled "Once upon a virus" mocking the US response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November.
3 May 06:53 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/politics/2020/05/03/once-upon-a-virus-china-mocks-us-coronavirus-response-in-lego-like-animationRating: 2.85
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI — China has published a short animation titled “Once Upon a Virus” mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China’s official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. “We discovered a new virus,” says the warrior. “So what?” replies the Statue of Liberty. “It’s only a flu.” As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China’s outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump’s press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. “Are you listening to yourselves?” asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. “We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves,” the statue replies. “That’s what I love about you Americans, your consistency,” says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego’s press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: “We weren’t involved in making the animation in any way.” (Reporting by Engen Tham; Additional reporting by Alexandra Harney in Hong Kong; Editing by Stephen Coates and Himani Sarkar)
3 May 04:00 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/entertainment-pmn/once-upon-a-virus-china-mocks-u-s-coronavirus-response-in-lego-like-animation-2Rating: 1.59
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: "We weren't involved in making the animation in any way." (Reporting by Engen Tham; Additional reporting by Alexandra Harney in Hong Kong; Editing by Stephen Coates and Himani Sarkar)
2 May 10:36 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/once-upon-virus-china-mocks-103623147.htmlRating: 0.30
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: "We weren't involved in making the animation in any way." (Reporting by Engen Tham; Additional reporting by Alexandra Harney in Hong Kong; Editing by Stephen Coates and Himani Sarkar)
2 May 10:12 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/once-upon-virus-china-mocks-101248714.htmlRating: 0.30
'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI, May 2 (Reuters) - China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November. (Reporting by Engen Tham; Editing by Stephen Coates)
2 May 10:02 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/once-upon-virus-china-mocks-100237429.htmlRating: 0.30
'Once upon a virus': China mocks the US response to the coronavirus crisis with a Lego-like animation featuring a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty
China has published a short animation titled 'Once Upon a Virus' mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. 'We discovered a new virus,' says the warrior. 'So what?' replies the Statue of Liberty. 'It's only a flu.' As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. 'Are you listening to yourselves?' asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. 'We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves,' the statue replies. 'That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency,' says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing 'will do anything they can' to make him lose his re-election bid in November.
2 May 16:05 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8280655/Once-virus-China-mocks-response-coronavirus-crisis-Lego-like-animation.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
China releases animation mocking US response to coronavirus outbreak
China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the US response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Mr Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The US and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview, Mr Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: "We weren't involved in making the animation in any way."
3 May 04:11 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/china-releases-animation-mocking-us-041134572.htmlRating: 0.30
Once Upon a Virus: China mocks US over coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
China has published a short animation titled "Once Upon a Virus" mocking the US response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. "We discovered a new virus," says the warrior. "So what?" replies the Statue of Liberty. "It's only a flu." As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. "Are you listening to yourselves?" asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. "We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves," the statue replies. "That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency," says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: "We weren't involved in making the animation in any way." IndiaToday.in has plenty of useful resources that can help you better understand the coronavirus pandemic and protect yourself. Read our comprehensive guide (with information on how the virus spreads, precautions and symptoms), watch an expert debunk myths, check out our data analysis of cases in India, and access our dedicated coronavirus page. Get the latest updates on our live blog.
3 May 04:35 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/once-upon-a-virus-china-us-coronavirus-pandemic-response-lego-like-animation-1673841-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
‘Once Upon a Virus’: China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation
China has published a short animation titled “Once Upon a Virus” mocking the U.S. response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China's official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. “We discovered a new virus,” says the warrior. “So what?” replies the Statue of Liberty. “It's only a flu.” As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China's outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump's press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. “Are you listening to yourselves?” asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. “We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves,” the statue replies. “That's what I love about you Americans, your consistency,” says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November. Lego's press office wrote in an emailed statement on Saturday: “We weren't involved in making the animation in any way.”
3 May 04:13 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/once-upon-a-virus-china-mocks-us-coronavirus-response-in-lego-like-animation/article31493367.eceRating: 0.30
‘Once Upon a Virus’; China mocks US Covid-19 response in Lego-like animation
SHANGHAI, May 2 — China has published a short animation titled Once Upon a Virus mocking the US response to the new coronavirus using Lego-like figures to represent the two countries. Washington and Beijing are locked in a war of words over the origins of the disease, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has grown into a global pandemic. US President Donald Trump said on Thursday he was confident the coronavirus may have originated in a Chinese virology lab, but declined to describe the evidence. In the animation posted online by China’s official Xinhua news agency, red curtains open to reveal a stage featuring Lego-like figures in the form of a terracotta warrior wearing a face mask and the Statue of Liberty. “We discovered a new virus,” says the warrior. “So what?” replies the Statue of Liberty. “It’s only a flu.” As the warrior issues warnings about the virus and counts off the grim milestones in China’s outbreak, the Statue of Liberty replies dismissively with echoes of Trump’s press conferences in which he played down the severity of the illness. “Are you listening to yourselves?” asks the warrior as the statue begins to turn red with fever and gets hooked up to an intravenous drip. “We are always correct, even though we contradict ourselves,” the statue replies. “That’s what I love about you Americans, your consistency,” says the warrior. The United States and other countries have accused China of misleading the world about the severity of the outbreak, and there are growing calls for an international inquiry into the origins of the virus. In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing “will do anything they can” to make him lose his re-election bid in November. — Reuters
2 May 10:17 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/showbiz/2020/05/02/once-upon-a-virus-china-mocks-us-covid-19-response-in-lego-like-animation/1862421Rating: 1.42
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
3 May 20:53
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7 articles
Weight: 2.24
Importance: 2.24
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:51
Average US: 5.942857142857141
Weighted average US: 8.138485925969347
Average GB: 0.05714285714285714
Weighted average GB: 0.12292881122358236
Average IN: 1.2571428571428571
Weighted average IN: 1.878136328847424
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. “It was evident on May 3, 2016 and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience,” Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. “The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today,” Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren’t safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. “Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident,” Doyle said in the municipality’s news release. “If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder.” Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. “And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst,” Madu said in a statement on Sunday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 20:53 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/news-pmn/canada-news-pmn/fort-mcmurray-cleans-up-from-flood-on-anniversary-of-2016-wildfire-evacuationRating: 1.59
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. “It was evident on May 3, 2016 and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience,” Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. “The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today,” Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren’t safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. “Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident,” Doyle said in the municipality’s news release. “If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder.” Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. “And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst,” Madu said in a statement on Sunday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 20:51 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/fort-mcmurray-cleans-up-from-flood-on-anniversary-of-2016-wildfire-evacuation/Rating: 0.61
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. - As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. "It was evident on May 3, 2016 and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience," Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. "The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today," Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren't safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. "Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident," Doyle said in the municipality's news release. "If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder." Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. "And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst," Madu said in a statement on Sunday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 20:51 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/fort-mcmurray-flooding/cp1916432380Rating: 0.30
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. "It was evident on May 3, 2016 and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience," Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. "The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today," Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren't safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. "Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident," Doyle said in the municipality's news release. "If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder." Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. "And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst," Madu said in a statement on Sunday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 20:51 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/fort-mcmurray-cleans-up-from-flood-on-anniversary-of-2016-wildfire-evacuation-2321202Rating: 0.30
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. “It was evident on May 3, 2016, and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience,” Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray, including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. “The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today,” Mr. Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren’t safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. “Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident,” Mr. Doyle said in the municipality’s news release. “If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder.” Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. “And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst,” Ms. Madu said in a statement on Sunday. We have a weekly Western Canada newsletter written by our B.C. and Alberta bureau chiefs, providing a comprehensive package of the news you need to know about the region and its place in the issues facing Canada. Sign up today.
3 May 21:19 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/alberta/article-fort-mcmurray-cleans-up-from-flood-on-anniversary-of-2016-wildfire/Rating: 2.18
Flood recovery begins
As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. "It was evident on May 3, 2016 and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience," Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. "The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today," Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren't safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. "Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident," Doyle said in the municipality's news release. "If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder." Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. "And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst," Madu said in a statement on Sunday.
3 May 15:30 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/Canada/298996/Fort-McMurray-cleans-up-from-flood-on-anniversary-of-2016-wildfire-evacuationRating: 1.34
Fort McMurray cleans up from flood on anniversary of 2016 wildfire evacuation
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. — As residents of Fort McMurray continued to assess their flood-damaged homes and businesses and began the difficult task of cleaning them this weekend, they also marked the anniversary of the start of an evacuation that emptied the northern Alberta city four years ago. “It was evident on May 3, 2016 and it is evident today: we are a region of resilience,” Mayor Don Scott said in a news release from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo on Sunday. Many of the evacuation orders that began last weekend due to the spring ice breakup on nearby rivers were lifted Friday. The flooding affected low-lying areas of Fort McMurray including its downtown, and close to 13,000 people had to leave their homes. The Canadian Red Cross has been handing out cleanup kits that contain latex and work gloves, sponges, garbage bags, mops and scrub brushes. A boil-water advisory for the city remains in effect, so oil company CNOOC International supplied a tanker truck that pumped out potable water to people who brought jugs on Saturday. A supermarket downtown, forced to close but not damaged, gave away free produce to the food bank, which distributed the items from the back of a semi-trailer on Saturday. “The recent river breakup flood has reminded me of the incredible generosity of our residents. That generosity was on display on that evacuation day four years ago, where neighbour helped neighbour, and it continues today,” Scott said. The municipality announced on the weekend that emergency housing provided through the Red Cross was being extended until May 10 for people whose homes aren’t safe to live in. The fire in northern Alberta ignited deep in the bush on May 1, 2016, and exploded into a ferocious blaze that forced the evacuation of the entire city two days later. More than 80,000 people fled as towering flames licked at their homes and crackled along the only highway out of the city. Flames consumed nearly 2,600 dwelling units, which were mostly residential. Chief administrative officer Jamie Doyle said the fire evacuation was one of the most challenging days the region and the municipality has ever faced. But he also said that between COVID-19 and the flooding, staff have also been very busy in the emergency operations centre this year. “Like May 3 four years ago, these emergency responses can be incredibly stressful on our staff, particularly if they have been directly impacted as a resident,” Doyle said in the municipality’s news release. “If you have the opportunity, I encourage you to express your thanks to a member of municipal staff or to a first responder.” Sunday also marked the beginning of Emergency Preparedness Month in Alberta. Municipal Affairs Minister Kaycee Madu said Albertans know first-hand that a wildfire, flood, tornado or pandemic can significantly impact their day-to-day lives. “And the historic flooding that we have seen in northern Alberta is an important reminder that we must be prepared for the worst,” Madu said in a statement on Sunday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 09:51 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/fort-mcmurray-cleans-up-from-flood-on-anniversary-of-2016-wildfire-evacuation/Rating: 0.77
Police quiz husband, 51, over murder of solicitor wife who was killed with a shotgun at their £610k farmhouse while twin boys, 8, were asleep
3 May 18:02
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Police quiz husband, 51, over murder of solicitor wife who was killed with a shotgun at their £610k farmhouse while twin boys, 8, were asleep
Police are quizzing a gun-dealer over the murder of his solicitor wife after she was found shot at their 17th century farmhouse. Silke Hartshorne-Jones, who was in her early forties, was found with gunshot wounds at the family's £610,000 Grade II-listed Chestnut Farm in Barham near Ipswich in the early hours of Sunday. Her husband Peter-Hartshorne Jones, 51, was arrested on suspicion of her murder and is being questioned by detectives in nearby Bury St Edmunds, sources confirmed today. He is father to her twin eight-year-old boys Harry and Henry. She worked as a corporate solicitor in London, but had been working from home since the start of lockdown, while her husband owned his own shotgun business. Police were scrambled to the property in Suffolk just after 4.45am on Sunday where Mrs Hartshorne-Jones was found in a critical condition. She was rushed to Ipswich Hospital but pronounced dead a short time later. Mr Hartshorne-Jones runs his own business called Hartshorne Fine English Shotguns selling what his website describes as 'the finest sporting English and Scottish shotguns'. He also has a London-based recruitment company providing staff for the catering industry, which he set up in 1999. A neighbour said he sells guns from the house, which he keeps in a secure cupboard. The website for the gun business states that Mr Hartshorne-Jones offers 'a unique worldwide service specialising in the sale and locating of the finest Sporting English and Scottish shotguns, sidelocks, boxlocks and hammer guns' It adds that the firm deals in guns made by 'leading makers including James Purdey & Sons, Boss & Co, Holland & Holland, James Woodward & Sons, Grant, Lang, Lancaster, William Evans, Charles Boswell and John Dickson & Son.' The website says: 'We have a particular interest in the sourcing and sale of fine small bore English game guns and very fine live pigeon guns, examples of which we regularly offer from their best makers, such as Charles Boswell, W & C Scott and others. 'We also offer a free gun valuation service and whether buying or selling your shotgun we can assist.' It goes on: 'From time to time we also offer a varied selection of military related antiques, militaria, memorabilia and edged weapons. Fully guided, wild bird shooting breaks and days can also be arranged.' Today forensic investigators were seen entering the luxury farmhouse with a police cordon still in place. Neighbours said that Mrs Hartshorne-Jones would leave the house at around 5.30am every morning to commute to work and would return in the early evening, but had been at home since lock down started. One villager described Mrs Hartshorne-Jones, who was German, as 'friendly' and 'a devoted mother' to her sons. The local, who asked not to be named, added: 'What has happened is just awful beyond words. It is the last thing you expect in a peaceful village like this.' Neighbour Kevin Terry, 53, said: 'We did not hear anything at all last night, but we woke up to all the police activity. 'The police came round to ask if we had hear anything, but we were unable to help. 'She and her husband used to argue quite a bit. You would quite often hear them arguing. 'She was quite a stern and forthright person - a typical German really. But she spoke excellent English with only a bit of an accent. 'He was a very English character who liked to wear a flat cap, and a Barbour jacket, and he had a collection of multi-coloured corduroy trousers. 'When they moved in a couple of weeks after we bought our house, one of the first things he asked me was, 'Do you shoot?' I don't so that was the end of the conversation. 'He worked from home and always boasted that he had three different companies including his gun company and recruitment business. 'I know he sold guns from the house and he had a secure gun cupboard. 'I used to see Silke every Sunday when she would walk up to the village green. She would always wave and say hello.' The couple bought the property for £460,000 when they moved in 2015, but it is now worth around £610,000. Mr Terry who works as a surveyor said he had seen an ambulance arrive at Chestnut Farm at 2.15am soon after lockdown started. He added: 'There was an ambulance at the house twice more over the next few days. On each occasion the paramedics were there quite a long time. 'We didn't see Peter after that so the assumption was that he was ill or something. We did not see him outside at all during lockdown. She was doing all the shopping and gardening.' Land Registry records reveal that Mr and Mrs Hartshorne-Jones bought their home including a one acre paddock for £460,000 in October 2015. Mrs Hartshorne-Jones worked as a lawyer for technology company K2 Partnering Solutions according to her Linked In profile. Her profile described her job as being in charge of the company's 'legal and compliance function' across Europe. A Suffolk Police statement said: 'Police were called shortly before 4.45am today, Sunday 3 May, to reports a woman had been shot within a property. 'On arrival at the premises, officers discovered a woman, aged in her 40s, inside who had suffered serious injuries. 'She was transported to Ipswich Hospital via ambulance in a critical condition, where she sadly died a short time later. 'A 51-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder and was taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning. 'A police cordon is in place at the property while an investigation is carried out.' Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact South CID, quoting crime reference: 37/24434/20
3 May 18:02 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8282639/Man-51-arrested-suspicion-murder-woman-40s-shot-dead-inside-Suffolk-house.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Celtic tops placed across Glasgow River Clyde bridge in tribute to Joseph Duffy after tragic death
A BRIDGE on the River Clyde in Glasgow has been covered in Celtic tops in a tribute to the late Joseph Duffy. Joseph's body was found yesterday after a search was carried out for the missing Hoops fan. Cops confirmed they had made the discovery at the River Clyde near Pointhouse Place in Glasgow at around 1.30pm on Saturday afternoon. Joseph, 39, had first been reported missing on April 11 after vanishing from his home in Newlands without his phone or wallet. After his disappearance Joseph’s sister Christine had shared a heartbreaking post saying her brother was “no longer with us”. And the Hoops fan’s partner had called him her “soul mate and best friend”. And now, groups of mourners took to Glasgow King George V bridge to pay their respects after his tragic passing. Various Celtic tops can be seen in the snaps with messages such as 'god bless' and 'YNWA Joe' written on them. Fiancee Jennifer Abdullah thanked the community for their support as she shared pictures from the bridge. She wrote: “We would like to thank everyone for their kind words, cards, flowers and continued support for myself and all the family. “Another special thanks goes to everyone who helped, over the Easter weekend, in trying to find Joseph. We cannot put into words how grateful we are for everyone's dedication to finding him. “We would like to personally thank George Parsonage, The Glasgow Humane Society and Police Scotland for their endless commitment over the last 3 weeks. “Due to their constant hardwork, we now have our Joe home and we can lay him to rest in peace. “We are also overwhelmed by everyone's generosity in raising nearly £12,000 in Joe's name for the Samaritans. “From the bottom of our hearts, please remember to speak out. No matter how big or small the matter is, don't struggle alone and in silence. It's okay not to be okay!” Joe’s sister Christina Cowie added: “Love you so much Joe. The memories we have of you are so precious. "You have left a massive hole in everyone’s heart. Will miss you so much my bro. "“Fly high with the angels. You’ll never walk alone. Riposa in pace.” As confirmed by partner Jennifer, over £12,000 has been raised in honour of Samaritans, the family’s chosen charity. The Just Giving page was set up in a bid to encourage all men in Scotland when feeling down, stressed or worried to ask for help when they need it. It has smashed the initial target of £2,000.
3 May 18:34 • The Scottish Sun • https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/5557736/celtic-tops-glasgow-river-clyde-joseph-duffy-death/Rating: 0.30
Gun dealer’s solicitor wife shot dead at their 17th-century farmhouse as man, 51, is held for murder
A 51-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested for murder after a solicitor was shot dead at a 17th-century farmhouse she owned with her gun-dealer husband. The victim was named locally as corporate solicitor Silke Hartshorne-Jones who was aged in her early 40s and had twin sons aged eight. She was shot in the early hours yesterday at her home where she lived with her husband Peter Hartshorne-Jones, 51, and her sons. Police said they were called at around 4.45am to reports that a woman had been shot at Grade Two-listed Chestnut Farm in Barham near Ipswich, Suffolk. Mrs Hartshorne-Jones was found in a critical condition with serious injuries in the detached house, and taken by ambulance to Ipswich Hospital, but was pronounced dead a short time later. Police confirmed that a 51-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of murder and he is currently being questioned. Mr Hartshorne-Jones runs his own business called Hartshorne Fine English Shotguns selling what his website describes as “the finest sporting English and Scottish shotguns”. He also has a recruitment company providing staff for the catering industry. One villager described Mrs Hartshorne-Jones who was German as “friendly” and “a devoted mother” to her sons Henry and Harry The local resident who asked not to be named, added: “What has happened is just awful beyond words. "It is the last thing you expect in a peaceful village like this.” Neighbour Kevin Terry, 53, said: “We did not hear anything at all last night, but we woke up to all the police activity. “The police came round to ask if we had hear anything, but we were unable to help. "She was quite a stern and forthright person – a typical German really. But she spoke excellent English with only a bit of an accent. “He was a very English character who liked to wear a flat cap, and a Barbour jacket, and he had a collection of multi-coloured corduroy trousers. “When they moved in a couple of weeks after we bought our house, one of the first things he asked me was, “Do you shoot?’ I don’t so that was the end of the conversation. “He worked from home and always boasted that he had three different companies including his gun company and recruitment business. “I know he sold guns from the house and he had a secure gun cupboard. “I used to see Silke every Sunday when she would walk up to the village green. She would always wave and say hello.” Mr Terry who works as a surveyor said he had seen an ambulance arrive at Chestnut Farm at 2.15am soon after lockdown started. He added: “There was an ambulance at the house twice more over the next few days. On each occasion the paramedics were there quite a long time. “We didn’t see Peter after that so the assumption was that he was ill or something. We did not see him outside at all during lockdown. She was doing all the shopping and gardening.” Land Registry records reveal that Mr and Mrs Hartshorne-Jones bought their home including a one acre paddock for £460,000 in October 2015. Mrs Hartshorne-Jones worked as a lawyer for technology company K2 Partnering Solutions, according to her Linked In profile. Her profile described her job as being in charge of the company’s “legal and compliance function” across Europe. A Suffolk Police statement said: “Police were called shortly before 4.45am today, Sunday 3 May, to reports a woman had been shot within a property. “On arrival at the premises, officers discovered a woman, aged in her 40s, inside who had suffered serious injuries. “She was transported to Ipswich Hospital via ambulance in a critical condition, where she sadly died a short time later. “A 51-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder and was taken to Bury St Edmunds Police Investigation Centre for questioning. “A police cordon is in place at the property while an investigation is carried out.” Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact South CID, quoting crime reference: 37/24434/20 For the latest news on this story keep checking back at Sun Online, where we will bring you live updates as soon as they happen, before anyone else. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun, and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun, where we will bring you this story and all the rest of the top news and exclusives of the day.
3 May 16:07 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11538954/woman-shot-dead-suffolk-village/Rating: 2.72
Tributes paid to tragic Celtic fan Joseph Duffy after body found in search for him
TRIBUTES have been paid after a body was found in the search for missing Celtic fan Joseph Duffy. Cops confirmed they had made the discovery at the River Clyde near Pointhouse Place in Glasgow at around 1.30pm this afternoon. Joseph, 39, had first been reported missing on April 11 after vanishing from his home in Newlands without his phone or wallet. After his disappearance Joseph’s sister Christine had shared a heartbreaking post saying her brother was “no longer with us”. And the Hoops fan’s partner had called him her “soul mate and best friend”. She wrote: “You made me the happiest girl alive especially through my hard times. “I have never met the most genuine, loving, happiest guy who has shown me how to love. "Our time was short but it has been the most happiest time of my life. I will love you always and forever my angel. Love you.” Celtic also sent their “thoughts and prayers” to his devastated family. And further tributes have poured in today after cops confirmed the tragic body find. One Hoops fan wrote on social media: “Tragic news! Rest in the eternal peace Joseph.” Another person said: “Very sad. RIP Joseph. YNWA.” Another wrote: “Rest in peace Joseph.” One Facebook user responded to the tragic news by saying: “Such sad news. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.” And another said: “This is Tragic. RIP.”
2 May 18:33 • The Scottish Sun • https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/5555413/tribute-celtic-joseph-duffy-body-found/Rating: 0.30
Body found in search for missing Glasgow man Joseph Duffy
A body has been found in the search for a missingGlasgow man. Joseph Duffy had been missing from his home in Newlands, Glasgow, since April 11. His red Vauxhall Corsa was found with its window smashed near the River Clyde where he was last seen on CCTV. Desperate efforts were made to trace him by emergency services. His devastated family told the public he was 'no longer with them' on Easter Sunday. Police confirmed a body was discovered in the River Clyde at 1.30pm yesterday. His heartbroken fiancee Jennifer Abdullah previously paid tribute to her partner for giving her the 'happiest time of her life' She wrote: "My big bear, I am broken. "You were my world, soul mate and best friend. "You made me the happiest girl alive especially through my hard times. "I have never met the most genuine, loving, happiest guy who has shown me how to love. "Our time was short but it has been the most happiest time of my life. "I will love you always and forever my angel. Love you." Christina Cowie hailed her brother Joseph Duffy as the 'best person ever’. She said:"I am absolutely heartbroken and devastated to say my wonderful amazing kind brother has sadly been found and is no longer with us. "He was just the best person ever and I can’t even begin to think about life without him. "I love you more than you’ll ever know Joe, miss you always. Give daddy and Uncle Frank a big kiss from me." "We, as a family would also like to thank everyone for their continuous support, shares and searches carried out. We are so grateful for it all. "Rest easy Joe! You’re at peace now." Celtic also paid tribute to the life-long fan. Posting on Twitter, the club wrote: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of Celtic FC fan Joseph Duffy. "The thoughts and prayers from everyone at the club are with Joseph's family and friends at this difficult time." Cousin Gillian Thomson set up a JustGiving page in his name to raise funds for the Samaritans charity. And generous friends and well-wishers have dug deep to pay tribute to Celtic fan. The fundraising total currently stands at more than £11,000. A police spokesperson confirmed: "Formal identification is still to take place but the family of 39-year-old Joseph Duffy, who was reported missing from Glasgow on 11 April, have been informed. “There does not appear to be any suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”
2 May 15:46 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/body-found-search-missing-glasgow-21963582Rating: 0.35
Coronation Street’s Peter Barlow will save Yasmeen from jail and expose Geoff’s lies say fans
3 May 20:20
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4 articles
Weight: 2.14
Importance: 2.14
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:20
Average US: 17.0
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Weighted average GB: 20.491560253002667
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Weighted average IN: 9.235917547438
Coronation Street’s Peter Barlow will save Yasmeen from jail and expose Geoff’s lies say fans
CORRIE fans think Peter Barlow will save Yasmeen Nazir from prison after he notices she’s been showing some worrying behaviour. It’s been a rollercoaster week on the cobbles as viewers have been left horrified by the abuse Yasmeen has experienced at the hands of her husband Geoff Metcalfe. Fans watched from behind their cushions as Yasmeen finally snapped after months of terrifying abuse and stabbed Geoff in the neck with a broken wine bottle. In spoilers for the long-running soap, it’s been revealed Yasmeen, played by Shelley King, will call the police be charged with attempted murder as street residents are left in shock at the news of the attack. But fans think Peter, played by Chris Gascoyne, will come to her rescue and tell police he’s witnessed several displays of worrying behaviour from her. One wrote: “…If you look in the last few episodes we had Sally, Eileen and Peter notice something wasn’t right but didn’t act. So maybe these are the people who will stick by Yasmeen.” And another added: “i really hope peter and eileen are going to be allies to yasmeen in the coming weeks bc they seem to be the only people to have suspicions about geoff” While a third guessed: “Calling for Peter being Yasmeen’s rescue…” Earlier in the episode fans were horrified as Yasmeen was dragged out to the pub in a red dress that charmless Geoff had originally bought for a sex worker. Geoff, played by Ian Bartholomew, took her to the Rovers to see Sally and Tim – before dropping the bombshell that he'd handed over her money to pay for their wedding. Yasmeen was shocked that he'd handed over a fortune without consulting her, but Geoff barked: "You want to do this now? Get your coat. Shift. Don't you dare turn the waterworks on in here." As she walked away from the bar the cameras lingered on Peter looking at her with concern, giving fans hope that he will realise something isn't adding up after Yasmeen's arrest Away from prying eyes at No.6 viewers watched in horror as Geoff grabbed a knife and told Yasmeen: "Maybe I should kill you – do the world a favour. Would anyone really notice if you were gone?" With that, she picked up a wine bottle and smashed abusive Geoff around the head before plunging the broken glass into his neck. Peter has been keeping an eye on Yasmeen ever since Geoff told everyone she had a drinking problem earlier this year. Fans are on the edge of their seats as they wait to see what happens, admitting they were “sucked in” by the plot. One wrote: “I love when #corrie does episodes like this. They are just so well put together and engaging. Proper sucked in by this storyline of poor Yasmeen and they're going a fantastic job of it.” Another added: “Lets go Yasmeen Thinking face Take that Geoff f**ker out preferably with a bullet bloody hard to watch #Corrie” And a third wrote: “It was very disturbing to watch but i am glad that Yasmeen has fought back. However she will not deserve to be sent to prison for this, i hope tim, sally , peter and her friends will understand what has been going on. Think Eileen does. No one shoud go through that. Awful man” We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.
3 May 20:20 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/11540145/coronation-streets-peter-barlow-save-yasmeen-jail-expose-geoff/Rating: 2.72
Spoilers: Corrie boss reveals all on Yasmeen and Geoff ending
There have been some difficult decisions to be made throughout the long running storyline arc of Geoff Metcalfe’s (Ian Bartholomew) campaign of coercive abuse against Yasmeen Nazir (Shelley King), according to Coronation Street boss Iain Macleod – but one thing he insists is that the recent twist that saw the horrific husband left for dead was planned for the start. Viewers saw Geoff become more aggressive than ever and leave Yasmeen in terror of her life as he ranted horrific abuse and waved a knife in her face, suggesting it would be better for everyone if he just killed her. In a relexive move to defend herself, a petrified Yasmeen stabbed Geoff in the neck and will be seen phoning the police to reveal that she has killed her husband. It has been a deliberately slow paced story – and one that producer Iain admits has been the most debated over in the storyline office out of any plot. He told Radio Times: ‘It’s been refined month by month in conjunction with our charity and research partners (including Women’s Aid). We’ve known pretty much from the start this incident would be one of the major peaks. ‘It’s been organically told and we’ve agonised over the advancement of how Geoff’s behaviour evolved. ‘It has been discussed in more detail than any other story I’ve worked on, just to make sure we get the nuance right.’ The storyline has come up for almost universal praise, with many in Yasmeen’s position having commended the show for its accurate portrayal of coercive control. Iain added: ‘We don’t make it for this reason but it is important to have what I call good ‘drama karma’: what you’re putting on screen is karmically making the world little bit of a better place. I really think this story is.’ If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps at our homepage.
3 May 11:57 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/coronation-street-spoilers-boss-reveals-yasmeen-geoff-ending-12647889/Rating: 2.18
Spoilers: Tim lies to destroy Yasmeen after she kills Geoff in Corrie?
Coronation Street is set to be rocked by the scandalous news that Yasmeen Nazir (Shelley King) has stabbed her husband Geoff Metcalfe (Ian Bartholomew) and left him for dead as police surround the house and a lifeless Geoff is wheeled out by paramedics. And most shocked of all will be Geoff’s son Tim (Joe Duttine), who naturally is devastated at the thought that his dad will die – but will he be able to see through what he actually knows about his dad and understand that Yasmeen is not a violent woman? Yasmeen was forced to lash back like a cornered animal as a drunk and vicious Geoff spat poison at her and waved a knife at her. Shaken by what has happened and, unable still to see that she has been a victim of abuse, Yasmeen calls the emergency services to tell them that she has killed her husband. Of course, Tim knows that Yasmeen is a calm and docile person who normally wouldn’t hurt a fly but with Geoff’s gaslighting that she is an out of control alcoholic, will Tim turn on Yasmeen and tell the police what they need to have Yasmeen charged? While Tim knows deep down something was amiss when he found that Geoff had locked Yasmeen in the magician box, it seems likely that he will come down on the side of his father and call for justice over what Yasmeen has done. But will his word against her be damaging enough to paint her as cold blooded? Meanwhile, Sally (Sally Dynevor) also has reason to suspect all is not right as she has witnessed Yasmeen being frightened and also saw Geoff burning her things. And when Alya (Sair Khan) returns, she will insist to Sally that Yasmeen is the victim of coercive abuse and had no choice but to defend herself. But given that Geoff is Tim’s dad, Sally may have her loyalties divided? Will Tim go all out to see Yasmeen sent down in order to avenge his dad? If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps at our homepage.
3 May 20:55 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/coronation-street-spoilers-tim-metcalfe-lies-destroy-yasmeen-geoff-dies-12649383/Rating: 2.18
Corrie fans spot early clue that Yasmeen would kill Geoff
Coronation Street fans were shocked at the dramatic struggle between Geoff Metcalfe (Ian Bartholomew) and his wife Yasmeen (Shelley King) – but eagle-eyed viewers have spotted a clue earlier on in the episode. We were left on the ultimate cliffhanger after Yasmeen stabbed her abusive husband in an act of self defence, leaving him for dead. However, earlier in the episode, Geoff dragged Yasmeen out to the Rovers in a dress he previously told her had been bought for one of his escorts. Noticing the red number, Carla Connor (Alison King) told her: ‘Killer dress, Yasmeen’. Fans were quick to point out the creepy ‘prediction’, with one writing on Twitter: ‘Carla saying ‘KILLER dress yasmeen’ we love a foreshadow.’ Another said: ‘Carla said “killer dress Yasmeen” to Yasmeen in the rovers and then she literally attempted to kill him hours later in the dress #corrie Clever script writing!’ Another impressed viewer went on to say: ‘Killer dress, Yasmeen.” Nice line from Carla.’ Can’t say we weren’t warned! The horrifying abuse plot has been simmering for months, but came to a head when Yasmeen reached the end of her tether after a traumatising few days, lashing out and attacking Geoff with a bottle. When they eventually arrived home from the Rovers, things escalated to more shocking heights as Geoff lost his temper once more, smashing plates and getting into Yasmeen’s face. Fearing for her life, she saw red and grabbed a bottle, lunging at Geoff before realising that she had pierced his neck. However, things could be about to get a whole lot worse for Yasmeen, as she could face prison time for her actions towards Geoff. Investigations continue as the week progresses, and the police question the punters of the Rovers about the nature of Geoff and Yasmeen’s marriage. Yasmeen sits in her police cell, as the police search her home for evidence — unaware of the fact that they’re being filmed by Geoff’s CCTV cameras. For emotional support you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline, run by Refuge and Women’s Aid, on 0808 2000 247. If you are in an LGBT relationship you can also call the helpline run by Broken Rainbow and Galop UK, on 0300 999 5428 or 0800 9995428. Male victims can call also the Men’s Advice Line on 0808 801 0327. If you’ve got a soap or TV story, video or pictures get in touch by emailing us soaps@metro.co.uk – we’d love to hear from you. Join the community by leaving a comment below and stay updated on all things soaps at our homepage.
2 May 12:00 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/02/corrie-fans-spot-early-clue-yasmeen-kill-geoff-12644350/Rating: 2.18
With 447 new infections and 8 new deaths, overall Covid-19 tally now at 6,783
3 May 17:49
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With 447 new infections and 8 new deaths, overall Covid-19 tally now at 6,783
Health minister Zweli Mkhize. Picture: Jacques Nelles In a statement on Sunday, Health Minister Zweli Mkhize confirmed that the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in South Africa has risen to 6,783. He reported that a further 8 Covid-19 related deaths were recorded: two from the Western Cape, four from the Eastern Cape and two from Gauteng, bringing the total deaths to 131. “We wish to express our condolences to the families of the deceased and salute the health care workers who treated the deceased patients.” Dept of health The provincial infection breakdown was as follows: Testing Data “We also wish to indicate that as of 30 April 2020 7,216,777 citizens have been screened and from the Community Screening Programme and 72,087 were referred for testing. We thank all these compatriots for their solidarity with the programme and allowing our healthcare workers into the privacy of their homes.”
3 May 17:49 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/breaking-news/2278224/with-447-new-infections-and-8-new-deaths-overall-covid-19-tally-now-at-6783/Rating: 1.26
Coronavirus: 447 new Covid-19 cases in a single day, as death toll rises to 131
The number of Covid-19 cases has risen by 447 to a total of 6 783. This is the first time the numbers have increased by more than 400 cases in a day. Health Minister Zwelini Mkhize announced the increase on Sunday night, adding that eight more people had died. Of these, two died in the Western Cape, four in the Eastern Cape, and two in Gauteng. "We wish to express our condolences to the families of the deceased and salute the healthcare workers who treated the deceased patients," Mkhize says. Mkhize added that, as of 30 April, 7 216 777citizens had been screened through the Community Screening Programme. Of these, 72 087had been referred for testing. The testing had increased from 230 686 cases to 245 747 on Sunday night.
3 May 20:25 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/coronavirus-447-new-covid-19-cases-in-a-single-day-as-death-toll-rises-to-131-20200503Rating: 2.83
COVID-19: Kwara imposes curfew, bars inter-LG travels
Kindly Share This Story: Kwara State Government on Sunday announced additional measures to curtail community transmission of COVID-19 pandemic in the state, insisting that the recent relax of the lockdown does not mean that the state was out of the wood. The government also denied that any of its COVID-19 patients, a female, has escaped from the Isolation centre to Ogun State as published in the social media. The government, meanwhile, has discharged yet another six COVID-19 patients who had twice tested negative – two weeks after it discharged two former patients. With the six patients being discharged, Kwara now has eight active cases of COVID-19 down from 14 just yesterday. Regardless, the government warned people against letting down their guards as the level of threat of infection remains high across the country. Rafiu Ajakaye, the spokesman of the Governor and Kwara State Technical Committee on COVID-19, said in a statement on Sunday. “Effective from tomorrow Monday, May 4, there will be statewide curfew between 6 pm and 6 am until further notice. This is part of the agreement of the Northern Governors Forum (NGF) to prevent non-essential and unauthorised movement that could spike infection rate,” “Also, in addition to the measures earlier announced on Friday, May 1, the government hereby bans travels/movement from one local government to the other. This is especially true of local governments with clear borders.” The statement added that other measures earlier announced remain in force but are subject to constant reviews if the government fears increased threat of transmission in the state. “We repeat that we are not in any way out of the danger of this pandemic. The government will be as flexible as practicable in the phased reopening of the economy but it will at all-time prioritise the protection of lives. In other words, the level of threats of the virus will determine the government’s response from time to time,” “The government directs residents without something specific and urgent to do outside to stay at home. The government also insists that anyone who wants to go out must use a face mask.” the statement also said. On the report of the escaped Covid-19 patient, Ajakaye said,’That is not true my brother, please disregard it.” Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 19:26 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-kwara-imposes-curfew-bars-inter-lg-travels/Rating: 2.43
Taraba discharges 124 from quarantine centre - The Nation News
The Taraba State Task Force on COVID-19 on Sunday discharged about 124 persons quarantined at the NYSC Orientation Camp. Those released, mostly women and children, are among the 130 travelers intercepted by security personnel at the State’s borders penultimate week. Commissioner of Health, Innocent Vakkai, who briefed reporters at the centre, said all the discharged persons tested negative. Vakkai, accompanied by the Commissioner of Information Danjuma Adamu, officials of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and chairmen of local government councils, inspected a building at the Camp where 100 beds, to be supplied by Access Bank, are going to be kept to quarantine suspected cases. The Commissioner said out of the 130 travelers quarantined, six tested positive and were moved to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jalingo, for treatment. He added there were two other confirmed positive cases from Tella and Lau areas of the state taken to the FMC, Jalingo, for treatment. It was gathered out of the eight cases, only one patient has shown serious symptoms of the disease. Vakkai said among those discharged, nine persons are indigenes of Bauchi while the rest are citizens of Taraba who are not resident in the state. The statistics of some of the discharged persons, according to their states or local government areas of origin, was given as: Lau: four, Karim-Lamido: five, Ardo-Kola: three, Bali: 19, Wukari: four, Ibi: one, Gassol: 42, Jalingo: two, Bali: 12, Bauchi: nine, Yobe: two and Benue: one. “The people we are discharging today are among the 130 travelers who were intercepted by our security personnel at our borders. Among them, those who tested positive were moved to the FMC where they are being treated. “Those who came from no high risk areas and tested negative were allowed to leave. “But those coming from high risk states, even when they tested negative, we still quarantined them for 14 days,” the Health Commissioner said. Chairman of Jalingo council and ALGON boss, Abdulnasir Obboji, said chairmen from seven councils were at the Centre to ensure the discharged persons get to their destinations safely.
3 May 15:12 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/taraba-discharges-124-from-quarantine-centre/Rating: 0.30
All 100 police officers in Masindi barracks quarantined
The police leadership has resolved to quarantine all the police officers residing in Masindi police barracks after one of their colleagues tested positive for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on Friday. Among the positive cases registered on Friday this week was a police constable who is also a detective and resident of Masindi police barracks. The unnamed official tested positive during the ministry of Health’s rapid testing survey started this week to detect the virus spread among the community. The survey will be a basis for the next cause of action as the country nears to ending the countrywide lockdown on May 5. Polly Namaye, the deputy police spokesperson says quarantining all the 104 officers and their family members living in Masindi police barracks is part of the resolutions made in the virtual meeting intended to devise means of containing the spread of the virus. The meeting was attended by director force’s medical services, AIGP Dr Moses Byaruhanga, director operations services AIGP Asuman Mugenyi, and deputy director logistics senior commissioner Ann Tusiime. Police said it has since resolved to replace all police officers at Masindi police station and that reinforcements have been from other stations to ensure that the station remains fully operational. Namaye says the logistics directorate that is headed by senior commissioner Richard Edyegu, will attend to the logistical needs of all the officers under mandatory quarantine until the ministry of Health clears them. “All officers and their families under quarantine shall be tested for the virus and further measures shall be communicated to ensure safety of all people wishing to access police services at our stations,” said Namaye. Police have reminded all police officers to exercise precaution while going about their duties to avoid contracting COVID-19. A section of Ugandans has often pointed to a level laxity exhibited by the security officers while enforcing lockdown and curfew guidelines. This week, a video emerged online showing officers at Malaba border taking bribes and handling truck doors without any protective gear. Last week, the Agago district police commander (DPC), Samson Lubega was arrested on allegations of defying the presidential ban on social gatherings after he attended a party of over 30 revellers as 'chief guest'. Despite an existing preventive measure on social distancing, police and army officers are often seen bundled en masse on trucks without any protection. Uganda now has 88 confirmed cases of COVID -19 of which 52 have been discharged.
3 May 19:56 • The Observer • https://observer.ug/news/headlines/64601-all-100-police-officers-in-masindi-barracks-quarantinedRating: 0.33
Curfew Breakers Will No longer Be Isolated In Gov’t Quarantine Facilities – Health CAS Aman
Individuals who flout the dusk to dawn curfew rules will no longer be quarantined in government COVID-19 isolation centres. In a statement on Sunday, Health Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Rashid Aman said the National Emergency Response Committee on coronavirus has directed the Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai to establish special holding places where the individuals will be isolated. The CAS, however, said police will be required to ensure social distancing is observed in the detention centres. Over the recent past, there have been concerns that persons who break curfew rules risk infection when quarantined with contacts of individuals who have tested positive for the contagious disease. The Government had last month said that persons who are found outside during the 7pm to 5am curfew hours will be quarantined for 14 days. Read: 30 New Covid-19 Cases Confirmed In Kenya, Toll Rises To 465 “Going forward, fellow Kenyans, all those who break the curfew rules will be assumed to have been in contact with suspected cases and hence will be quarantined for a period of 14 days,” Health CAS Mercy Mwangangi said. The directive saw hundres of Kenyans arrested and quarantined in various government facilities at their own cost. For example, Kenyas who were quarantined at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) institutions were required to pay Ksh2000 per day which translates to Ksh28,000 for the quarantine period. Meanwhile, the number of COVID-19 cases in the country rose 365 on Sunday after 30 more people tested positive in the last 24 hours. Mombasa has the biggest number at 19 followed by Nairobi at eight. Bungoma has two new cases while Kitui one.
3 May 14:32 • KahawaTungu • https://www.kahawatungu.com/curfew-breakers-govt-quarantine-facilities/Rating: 0.41
How Ebonyi patients contracted coronavirus - Umahi
Governor David Umahi has confirmed two more cases of Covid-19 in Ebonyi State bringing the total of confirmed cases in n the state to 5. While four of the patients are returnees from other states in the country, the fifth patient, according to the governor, though a returnee, may have gotten infected at the state’s temporary isolation centre where returnees and suspected cases are kept until they are tested for the virus. The governor stated this Saturday when he phoned into the situation room, a programme about coronavirus on the state’s broadcast stations. According to the governor, the 4th case returned from Lagos with the virus while the fifth case got the virus from the third case at the Pa Oruta Ngele Stadium Abakaliki temporary isolation area. “The 4th case is a 22 years old boy who leaves in Ojo Lagos. He left Lagos on 26 and entered Ebonyi through Nkalagu border. And from there entered bus to Ezzamgbo junction. Thereafter he entered bus to Ede Ishieke in Ebonyi local government,” the governor said. He said the man was intercepted at Ishieke by the state’s COVID-19 task force and brought to the stadium where a sample was collected from him which turned out to be positive. On the fifth case, Mr Umahi said she returned with her family from Énugu State, where she resides, but was brought to the holding area in Abakaliki in line with the policy of the state government that anyone who comes in from outside the state must be tested. “The fifth case is a 24 years old girl. A hair dresser from Awgu in Uburu in Ohaozara Local Government Area. She resides at No 30 Queens close Ọkpara Avenue in Enugu. “She was picked from Uburu to stadium. While at the stadium she had contact with the third case and this evening her result came out and she tested positive.” Mr Umahi however noted that the family members that she came back with all tested negative. He said they will still be kept at the holding area and monitored for the next 14 days. Mr Umahi said that he has also directed the medical team to go for contact tracing of all the patients’ contacts. The governor while urging residents to remain vigilant urged them not to panic as the state government was doing all in its power to prevent the spread of the virus. He commended some local government chairpersons who he said are doing well in effectively manning their borders. The governor also lamented the unseriousness of others warning that there will be dire consequences for such persons after the war on the pandemic is over. He said all the confirmed cases are doing well at the isolation centre. “In the next one week, I am sure that they will be cleared to go home after they must have tested negative twice”, he said.
3 May 08:55 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/391135-how-ebonyi-patients-contracted-coronavirus-umahi.htmlRating: 0.30
Covid-19: Borno confirms 11 deaths as 16 health workers test positive
- Sixty-nine persons, including 16 health workers, have tested positive for coronavirus in Borno state - The state deputy governor, Usman Umar Kadafur, appealed to the public to be careful of the dangers COVID-19 poses - On his part, the state commissioner for health, Aliyu Salisu Kwaya Bura, said those with underlying ailments are prone to complications as a result of COVID-19 infection - PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Legit.ng News on your Facebook News Feed! A total of 69 persons have tested positive for coronavirus in Borno state. The state government has confirmed that sixteen health workers are among those who tested positive. The state has also recorded 11 deaths, The Cable reports. This was disclosed on Saturday, May 2, by Usman Umar Kadafur, deputy governor and chairman of the response team for the prevention and control of the spread of coronavirus in Borno state during a press briefing. Coronavirus: Two Nigeria police officers test positive for COVID-19 Speaking to newsmen, Kadafur said the committee has been working really hard to ensure the disease does not spread. According to him, the situation has been contained and brought under control by medical and surveillance teams, which also informed the need to increase the number of isolation centres in the state. The deputy governor urged members of the public to be wary of the dangers posed by the coronavirus. Also speaking, the state commissioner for health, and secretary of the response committee on coronavirus, Aliyu Salisu Kwaya Bura, gave reasons for the increase in the number of deaths. Bura explained that some who had underlying ailments like diabetes, typhoid, asthma, pneumonia, high fever and kidney disease are prone to complications as a result of COVID-19 infection. The commissioner called on the media to help spread the word on the need for the public to maintain proper personal hygiene, wear face masks, maintain social distancing even at burials and continue to obey the standing rules. Breaking: FG gives new details about COVID-19, says about 40 health workers tested positive for disease He also appealed to the media to cooperate and show understanding in the coverage of the COVID-19 situation in the state and activities of response committee in order not to create panic and mislead the public. NAN reports that he said about 2,000 Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), had been ordered by the state. “At the moment, none of our patients is at a critical state. They are at the isolation centres receiving medical attention; though the kind of attention varies for those with mild symptoms and those with moderate symptoms,” Kwaya-Bura added. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reported 220 cases of the novel coronavirus in Nigeria on Saturday, May 2. According to the report, Lagos state has the highest number with 62 cases while Federal Capital Territory, Abuja followed with 52 cases. Kaduna came third with 31 cases and followed by Sokoto which has 13 cases. Borno confirms state now has 4 official Covid-19 cases as Zulum-led government announces result of 48 suspected cases PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app Kebbi has 10 cases while Yobe has nine. Borno recorded six cases while Edo and Bauchi have five cases each. Gombe, Enugu and Oyo also record four cases each. Zamfara has three cases while Nasarawa, Osun, Ebonyi, Kwara, Kano, and Plateau have two cases each. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. How I go sitdon for house when I no get husband? - Market woman - Legit TV
3 May 06:49 • Legit • https://www.legit.ng/1326303-covid-19-borno-confirms-11-deaths-16-health-workers-test-positive.htmlRating: 0.30
Big increase in COVID-19 cases in South Africa
South Africa now has 6,783 coronavirus cases, according to Health Minister Zweli Mkhize. This is an increase of 447 cases in the last 24 hours, and the number of deaths related to COVID-19 has increased by eight. The total number of COVID-19 related deaths in South Africa is now 131, Mkhize said. “Regrettably, we report a further eight COVID-19 related deaths: two from Western Cape, four from the Eastern Cape, and two from Gauteng,” Mkhize said. “We wish to express our condolences to the families of the deceased and salute the health care workers who treated the diseased patients.” The full provincial breakdown of coronavirus cases in South Africa is shown below. Mkhize added that as of 30 April, 7,216,777 citizens have been screened for the coronavirus, with around 1% being referred for testing. “We also wish to indicate that as of 30 April 2020, 7,216,777 citizens have been screened and from that Community Screening Programme 72,087 were referred for testing.” “We thank all those compatriots for their solidarity with the programme and allowing our health care workers into the privacy of their homes,” Mkhize added. The testing data provided by the department of health shows that of the 245,747 tests conducted, 50% have been conducted by the private sector, with the other half coming from the public sector. Of the 15,061 new tests, 11,900 were conducted by the private sector, the department stated.
3 May 00:00 • MyBroadband • https://mybroadband.co.za/news/trending/350444-big-increase-in-covid-19-cases-in-south-africa.htmlRating: 1.91
Covid-19: Kaduna records 14 new cases
Kaduna State has recorded 14 fresh positive cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19), the state Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina Mohammed Baloni, has confirmed. She disclosed this in Kaduna on Saturday at the daily briefing by the State Standing Committee on COVID-19.This is contained in a statement issued by Mr Muyiwa Adekeye, the Special Adviser on Media and Communication to Gov. Nasir El-Rufai. Baloni explained that the positive results were obtained from some Qur’anic school pupils (Almajirai), who were repatriated from Kano, adding that the figure may rise as more test results are awaited from NCDC. The commissioner however assured that the repatriated Almajirai are being accommodated in one location and have not mingled with the community. Baloni also told the Standing Committee “that installation of a PCR machine has commenced at the Yusuf Dantsoho General Hospital”. “When accredited by the NCDC, this will increase to three the number of COVID-19 testing labs activated in Kaduna State during this pandemic,” she assured. The statement said that the “Standing Committee commended the people of Kaduna state for their sacrifice and cooperation in enduring Quarantine Orders that are designed to protect citizens from COVID-19, prevent the spread of the virus from other states and avert the nightmare of community transmission”. It noted that the inconveniences being endured by the residents require that their sacrifices be complemented by robust enforcement of boundary lockdowns. According to the statement, “this will eliminate both willful and inadvertent spread of COVID-19 by persons crossing state lines in breach of Kaduna State Quarantine Orders and the prohibition of interstate travel by the Federal Government”. The committee encouraged citizens “to report anyone who sneaks into the state so that health officials can take swift action”. The statement however disclosed that one fatality had been recorded.
2 May 21:08 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/covid-19-kaduna-records-14-new-cases/Rating: 0.30
Another 14 Almajiris tests positive for coronavirus in Kaduna
At least 14 more Almajiris repatriated from Kano State have tested positive to coronavirus in Kaduna State. Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai made the disclosure on Saturday evening. “The State Standing Committee on Covid-19 has been briefed that 14 more positive results were recorded today from almajiris who were repatriated from Kano,” El-Rufai’s said in a statement by his media aide Muyiwa Adekeye. “The Committee was advised that the figure may rise when test results that are been awaited are received.” Earlier this week, Kaduna had confirmed 20 coronavirus cases in Almajiris that entered the state from Kano State. To avoid the further spread of the virus, the governor said the repatriated almajiris are accommodated in one location, and have not mingled with the community. The new positive results, El-Rufai said has increased coronavirus cases in Kaduna State to 41 with one death recorded so far. “Most of these 41 active cases are almajiris from Kano,” El-Rufai said. Already El-Rufai has imposed a 30-day lockdown in Kaduna State to trace and test residents of the state to curb the global pandemic. However, the governor said the inconveniences being endured by Kaduna state residents require that their sacrifices be rewarded by robust enforcement of border lockdowns, to eliminate the spread of Covid-19 by persons crossing state lines in breach of State laws and FG prohibition of inter-state travel. “Citizens are encouraged to report anyone who sneaks into the state so that health officials can take swift action,” El-Rufai said.
2 May 19:23 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/another-14-almajiris-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-in-kaduna/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: 14 more almajiris repatriated from Kano test positive in Kaduna
Kindly Share This Story: Kaduna State has recorded 14 more Covid-19 positive results from almajiris who were repatriated from Kano, Commissioner of Health, Dr Amina Mohammed Baloni has confirmed. Dr Baloni who made the disclosure while briefing the daily meeting of the State Standing Committee on Covid-19 on Saturday said that the figure may rise as more test results are awaited. The Commissioner, however, assured the Standing Committee that the repatriated almajiris are being accommodated in one location, and have not mingled with the community. A statement issued by Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Mr Muyiwa Adekeye said that Dr Baloni also told the Standing Committee “that installation of a PCR machine has commenced at the Yusuf Dantsoho General Hospital.” ” When accredited by the NCDC, this will increase to three the number of Covid-19 testing labs activated in Kaduna State during this pandemic,” she assured. The statement said that the “Standing Committee commended the people of Kaduna State for their sacrifice and cooperation in enduring Quarantine Orders that are designed to protect citizens from Covid-19, prevent the spread of the virus from other states and avert the nightmare of community transmission.” Adekeye noted that the inconveniences being endured by Kaduna State residents require that their sacrifices be complemented by robust enforcement of border lockdowns. According to him, “this will eliminate both willful and inadvertent spread of Covid-19 by persons crossing state lines in breach of Kaduna State Quarantine Orders and the prohibition of inter-state travel by the Federal Government.” The Special Adviser encourages citizens “to report anyone who sneaks into the state so that health officials can take swift action.” Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
2 May 19:34 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-14-more-almajiris-repatriated-from-kano-test-positive-in-kaduna/Rating: 2.43
Six repatriated Almajiris from Kano, four others test positive for COVID-19
Bauchi state government has recorded 10 new cases of coronavirus which brings the total number of confirmed cases to 48. Among the new cases as confirmed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Friday night are 6 repatriated Almagiris from Kano which is a high risk state while the four others are contact of an infected returnee from Abuja state. Nation reports that the total number of active cases in the state is now 42 while 6 remain discharged so far. Chairman of the state Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Rilwan Mohammed, disclosed the new cases to the Nation in a Telephone interview. He said the new positive cases have being placed on admission adding that 34 males and 14 females comprises of the 48 confirmed cases. He said ” Yes we have ten new cases, 6 are repatriated Almajiris from Kano and the four others are the sons of a returnee who came from Abuja.There are seven Almajiris so far that are now positive for COVID-19 out of the 38 brought in from Kano . They have all being placed on admission.”
2 May 19:30 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/six-repatriated-almajiris-from-kano-four-others-test-positive-for-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
8 more cases reported from Odisha’s Jajpur district
Eight more COVID-19 cases, including two women, were reported from Jajpur district in Odisha on Saturday. The total number of cases in the State has gone up to 157. While five of the fresh cases had returned from West Bengal, the two women were contacts of the returnees. Contact-tracing and containment measures were ramped up in the villages where these cases were detected, the Health and Family Welfare Department said. Health Secretary Nikunja Bihari Dhal urged the people returning from other States to observe physical distancing and quarantine rules. Violation of quarantine rules led to the emergence of the Katikata gram panchayat in Jajpur as a hotspot with 21 cases reported so far, he said. Mr. Dhal said the five persons had returned to Katikata from West Bengal recently and the others had contracted the disease from the returnees, who violated quarantine and physical distancing rules. A total of 623 samples had been collected from the area, he said. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik held a video-conference with his Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka counterparts Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy and B.S. Yediyurappa and discussed the return of Odia people stranded in their States. The first train with 1,150 Odia people, which set out from Kerala on Friday night, would reach Odisha on Sunday morning. Another train would leave Gujarat for Odisha on Saturday night, officials said. Fifteen of the 30 districts have so far reported COVID-19 cases, with five reporting the maximum number. The five districts are Jajpur with 48 cases, Bhubaneswar under Khordha district with 47 cases, Balasore, 20, Bhadrak, 19, and Sundargarh, 10. Of the total 157 cases, 100 patients were admitted to different COVID hospitals, while 56 had recovered and one died. Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy said the government would soon issue an order setting forth graded restrictions for different zones. The Collectors would consider the risk assessment while devising the local response, he said.
2 May 18:26 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/8-more-cases-reported-from-odishas-jajpur-district/article31492031.eceRating: 0.30
Another 14 Almajiri Kids Repatriated From Kano Test Positive For COVID-19 In Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has announced that another 14 almajiris, who were brought from Kano State, had tested positive for Coronavirus. Muyiwa Adekeye, Special Adviser to Governor Nasir el-Rufai on Media, made this known in a statement on Saturday night. The State Standing Committee on COVID-19 has been briefed that 14 more positive results were recorded on Saturday from almajiris, who were repatriated from Kano. The committee was advised that the figure may rise when test results that are being awaited are received. He said, “The standing committee was also informed that the repatriated almajiris are accommodated in one location, and have not mingled with the community. “The standing 7committee on COVID-19 was updated that these new positive results have increased active cases in the state to 41 and that one COVID-19 fatality has been recorded. Most of these 41 active cases are almajiris from Kano. “Further progress on expanding testing capacity was also reported. Installation of a PCR machine has commenced at the Yusuf Dantsoho General Hospital. When accredited by the NCDC, this will increase to three the number of COVID-19 testing labs activated in Kaduna State."
2 May 00:00 • Sahara Reporters • http://saharareporters.com/2020/05/02/another-14-almajiri-kids-repatriated-kano-test-positive-covid-19-kadunaRating: 1.44
COVID -19 : Oyo records 6 new cases
Oyo State recorded six new confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), out of 238 cases recorded on Friday by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), bringing the number of cases recorded to 29. Accordingto the NCDC, this is as at Friday night. Gov. Sheyi Makinde, on in his tweeter handle, said “we have started receiving results of pending COVID -19 confirmation tests. “Two tests came back positive late last night. One from University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan doctor who returned from Kano and another is a worker with the State Security Service. “Another eight tests came back positive today. Of the eight newly confirmed cases, six are Togolese nationals and the remaining two are Oyo state residents in Ogbomoso. “In addition to the case recorded in Lagos which was announced yesterday, another confirmed case recorded in Kano is also being managed in Oyo State. This brings the number of active cases in Oyo State to 20. “Please, keep taking advantage of the provision for testing for COVID-19 in Oyo State. “Call the Emergency Operations Centre on 08095394000 | 08095863000 | 08078288999 | 08078288800, to book a test,” Makinde tweeted
2 May 09:26 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/covid-19-oyo-records-6-new-cases/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: Oyo records six new cases - The Nation
Oyo State recorded six new confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19), out of 238 cases recorded on Friday by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), bringing the number of cases recorded to 29. Accordingto the NCDC, this is as at Friday night. Gov. Sheyi Makinde, on in his tweeter handle, said “we have started receiving results of pending COVID -19 confirmation tests. “Two tests came back positive late last night. One from University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan doctor who returned from Kano and another is a worker with the State Security Service. “Another eight tests came back positive today. Of the eight newly confirmed cases, six are Togolese nationals and the remaining two are Oyo state residents in Ogbomoso. “In addition to the case recorded in Lagos which was announced yesterday, another confirmed case recorded in Kano is also being managed in Oyo State. This brings the number of active cases in Oyo State to 20. “Please, keep taking advantage of the provision for testing for COVID-19 in Oyo State. “Call the Emergency Operations Centre on 08095394000 | 08095863000 | 08078288999 | 08078288800, to book a test,” Makinde tweeted. (NAN)
2 May 09:19 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/covid-19-oyo-records-six-new-cases/Rating: 0.30
Eight new positive cases reported from Odisha
Eight more COVID-19 cases, including two women, were reported from Odisha’s Jajpur district taking the State’s total of 157 on Saturday. While five of them had returned from West Bengal, the two women were contacts of the returnees. Contact tracing and containment measures were ramped up in the villages from where new cases were detected, the State Health & Family Welfare Department said. Meanwhile, State Health Secretary Nikunja Bihari Dhal urged the people returning from outside the State to observe social distancing and quarantine rules strictly. It was due to violation of quarantine rules that the Katikata gram panchayat in Jajpur district has emerged as a hotspot with 21 cases so far, he said. Stating that five persons had returned to Katikata from West Bengal recently, Mr. Dhal said remaining persons had contracted the disease from the returnees who violated quarantine and social distancing rules. A total of 623 samples have been collected and possibility of more cases cannot be ruled out, he said. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik held videoconference with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy and Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa for facilitating return of Odia people stranded in their State The first train with 1,150 Odia people, which left Kerala on Friday night, was scheduled to arrive in Odisha on Sunday morning. Another train was scheduled to leave Gujarat for Odisha Saturday night, officials said. Fifteen of the 30 districts of Odisha have reported COVID-19 cases so far with five districts reporting maximum number of cases. Thse are Jajpur with 48 cases, Bhubaneswar with 47 cases, Balasore 20, Bhadrak 19 and Sundargarh 10. Meanwhile, Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy said the government will soon issue orders with graded restrictions for different zones by considering local conditions.
2 May 18:05 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/eight-new-positive-cases-reported-from-odisha/article31491798.eceRating: 0.30
Kano-returnee doctor tests positive for COVID-19 in Oyo
Kayode Oyero Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed 10 new coronavirus cases in the state. He stated this via Twitter shortly after the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control announced eight new infections in the state on Friday night. The Centre had announced two cases in the state on Thursday night, bringing the total confirmed cases in the state to 31 with nine recoveries and two fatalities. The governor said amongst the new patients was a doctor at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, who recently came back from Kano State. He added that six Togolese citizens, as well as an operative of the State Security Service also tested positive for the virus and were all receiving treatment at the state Isolation Centre. “We have started receiving results of pending COVID-19 confirmation tests. Two tests came back positive late last night. One from a UCH doctor who returned from Kano and another is a worker with the State Security Service. “Another eight tests came back positive today. Of the eight newly confirmed cases, six are Togolese nationals and the remaining two are Oyo State residents in Ogbomoso. “In addition to the case recorded in Lagos which was announced yesterday, another confirmed case recorded in Kano is also being managed in Oyo State. This brings the number of active cases in Oyo State to twenty,” Makinde tweeted.
2 May 06:07 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/kano-returnee-doctor-tests-positive-for-covid-19-in-oyo/Rating: 0.30
Six Almajiris Deported From Kano Test Positive For COVID-19 In Bauchi
Ten more persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Bauchi State. Chairman, Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Rilwan Mohammed, on Saturday said the new cases included six more almajiri deportees from Kano State. He said, “We recorded 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Bauchi State. The results were sent to me from the National Research Veterinary Institute, Vom, Plateau State at about 11pm Friday. “This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 48 with 42 of them active while six have already been discharged after they tested negative. All our cases are returnees except our index case. See Also PUBLIC HEALTHNorthern Governors Agree To Deport More Almajiris, Set Curfew For Inter-state Trucks Movement0 Comments 1 Day Ago “Six more almajiri children that were returned from Kano State are among the results we got. "There are seven almajiris that are now positive (for COVID-19) out of the 38 brought in from Kano and they are in isolation at the General Hassan Katsina Unity College, Yelwa.”
2 May 00:00 • Sahara Reporters • http://saharareporters.com/2020/05/02/six-almajiris-deported-kano-test-positive-covid-19-bauchiRating: 1.44
Six Almajiris, four others test positive for COVID-19 in Bauchi
Armstrong Bakam, Bauchi Ten more persons have tested positive for COVID-19 in Bauchi State, The PUNCH reports. This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 48 including 42 active cases and six recoveries. Confirming the new infections shortly after the announcement by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control on Friday night, the Chairman, Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr Rilwan Mohammed, said the new cases included six more Almajiri deportees from Kano State. The state governor had said 345 Almajiri children were repatriated to the state from Kano, Kaduna, Plateau, amongst others. Speaking with our correspondent on phone, the state’s PHCDA chairman said, “We recorded 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Bauchi State. The results were sent to me from the National Research for Veterinary Institute, Vom, Plateau State at about 11pm today (Friday). “This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 48 with 42 of them active while six have already been discharged after they tested negative. All our cases are returnees except our index case. “Six more Almajiri children that were returned from Kano State are among the results we got. There are seven Almajiris that are now positive (for COVID-19) out of the 38 brought in from Kano and they are on isolation at the General Hassan Katsina Unity College, Yelwa.”
2 May 08:40 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/six-almajiris-four-others-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-bauchi/Rating: 0.30
Six Togolese, Kano returnee test positive for COVID-19 in Oyo
Six Togolese nationals and a doctor who recently returned from Kano are among the latest persons to test positive for COVID-19 in Oyo state. The doctor is a staff member of the University College Hospital, Ibadan. Seyi Makinde, governor of Oyo state, made the announcement late Friday when he gave updates on the COVID-19 situation in the state. According to him, an officer of the state security service (SSS) and two residents in Ogbomoso also tested positive for the coronavirus. The announcement came days after Makinde expressed concerns about the shortage of reagents for processing samples. “Due to a shortage of reagents required to process COVID-19 tests, we currently have a number of pending results. Of the 775 samples collected so far, 300 are awaiting results,” he had tweeted on April 29. However, it appears the issue had been resolved as the state announced that it had started receiving results of tests that were initially pending. “We have started receiving results of pending COVID-19 confirmation tests. Two tests came back positive late last night. One from a UCH doctor who returned from Kano and another is a worker with the State Security Service,” he wrote. “Another eight tests came back positive today. Of the eight newly confirmed cases, six are Togolese nationals and the remaining two are Oyo State residents in Ogbomoso. “In addition to the case recorded in Lagos which was announced yesterday, another confirmed case recorded in Kano is also being managed in Oyo State. This brings the number of active cases in Oyo State to twenty.” Oyo recorded its index COVID-19 case on March 22 while the first fatality was confirmed exactly one month later on April 22.
2 May 10:27 • TheCable • https://www.thecable.ng/six-togolese-kano-returnee-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-oyoRating: 0.30
Six almajiri kids from Kano among new COVID-19 cases in Bauchi
Six almajiri kids from Kano are part of the COVID-19 cases reported in Bauchi state on Friday, according to The PUNCH. On Friday night, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control announced that 10 cases of COVID-19 were recorded in Bauchi. Earlier in April, Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi, said about 345 almajiri kids were received from other northern states. The newspaper quoted Rilwan Mohammed, chairman, Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, as saying all cases recorded in the state are returnees apart from the index case. Mohammed reportedly said the total number of confirmed cases in the state is now 48 –with 42 active cases and six recoveries. “We recorded 10 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Bauchi State. The results were sent to me from the National Research for Veterinary Institute, Vom, Plateau State at about 11pm today (Friday),” Mohammed was quoted to have said. “This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 48 with 42 of them active while six have already been discharged after they tested negative. All our cases are returnees except our index case. “Six more Almajiri children that were returned from Kano State are among the results we got. There are seven Almajiris that are now positive (for COVID-19) out of the 38 brought in from Kano and they are on isolation at the General Hassan Katsina Unity College, Yelwa.”
2 May 10:05 • TheCable • https://www.thecable.ng/six-almajiri-kids-from-kano-among-new-covid-19-cases-in-bauchiRating: 0.30
Yobe records three new cases of COVID-19 - The Nation
The number of COVID-19 cases in Yobe State have risen to four in less than 48 hours after the NCDC released the list of three new cases Friday night. The Nation reports that Yobe State recorded her first case of COVID-19 on Wednesday, 28thApril after a 29 year old banker working with one of the new generation bank in Damaturu tested positive. The NCDC on Friday night released a fresh list of 238 cases out of which Yobe has three. The addition brings the number of cases to four in the state. It is not clear if the three new cases are linked to the index case. The commissioner for Health in the state, Dr. Mohammed Lawan Gana who is also the Vice Chairman of COVID-19 committee in the state could not be reached for details. A press briefing is however expected later in the day where a new approach(es) may be adopted in the state to stem the spread of the virus
2 May 12:29 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/yobe-records-three-new-cases-of-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
RCMP to draft national policy for emergency alerts after N.S. shootings
3 May 14:12
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RCMP to draft national policy for emergency alerts after N.S. shootings
Mounties in Nova Scotia are under scrutiny for not issuing an emergency alert as a gunman rampaged through rural communities, but there's nothing in the national RCMP handbook to suggest that they should have. In fact, the RCMP says there are currently no countrywide guidelines for when police should use Canada's public warning system to broadcast information to cellphones and television screens. In the wake of the mass murder that claimed 22 lives in Nova Scotia about two weeks ago, the force is looking into developing a national operational policy for using the emergency alert system. But experts in law enforcement and emergency management say authorities must strike a delicate balance between informing the public about potential threats and avoiding unnecessary panic. And as the tragedy in Nova Scotia shows, they say those judgments aren't always clear cut in the throes of crisis with lives on the line. "Make no mistake -- none of us have ever experienced the kind of chaos that those officers, first responders and even the critical incident commander faced that night," said Terry Flynn, an associate professor of communications at McMaster University. "The critical thing for them is that now, they unfortunately have a mass shooting playbook." Before Canada launched its text-based national alert system in 2018, Flynn said RCMP considered social media to be the best way to communicate during a crisis. Reviews of the 2014 shootings in Moncton, N.B., and on Parliament Hill found that Twitter was a critical tool for disseminating real-time information to the public and media as both incidents were unfolding. In a similar vein, Nova Scotia RCMP used Twitter to send out updates as a firearms complaint in the tiny coastal village of Portapique on the evening of April 18 evolved into a shooting and arson spree across central and northern parts of the province. Mounties have faced questions about why they relied on social media to get the word out when they could have sent an emergency notification to every phone in the province. Some victims' relatives have called for the issue to be examined as part of a public inquiry into the mass murder. Premier Stephen McNeil has said emergency officials were ready to issue an alert, but couldn't act until the RCMP supplied information. The Mounties say they were crafting a message when the gunman was fatally shot by police in Enfield, N.S., on April 19 after a 13-hour manhunt. Nova Scotia RCMP Superintendent Darren Campbell told reporters Tuesday that the force is conducting a "full review" of the use of the emergency alert system in consultation with the province and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. National RCMP spokeswoman Robin Percival said in an email that the force is looking at creating a Canada-wide policy, but said public alert protocols are generally set out by provincial emergency management authorities. Nova Scotia's Emergency Management Office didn't immediately respond to a request for details about its protocols. Flynn, who specializes in crisis management at McMaster, said instituting clear procedures and training about when to issue an emergency alert could save lives in situations where "seconds count." While it may seem wise for authorities to err on the side of caution, Flynn warned flooding people's with notifications could foster "alert fatigue," potentially prompting some to swipe away warnings about a present threat. He said this "cover your behind" communications strategy may have been a factor in a false alarm last month in Nova Scotia. Days after the massacre, the province issued an emergency alert about possible shootings in the Halifax area that turned out to be nothing, or in one case, construction noise. Tom Stamatakis, president of the Canadian Police Association, said it's easy to criticize these calls with the benefit of hindsight. But when you're fielding multiple gunfire reports a day, he said it's not always clear whether you're dealing with a backfiring car or a shooter on the run. Stamatakis declined to comment on the Nova Scotia killings because the investigation is ongoing, but said emergency alerts are reserved for immediate threats to life and limb, and it's not an action police take with the push of a button. While he supports the effort to establish national public alert protocols, Stamatakis said no handbook can fully prepare police to respond to a fast-changing crisis like a mass shooting. "You're assessing information as it comes in ... and the decisions you make are only as good as the information you're getting," he said. "I think it's way too difficult to come up with some kind of really prescriptive formula that people should follow." Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of disaster and emergency management at York University, agrees that a "one-size-fits-all" policy won't account for the regional diversity of Canadian policing. Still, Rozdilsky said he would like to see RCMP incorporate certain research-backed principles to ensure emergency alerts contain information about what the threat is, who is at risk and for how long, what protective actions people need to take and what the consequences are if they don't. However, he cautioned that authorities may not want to model these protocols after last month's tragedy Nova Scotia. "The nature of the threat of the mass shooting that took place in Nova Scotia is maybe beyond the capacity of what we can expect a warning system to deliver." He noted that even before the shootings, the province's emergency response capacity was already taxed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To complicate matters, Rozdilsky said police were dealing with a killer wreaking chaos and carnage across 16 crime scenes, all the while dressed as an RCMP officer and driving a mock-up cruiser. Sending a province-wide alert about this disguise could have backed up 911 lines with false reports of suspect sightings as police swarmed the streets to hunt him down, said Rozdilsky. There was also the potential for "blue-on-blue" violence if officers mistook a colleague for the killer. Grieving families have every right to question what could have been done to avert such unfathomable loss, said Rozdilsky, and authorities owe them answers. But with so many unknowns, Rozdilsky said he's reserving judgment until we get a fuller picture of how these horrific events unfolded. Given these considerations, Rozdilsky said using emergency alert systems can be "more of an art than a science." And whichever way you decide, the consequences can be serious, or in some cases, possibly fatal. Rozdilsky pointed January's false alarm at a nuclear power plant in Pickering, Ont., as an example of the panic that can ensue when these warning systems are misused. He said there's even a slight risk that a certain number of people may die from heart attacks, car accidents or reckless behaviour when they believe that life-threatening danger is imminent -- even if it isn't. "We have the power to really save lives if the technology is employed correctly," said Rozdilsky. "(But) we have to realize we're still dealing with a complex society made of many different humans ... and that's why we have to be careful." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 14:12 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/rcmp-to-draft-national-policy-for-emergency-alerts-after-n-s-shootings-1.4922729Rating: 2.87
RCMP to draft national policy for emergency alerts after N.S. shootings
Mounties in Nova Scotia are under scrutiny for not issuing an emergency alert as a gunman rampaged through rural communities, but there's nothing in the national RCMP handbook to suggest that they should have. In fact, the RCMP says there are currently no countrywide guidelines for when police should use Canada's public warning system to broadcast information to cellphones and television screens. In the wake of the mass murder that claimed 22 lives in Nova Scotia about two weeks ago, the force is looking into developing a national operational policy for using the emergency alert system. But experts in law enforcement and emergency management say authorities must strike a delicate balance between informing the public about potential threats and avoiding unnecessary panic. And as the tragedy in Nova Scotia shows, they say those judgments aren't always clear cut in the throes of crisis with lives on the line. "Make no mistake — none of us have ever experienced the kind of chaos that those officers, first responders and even the critical incident commander faced that night," said Terry Flynn, an associate professor of communications at McMaster University. "The critical thing for them is that now, they unfortunately have a mass shooting playbook." Before Canada launched its text-based national alert system in 2018, Flynn said RCMP considered social media to be the best way to communicate during a crisis. Reviews of the 2014 shootings in Moncton, N.B., and on Parliament Hill found that Twitter was a critical tool for disseminating real-time information to the public and media as both incidents were unfolding. In a similar vein, Nova Scotia RCMP used Twitter to send out updates as a firearms complaint in the tiny coastal village of Portapique on the evening of April 18 evolved into a shooting and arson spree across central and northern parts of the province. Mounties have faced questions about why they relied on social media to get the word out when they could have sent an emergency notification to every phone in the province. Some victims' relatives have called for the issue to be examined as part of a public inquiry into the mass murder. Premier Stephen McNeil has said emergency officials were ready to issue an alert, but couldn't act until the RCMP supplied information. The Mounties say they were crafting a message when the gunman was fatally shot by police in Enfield, N.S., on April 19 after a 13-hour manhunt. Nova Scotia RCMP Superintendent Darren Campbell told reporters Tuesday that the force is conducting a "full review" of the use of the emergency alert system in consultation with the province and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. National RCMP spokeswoman Robin Percival said in an email that the force is looking at creating a Canada-wide policy, but said public alert protocols are generally set out by provincial emergency management authorities. Nova Scotia's Emergency Management Office didn't immediately respond to a request for details about its protocols. Flynn, who specializes in crisis management at McMaster, said instituting clear procedures and training about when to issue an emergency alert could save lives in situations where "seconds count." While it may seem wise for authorities to err on the side of caution, Flynn warned flooding people's with notifications could foster "alert fatigue," potentially prompting some to swipe away warnings about a present threat. He said this "cover your behind" communications strategy may have been a factor in a false alarm last month in Nova Scotia. Days after the massacre, the province issued an emergency alert about possible shootings in the Halifax area that turned out to be nothing, or in one case, construction noise. Tom Stamatakis, president of the Canadian Police Association, said it's easy to criticize these calls with the benefit of hindsight. But when you're fielding multiple gunfire reports a day, he said it's not always clear whether you're dealing with a backfiring car or a shooter on the run. Stamatakis declined to comment on the Nova Scotia killings because the investigation is ongoing, but said emergency alerts are reserved for immediate threats to life and limb, and it's not an action police take with the push of a button. While he supports the effort to establish national public alert protocols, Stamatakis said no handbook can fully prepare police to respond to a fast-changing crisis like a mass shooting. "You're assessing information as it comes in ... and the decisions you make are only as good as the information you're getting," he said. "I think it's way too difficult to come up with some kind of really prescriptive formula that people should follow." Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of disaster and emergency management at York University, agrees that a "one-size-fits-all" policy won't account for the regional diversity of Canadian policing. Still, Rozdilsky said he would like to see RCMP incorporate certain research-backed principles to ensure emergency alerts contain information about what the threat is, who is at risk and for how long, what protective actions people need to take and what the consequences are if they don't. However, he cautioned that authorities may not want to model these protocols after last month's tragedy Nova Scotia. "The nature of the threat of the mass shooting that took place in Nova Scotia is maybe beyond the capacity of what we can expect a warning system to deliver." He noted that even before the shootings, the province's emergency response capacity was already taxed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To complicate matters, Rozdilsky said police were dealing with a killer wreaking chaos and carnage across 16 crime scenes, all the while dressed as an RCMP officer and driving a mock-up cruiser. Sending a province-wide alert about this disguise could have backed up 911 lines with false reports of suspect sightings as police swarmed the streets to hunt him down, said Rozdilsky. There was also the potential for "blue-on-blue" violence if officers mistook a colleague for the killer. Grieving families have every right to question what could have been done to avert such unfathomable loss, said Rozdilsky, and authorities owe them answers. But with so many unknowns, Rozdilsky said he's reserving judgment until we get a fuller picture of how these horrific events unfolded. Given these considerations, Rozdilsky said using emergency alert systems can be "more of an art than a science." And whichever way you decide, the consequences can be serious, or in some cases, possibly fatal. Rozdilsky pointed January's false alarm at a nuclear power plant in Pickering, Ont., as an example of the panic that can ensue when these warning systems are misused. He said there's even a slight risk that a certain number of people may die from heart attacks, car accidents or reckless behaviour when they believe that life-threatening danger is imminent — even if it isn't. "We have the power to really save lives if the technology is employed correctly," said Rozdilsky. "(But) we have to realize we're still dealing with a complex society made of many different humans ... and that's why we have to be careful." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 14:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/ns-shootings-alerts/cp887597277Rating: 0.30
RCMP to draft national policy for emergency alerts after N.S. shootings
Mounties in Nova Scotia are under scrutiny for not issuing an emergency alert as a gunman rampaged through rural communities, but there's nothing in the national RCMP handbook to suggest that they should have. In fact, the RCMP says there are currently no countrywide guidelines for when police should use Canada's public warning system to broadcast information to cellphones and television screens. In the wake of the mass murder that claimed 22 lives in Nova Scotia about two weeks ago, the force is looking into developing a national operational policy for using the emergency alert system. But experts in law enforcement and emergency management say authorities must strike a delicate balance between informing the public about potential threats and avoiding unnecessary panic. And as the tragedy in Nova Scotia shows, they say those judgments aren't always clear cut in the throes of crisis with lives on the line. "Make no mistake — none of us have ever experienced the kind of chaos that those officers, first responders and even the critical incident commander faced that night," said Terry Flynn, an associate professor of communications at McMaster University. "The critical thing for them is that now, they unfortunately have a mass shooting playbook." Before Canada launched its text-based national alert system in 2018, Flynn said RCMP considered social media to be the best way to communicate during a crisis. Reviews of the 2014 shootings in Moncton, N.B., and on Parliament Hill found that Twitter was a critical tool for disseminating real-time information to the public and media as both incidents were unfolding. In a similar vein, Nova Scotia RCMP used Twitter to send out updates as a firearms complaint in the tiny coastal village of Portapique on the evening of April 18 evolved into a shooting and arson spree across central and northern parts of the province. Mounties have faced questions about why they relied on social media to get the word out when they could have sent an emergency notification to every phone in the province. Some victims' relatives have called for the issue to be examined as part of a public inquiry into the mass murder. Premier Stephen McNeil has said emergency officials were ready to issue an alert, but couldn't act until the RCMP supplied information. The Mounties say they were crafting a message when the gunman was fatally shot by police in Enfield, N.S., on April 19 after a 13-hour manhunt. Nova Scotia RCMP Superintendent Darren Campbell told reporters Tuesday that the force is conducting a "full review" of the use of the emergency alert system in consultation with the province and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. National RCMP spokeswoman Robin Percival said in an email that the force is looking at creating a Canada-wide policy, but said public alert protocols are generally set out by provincial emergency management authorities. Nova Scotia's Emergency Management Office didn't immediately respond to a request for details about its protocols. Flynn, who specializes in crisis management at McMaster, said instituting clear procedures and training about when to issue an emergency alert could save lives in situations where "seconds count." While it may seem wise for authorities to err on the side of caution, Flynn warned flooding people's with notifications could foster "alert fatigue," potentially prompting some to swipe away warnings about a present threat. He said this "cover your behind" communications strategy may have been a factor in a false alarm last month in Nova Scotia. Days after the massacre, the province issued an emergency alert about possible shootings in the Halifax area that turned out to be nothing, or in one case, construction noise. Tom Stamatakis, president of the Canadian Police Association, said it's easy to criticize these calls with the benefit of hindsight. But when you're fielding multiple gunfire reports a day, he said it's not always clear whether you're dealing with a backfiring car or a shooter on the run. Stamatakis declined to comment on the Nova Scotia killings because the investigation is ongoing, but said emergency alerts are reserved for immediate threats to life and limb, and it's not an action police take with the push of a button. While he supports the effort to establish national public alert protocols, Stamatakis said no handbook can fully prepare police to respond to a fast-changing crisis like a mass shooting. "You're assessing information as it comes in ... and the decisions you make are only as good as the information you're getting," he said. "I think it's way too difficult to come up with some kind of really prescriptive formula that people should follow." Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of disaster and emergency management at York University, agrees that a "one-size-fits-all" policy won't account for the regional diversity of Canadian policing. Still, Rozdilsky said he would like to see RCMP incorporate certain research-backed principles to ensure emergency alerts contain information about what the threat is, who is at risk and for how long, what protective actions people need to take and what the consequences are if they don't. However, he cautioned that authorities may not want to model these protocols after last month's tragedy Nova Scotia. "The nature of the threat of the mass shooting that took place in Nova Scotia is maybe beyond the capacity of what we can expect a warning system to deliver." He noted that even before the shootings, the province's emergency response capacity was already taxed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To complicate matters, Rozdilsky said police were dealing with a killer wreaking chaos and carnage across 16 crime scenes, all the while dressed as an RCMP officer and driving a mock-up cruiser. Sending a province-wide alert about this disguise could have backed up 911 lines with false reports of suspect sightings as police swarmed the streets to hunt him down, said Rozdilsky. There was also the potential for "blue-on-blue" violence if officers mistook a colleague for the killer. Grieving families have every right to question what could have been done to avert such unfathomable loss, said Rozdilsky, and authorities owe them answers. But with so many unknowns, Rozdilsky said he's reserving judgment until we get a fuller picture of how these horrific events unfolded. Given these considerations, Rozdilsky said using emergency alert systems can be "more of an art than a science." And whichever way you decide, the consequences can be serious, or in some cases, possibly fatal. Rozdilsky pointed January's false alarm at a nuclear power plant in Pickering, Ont., as an example of the panic that can ensue when these warning systems are misused. He said there's even a slight risk that a certain number of people may die from heart attacks, car accidents or reckless behaviour when they believe that life-threatening danger is imminent — even if it isn't. "We have the power to really save lives if the technology is employed correctly," said Rozdilsky. "(But) we have to realize we're still dealing with a complex society made of many different humans ... and that's why we have to be careful." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Adina Bresge, The Canadian Press
3 May 14:00 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/rcmp-to-draft-national-policy-for-emergency-alerts-after-ns-shootings-2320482Rating: 0.30
RCMP to draft national policy for emergency alerts after N.S. shootings
Mounties in Nova Scotia are under scrutiny for not issuing an emergency alert as a gunman rampaged through rural communities, but there's nothing in the national RCMP handbook to suggest that they should have. In fact, the RCMP says there are currently no countrywide guidelines for when police should use Canada's public warning system to broadcast information to cellphones and television screens. In the wake of the mass murder that claimed 22 lives in Nova Scotia about two weeks ago, the force is looking into developing a national operational policy for using the emergency alert system. But experts in law enforcement and emergency management say authorities must strike a delicate balance between informing the public about potential threats and avoiding unnecessary panic. And as the tragedy in Nova Scotia shows, they say those judgments aren't always clear cut in the throes of crisis with lives on the line. "Make no mistake -- none of us have ever experienced the kind of chaos that those officers, first responders and even the critical incident commander faced that night," said Terry Flynn, an associate professor of communications at McMaster University. "The critical thing for them is that now, they unfortunately have a mass shooting playbook." Before Canada launched its text-based national alert system in 2018, Flynn said RCMP considered social media to be the best way to communicate during a crisis. Reviews of the 2014 shootings in Moncton, N.B., and on Parliament Hill found that Twitter was a critical tool for disseminating real-time information to the public and media as both incidents were unfolding. In a similar vein, Nova Scotia RCMP used Twitter to send out updates as a firearms complaint in the tiny coastal village of Portapique on the evening of April 18 evolved into a shooting and arson spree across central and northern parts of the province. Mounties have faced questions about why they relied on social media to get the word out when they could have sent an emergency notification to every phone in the province. Some victims' relatives have called for the issue to be examined as part of a public inquiry into the mass murder. Premier Stephen McNeil has said emergency officials were ready to issue an alert, but couldn't act until the RCMP supplied information. The Mounties say they were crafting a message when the gunman was fatally shot by police in Enfield, N.S., on April 19 after a 13-hour manhunt. Nova Scotia RCMP Superintendent Darren Campbell told reporters Tuesday that the force is conducting a "full review" of the use of the emergency alert system in consultation with the province and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. National RCMP spokeswoman Robin Percival said in an email that the force is looking at creating a Canada-wide policy, but said public alert protocols are generally set out by provincial emergency management authorities. Nova Scotia's Emergency Management Office didn't immediately respond to a request for details about its protocols. Flynn, who specializes in crisis management at McMaster, said instituting clear procedures and training about when to issue an emergency alert could save lives in situations where "seconds count." While it may seem wise for authorities to err on the side of caution, Flynn warned flooding people's with notifications could foster "alert fatigue," potentially prompting some to swipe away warnings about a present threat. He said this "cover your behind" communications strategy may have been a factor in a false alarm last month in Nova Scotia. Days after the massacre, the province issued an emergency alert about possible shootings in the Halifax area that turned out to be nothing, or in one case, construction noise. Tom Stamatakis, president of the Canadian Police Association, said it's easy to criticize these calls with the benefit of hindsight. But when you're fielding multiple gunfire reports a day, he said it's not always clear whether you're dealing with a backfiring car or a shooter on the run. Stamatakis declined to comment on the Nova Scotia killings because the investigation is ongoing, but said emergency alerts are reserved for immediate threats to life and limb, and it's not an action police take with the push of a button. While he supports the effort to establish national public alert protocols, Stamatakis said no handbook can fully prepare police to respond to a fast-changing crisis like a mass shooting. "You're assessing information as it comes in ... and the decisions you make are only as good as the information you're getting," he said. "I think it's way too difficult to come up with some kind of really prescriptive formula that people should follow." Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of disaster and emergency management at York University, agrees that a "one-size-fits-all" policy won't account for the regional diversity of Canadian policing. Still, Rozdilsky said he would like to see RCMP incorporate certain research-backed principles to ensure emergency alerts contain information about what the threat is, who is at risk and for how long, what protective actions people need to take and what the consequences are if they don't. However, he cautioned that authorities may not want to model these protocols after last month's tragedy Nova Scotia. "The nature of the threat of the mass shooting that took place in Nova Scotia is maybe beyond the capacity of what we can expect a warning system to deliver." He noted that even before the shootings, the province's emergency response capacity was already taxed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To complicate matters, Rozdilsky said police were dealing with a killer wreaking chaos and carnage across 16 crime scenes, all the while dressed as an RCMP officer and driving a mock-up cruiser. Sending a province-wide alert about this disguise could have backed up 911 lines with false reports of suspect sightings as police swarmed the streets to hunt him down, said Rozdilsky. There was also the potential for "blue-on-blue" violence if officers mistook a colleague for the killer. Grieving families have every right to question what could have been done to avert such unfathomable loss, said Rozdilsky, and authorities owe them answers. But with so many unknowns, Rozdilsky said he's reserving judgment until we get a fuller picture of how these horrific events unfolded. Given these considerations, Rozdilsky said using emergency alert systems can be "more of an art than a science." And whichever way you decide, the consequences can be serious, or in some cases, possibly fatal. Rozdilsky pointed January's false alarm at a nuclear power plant in Pickering, Ont., as an example of the panic that can ensue when these warning systems are misused. He said there's even a slight risk that a certain number of people may die from heart attacks, car accidents or reckless behaviour when they believe that life-threatening danger is imminent -- even if it isn't. "We have the power to really save lives if the technology is employed correctly," said Rozdilsky. "(But) we have to realize we're still dealing with a complex society made of many different humans ... and that's why we have to be careful." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 15:07 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/rcmp-to-draft-national-policy-for-emergency-alerts-after-n-s-shootings-1.4922767Rating: 1.66
RCMP to draft national policy for emergency alerts after Nova Scotia shootings
Mounties in Nova Scotia are under scrutiny for not issuing an emergency alert as a gunman rampaged through rural communities, but there’s nothing in the national RCMP handbook to suggest that they should have. In fact, the RCMP says there are currently no countrywide guidelines for when police should use Canada’s public warning system to broadcast information to cellphones and television screens. In the wake of the mass murder that claimed 22 lives in Nova Scotia about two weeks ago, the force is looking into developing a national operational policy for using the emergency alert system. But experts in law enforcement and emergency management say authorities must strike a delicate balance between informing the public about potential threats and avoiding unnecessary panic. And as the tragedy in Nova Scotia shows, they say those judgments aren’t always clear cut in the throes of crisis with lives on the line. “Make no mistake — none of us have ever experienced the kind of chaos that those officers, first responders and even the critical incident commander faced that night,” said Terry Flynn, an associate professor of communications at McMaster University. “The critical thing for them is that now, they unfortunately have a mass shooting playbook.” Before Canada launched its text-based national alert system in 2018, Flynn said RCMP considered social media to be the best way to communicate during a crisis. Reviews of the 2014 shootings in Moncton, N.B., and on Parliament Hill found that Twitter was a critical tool for disseminating real-time information to the public and media as both incidents were unfolding. In a similar vein, Nova Scotia RCMP used Twitter to send out updates as a firearms complaint in the tiny coastal village of Portapique on the evening of April 18 evolved into a shooting and arson spree across central and northern parts of the province. READ MORE: RCMP bid to be more transparent a work in progress, media experts say Mounties have faced questions about why they relied on social media to get the word out when they could have sent an emergency notification to every phone in the province. Some victims’ relatives have called for the issue to be examined as part of a public inquiry into the mass murder. Premier Stephen McNeil has said emergency officials were ready to issue an alert, but couldn’t act until the RCMP supplied information. The Mounties say they were crafting a message when the gunman was fatally shot by police in Enfield, N.S., on April 19 after a 13-hour manhunt. Nova Scotia RCMP Superintendent Darren Campbell told reporters Tuesday that the force is conducting a “full review” of the use of the emergency alert system in consultation with the province and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police. National RCMP spokeswoman Robin Percival said in an email that the force is looking at creating a Canada-wide policy, but said public alert protocols are generally set out by provincial emergency management authorities. Nova Scotia’s Emergency Management Office didn’t immediately respond to a request for details about its protocols. Flynn, who specializes in crisis management at McMaster, said instituting clear procedures and training about when to issue an emergency alert could save lives in situations where “seconds count.” While it may seem wise for authorities to err on the side of caution, Flynn warned flooding people’s with notifications could foster “alert fatigue,” potentially prompting some to swipe away warnings about a present threat. He said this “cover your behind” communications strategy may have been a factor in a false alarm last month in Nova Scotia. Days after the massacre, the province issued an emergency alert about possible shootings in the Halifax area that turned out to be nothing, or in one case, construction noise. Tom Stamatakis, president of the Canadian Police Association, said it’s easy to criticize these calls with the benefit of hindsight. But when you’re fielding multiple gunfire reports a day, he said it’s not always clear whether you’re dealing with a backfiring car or a shooter on the run. Stamatakis declined to comment on the Nova Scotia killings because the investigation is ongoing, but said emergency alerts are reserved for immediate threats to life and limb, and it’s not an action police take with the push of a button. While he supports the effort to establish national public alert protocols, Stamatakis said no handbook can fully prepare police to respond to a fast-changing crisis like a mass shooting. “You’re assessing information as it comes in … and the decisions you make are only as good as the information you’re getting,” he said. ”I think it’s way too difficult to come up with some kind of really prescriptive formula that people should follow.” READ MORE: Concert fundraiser for victims of Nova Scotia massacre organized by B.C. police officer Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of disaster and emergency management at York University, agrees that a “one-size-fits-all” policy won’t account for the regional diversity of Canadian policing. Still, Rozdilsky said he would like to see RCMP incorporate certain research-backed principles to ensure emergency alerts contain information about what the threat is, who is at risk and for how long, what protective actions people need to take and what the consequences are if they don’t. However, he cautioned that authorities may not want to model these protocols after last month’s tragedy Nova Scotia. “The nature of the threat of the mass shooting that took place in Nova Scotia is maybe beyond the capacity of what we can expect a warning system to deliver.” He noted that even before the shootings, the province’s emergency response capacity was already taxed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. To complicate matters, Rozdilsky said police were dealing with a killer wreaking chaos and carnage across 16 crime scenes, all the while dressed as an RCMP officer and driving a mock-up cruiser. Sending a province-wide alert about this disguise could have backed up 911 lines with false reports of suspect sightings as police swarmed the streets to hunt him down, said Rozdilsky. There was also the potential for “blue-on-blue” violence if officers mistook a colleague for the killer. Grieving families have every right to question what could have been done to avert such unfathomable loss, said Rozdilsky, and authorities owe them answers. But with so many unknowns, Rozdilsky said he’s reserving judgment until we get a fuller picture of how these horrific events unfolded. Given these considerations, Rozdilsky said using emergency alert systems can be “more of an art than a science.” And whichever way you decide, the consequences can be serious, or in some cases, possibly fatal. Rozdilsky pointed January’s false alarm at a nuclear power plant in Pickering, Ont., as an example of the panic that can ensue when these warning systems are misused. He said there’s even a slight risk that a certain number of people may die from heart attacks, car accidents or reckless behaviour when they believe that life-threatening danger is imminent — even if it isn’t. “We have the power to really save lives if the technology is employed correctly,” said Rozdilsky. “(But) we have to realize we’re still dealing with a complex society made of many different humans … and that’s why we have to be careful.” Adina Bresge, The Canadian Press
3 May 14:30 • North Delta Reporter • https://www.northdeltareporter.com/news/rcmp-to-draft-national-policy-for-emergency-alerts-after-nova-scotia-shootings/Rating: 0.30
Boy, 11, is feared to have 'life-changing injuries' after armed burglars dressed as deliverymen barged into home and shot him as he played videogames
3 May 14:23
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3 articles
Weight: 2.11
Importance: 2.11
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 14:23
Average US: 26.366666666666664
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Weighted average IN: 4.0929934307479146
Boy, 11, is feared to have 'life-changing injuries' after armed burglars dressed as deliverymen barged into home and shot him as he played videogames
A boy of 11 is feared to have suffered ‘life-changing injuries’ after he was shot in the arm by burglars posing as deliverymen. The gang forced entry into his family’s semi-detached house after the boy’s father – businessman Ray Hawkins, 45 – had opened the door believing it was a parcel delivery at 9.30pm on Friday. Mr Hawkins, who suffered a cut to his head from a machete, and his son were rushed to hospital after the raid in Upminster, East London. The Metropolitan Police said neither had life-threatening injuries but the boy’s ‘may be life-changing’. He had been playing videogames when the gang broke in. A spokesman added that there had ‘been no arrests at this stage’. A police helicopter had been scrambled to hunt for the robbers. Mr Hawkins’s wife Laura had a knife held to her throat, reports the Sun on Sunday. She is uninjured. A neighbour said Mr Hawkins runs a designer flooring company. Refurbisher Lee Wingate, 52, who has lived at a neighbouring property for 18 years, said the cul-de-sac is 'dead quiet'. 'The only reason why anyone would want to come by here is if they're going to the park,' he said. 'The problem police will have is that these are all bungalows. The bedrooms are at the front and the lounge is in the back. No one will hear anything with their TVs on.' Neighbour Marilyn O'Connor, 70, said on Friday: 'I heard loads of police cars last night but I didn’t know what was going on. 'I then read on Facebook that a small boy has been shot this morning. 'It's just so unnerving. This is a quiet place, it's a leafy suburb. You wouldn't expect something like that to happen in a place like this.' Peter Frost, 71, retired, said: 'We didn't hear anything as we've got double glazing. 'There's been a lot of confusion. First we thought a woman's been attacked, then someone's been stabbed, and now a boy's been shot. 'This is a quiet road, lots of retirees around here. It's a nightmare for that poor boy to be left with injuries like that. 'You just hope he'll be able to live as best a life as he can, get by, and hopefully he'll recover. I'm sure everyone will be behind him.' A Scotland Yard spokesperson said: 'Residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area as part of reassurance patrols over the weekend and are encouraged to approach officers to speak about any concerns.'
3 May 14:23 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8282225/Boy-11-feared-life-changing-injuries-armed-burglars-attack-home.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ito=1490&ns_campaign=1490Rating: 4.11
Tributes paid to 'funny and kind' father-of-three killed in crash with lorry
Tributes have been paid to a father-of-three who died in a crash in Swansea. South Wales Police named the man who died in a collision in Landore on Friday, May 1, as Dean Workman. The 46-year-old was driving a blue Toyota C-HR when it collided with a stationary white Iveco lorry on Neath Road. He was from the Cymmer area of Neath Port Talbot and is survived by his mother, Norma, and his three boys, Scott, Tyrese and Adam. In a tribute, his family said Mr Workman "loved his sons dearly" and added: "Dean worked in the security industry before re-training to be an electrician which took him around the country. "As a staff sergeant in the Territorial Army, he also instructed cadets, which he loved doing. He loved to be with his family and friends. He had a passion for nice cars and enjoyed his hobby, shooting at the range. He lived life to the full, was funny, kind and would help anyone. He will be sorely missed by them, and all of his friends and work colleagues.” Officers are continuing their appeal for witnesses who might have seen, or have dash cam footage, of the blue Toyota prior to the collision. Anybody with information should call 101 quoting occurrence number *0148739.
3 May 16:39 • Wales Online • https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/dean-workman-swansea-neath-talbot-18192713Rating: 0.62
Boy, 11, feared to have 'life-changing injuries' after being shot at home by burglars posing as deliverymen
A boy of 11 is feared to have suffered ‘life-changing injuries’ after being shot at home by burglars posing as deliverymen. The gang forced their entry into his family’s semi-detached house after the boy’s father – businessman Ray Hawkins, 45 – had opened the door believing it was a parcel delivery at 9.30pm on Friday. Mr Hawkins, who suffered a cut to his head, and his son were taken to hospital after the raid in Upminster, East London. The Metropolitan Police said neither had life-threatening injuries but the boy’s ‘may be life-changing’. A spokesman added that there had ‘been no arrests at this stage’. Mr Hawkins’s wife Laura was unhurt. A neighbour said Mr Hawkins runs a designer flooring company, adding: ‘He’s just your average bloke – always a nice geezer.’
2 May 22:38 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8281213/Boy-11-feared-life-changing-injuries-shot-burglars-posing-deliverymen.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
South Korea to relax social distancing rules further, starting May 6
3 May 11:04
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6 articles
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Best date: 3 May 11:04
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Weighted average GB: 0.9420834745541591
Average IN: 4.583333333333332
Weighted average IN: 6.626127430613258
South Korea to relax social distancing rules further, starting May 6
SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea will further relax social distancing rules from May 6, allowing a phased re-opening of businesses, as the nation has largely managed to bring the coronavirus outbreak under control, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on Sunday. Widespread testing, intensive contact tracing and tracking apps have enabled South Korea to limit the spread of the virus rather than rely on the lengthy lockdowns seen elsewhere. The government “will allow businesses to resume at facilities in phases that had remained closed up until now, and also allow gatherings and events to take place assuming they follow disinfection guidelines,” the prime minister told a televised meeting of government officials. Further easing of rules means public facilities such as parks, libraries as well as schools could reopen in phases, although the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended citizens to continue to exercise some caution in everyday life. The new guidelines from the government advise everyone to stay home for three to four days if they feel unwell, stay arms-apart with others in public spaces, and wash hands frequently. Seoul extended its social distancing policy until May 5 even as it managed to bring down daily infection cases of more than 900 in late February to around 10 per day in the past week. The national tally is at 10,793 as of midnight Saturday, with 250 deaths.
3 May 11:04 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-southkorea-idUSKBN22F06CRating: 4.04
Coronavirus | South Korea to relax social distancing rules further from May 6
South Korea will further relax social distancing rules from May 6, allowing a phased re-opening of businesses, as the nation has largely managed to bring the COVID-19 outbreak under control, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on Sunday. Widespread testing, intensive contact tracing and tracking apps have enabled South Korea to limit the spread of the virus rather than rely on the lengthy lockdowns seen elsewhere. The government “will allow businesses to resume at facilities in phases that had remained closed up until now, and also allow gatherings and events to take place assuming they follow disinfection guidelines,” the Prime Minister told a televised meeting of government officials. Further easing of rules means public facilities such as parks, libraries as well as schools could reopen in phases, although the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended citizens to continue to exercise some caution in everyday life. The new guidelines from the government advise everyone to stay home for three to four days if they feel unwell, stay arms-apart with others in public spaces, and wash hands frequently. Seoul extended its social distancing policy until May 5 even as it managed to bring down daily infection cases of more than 900 in late February to around 10 per day in the past week. The national tally is at 10,793 as of midnight Saturday, with 250 deaths. Some professional sports, including baseball and soccer, are due to start their new seasons this week after being postponed over virus fears, although the matches will be played behind closed doors.
3 May 16:55 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-south-korea-to-relax-social-distancing-rules-further-from-may-6/article31495660.eceRating: 0.30
S.Korea to Relax Social Distancing Rules Further, Starting May 6
South Korea will further relax social distancing rules from May 6, allowing a phased re-opening of businesses, as the nation has largely managed to bring the coronavirus outbreak under control, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on Sunday. Widespread testing, intensive contact tracing and tracking apps have enabled South Korea to limit the spread of the virus rather than rely on the lengthy lockdowns seen elsewhere. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories The government "will allow businesses to resume at facilities in phases that had remained closed up until now, and also allow gatherings and events to take place assuming they follow disinfection guidelines," the prime minister told a televised meeting of government officials. Further easing of rules means public facilities such as parks, libraries as well as schools could reopen in phases, although the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended citizens to continue to exercise some caution in everyday life. The new guidelines from the government advise everyone to stay home for three to four days if they feel unwell, stay arms-apart with others in public spaces, and wash hands frequently. Seoul extended its social distancing policy until May 5 even as it managed to bring down daily infection cases of more than 900 in late February to around 10 per day in the past week. The national tally is at 10,793 as of midnight Saturday, with 250 deaths.
3 May 14:14 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/science-and-health/s-korea-to-relax-social-distancing-rules-further-starting-may-6-1.8816585Rating: 1.13
South Korea to relax COVID-19 social distancing rules further from May 6
SEOUL: South Korea will further relax social distancing rules starting on May 6, allowing a phased reopening of businesses, as the nation has largely managed to bring the coronavirus outbreak under control, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on Sunday (May 3). The government "will allow businesses to resume at facilities in phases that had remained closed up until now, and also allow gatherings and events to take place assuming they follow disinfection guidelines," he told a televised meeting of government officials. Scores of events - from K-pop concerts to sports seasons - had been delayed or cancelled, while museums and galleries were closed and religious services suspended. The easing of measures comes as the country continues to record low numbers of COVID-19 infections. South Korea appears to have brought its outbreak under control thanks to an extensive "trace, test and treat" programme. Its reported death toll is 250 - vastly lower than that of Italy, Britain, Spain and France, which have each recorded at least 24,000 fatalities. "South Korea will implement the everyday life quarantine scheme starting Wednesday," Chung said during a government meeting. On Sunday, the country reported 13 new cases, bringing the national tally to 10,793, according to the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). Ten of the new cases were imported. On Thursday, South Korea had no new domestic coronavirus cases for the first time since its Feb 29 peak. However, imported cases still remain a threat, said Yonhap news agency. Under the new quarantine scheme starting on Wednesday, schools and workplaces can return to normal routines, but under basic guidelines. The government is also set to announce this week the dates for students to return to school, which is expected to be some time around mid-May, according to Yonhap news agency. "The new guidelines are more of a compromise amid rising social and economic burdens sparked by the pandemic," Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said in a meeting, as reported by Yonhap. "People need to comply with basic guidelines, such as maintaining at least two meters of distance from each other, even after we move on to the everyday life quarantine," Chung added. Some professional sports, including baseball and soccer, are due to start their new seasons this week after being postponed over virus fears, although the matches will be played behind closed doors. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 17:11 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/south-korea-to-relax-covid-19-social-distancing-rules-further-12697852Rating: 3.25
With some relaxations, states draw up plan for lockdown 3.0
India prepared on Sunday for the third phase of the ongoing lockdown with states and Union Territories drafting their own rules, mostly in line with federal guidelines that have given area-specific relaxations in a graded approach to bring back normalcy in the backdrop of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic. There were some that stood out. Among them was Jharkhand, which announced that there will be no relaxations spelt out by the central government for the three zones in the country --- red, orange and green --- for two weeks beginning Monday. “Migrant workers, students and others are returning home from other states. As a precautionary measure, lockdown would continue in Jharkhand for next two weeks. The new directions of the Centre regarding relaxations would not be implemented in for now,” chief minister Hemant Soren said in a Twitter post. Coronavirus outbreak: Full coverage In the eastern state, capital Ranchi is in red zone (areas with most Covid-19 cases); 11 districts are in orange zone (places with fewer cases) while the rest of the 12 are in green zone (places with no cases). The northeastern state of Mizoram promulgated an ordinance making the punishment for violations of lockdown measures more stringent, a day after Rajasthan passed a similar ordinance. The Assam government announced a complete ban on the movement of non-essential travel between 6pm and 6am for the next two weeks, which covers the extended lockdown period. The central guideline has banned such travels from 7 pm and 7 am. “Directives have been issued to police to take stringent action against curfew violators. Hence, we request everyone to ensure that the restrictions are complied with,” health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said. “All relaxations are only for districts in green zones...” Of Assam’s 33 districts, 30 are green and three orange zones. Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, two big states, toed the Centre’s line. The Maharashtra government allowed the functioning of standalone liquor shops across the state, barring containment zones (which are areas inside red/orange zones with stricter perimeter control). According to a government notification, standalone shops selling non-essential items, too, will be allowed in red zones, which include Mumbai and Pune. Construction activities in all red zone districts will be allowed, provided workers are available on site. In UP, standalone liquor shops can operate from 10 am to 7 pm with social distancing in red zones. The state also allowed all standalone shops and shops in residential complexes. In line with the central directive, the state allowed private four-wheelers with a maximum of two persons besides the driver for all activities permitted by the government in red zones. Private offices can operate with up to 33% of staff strength in such areas. Lucknow, the capital of India’s most populous state, Agra and Gautam Budh Nagar (which houses Noida), among other districts in UP, are red zones. Chhattisgarh, too, allowed liquor shops and was planning to start its home delivery, according to a minister. Liquor shops will be open from 8am to 7pm. “To maintain social distancing, we have decided to provide home delivery to some big colonies and settlements,” Chhattisgarh excise minister Kawasi Lakhma said. “How liquor will be delivered online will be announced on Monday. We are still working on it.” Karnataka, too, permitted the sale of liquor in standalone stores. So did Madhya Pradesh. But a minister in Uttarakhand said liquor shops may not be open in red zones. And Kerala, where per capita consumption is second highest after Punjab, was yet to resume selling liquor. Karnataka said Bengaluru urban and its four neighbouring districts (Bengaluru Rural, Ramanagara, Chikkaballapur and Kolar) would be treated as a single unit for inter-district movement of individuals and vehicles between 7am to 7pm for permitted activities with the production of letter from the company they are working in and the official identity card. Hence, no other inter-district passes will be required to move across these districts, the order said. The Goa government agreed to restart public transport, including buses, taxis and auto rickshaws but only with 50% of seating capacity, while restricting their timing from 7am-7pm. Chief minister Pramod Sawant announced said several services and economic activities will resume in line with the central guidelines since Goa is a green zone. He, however, stressed that all non-essential shops should be closed by 6pm so that people can be home by 7pm. “Only essential workers such as medical workers and other essential services like shops selling milk will be allowed to be open after 7pm,” Sawant said. Restaurants, street eateries, beach shacks and drinking in public places will remain prohibited as these activities banned across the nation. In Rajasthan, the government prohibited the sale of pan and tobacco products, though the central guidelines have allowed the opening of shops selling tobacco products with strict social-distancing norms. The Centre first imposed a 21-day lockdown on March 25, and then extended it for 19 days till May 3. On Friday, the government announced another two-week extension, but this time with zone-specific curbs and relaxations though there are some activities banned throught the country. (With agency inputs)
3 May 17:54 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/with-some-relaxations-states-draw-up-plan-for-lockdown-3-0/story-umGFCioKzLc3pF5mctPWdM.htmlRating: 0.30
South Korea has brought new coronavirus cases under control. It’s taking steps to reopen public life.
South Korea will take new steps to relax social distancing on May 6, in yet another sign that the country that once had one of the worst outbreaks of coronavirus outside China has managed to bring its transmission under control. Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said in a televised meeting Sunday that the government “will allow businesses to resume at facilities in phases that had remained closed up until now, and also allow gatherings and events to take place assuming they follow disinfection guidelines.” Under what Chung referred to as the“everyday life quarantine scheme,” facilities like schools, parks, museums, and libraries are expected to reopen in phases, according to Reuters and the Korea Herald. The government’s guidelines will continue to recommend that people stay home for three to four days if they feel sick, wash their hands frequently, and keep an arms-length distance from other people in public, however. And professional baseball and soccer matches are expected to start up again this week, although without in-person audiences. The rate of new infections in the country has slowed dramatically in recent weeks. In late February, South Korea was seeing more than 900 new cases of coronavirus a day. By mid-April, that number hit as low as eight new reported cases in a day, and in the past week there have been around 10 new reported cases a day. Overall the country has reported around 10,800 cases and 250 deaths. The reduction of new cases in South Korea is a striking achievement for a country that earlier this year had the largest number of confirmed cases in Asia outside China. On February 20, confirmed infections skyrocketed exponentially after a parishioner of a megachurch in the southern city of Daegu infected other congregants during services, but the government’s aggressive testing and contact-tracing regime seems to have played a significant role in quickly counteracting that rapid spike in cases. The government said it would begin to relax quarantine rules if new reported cases stayed below 50 a day — a condition that has been met for the past 25 days, according to the Korea Herald. South Korea’s rapid reduction of its new infection rate has caught the eye of governments and public health officials around the world. Experts say there are a number of measures it’s taken to achieve its results, including building a highly organized and massive testing capacity, and the government’s institution of tracing and isolation measures for people who have been in contact with the infected. Notably, South Korea has generally avoided the wide-scale shutdowns that China and the US have pursued, according to Business Insider. It has shut down schools and imposed a curfew in some cities, but the government has sought primarily to isolate groups of people who are suspected to have been exposed — and it has done so in a highly targeted fashion. The New York Times’s Max Fisher and Choe Sang-Hun wrote a thorough explainer in late March about what makes the South Korean model effective. Among other things, they highlight that the government organized mass production of coronavirus test kits earlier than many other hard-hit countries, which meant in late March the country had a per-capita test rate “more than 40 times that of the United States.” They also point to an astonishingly extensive surveillance and contact-tracing infrastructure: The government has also taken measures to try to comfort people in the chaos by doing things like sending comfort packages with food and cleaning supplies to people who are under quarantine. Approval of the government’s response to the pandemic was so widespread that the country saw its largest turnout in nearly three decades during national elections held last month, and the ruling party won reelection by a landslide. Notably, there was no uptick in infections in the election’s aftermath, likely thanks to strict social distancing, testing, and disinfecting measures put in place at polling sites. South Korea’s management of the spread of the virus does not mean it’s out of the woods. Places like Hong Kong and Singapore have seen resurgences of cases, in part due to people entering the country from abroad. But South Korea does seem to have some effective tools — and a plan — in place to manage the spread for now. Support Vox’s explanatory journalism Every day at Vox, we aim to answer your most important questions and provide you, and our audience around the world, with information that has the power to save lives. Our mission has never been more vital than it is in this moment: to empower you through understanding. Vox’s work is reaching more people than ever, but our distinctive brand of explanatory journalism takes resources — particularly during a pandemic and an economic downturn. Your financial contribution will not constitute a donation, but it will enable our staff to continue to offer free articles, videos, and podcasts at the quality and volume that this moment requires. Please consider making a contribution to Vox today.
3 May 14:30 • Vox • https://www.vox.com/2020/5/3/21245594/south-korea-coronavirus-social-distancing-relaxRating: 2.47
TUI's China unit resumes domestic holiday offers
3 May 16:15
•
4 articles
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TUI's China unit resumes domestic holiday offers
BERLIN — The Chinese unit of Germany’s TUI , the world’s biggest tourism group, said on Sunday it has resumed offering holiday packages in China and urged the European Union (EU) to lift travel restrictions in place to curb the coronavirus. The resumption of business in China, three months after TUI’s activities there were halted, is focused on short breaks in the mountains and beach resorts. Other packages include trips in the vicinity of big cities. “Our offices in Peking and Shanghai were open during the crisis but were not allowed to sell holiday packages,” TUI Chief Executive Fritz Joussen said in a statement. “We now see a significant backlog of demand for holidays. TUI China will in the coming weeks broaden its offers step by step.” The global tourism industry is closely watching trends in China for clues to travel patterns in other major markets once the virus, which has infected 3.44 million people and killed 243,00 worldwide, is under control and curbs on movement ease. Since April, there have been signs of a recovery in China’s tourism market, and aviation experts expect domestic travel in most markets will recover before international travel. Travel within China is also complicated by movement curbs retained in some regions, such as Beijing, the capital, to guard against a second wave of infections from aboard. Joussen urged the EU to put in place a concept that allows for the resumption of holiday travel within the bloc, where border restrictions have been in place since March. “The EU and its member states should develop a timetable for resuming travel within Europe and make holidays possible in 2020,” he said, citing Greece, Cyprus, Spanish islands, Austria and Bulgaria which have made progress toward reopening resorts. German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer ruled out reopening Germany’s border with Austria to holidaymakers in an interview with mass-selling Bild newspaper, citing the risk of a second coronavirus outbreak. The Ischgl ski resort has been linked to hundreds of coronavirus cases in Germany and Scandinavian countries. (Reporting by Ilona Wissenbach Writing by Joseph Nasr Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
3 May 16:15 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/tuis-china-unit-resumes-domestic-holiday-offers-2Rating: 0.94
TUI's China unit resumes domestic holiday offers
BERLIN — The Chinese unit of Germany’s TUI , the world’s biggest tourism group, said on Sunday it has resumed offering holiday packages in China and urged the European Union (EU) to lift travel restrictions in place to curb the coronavirus. The resumption of business in China, three months after TUI’s activities there were halted, is focused on short breaks in the mountains and beach resorts. Other packages include trips in the vicinity of big cities. “Our offices in Peking and Shanghai were open during the crisis but were not allowed to sell holiday packages,” TUI Chief Executive Fritz Joussen said in a statement. “We now see a significant backlog of demand for holidays. TUI China will in the coming weeks broaden its offers step by step.” The global tourism industry is closely watching trends in China for clues to travel patterns in other major markets once the virus, which has infected 1.4 million people and killed 83,400 worldwide, is under control and curbs on movement ease. Since April, there have been signs of a recovery in China’s tourism market, and aviation experts expect domestic travel in most markets will recover before international travel. Travel within China is also complicated by movement curbs retained in some regions, such as Beijing, the capital, to guard against a second wave of infections from aboard. Joussen urged the EU to put in place a concept that allows for the resumption of holiday travel within the bloc, where border restrictions have been in place since March. “The EU and its member states should develop a timetable for resuming travel within Europe and make holidays possible in 2020,” he said, citing Greece, Cyprus, Spanish islands, Austria and Bulgaria which have made progress toward reopening resorts. German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer ruled out reopening Germany’s border with Austria to holidaymakers in an interview with mass-selling Bild newspaper, citing the risk of a second coronavirus outbreak. The Ischgl ski resort has been linked to hundreds of coronavirus cases in Germany and Scandinavian countries. (Reporting by Ilona Wissenbach Writing by Joseph Nasr Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
3 May 16:08 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/tuis-china-unit-resumes-domestic-holiday-offersRating: 0.94
TUI Restarts Offering Trips and Flights Within China
TUI AG’s Chinese unit will restart its travel business, offering trips and flights within the country to local customers. The business is resuming after the government lifted a three-month sales ban, and operations will gradually be expanded amid a backlog of demand by Chinese customers, Chief Executive Officer Fritz Joussen said in a statement. Global travel has been disrupted by the coronavirus crisis and airlines are expected to burn through as much as $61 billion in the second quarter, according to the International Air Transport Association. Joussen said tourism in Europe needs a “clear perspective,” and that European Union nations should develop timetables for flights within the region. TUI’s online traffic is at 90% of last year’s level, signaling there’s high demand, the CEO said. Customers shouldn’t be limited to trips at home and countries that made good progress in the battle against the virus could be reopened for tourism, he said. “We need to get out of the crisis now,” Joussen said.
3 May 13:51 • Bloomberg.com • https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-03/tui-restarts-offering-trips-and-flights-within-chinaRating: 4.04
TUI's China unit resumes domestic holiday offers
BERLIN (Reuters) - The Chinese unit of Germany's TUI (DE:TUIGn), the world's biggest tourism group, said on Sunday it has resumed offering holiday packages in China and urged the European Union (EU) to lift travel restrictions in place to curb the coronavirus. The resumption of business in China, three months after TUI's activities there were halted, is focused on short breaks in the mountains and beach resorts. Other packages include trips in the vicinity of big cities. "Our offices in Peking and Shanghai were open during the crisis but were not allowed to sell holiday packages," TUI Chief Executive Fritz Joussen said in a statement. "We now see a significant backlog of demand for holidays. TUI China will in the coming weeks broaden its offers step by step." The global tourism industry is closely watching trends in China for clues to travel patterns in other major markets once the virus, which has infected 3.44 million people and killed 243,00 worldwide, is under control and curbs on movement ease. Since April, there have been signs of a recovery in China's tourism market, and aviation experts expect domestic travel in most markets will recover before international travel. Travel within China is also complicated by movement curbs retained in some regions, such as Beijing, the capital, to guard against a second wave of infections from aboard. Joussen urged the EU to put in place a concept that allows for the resumption of holiday travel within the bloc, where border restrictions have been in place since March. "The EU and its member states should develop a timetable for resuming travel within Europe and make holidays possible in 2020," he said, citing Greece, Cyprus, Spanish islands, Austria and Bulgaria which have made progress toward reopening resorts. German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer ruled out reopening Germany's border with Austria to holidaymakers in an interview with mass-selling Bild newspaper, citing the risk of a second coronavirus outbreak. The Ischgl ski resort has been linked to hundreds of coronavirus cases in Germany and Scandinavian countries. (This story was refiled to correct global coronavirus figures in 6th paragraph)
3 May 00:00 • Investing.com • https://www.investing.com/news/stock-market-news/tuis-china-unit-resumes-domestic-holiday-offers-2159047Rating: 0.30
Faced with 20,000 dead, care homes seek shield from lawsuits
3 May 20:35
•
8 articles
Weight: 2.06
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Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:11
Average US: 42.7125
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Faced with 20,000 dead, care homes seek shield from lawsuits
NEW YORK — Faced with 20,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors’ orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,’” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths. New York’s immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state’s entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis and save lives. Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and willful misconduct. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy said immunity declarations could make even gross or willful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far.” All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits now is “pathetic.” “These lawsuits are distracting facilities from being able to focus on taking care of people," he said. "We are in the middle of a battle right now.” © Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
3 May 20:35 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/faced-with-19-000-dead-care-homes-seek-shield-from-lawsuits-1Rating: 2.09
Faced with 20,000 dead, care homes seek shield from lawsuits
NEW YORK - Faced with 20,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors’ orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,‘” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. “This has very little to do with the hard work being done by health care providers,” he said, “and everything to do with protecting the financial interests of these big operators.” Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths and has had at least seven facilities with outbreaks of 40 deaths or more, including one home in Manhattan that reported 98. New York's immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state's entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis. “It was a decision made on the merits to help ensure we had every available resource to save lives,” said Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo. “Suggesting any other motivation is simply grotesque.” Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and wilful misconduct, and they generally apply only during the emergency. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy is troubled that homes are getting legal protections while family members aren’t being allowed to visit and routine government inspections have been scaled back. “Nobody is looking at what’s happening,” she said, adding that immunity declarations could make even gross or wilful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far." Among the situations for which lawyers say nursing homes should be held to account: Homes that flouted federal guidelines to screen workers, cut off visitations and end group activities; those that failed to inform residents and relatives of an outbreak; those that disregarded test results; and homes like one in California, where at least a dozen employees did not show up for work for two straight days, prompting residents to be evacuated. “Just because you have a pandemic doesn’t mean you give a pass on people exercising common sense,” said Dr. Roderick Edmond, an Atlanta lawyer representing families suing over COVID-19 deaths in an assisted-living facility. “If you take the power of suing away from the families, then anything goes,” said Stella Kazantzas whose husband died in a Massachusetts nursing home with the same owners as the home hit by the nation’s first such outbreak near Seattle, which killed 43 people. “They already knew in Washington how quickly this would spread,” she said. “They should have taken extreme measures, sensible measures. And they were not taken.” While the federal government has yet to release numbers on how the coronavirus has ravaged the industry, The Associated Press has been keeping its own tally based on state health departments and media reports, finding 20,058 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities nationwide. All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. Florida lawyer Michael Brevda said his firm gets 10 to 20 calls a day. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits in the “middle of a battle to save the elderly" is “pathetic” and doesn’t consider the hardships nursing home workers have endured. “The second-guessing of people after a tragedy, if those people did the best that they could under the circumstances, is just wrong,” said Jim Cobb, the New Orleans attorney who successfully defended nursing home owners charged in the deaths of 35 residents who drowned in Hurricane Katrina.
3 May 17:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/faced-with-20000-dead-care-homes-seek-shield-from-lawsuits/it72907Rating: 0.30
Faced with 20,000 dead, care homes seek shield from lawsuits
NEW YORK (AP) — Faced with 20,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors’ orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,‘” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. “This has very little to do with the hard work being done by health care providers,” he said, “and everything to do with protecting the financial interests of these big operators.” Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths and has had at least seven facilities with outbreaks of 40 deaths or more, including one home in Manhattan that reported 98. New York's immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state's entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis. “It was a decision made on the merits to help ensure we had every available resource to save lives,” said Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo. “Suggesting any other motivation is simply grotesque.” Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and willful misconduct, and they generally apply only during the emergency. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy is troubled that homes are getting legal protections while family members aren’t being allowed to visit and routine government inspections have been scaled back. “Nobody is looking at what’s happening,” she said, adding that immunity declarations could make even gross or willful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far." Among the situations for which lawyers say nursing homes should be held to account: Homes that flouted federal guidelines to screen workers, cut off visitations and end group activities; those that failed to inform residents and relatives of an outbreak; those that disregarded test results; and homes like one in California, where at least a dozen employees did not show up for work for two straight days, prompting residents to be evacuated. “Just because you have a pandemic doesn’t mean you give a pass on people exercising common sense,” said Dr. Roderick Edmond, an Atlanta lawyer representing families suing over COVID-19 deaths in an assisted-living facility. “If you take the power of suing away from the families, then anything goes,” said Stella Kazantzas whose husband died in a Massachusetts nursing home with the same owners as the home hit by the nation’s first such outbreak near Seattle, which killed 43 people. “They already knew in Washington how quickly this would spread,” she said. “They should have taken extreme measures, sensible measures. And they were not taken.” While the federal government has yet to release numbers on how the coronavirus has ravaged the industry, The Associated Press has been keeping its own tally based on state health departments and media reports, finding 20,058 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities nationwide. All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. Florida lawyer Michael Brevda said his firm gets 10 to 20 calls a day. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits in the “middle of a battle to save the elderly" is “pathetic” and doesn’t consider the hardships nursing home workers have endured. “The second-guessing of people after a tragedy, if those people did the best that they could under the circumstances, is just wrong,” said Jim Cobb, the New Orleans attorney who successfully defended nursing home owners charged in the deaths of 35 residents who drowned in Hurricane Katrina. “There’s a lot to be said for someone acting in good faith in the face of a natural disaster and state of emergency, and they should have criminal immunity.” ___ AP reporter Candice Choi and investigative news researcher Randy Herschaft contributed to this report.
3 May 20:49 • WVLT • https://www.wvlt.tv/content/news/Faced-with-20000-dead-care-homes-seek-shield-from-lawsuits-570159821.htmlRating: 0.30
Faced with 20,000 dead, care homes seek shield from lawsuits
NEW YORK — Faced with 20,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors’ orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,‘” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. “This has very little to do with the hard work being done by health care providers,” he said, “and everything to do with protecting the financial interests of these big operators.” Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths and has had at least seven facilities with outbreaks of 40 deaths or more, including one home in Manhattan that reported 98. New York’s immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state’s entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis. “It was a decision made on the merits to help ensure we had every available resource to save lives,” said Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo. “Suggesting any other motivation is simply grotesque.” Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and wilful misconduct, and they generally apply only during the emergency. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy is troubled that homes are getting legal protections while family members aren’t being allowed to visit and routine government inspections have been scaled back. “Nobody is looking at what’s happening,” she said, adding that immunity declarations could make even gross or wilful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far.” Among the situations for which lawyers say nursing homes should be held to account: Homes that flouted federal guidelines to screen workers, cut off visitations and end group activities; those that failed to inform residents and relatives of an outbreak; those that disregarded test results; and homes like one in California, where at least a dozen employees did not show up for work for two straight days, prompting residents to be evacuated. “Just because you have a pandemic doesn’t mean you give a pass on people exercising common sense,” said Dr. Roderick Edmond, an Atlanta lawyer representing families suing over COVID-19 deaths in an assisted-living facility. “If you take the power of suing away from the families, then anything goes,” said Stella Kazantzas whose husband died in a Massachusetts nursing home with the same owners as the home hit by the nation’s first such outbreak near Seattle, which killed 43 people. “They already knew in Washington how quickly this would spread,” she said. “They should have taken extreme measures, sensible measures. And they were not taken.” While the federal government has yet to release numbers on how the coronavirus has ravaged the industry, The Associated Press has been keeping its own tally based on state health departments and media reports, finding 20,058 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities nationwide. All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. Florida lawyer Michael Brevda said his firm gets 10 to 20 calls a day. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits in the “middle of a battle to save the elderly” is “pathetic” and doesn’t consider the hardships nursing home workers have endured. “The second-guessing of people after a tragedy, if those people did the best that they could under the circumstances, is just wrong,” said Jim Cobb, the New Orleans attorney who successfully defended nursing home owners charged in the deaths of 35 residents who drowned in Hurricane Katrina. “There’s a lot to be said for someone acting in good faith in the face of a natural disaster and state of emergency, and they should have criminal immunity.” ___ AP reporter Candice Choi and investigative news researcher Randy Herschaft contributed to this report. Bernard Condon, Jim Mustian And Jennifer Peltz, The Associated Press
3 May 16:14 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/faced-with-20000-dead-care-homes-seek-shield-from-lawsuits/Rating: 0.61
U.S. Nursing Homes, Faced With 20,000 Dead, Seek Protection From Lawsuits
NEW YORK (AP) — Faced with 20,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors’ orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,’” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths. New York’s immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state’s entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis and save lives. Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and willful misconduct. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy said immunity declarations could make even gross or willful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far.” All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits now is “pathetic.” “These lawsuits are distracting facilities from being able to focus on taking care of people,” he said. “We are in the middle of a battle right now.” A HuffPost Guide To Coronavirus
3 May 17:09 • HuffPost • https://www.huffpost.com/entry/coronavirus-nursing-homes-seek-protection-from-lawsuits_n_5eaef7bcc5b6c8de883c63df?guccounter=1Rating: 2.48
Faced with 19,000 dead, care homes seek shield from claims of inadequate care
Faced with 19,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation's nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors' orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation's more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you're really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, 'Let's protect our heroes,'” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. “This has very little to do with the hard work being done by health care providers,” he said, “and everything to do with protecting the financial interests of these big operators.” Nowhere have the industry's efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation's known nursing home and long-term care deaths and has had at least seven facilities with outbreaks of 40 deaths or more, including one home in Manhattan that reported 98. New York's immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn't cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don't include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo's administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state's entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis. “It was a decision made on the merits to help ensure we had every available resource to save lives,” said Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo. “Suggesting any other motivation is simply grotesque.” Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation's nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and willful misconduct, and they generally apply only during the emergency. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy is troubled that homes are getting legal protections while family members aren't being allowed to visit and routine government inspections have been scaled back. “Nobody is looking at what's happening,” she said, adding that immunity declarations could make even gross or willful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can't be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said.
3 May 20:11 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/faced-with-19000-dead-care-homes-seek-shield-from-claims-of-inadequate-care-833120.htmlRating: 2.25
Faced with 20,000 dead, care homes seek shield from coronavirus lawsuits | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
NEW YORK >> Faced with 20,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. At least 15 states have enacted laws or governors’ orders that explicitly or apparently provide nursing homes and long-term care facilities some protection from lawsuits arising from the crisis. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,’” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. “This has very little to do with the hard work being done by health care providers,” he said, “and everything to do with protecting the financial interests of these big operators.” Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths and has had at least seven facilities with outbreaks of 40 deaths or more, including one home in Manhattan that reported 98. New York’s immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state’s entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis. “It was a decision made on the merits to help ensure we had every available resource to save lives,” said Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo. “Suggesting any other motivation is simply grotesque.” Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and willful misconduct, and they generally apply only during the emergency. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy is troubled that homes are getting legal protections while family members aren’t being allowed to visit and routine government inspections have been scaled back. “Nobody is looking at what’s happening,” she said, adding that immunity declarations could make even gross or willful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far.” Among the situations for which lawyers say nursing homes should be held to account: Homes that flouted federal guidelines to screen workers, cut off visitations and end group activities; those that failed to inform residents and relatives of an outbreak; those that disregarded test results; and homes like one in California, where at least a dozen employees did not show up for work for two straight days, prompting residents to be evacuated. “Just because you have a pandemic doesn’t mean you give a pass on people exercising common sense,” said Dr. Roderick Edmond, an Atlanta lawyer representing families suing over COVID-19 deaths in an assisted-living facility. “If you take the power of suing away from the families, then anything goes,” said Stella Kazantzas whose husband died in a Massachusetts nursing home with the same owners as the home hit by the nation’s first such outbreak near Seattle, which killed 43 people. “They already knew in Washington how quickly this would spread,” she said. “They should have taken extreme measures, sensible measures. And they were not taken.” While the federal government has yet to release numbers on how the coronavirus has ravaged the industry, The Associated Press has been keeping its own tally based on state health departments and media reports, finding 20,058 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities nationwide. All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. Florida lawyer Michael Brevda said his firm gets 10 to 20 calls a day. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits in the “middle of a battle to save the elderly” is “pathetic” and doesn’t consider the hardships nursing home workers have endured. “The second-guessing of people after a tragedy, if those people did the best that they could under the circumstances, is just wrong,” said Jim Cobb, the New Orleans attorney who successfully defended nursing home owners charged in the deaths of 35 residents who drowned in Hurricane Katrina. “There’s a lot to be said for someone acting in good faith in the face of a natural disaster and state of emergency, and they should have criminal immunity.”
3 May 16:08 • Star-Advertiser • https://www.staradvertiser.com/2020/05/03/breaking-news/faced-with-20000-dead-care-homes-seek-shield-from-coronavirus-lawsuits/Rating: 0.30
With 19,000 dead from virus, care homes seek protection from lawsuits
NEW YORK — Faced with 19,000 coronavirus deaths and counting, the nation’s nursing homes are pushing back against a potential flood of lawsuits with a sweeping lobbying effort to get states to grant them emergency protection from claims of inadequate care. And in the case of New York, which leads the nation in deaths in such facilities, a lobbying group wrote the first draft of a measure that apparently makes it the only state with specific protection from both civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution. Now the industry is forging ahead with a campaign to get other states on board with a simple argument: This was an unprecedented crisis and nursing homes should not be liable for events beyond their control, such as shortages of protective equipment and testing, shifting directives from authorities, and sicknesses that have decimated staffs. “As our care providers make these difficult decisions, they need to know they will not be prosecuted or persecuted,” read a letter sent this month from several major hospital and nursing home groups to their next big goal, California, where Gov. Gavin Newsom has yet to make a decision. Other states in their sights include Florida, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Watchdogs, patient advocates and lawyers argue that immunity orders are misguided. At a time when the crisis is laying bare such chronic industry problems as staffing shortages and poor infection control, they say legal liability is the last safety net to keep facilities accountable. They also contend nursing homes are taking advantage of the crisis to protect their bottom lines. Almost 70% of the nation’s more than 15,000 nursing homes are run by for-profit companies, and hundreds have been bought and sold in recent years by private-equity firms. “What you’re really looking at is an industry that always wanted immunity and now has the opportunity to ask for it under the cloak of saying, ‘Let’s protect our heroes,’” said Mike Dark, an attorney for California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. “This has very little to do with the hard work being done by health care providers,” he said, “and everything to do with protecting the financial interests of these big operators.” Nowhere have the industry’s efforts played out more starkly than in New York, which has a fifth of the nation’s known nursing home and long-term care deaths and has had at least seven facilities with outbreaks of 40 deaths or more, including one home in Manhattan that reported 98. New York’s immunity law signed by Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo was drafted by the Greater New York Hospital Association, an influential lobbying group for both hospitals and nursing homes that donated more than $1 million to the state Democratic Party in 2018 and has pumped more than $7 million into lobbying over the past three years. While the law covering both hospital and nursing care workers doesn’t cover intentional misconduct, gross negligence and other such acts, it makes clear those exceptions don’t include “decisions resulting from a resource or staffing shortage.” Cuomo’s administration said the measure was a necessary part of getting the state’s entire health care apparatus to work together to respond to the crisis. “It was a decision made on the merits to help ensure we had every available resource to save lives,” said Rich Azzopardi, a senior advisor to Cuomo. “Suggesting any other motivation is simply grotesque.” Nationally, the lobbying effort is being led by the American Health Care Association, which represents nearly all of the nation’s nursing homes and has spent $23 million on lobbying efforts in the past six years. Other states that have emergency immunity measures are Alabama, Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts; Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, Nevada, Rhode Island, Vermont and Wisconsin. Their provisions vary but largely apply to injuries, deaths and care decisions, sometimes even to property damage. But there are limitations: Most make exceptions for gross negligence and willful misconduct, and they generally apply only during the emergency. Toby Edelman of the Center for Medicare Advocacy is troubled that homes are getting legal protections while family members aren’t being allowed to visit and routine government inspections have been scaled back. “Nobody is looking at what’s happening,” she said, adding that immunity declarations could make even gross or willful negligence suits harder since homes could argue any deficiencies were somehow tied to the pandemic. “Everything can’t be blamed on COVID-19. Other things can happen that are terrible,” she said. “Just to say we’re in this pandemic so anything goes, that seems too far.” Among the situations for which lawyers say nursing homes should be held to account: Homes that flouted federal guidelines to screen workers, cut off visitations and end group activities; those that failed to inform residents and relatives of an outbreak; those that disregarded test results; and homes like one in California, where at least a dozen employees did not show up for work for two straight days, prompting residents to be evacuated. “Just because you have a pandemic doesn’t mean you give a pass on people exercising common sense,” said Dr. Roderick Edmond, an Atlanta lawyer representing families suing over COVID-19 deaths in an assisted-living facility. “If you take the power of suing away from the families, then anything goes,” said Stella Kazantzas whose husband died in a Massachusetts nursing home with the same owners as the home hit by the nation’s first such outbreak near Seattle, which killed 43 people. “They already knew in Washington how quickly this would spread,” she said. “They should have taken extreme measures, sensible measures. And they were not taken.” While the federal government has yet to release numbers on how the coronavirus has ravaged the industry, The Associated Press has been keeping its own tally based on state health departments and media reports, finding 19,265 deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities nationwide. All the new immunity laws notwithstanding, there is a potential wave of lawsuits coming. Illinois lawyer Steven Levin said he’s received dozens of calls from people considering suing homes over the outbreak. Florida lawyer Michael Brevda said his firm gets 10 to 20 calls a day. And a lawyer in Massachusetts said he’s gotten maybe 70 from families with relatives at homes struck by the virus. “We’re getting inundated,” said David Hoey, whose practice near Boston has been suing homes for 25 years. “They’re grieving and they’re confused. … ‘My loved one just died from COVID. What can I do?’” American Health Care Association CEO Mark Parkinson said the notion of lawyers gearing up for lawsuits in the “middle of a battle to save the elderly” is “pathetic” and doesn’t consider the hardships nursing home workers have endured. “The second-guessing of people after a tragedy, if those people did the best that they could under the circumstances, is just wrong,” said Jim Cobb, the New Orleans attorney who successfully defended nursing home owners charged in the deaths of 35 residents who drowned in Hurricane Katrina. “There’s a lot to be said for someone acting in good faith in the face of a natural disaster and state of emergency, and they should have criminal immunity.”
3 May 15:05 • Las Vegas Review-Journal • https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/nation-and-world/with-19000-dead-from-virus-care-homes-seek-protection-from-lawsuits-2020250/Rating: 0.30
Boris Johnson urges countries to pull together in coronavirus battle
3 May 21:38
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4 articles
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Boris Johnson urges countries to pull together in coronavirus battle
Boris Johnson will urge countries to “pull together” and share their expertise as he co-hosts an international conference to drive the race for coronavirus treatments, tests and vaccines. The Prime Minister will describe the challenge facing humanity as the “most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes”. He will add: “We are in this together and together we will prevail.” Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. Monday’s online pledging conference – co-hosted by the UK and eight other countries and organisations – aims to bring in more than £6.6 billion in funding to support the global response to the pandemic. The UK has pledged to give £388 million in aid funding for research into tests, treatments and vaccines – part of a £744 million commitment to help end the pandemic and support the global economy. Mr Johnson is expected to say: “To win this battle, we must work together to build an impregnable shield around all our people and that can only be achieved by developing and mass producing a vaccine. “The more we pull together and share our expertise, the faster our scientists will succeed. “The race to discover the vaccine to defeat this virus is not a competition between countries but the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes. “It’s humanity against the virus – we are in this together and together we will prevail.” Coronavirus has claimed more than 244,000 lives around the world, according to analysis by John Hopkins University. The Government believes tackling the virus globally is crucial to preventing a second wave reemerging in the UK and it will speed up the creation of vaccines, tests and treatment. International Development Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: “It is only by working together that we will prevent future waves of infection and end this pandemic as quickly as possible. “By strengthening developing countries’ health systems and working to find a vaccine, the UK is playing its part in stopping the global spread of coronavirus to save lives everywhere and protect our NHS.” Writing in The Independent newspaper on Sunday, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Norway and senior EU officials said the outbreak has “caused devastation and pain in all corners of the world”. They said responding to the “global challenge” requires “bringing together the world’s best – and most prepared – minds to find the vaccines, treatments and therapies we need to make our world healthy again”. Coronavirus: Everything you need to know:
3 May 21:38 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/pm-urges-countries-to-pull-together-in-coronavirus-battle/Rating: 0.88
PM urges countries to pull together in coronavirus battle
An online pledging conference – co-hosted by the UK and eight other nations and organisations – aims to bring in more than £6.6 billion in funding. Boris Johnson will urge countries to “pull together” and share their expertise as he co-hosts an international conference to drive the race for coronavirus treatments, tests and vaccines. The Prime Minister will describe the challenge facing humanity as the “most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes”. He will add: “We are in this together and together we will prevail.” Monday’s online pledging conference – co-hosted by the UK and eight other countries and organisations – aims to bring in more than £6.6 billion in funding to support the global response to the pandemic. The UK has pledged to give £388 million in aid funding for research into tests, treatments and vaccines – part of a £744 million commitment to help end the pandemic and support the global economy. Mr Johnson is expected to say: “To win this battle, we must work together to build an impregnable shield around all our people and that can only be achieved by developing and mass producing a vaccine. “The more we pull together and share our expertise, the faster our scientists will succeed. “The race to discover the vaccine to defeat this virus is not a competition between countries but the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes. “It’s humanity against the virus – we are in this together and together we will prevail.” Coronavirus has claimed more than 244,000 lives around the world, according to analysis by John Hopkins University. The Government believes tackling the virus globally is crucial to preventing a second wave reemerging in the UK and it will speed up the creation of vaccines, tests and treatment. International Development Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: “It is only by working together that we will prevent future waves of infection and end this pandemic as quickly as possible. “By strengthening developing countries’ health systems and working to find a vaccine, the UK is playing its part in stopping the global spread of coronavirus to save lives everywhere and protect our NHS.” Writing in The Independent newspaper on Sunday, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Norway and senior EU officials said the outbreak has “caused devastation and pain in all corners of the world”. They said responding to the “global challenge” requires “bringing together the world’s best – and most prepared – minds to find the vaccines, treatments and therapies we need to make our world healthy again”.
3 May 21:31 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/pm-urges-countries-to-pull-together-in-coronavirus-battle/Rating: 0.30
PM urges countries to pull together in coronavirus battle
Boris Johnson will urge countries to “pull together” and share their expertise as he co-hosts an international conference to drive the race for coronavirus treatments, tests and vaccines. The Prime Minister will describe the challenge facing humanity as the “most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes”. He will add: “We are in this together and together we will prevail.” Monday’s online pledging conference – co-hosted by the UK and eight other countries and organisations – aims to bring in more than £6.6 billion in funding to support the global response to the pandemic. The UK has pledged to give £388 million in aid funding for research into tests, treatments and vaccines – part of a £744 million commitment to help end the pandemic and support the global economy. Mr Johnson is expected to say: “To win this battle, we must work together to build an impregnable shield around all our people and that can only be achieved by developing and mass producing a vaccine. “The more we pull together and share our expertise, the faster our scientists will succeed. “The race to discover the vaccine to defeat this virus is not a competition between countries but the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes. “It’s humanity against the virus – we are in this together and together we will prevail.” Coronavirus has claimed more than 244,000 lives around the world, according to analysis by John Hopkins University. The Government believes tackling the virus globally is crucial to preventing a second wave reemerging in the UK and it will speed up the creation of vaccines, tests and treatment. International Development Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: “It is only by working together that we will prevent future waves of infection and end this pandemic as quickly as possible. “By strengthening developing countries’ health systems and working to find a vaccine, the UK is playing its part in stopping the global spread of coronavirus to save lives everywhere and protect our NHS.” Writing in The Independent newspaper on Sunday, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Norway and senior EU officials said the outbreak has “caused devastation and pain in all corners of the world”. They said responding to the “global challenge” requires “bringing together the world’s best – and most prepared – minds to find the vaccines, treatments and therapies we need to make our world healthy again”.
3 May 21:31 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/pm-urges-countries-to-pull-together-in-coronavirus-battle/Rating: 0.30
'It's humanity against the virus': Boris Johnson urges nations to pull together and brands £6bn vaccine quest 'the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes' as UK records 315 more deaths
Boris Johnson will today warn that it is 'humanity against the virus' as he co-hosts an international conference to drive the race for coronavirus treatments, tests and vaccines. The Prime Minister will urge countries to 'pull together' and pool their expertise as they tackle the 'most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes'. He will add: 'We are in this together and together we will prevail.' Today's online pledging conference – co-hosted by the UK and eight other countries and organisations – aims to bring in more than £6.6billion in funding to support the global response to the coronavirus pandemic. The UK has pledged to give £388million in aid funding for research into tests, treatments and vaccines – part of a £744million commitment to help end the pandemic and support the global economy through this period of widespread uncertainty. It comes as the UK announced 315 new coronavirus deaths on Sunday, bringing total fatalities to 28,446 and putting the country on course to become the hardest hit in Europe. Mr Johnson, who himself contracted the virus in March, is expected to tell the conference: 'To win this battle, we must work together to build an impregnable shield around all our people and that can only be achieved by developing and mass producing a vaccine. 'The more we pull together and share our expertise, the faster our scientists will succeed. 'The race to discover the vaccine to defeat this virus is not a competition between countries but the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes. It's humanity against the virus – we are in this together and together we will prevail.' Speaking today, Donald Trump revealed that he and Boris Johnson had discussed a potential vaccine ahead of the conference later. He told Fox News: 'He [Mr Johnson] was a victim (of this thing). He thought it was all over.' Coronavirus has claimed more than 244,000 lives worldwide, according to analysis by Johns Hopkins University in the US. International Development Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: 'By strengthening developing countries' health systems and working to find a vaccine, the UK is playing its part in stopping the global spread of coronavirus to save lives everywhere and protect our NHS.' Writing in The Independent newspaper on Sunday, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Norway and senior EU officials said the outbreak 'caused devastation and pain in all corners of the world'. They said responding to the 'global challenge' requires 'bringing together the world's best – and most prepared – minds to find the vaccines, treatments and therapies we need to make our world healthy again'. Michael Gove yesterday admitted there would be a time for 'deep and probing questions about lessons we can learn as a country from how we handled this crisis in its early stages'. He added: 'Undoubtedly this government, like all governments, will have made mistakes.' It is understood the Sage committee of top scientists will today back the public use of face masks in a live-streamed meeting designed to embarrass the Government for its alleged lack of transparency. The number of people who have died with coronavirus in UK hospitals, care homes and the wider community yesterday rose by 315, the lowest since the end of March. The deaths brought the total number of fatalities to 28,446.
3 May 23:00 • Mail Online • https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8283065/Boris-Johnson-urges-nations-pull-coronavirus-vaccine-quest.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490Rating: 4.11
Allow districts with high economic activity to resume all industrial, biz operations: CII
3 May 17:05
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Allow districts with high economic activity to resume all industrial, biz operations: CII
Districts with substantial economic activity should be permitted to resume all industrial and business operations with highest safety protocols for enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses, CII said on Sunday. Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) called for economic contribution of districts to be taken into consideration while classifying lockdown zones. Districts with high economic activity should resume all industrial and business operations, including in containment zones with highest safety protocols, said CII in its report titled 'A Strategy Note on Resumption of Economic Activities in Industrial Areas', submitted to the government. Follow live updates on the coronavirus pandemic here The government notification of May 1 has permitted industrial estates, special economic zone (SEZ) and industrial townships with restricted entry within urban areas of red zones to commence operations. The industry body said that all industrial units, including in non-notified industrial areas and standalone units, be allowed to function in urban areas. These should include non-essential goods and services as well. It has recommended that close surrounding areas can be classified as orange zones where industrial activity can be continued with strict precautionary measures and monitoring. The distinction of essential and non-essential items should be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart, according to CII. "The third phase of lockdown necessitates a focused strategy to minimize economic contraction due to COVID-19, without compromising on efforts to control the contagion. Prioritising districts with heavy presence of economic and industrial activities with continued operations accompanied by strictest precautions can help enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses," CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said. While the protracted lockdown in the country, necessitated by the rapid spread of COVID-19, has helped in controlling the spread of epidemic and given us time to augment medical capacity, it has also caused enormous stress to the financial sustainability of many businesses, the chamber said. CII has requested that the top districts should be identified based on variables like their contribution to the country's GDP, or presence of industrial estates and clusters or registration of enterprises in a district. Instead of the current practice of classifying the entire district as a red zone, CII has suggested the need for classifying zones as Containment, Orange and Green within an industrial district. Economic activities, in varying degrees of relaxation, should be permitted in all areas of those districts, but health and safety protocols would differ from zone to zone, the chamber suggested. It said the containment zone may be a street, mohalla or factory building where positive cases have been detected. In containment zones, industrial units where no positive cases exist, can be allowed to operate if workers can be restricted to the premises or within walkable distance, as per the CII note. Raw materials and finished goods should be disinfected and kept separately for 72 hours before use as permissible by the health authorities. Maximum precautions and safety measures in the form of masks, repeated sanitation, restricted movement of people and vehicles, and group testing, among others, can be carried out regularly in such containment zones, noted CII. "Aggressive measures are required to ensure that an industrial district moves from Red to Orange and Green within 21 days. The cost of undertaking precautionary measures by way of repeated sanitation, wearing of PPE, Masks, monitoring, group testing etc. will be much less than the economic loss if businesses in such high performing districts have to remain shut for longer duration," said Banerjee. CII also called for limited public transport to function to enable workers and self-employed people to reach the industrial areas. Green zones within an industrial district, on other hand, should be allowed to work with relaxed restrictions but following strictly the health and safety protocols prescribed by the health authorities. There should be a real time availability of data on all types of zones within the industrial districts. The authorities may also provide updated information on Aarogya Setu app, other apps, local newspapers, radio, TV and online channels, according to the chamber. It also prescribed standard operating procedures for offices, workplaces, factories and establishments prior to resuming operations.
3 May 17:05 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/business/business-news/allow-districts-with-high-economic-activity-to-resume-all-industrial-biz-operations-cii-833040.htmlRating: 2.25
Lockdown | Allow districts with high economic activity to resume all industrial, business operations: CII
Districts with substantial economic activity should be permitted to resume all industrial and business operations with highest safety protocols for enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses, CII said on Sunday. Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) called for economic contribution of districts to be taken into consideration while classifying lockdown zones. Districts with high economic activity should resume all industrial and business operations, including in containment zones with highest safety protocols, said CII in its report titled ‘A Strategy Note on Resumption of Economic Activities in Industrial Areas’, submitted to the government. The government notification of May 1 has permitted industrial estates, Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and industrial townships with restricted entry within urban areas of red zones to commence operations. The industry body said that all industrial units, including in non-notified industrial areas and standalone units, be allowed to function in urban areas. These should include non-essential goods and services as well. It has recommended that close surrounding areas can be classified as orange zones where industrial activity can be continued with strict precautionary measures and monitoring. The distinction of essential and non-essential items should be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart, according to CII. “The third phase of lockdown necessitates a focused strategy to minimize economic contraction due to COVID-19, without compromising on efforts to control the contagion. Prioritising districts with heavy presence of economic and industrial activities with continued operations accompanied by strictest precautions can help enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses,” CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said. While the protracted lockdown in the country, necessitated by the rapid spread of COVID-19, has helped in controlling the spread of epidemic and given us time to augment medical capacity, it has also caused enormous stress to the financial sustainability of many businesses, the chamber said. CII has requested that the top districts should be identified based on variables like their contribution to the country’s GDP, or presence of industrial estates and clusters or registration of enterprises in a district. Instead of the current practice of classifying the entire district as a red zone, CII has suggested the need for classifying zones as Containment, Orange and Green within an industrial district. Economic activities, in varying degrees of relaxation, should be permitted in all areas of those districts, but health and safety protocols would differ from zone to zone, the chamber suggested. It said the containment zone may be a street, mohalla or factory building where positive cases have been detected. In containment zones, industrial units where no positive cases exist, can be allowed to operate if workers can be restricted to the premises or within walkable distance, as per the CII note. Raw materials and finished goods should be disinfected and kept separately for 72 hours before use as permissible by the health authorities. Maximum precautions and safety measures in the form of masks, repeated sanitation, restricted movement of people and vehicles, and group testing, among others, can be carried out regularly in such containment zones, noted CII. “Aggressive measures are required to ensure that an industrial district moves from Red to Orange and Green within 21 days. The cost of undertaking precautionary measures by way of repeated sanitation, wearing of PPE, Masks, monitoring, group testing etc. will be much less than the economic loss if businesses in such high performing districts have to remain shut for longer duration,” said Mr. Banerjee. CII also called for limited public transport to function to enable workers and self-employed people to reach the industrial areas. Green zones within an industrial district, on other hand, should be allowed to work with relaxed restrictions but following strictly the health and safety protocols prescribed by the health authorities. There should be a real time availability of data on all types of zones within the industrial districts. The authorities may also provide updated information on Aarogya Setu app, other apps, local newspapers, radio, TV and online channels, according to the chamber. It also prescribed standard operating procedures for offices, workplaces, factories and establishments prior to resuming operations.
3 May 12:23 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/allow-districts-with-high-economic-activity-to-resume-all-industrial-biz-operations-cii/article31494706.eceRating: 0.30
CII for greater industrial activities in districts with high economic performance
At a time when the government has decided to provide some relaxations in restrictions during the third phase of the nationwide lockdown starting from May 4, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on Sunday called for a greater industrial activities in districts with high economic performance. The industry body also called for “economic contribution of districts to be taken into consideration while classifying lockdown zones.” “Districts with high economic activity should resume all industrial and business operations, including in containment zones, with highest safety protocols,” CII said in a report, ‘Strategy Note on Resumption of Economic Activities in Industrial Area.’ Also ReadLockdown 3.0 begins tomorrow with ‘considerable relaxations’; some curbs to continue The suggestions followed the notification, issued on May 1 by the Centre, on graded exit from the coronavirus- related lockdown. The third phase of lockdown necessitates “a focused strategy to minimise economic contraction due to Covid-19”, without compromising on efforts to control the contagion, the trade body said in a statement. “Prioritising districts with heavy presence of economic and industrial activities with continued operations, accompanied by strictest precautions, can help enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses,” CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said. The industry body also said while the protracted lockdown in the country, necessitated by the rapid spread of Covid-19, has also caused enormous stress to the financial sustainability of many businesses. In its strategy note, it requested that the top districts should be identified based on variables like their contribution to country’s GDP, or presence of industrial estates and clusters or registration of enterprises in a district. Instead of the current practice of categorising the entire district as a ‘Red zone’, the CII has suggested the need for classifying zones as ‘Containment’, ‘Orange’ and ‘Green’ within an industrial district. “Economic activities, in varying degrees of relaxation, should be permitted in all areas of this district, but health and safety protocols would differ from zone to zone,” it said. Also ReadAllow factories in containment zones to operate, says Food Processing industry The Containment zone may be a street, mohalla or factory building where positive cases have been detected, the industry body said. It has suggested that close surrounding areas can be classified as Orange zones, where industrial activity can be continued with strict precautionary measures and monitoring. The distinction of essential and non-essential items should be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart, the industry body said. “Aggressive measures are required to ensure that an industrial district moves from ‘Red’ to ‘Orange’ and ‘Green’ within 21 days. “The cost of undertaking precautionary measures by way of repeated sanitation, wearing of PPE, masks, monitoring, group testing etc. will be much less than the economic loss, if businesses in such high performing districts have to remain shut for longer duration,” Banerjee said. The government has permitted industrial estates, SEZ and industrial townships with restricted entry within urban areas of ‘red zones’ to commence operations. “CII submitted that all industrial units, including in non-notified industrial areas and standalone units, be allowed to function in urban areas. These should include non-essential goods and services as well,” the statement said. The body also called for limited public transport to function to enable workers and self-employed people to reach the industrial areas. ‘Green’ zones within an industrial district, on other hand, should be allowed to work with relaxed restrictions but in adherence to strict health and safety protocols prescribed by the authorities.
3 May 12:51 • BusinessLine • https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/policy/cii-for-greater-industrial-activities-in-districts-with-high-economic-performance/article31494785.eceRating: 1.98
CII For Greater Industrial Activities In Districts With High Economic Performance
India Business Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 16:39 IST At a time when the government has decided to provide some relaxations in restrictions during the third phase of the nationwide lockdown starting from May 4, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on Sunday called for greater industrial activities in districts with high economic performance. The industry body also called for "economic contribution of districts to be taken into consideration while classifying lockdown zones". "Districts with high economic activity should resume all industrial and business operations, including in containment zones with highest safety protocols," CII said in a report, 'Strategy Note on Resumption of Economic Activities in Industrial Area'. The suggestions followed the notification, issued on May 1 by the government, on graded exit from the coronavirus-related lockdown. The third phase of lockdown necessitates "a focused strategy to minimise economic contraction due to Covid-19", without compromising on efforts to control the contagion, the trade body said in a statement. "Prioritising districts with heavy presence of economic and industrial activities with continued operations, accompanied by strictest precautions, can help enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses," CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said. The industry body also said while the protracted lockdown in the country, necessitated by the rapid spread of Covid-19, has also caused enormous stress to the financial sustainability of many businesses. In its strategy note, it requested that the top districts should be identified based on variables like their contribution to country's GDP, or the presence of industrial estates and clusters or registration of enterprises in a district. Instead of the current practice of categorising the entire district as a 'red zone', the CII has suggested the need for classifying zones as 'containment', 'orange', and 'green' within an industrial district. "Economic activities, in varying degrees of relaxation, should be permitted in all areas of this district but health and safety protocols would differ from zone to zone," it said. The containment zone may be a street, "mohalla" or factory building where positive cases have been detected, the industry body said. It has suggested that close surrounding areas can be classified as 'orange zones' where industrial activity can be continued with strict precautionary measures and monitoring. The distinction of essential and non-essential items should be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart, the industry body said. "Aggressive measures are required to ensure that an industrial district moves from 'red' to 'orange' and 'green' within 21 days. "The cost of undertaking precautionary measures by way of repeated sanitation, wearing of PPE, masks, monitoring, group testing etc. will be much less than the economic loss, if businesses in such high performing districts have to remain shut for longer duration," Banerjee said. The government has permitted industrial estates, SEZ and industrial townships with restricted entry within urban areas of 'red zones' to commence operations. "CII submitted that all industrial units, including in non-notified industrial areas and standalone units, be allowed to function in urban areas. These should include non-essential goods and services as well," the statement said. The body also called for limited public transport to function to enable workers and self-employed people to reach the industrial areas. 'Green' zones within an industrial district, on other hand, should be allowed to work with relaxed restrictions but in adherence to strict health and safety protocols prescribed by the authorities.
3 May 16:39 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/business-news/india-business/cii-for-greater-industrial-activities-in-districts-with-high-economic-performance.htmlRating: 2.30
Lockdown 3.0: Allow industries to resume across all zones, CII tells govt
Instead of the current practice of classifying the entire district as a Red zone, there is need for classifying zones as containment, Orange and Green within an industrial district, says CII The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has suggested that districts with significant industrial and business operations should be allowed to function even if there are cases of novel coronavirus in those regions. Activities should resume even in containment zones with highest safety protocols, recommends CII. In 'A Strategy Note on Resumption of Economic Activities in Industrial Areas' submitted to the government after the decision to extend the lockdown was announced on May 1, CII stated that "The third phase of lockdown necessitates a focused strategy to minimise economic contraction due to COVID-19, without compromising on efforts to control the contagion". "Prioritising districts with heavy presence of economic and industrial activities with continued operations accompanied by strictest precautions can help enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses," says Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII. CII requested that the top districts should be identified based on variables like their contribution to the country's GDP, or presence of industrial estates and clusters or registration of enterprises in that region. Also Read: Coronavirus lockdown: 78% people want ecommerce sites to sell non-essential items too, shows survey Instead of the current practice of classifying the entire district as a Red Zone, there is need for classifying zones as containment, Orange and Green within an industrial district, says CII. Economic activities, in varying degrees of relaxation, should be permitted in all areas of this district but health and safety protocols would differ from zone to zone, it said. According to the strategy paper, the containment zone may be a street, mohalla or factory building where positive cases have been detected. CII has suggested that close surrounding areas can be classified as Orange Zones where industrial activity can be continued with strict precautionary measures and monitoring. The industry body also wanted the distinction of essential and non-essential items to be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart. In containment zones, industrial units where no positive cases exist can be allowed to operate if workers can be restricted to the premises or within walkable distance, as per the CII note. Raw materials and finished goods should be disinfected and kept separately for 72 hours before use, as permissible by health authorities. Also Read: Coronavirus lockdown 3.0: Industry welcomes relaxations but stimulus package demand still on "Aggressive measures are required to ensure that an industrial district moves from Red to Orange and Green within 21 days. The cost of undertaking precautionary measures by way of repeated sanitation, wearing of PPE, masks, monitoring, group testing, etc will be much less than the economic loss if businesses in such high performing districts have to remain shut for a longer duration," says Banerjee. The CII strategy note prescribes standard operating procedures for offices, workplaces, factories, and establishments prior to resuming operations, after resuming operations, and guidelines for social distancing and visitor management.
3 May 10:06 • Business Today • https://www.businesstoday.in/current/economy-politics/need-to-allow-industrial-activity-across-all-zones-amid-coronavirus-lockdown-cii-to-govt/story/402741.htmlRating: 2.10
CII bats for greater industrial activities in 'high economic performance' zones
At a time when the government has decided to provide some relaxations in restrictions during the third phase of the nationwide lockdown starting from May 4, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on Sunday called for greater industrial activities in districts with high economic performance. The industry body also called for "economic contribution of districts to be taken into consideration while classifying lockdown zones." "Districts with high economic activity should resume all industrial and business operations, including those in containment zones, with highest safety protocols," CII said in a report, 'Strategy Note on Resumption of Economic Activities in Industrial Area.' The suggestions followed the notification, issued on May 1 by the government, on graded exit from the coronavirus-related lockdown. The third phase of lockdown necessitates "a focused strategy to minimise economic contraction due to Covid-19", without compromising on efforts to control the contagion, the trade body said in a statement. "Prioritising districts with a heavy presence of economic and industrial activities with continued operations, accompanied by strictest precautions, can help enterprises to remain financially sustainable while averting job losses," CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said. The industry body also said while the protracted lockdown in the country, necessitated by the rapid spread of Covid-19, has also caused enormous stress to the financial sustainability of many businesses. In its strategy note, it requested that the top districts should be identified based on variables like their contribution to country's GDP, or presence of industrial estates and clusters or registration of enterprises in a district. Instead of the current practice of categorising the entire district as a 'red zone', the CII has suggested the need for classifying zones as 'containment', 'orange' and 'green' within an industrial district. "Economic activities, in varying degrees of relaxation, should be permitted in all areas of this district but health and safety protocols would differ from zone to zone," it said. The containment zone may be a street, "mohalla" or factory building where positive cases have been detected, the industry body said. It has suggested that close surrounding areas can be classified as 'orange zones' where industrial activity can be continued with strict precautionary measures and monitoring. The distinction of essential and non-essential items should be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart, the industry body said. "Aggressive measures are required to ensure that an industrial district moves from 'red' to 'orange' and 'green' within 21 days. "The cost of undertaking precautionary measures by way of repeated sanitation, wearing of PPE, masks, monitoring, group testing etc. will be much less than the economic loss, if businesses in such high performing districts have to remain shut for a longer duration," Banerjee said. The government has permitted industrial estates, SEZ and industrial townships with the restricted entry within urban areas of 'red zones' to commence operations. "CII submitted that all industrial units, including in non-notified industrial areas and standalone units, be allowed to function in urban areas. These should include non-essential goods and services as well," the statement said. The body also called for limited public transport to function to enable workers and self-employed people to reach the industrial areas. 'Green' zones within an industrial district, on the other hand, should be allowed to work with relaxed restrictions but in adherence to strict health and safety protocols prescribed by the authorities.Moneycontrol Ready ReckonerNow that payment deadlines have been relaxed due to COVID-19, the Moneycontrol Ready Reckoner will help keep your date with insurance premiums, tax-saving investments and EMIs, among others.Download a copy
3 May 00:00 • Moneycontrol • https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/economy/cii-bats-for-greater-industrial-activities-in-high-economic-performance-zones-5216621.htmlRating: 0.30
Industries in Coimbatore district welcome relaxations
With the State government announcing several relaxations that will come into force from May 6, the industries in the district have welcomed the announcements. The district administrations of Coimbatore and Tiruppur are expected to issue details and clarifications on implementing the relaxations shortly, especially on operation of industries and opening of retail outlets in urban areas. According to the relaxations announced on Saturday, in the rest of Tamil Nadu (except composite Chennai and containment areas), industries across sectors, including textiles, in rural and town panchayats can operate with 50 % workforce. Textile industries located within industrial estates in cities cannot function. Exporting units in cities can operate with the respective Collector’s permission. Those in special economic zones, export oriented units, industrial townships, and industrial estates can operate with 50 % strength. Hardware manufacturers, integrated spinning mills in rural areas can function with 50 % workers. Garment exporters who need to prepare design samples can operate with the permission of the District Collectors and with 30 % workers. Construction works can be taken up if the workers are staying on the site or can be transported to the site once. Plumbers, carpenters, electricians, AC mechanics and caretakers of the elderly can take special permission from the Collector. Hardware shops will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Some of the other retail outlets will be permitted to remain open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In rural areas, shops can be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hotels can sell parcels from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Industries that need to transport workers from cities can do so with their own vehicles, but should have only 50 % occupancy. MSMEs need not take permission to operate. Chairman of Southern India Mills’ Association, Ashwin Chandran, said the SIMA welcomes the announcements of the State government as it has addressed the needs of the textile industry. The respective district administrations should not impose new restrictions. According to T. Rajkumar, chairman of Confederation of Indian Textile Industry, the industry should scale up production gradually. Coimbatore District Small Industries Association president R. Ramamurthy said there needs a clarification from the government and the district administration whether MSMEs in the city need permission to operate.
2 May 17:06 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/industries-in-coimbatore-district-welcome-relaxations/article31491145.eceRating: 0.30
White House adviser will not rule out more money for states, small businesses
3 May 20:05
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White House adviser will not rule out more money for states, small businesses
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out anything in a new relief bill to ease the “tremendous hardships” of the coronavirus outbreak, including more money for state and local governments and small businesses. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are pushing for additional aid to help cities and states cope with lost revenue from a shut-down economy and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. But Kudlow said “there may well be additional legislation” as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. “We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere,” Kudlow said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “We’re trying to work through this. I don’t want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress.” Congress has not met in regular session since March, though it has passed major coronavirus relief bills worth nearly $3 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said money for states and cities would be the core of the next legislative package Democrats draft. Trump has considered linking such aid to sanctuary cities’ immigration policies, Kudlow said. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said on Sunday federal help to states that have taken a big revenue hit from coronavirus would make a “huge difference.” “This is about firefighters, police, EMS, teachers at the point of attack. We’re already seeing some layoffs in New Jersey,” Murphy said on “Fox News Sunday.” “We need a big slug of federal, direct cash assistance.” All 50 states are suffering from the lack of revenue over the past two months, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said in response to Trump’s argument that states with budget woes before the coronavirus outbreak should not get bailed out. “Coronavirus has caused that. All of us are having to spend more on social services and healthcare to take care of people,” Pritzker said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” Kudlow said authorities need to see the results of the previous funding efforts before deciding on the next steps. “Then we’ll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it,” Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether more aid would be given to small businesses. “It may be,” Kudlow said. “We haven’t made a decision yet.”
3 May 20:05 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-usa-kudlow-idUSKBN22F0KNRating: 4.04
White House adviser will not rule out more money for states, small businesses
WASHINGTON — White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out anything in a new relief bill to ease the “tremendous hardships” of the coronavirus outbreak, including more money for state and local governments and small businesses. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are pushing for additional aid to help cities and states cope with lost revenue from a shut-down economy and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. But Kudlow said “there may well be additional legislation” as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. “We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere,” Kudlow said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “We’re trying to work through this. I don’t want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress.” Congress has not met in regular session since March, though it has passed major coronavirus relief bills worth nearly $3 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said money for states and cities would be the core of the next legislative package Democrats draft. Trump has considered linking such aid to sanctuary cities’ immigration policies, Kudlow said. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said on Sunday federal help to states that have taken a big revenue hit from coronavirus would make a “huge difference.” “This is about firefighters, police, EMS, teachers at the point of attack. We’re already seeing some layoffs in New Jersey,” Murphy said on “Fox News Sunday.” “We need a big slug of federal, direct cash assistance.” All 50 states are suffering from the lack of revenue over the past two months, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said in response to Trump’s argument that states with budget woes before the coronavirus outbreak should not get bailed out. “Coronavirus has caused that. All of us are having to spend more on social services and healthcare to take care of people,” Pritzker said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” Kudlow said authorities need to see the results of the previous funding efforts before deciding on the next steps. “Then we’ll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it,” Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether more aid would be given to small businesses. “It may be,” Kudlow said. “We haven’t made a decision yet.” (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Tom Brown and Lisa Shumaker)
3 May 18:14 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/white-house-adviser-will-not-rule-out-more-money-for-states-small-businessesRating: 0.94
White House adviser won't rule out more money for states, small businesses
WASHINGTON — White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out anything in a new relief bill to ease the “tremendous hardships” of the coronavirus outbreak, including more money for state and local governments and small businesses. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are pushing for additional aid to help cities and states cope with lost revenue from a shut-down economy and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. But Kudlow said “there may well be additional legislation” as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. “We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere,” Kudlow said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “We’re trying to work through this. I don’t want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress.” Congress has not met in regular session since March, though it has passed major coronavirus relief bills worth nearly $3 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said money for states and cities would be the core of the next legislative package Democrats draft to respond to the virus. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said on Sunday federal help to states that have taken a big revenue hit from coronavirus would make a “huge difference.” “This is about firefighters, police, EMS, teachers at the point of attack. We’re already seeing some layoffs in New Jersey,” Murphy said on “Fox News Sunday.” “We need a big slug of federal, direct cash assistance.” All 50 states are suffering from the lack of revenue over the past two months, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said in response to Trump’s argument that states with budget woes before the coronavirus outbreak should not get bailed out. “Coronavirus has caused that. All of us are having to spend more on social services and healthcare to take care of people,” Pritzker said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” Kudlow said authorities need to see the results of the previous funding efforts before deciding on the next steps. “Then we’ll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it,” Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether more aid aid would be given to small businesses. “It may be,” Kudlow said. “We haven’t made a decision yet.” (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Tom Brown)
3 May 17:19 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/white-house-adviser-wont-rule-out-more-money-for-states-small-businesses-2Rating: 0.94
White House adviser won’t rule out more money for U.S. states, small businesses
White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out anything in a new relief bill to ease the “tremendous hardships” of the coronavirus outbreak, including more money for state and local governments and small businesses. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are pushing for additional aid to help cities and states cope with lost revenue from a shutdown economy and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. But Kudlow said “there may well be additional legislation” as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. “We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere,” Kudlow said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “We’re trying to work through this. I don’t want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress.” Congress has not met in regular session since March, though it has passed major coronavirus relief bills worth nearly $3 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said money for states and cities would be the core of the next legislative package Democrats draft. Trump has considered linking such aid to sanctuary cities’ immigration policies, Kudlow said. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said on Sunday federal help to states that have taken a big revenue hit from coronavirus would make a “huge difference.” “This is about firefighters, police, EMS, teachers at the point of attack. We’re already seeing some layoffs in New Jersey,” Murphy said on “Fox News Sunday.” “We need a big slug of federal, direct cash assistance.” All 50 states are suffering from the lack of revenue over the past two months, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said in response to Trump’s argument that states with budget woes before the coronavirus outbreak should not get bailed out. “Coronavirus has caused that. All of us are having to spend more on social services and health care to take care of people,” Pritzker said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” Kudlow said authorities need to see the results of the previous funding efforts before deciding on the next steps. “Then we’ll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it,” Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether more aid would be given to small businesses. “It may be,” Kudlow said. “We haven’t made a decision yet.” Be smart with your money. Get the latest investing insights delivered right to your inbox three times a week, with the Globe Investor newsletter. Sign up today.
3 May 17:25 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/international-business/us-business/article-white-house-adviser-wont-rule-out-more-money-for-us-states-small/Rating: 2.18
White House adviser won't rule out more money for states, small businesses
WASHINGTON — White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out any element in the next potential coronavirus relief bill, including more money for state and local governments and the small business program. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are calling for aid to cities and states and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. Kudlow said “there may well be additional legislation” as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. “We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere,” Kudlow said on CNN’s “State of the Union.” “We’re trying to work through this. I don’t want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress.” He said authorities need to see what the results are before deciding on the next steps. “Just trying to stabilize things and get folks through this, and then we’ll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it,” Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether aid given to small businesses would be increased again, given how quickly the money is being claimed. “It may be,” Kudlow said. “We haven’t made a decision yet. This has been an extremely popular and effective program. Keeping folks on the payroll is extremely important.” While Democrats have supported more money for state, local and tribal governments, Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader of the Senate, has demanded protection for reopening businesses from COVID-related lawsuits. (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Tom Brown)
3 May 13:53 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/white-house-adviser-wont-rule-out-more-money-for-states-small-businessesRating: 0.94
White House adviser will not rule out more money for states, small businesses
1 / 2FILE PHOTO: Larry Kudlow participates in coronavirus economic "relief update" virtual event at the White House in Washington By Doina Chiacu WASHINGTON (Reuters) - White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out anything in a new relief bill to ease the "tremendous hardships" of the coronavirus outbreak, including more money for state and local governments and small businesses. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are pushing for additional aid to help cities and states cope with lost revenue from a shut-down economy and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. But Kudlow said "there may well be additional legislation" as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. "We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere," Kudlow said on CNN's "State of the Union." "We're trying to work through this. I don't want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress." Congress has not met in regular session since March, though it has passed major coronavirus relief bills worth nearly $3 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said money for states and cities would be the core of the next legislative package Democrats draft. Trump has considered linking such aid to sanctuary cities' immigration policies, Kudlow said. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said on Sunday federal help to states that have taken a big revenue hit from coronavirus would make a "huge difference." "This is about firefighters, police, EMS, teachers at the point of attack. We're already seeing some layoffs in New Jersey," Murphy said on "Fox News Sunday." "We need a big slug of federal, direct cash assistance." All 50 states are suffering from the lack of revenue over the past two months, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said in response to Trump's argument that states with budget woes before the coronavirus outbreak should not get bailed out. "Coronavirus has caused that. All of us are having to spend more on social services and healthcare to take care of people," Pritzker said on CBS' "Face the Nation." Kudlow said authorities need to see the results of the previous funding efforts before deciding on the next steps. "Then we'll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it," Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether more aid would be given to small businesses. "It may be," Kudlow said. "We haven't made a decision yet." (Reporting by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Tom Brown and Lisa Shumaker)
3 May 13:49 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/u-may-put-more-money-134908631.htmlRating: 0.30
White House adviser will not rule out more money for states, small businesses
By Doina Chiacu WASHINGTON (Reuters) - White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Sunday he would not rule out anything in a new relief bill to ease the "tremendous hardships" of the coronavirus outbreak, including more money for state and local governments and small businesses. More than 30 million Americans have joined the unemployment benefit rolls over the past six weeks and lawmakers on Capitol Hill are discussing a fourth coronavirus relief bill. Democrats are pushing for additional aid to help cities and states cope with lost revenue from a shut-down economy and some governors have warned of massive layoffs if they fail to get it. Some advisers to Republican President Donald Trump have said the need for another stimulus bill is not yet clear. But Kudlow said "there may well be additional legislation" as officials study how the billions included in the last bill take effect. "We know the economy is still in a terrible, contractionary phase, tremendous hardships, everywhere," Kudlow said on CNN's "State of the Union." "We're trying to work through this. I don't want to rule in or out anything right now. We are in discussions internally and with leading members of Congress." Congress has not met in regular session since March, though it has passed major coronavirus relief bills worth nearly $3 trillion. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said money for states and cities would be the core of the next legislative package Democrats draft. Trump has considered linking such aid to sanctuary cities' immigration policies, Kudlow said. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy said on Sunday federal help to states that have taken a big revenue hit from coronavirus would make a "huge difference." "This is about firefighters, police, EMS, teachers at the point of attack. We're already seeing some layoffs in New Jersey," Murphy said on "Fox (NASDAQ:FOX) News Sunday." "We need a big slug of federal, direct cash assistance." All 50 states are suffering from the lack of revenue over the past two months, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said in response to Trump's argument that states with budget woes before the coronavirus outbreak should not get bailed out. "Coronavirus has caused that. All of us are having to spend more on social services and healthcare to take care of people," Pritzker said on CBS' "Face the Nation." Kudlow said authorities need to see the results of the previous funding efforts before deciding on the next steps. "Then we'll see, we will see in a couple of weeks, what needs to be done and perhaps how to do it," Kudlow said. Kudlow was asked whether more aid would be given to small businesses. "It may be," Kudlow said. "We haven't made a decision yet."
3 May 00:00 • Investing.com • https://www.investing.com/news/economy/us-may-need-to-put-more-money-in-small-business-program-kudlow-2158995Rating: 0.30
President queries Tanzania coronavirus kits after goat test
4 May 11:21
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President queries Tanzania coronavirus kits after goat test
DAR ES SALAAM (Reuters) - Coronavirus test kits used in Tanzania were dismissed as faulty by President John Magufuli on Sunday, because he said they had returned positive results on samples taken from a goat and a pawpaw. Magufuli, whose government has already drawn criticism for being secretive about the coronavirus outbreak and has previously asked Tanzanians to pray the coronavirus away, said the kits had “technical errors”. The COVID-19 testing kits had been imported from abroad, Magufuli said during an event in Chato in the north west of Tanzania, although he did not give further details. The president said he had instructed Tanzanian security forces to check the quality of the kits. They had randomly obtained several non-human samples, including from a pawpaw, a goat and a sheep, but had assigned them human names and ages. These samples were then submitted to Tanzania’s laboratory to test for the coronavirus, with the lab technicians left deliberately unaware of their origins. Samples from the pawpaw and the goat tested positive for COVID-19, the president said, adding this meant it was likely that some people were being tested positive when in fact they were not infected by the coronavirus. “There is something happening. I said before we should not accept that every aid is meant to be good for this nation,” Magufuli said, adding the kits should be investigated. As of Sunday, Tanzania had recorded 480 cases of COVID-19 and 17 deaths but unlike most other African countries, Dar es Salaam sometimes goes for days without offering updates, with the last bulletin on cases on Wednesday. Magufuli also said that he was sending a plane to collect a cure being promoted by Madagascar’s president. The herbal mix has not yet undergone internationally recognised scientific testing. “I’m communicating with Madagascar,” he said during a speech, adding: “They have got a medicine. We will send a flight there and the medicine will be brought in the country so that Tanzanians too can benefit.” COVID-19 infections and fatalities reported across Africa have been relatively low compared with the United States, parts of Asia and Europe. But Africa also has extremely low levels of testing, with rates of only around 500 per million people.
4 May 11:21 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-tanzania-idUSKBN22F0KFRating: 4.04
Goat, pawpaw test positive to coronavirus in Tanzania, President orders probe on COVID-19 test kits
Goat and pawpaw tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) in Tanzania after samples were taken from them and this has led the President, John Magufuli to order a probe on the country’s test kit. President Magufuli while speaking at an event in Chato in the northwest of Tanzania, revealed that the COVID-19 testing kits which had been imported from abroad had “technical errors”. Magufuli said he had instructed Tanzanian security forces to check the quality of the kits, who then randomly obtained several non-human samples, including from a pawpaw, a goat, and a sheep, but had assigned them human names and ages. According to him, these samples were then submitted to Tanzania’s laboratory to test for the coronavirus, with the lab technicians left deliberately unaware of their origins President Magufuli later disclosed that samples from the pawpaw and the goat tested positive for COVID-19, adding it was likely that some people were being tested positive when in fact they were not infected by the Coronavirus. Follow us on Facebook – @Lailasnews; Twitter – @LailaIjeoma for updates
3 May 20:16 • LailasNews.com • https://lailasnews.com/goat-and-pawpaw-test-positive-to-coronavirus-in-tanzania-president-orders-probe-on-covid-19-test-kits/Rating: 1.27
Tanzania president questions coronavirus kits after animal test
Tanzania's President John Magufuli has dismissed imported coronavirus testing kits as faulty, saying they returned positive results on samples taken from a goat and a pawpaw. Magufuli made the remarks during an event in Chato in northwestern Tanzania on Sunday. He said there were "technical errors" with the tests. The president, whose government has already drawn criticism for being secretive about the coronavirus outbreak and has previously asked Tanzanians to pray the coronavirus away, said he had instructed Tanzanian security forces to check the quality of the kits. They had randomly obtained several non-human samples, including from a pawpaw, a goat and a sheep, but had assigned them human names and ages. These samples were then submitted to Tanzania's laboratory to test for the coronavirus, with the lab technicians left deliberately unaware of their origins. Samples from the pawpaw and the goat tested positive for COVID-19, the president said, adding this meant it was likely that some people were being tested positive when, in fact, they were not infected by the coronavirus. "There is something happening. I said before we should not accept that every aid is meant to be good for this nation," Magufuli said, adding the kits should be investigated. On Saturday, Magufuli announced that he had placed an order for a herbal treatment for the coronavirus touted by the president of Madagascar. "I have already written to Madagascar's president and we will soon dispatch a plane to fetch the medicine so that Tanzania can also benefit from it," he said. The herbal remedy, called "Covid Organics" and prepared by the Malagasy Institute for Applied Research, is made out of Artemisia, a plant cultivated on the Indian Ocean island of Madagascar. Despite a lack of scientific evidence, President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar claimed that the remedy has already cured some Madagascans of COVID-19. Children returning to school have been required to take it.
3 May 19:34 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/tanzania-president-questions-coronavirus-kits-animal-test-200503174100809.htmlRating: 2.44
Goats, jackfruit testing positive for COVID-19 in Tanzania - Magufuli
President John Pombe Magufuli has cast doubt on the high numbers of coronavirus cases reported in Tanzania. Magufuli says the officials must be inflating the numbers so as to target donor funds. Tanzania officially has 480 confirmed coronavirus infections - the most in East Africa. The president says after doubting the high numbers, he secretly sent samples for testing to the National Influenza Laboratory (NIL) in Dar es Salaam. But unknown to NIL, Magufuli said today, the sent samples included those from birds, goats, pawpaw, jackfruit but disguised as human samples. And dubiously, Magufuli said, the fruit and bird samples too tested positive for COVID-19. Magufuli said with such a discovery, he now highly doubts the 480 confirmed cases in Tanzania. Magufuli said either the test kits sent to Africa are 'faulty' or the officials have deliberately recorded even negative cases as positive. Faulty COVID-19 testing kits are not a new issue in the coronavirus pandemic after Spain twice sent back defective testing kits back to China after they were found to have very low sensibility. There are videos circulating on social media showing Tanzanian officials allegedly burying coronavirus victims in the dead of the night in an apparent government coverup. Tanzanian nationals on social media have too questioned the official figures, saying they are way lower than the actual cases and deaths. The Tanzanian government has been criticised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for its lax approach to the coronavirus pandemic still allows markets and public transport to operate normally. Recent confirmed cases in Rwanda and Uganda have been reported mostly from Tanzanian truck drivers plying the East African trade routes. Truck drivers mostly from Tanzania account for 29 of Uganda's 88 confirmed cases. Among Uganda's latest three COVID-19 cases recorded on Saturday, one is of a Tanzanian truck driver while the other was of a Ugandan returnee who sneaked into the country from Tanzania via Bukoba porous border point. Uganda like Kenya, Rwanda are currently under lockdown and allow no travelling in and out of their countries except for United Nations, emergency and cargo crew. Magufuli said he's even considering reopening the national football league that was suspended some weeks back because he has realised that people who engage in sports may not easily be affected by the coronavirus. Magufuli said in any case, he has realised that COVID-19 may have to live with humanity for a long time just like HIV/Aids. He also announced that he will soon send a plane to Madagascar to fetch the herbal medicine there that is being touted as a 'cure' for coronavirus. Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina asked researchers to come up with a locally made cure for coronavirus. Rajoelina launched the ’cure’ after being tested on about 20 people for three weeks claiming that two people had been completely cured by the COVID-Organics (CVO) treatment. According to Rajoeline, CVO cures coronavirus within 10 days. The World Health Organization (WHO) says there is no proof of a cure for Covid-19. Even the country's national medical academy (Anamem) has also cast doubt on the efficacy of the CVO produced from the artemisia plant, a source of an ingredient used in malaria treatment and is given out free of charge to the most vulnerable groups in Madagascar. Madagascar has already exported its CVO 'cure' to Equatorial Guinea and Guinea Bissau.
3 May 18:25 • The Observer • https://observer.ug/news/headlines/64599-goats-jackfruit-testing-positive-for-covid-19-in-tanzania-magufuliRating: 0.33
President questions Tanzania coronavirus kits after goat test
DAR ES SALAAM (Reuters) - Coronavirus test kits used in Tanzania were dismissed as faulty by President John Magufuli on Sunday, because he said they had returned positive results on samples taken from a goat and a pawpaw. Magufuli, whose government has already drawn criticism for being secretive about the coronavirus outbreak and has previously asked Tanzanians to pray the coronavirus away, said the kits had "technical errors". The COVID-19 testing kits had been imported from abroad, Magufuli said during an event in Chato in the north west of Tanzania, although he did not give further details. The president said he had instructed Tanzanian security forces to check the quality of the kits. They had randomly obtained several non-human samples, including from a pawpaw, a goat and a sheep, but had assigned them human names and ages. These samples were then submitted to Tanzania's laboratory to test for the coronavirus, with the lab technicians left deliberately unaware of their origins. Samples from the pawpaw and the goat tested positive for COVID-19, the president said, adding this meant it was likely that some people were being tested positive when in fact they were not infected by the coronavirus. "There is something happening. I said before we should not accept that every aid is meant to be good for this nation," Magufuli said, adding the kits should be investigated. As of Sunday, Tanzania had recorded 480 cases of COVID-19 and 17 deaths but unlike most other African countries, Dar es Salaam sometimes goes for days without offering updates, with the last bulletin on cases on Wednesday. COVID-19 infections and fatalities reported across Africa have been relatively low compared with the United States, parts of Asia and Europe. But Africa also has extremely low levels of testing, with rates of only around 500 per million people. (Writing by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Alexander Smith)
3 May 15:56 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/president-questions-tanzania-coronavirus-kits-155613291.htmlRating: 0.30
Magufuli Now Says Tanzania’s COVID-19 Cases Inflated, Blames Scientists, “Faulty” Donated Testing Kits
The number of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in Tanzanian is inflated, President John Pombe Magufuli has said. Speaking on Sunday during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly-appointed Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, Magufuli expressed his disgust over the high number of COVID-19 cases reported in the country further saying he had reason to believe that test results from the National Referral Laboratory were ‘unrealistic’. Magufuli noted that recently, his security team sent samples from a bird, pawpaw fruit, jackfruit, goat, sheep, rabbit and oil to the laboratory for tests and the results were shocking. According to the President, the samples from the pawpaw fruit and goat tested positive for COVID-19 while the remaining samples either turned negative or the results were not conclusive. Read: Tanzania’s Opposition Party Chadema Boycotts Parliament Sessions After Death Of 3 MPs Magufuli said the samples were labelled with names of people and their ages. He wondered how the researchers couldn’t differentiate the samples from those obtained from human beings. The President said either the donated testing kits that are being used are faulty or some “frauds” are out to fight him politically. He called on the new Minister for Justice and Constitution Affairs, who replaces Ambassador Augustine Mahiga who died on Friday, to investigate the matter. Mahiga is among three Members of Parliament who have died in Tanzania in the past few days over suspected COVID-19 complications. Read Also: Tanzania’s Minister For Justice Augustine Mahiga Dies On His Way To Hospital So far, Tanzania has reported a total of 480 cases of COVID-19 and 16 deaths. Magufuli has in the recent past attracted criticism over the country’s response to COVID-19. The President has been reluctant in putting in place strict measures to contain the spread of COVID-19 like the rest of the East African nation, Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda. Magufuli refused to close churches last month despite calls from medical experts from all quarters. This many believe may have contributed to the spread of the contagious disease in the country. Read Also: Tanzania Parliament Suspends Sittings As Second MP Dies In A Span Of 10 Days Instead, the Head of State termed worship centres as places where people could seek healing. “Corona cannot survive in the body of Christ; it will burn. That is exactly why I did not panic while taking the Holy Communion,” said Magufuli. The President, however, ordered the closure of schools and banned public events. He also ordered mandatory quarantining of individuals arriving from foreign nationals as borders remain open.
3 May 11:35 • KahawaTungu • https://www.kahawatungu.com/magufuli-tanzanias-covid-19-cases-inflated/Rating: 0.41
Tanzanian President Orders Probe on COVID-19 Kits After Goat And Pawpaw Test Positive For Coronavirus
Tanzanian president, John Magufuli on Sunday ordered a probe on the country’s coronavirus testing kits after samples taken from a goat and pawpaw tested positive. Speaking at an event in Chato in the northwest of Tanzania, Magufuli said the COVID-19 testing kits which had been imported from abroad had “technical errors”. The president said he had instructed Tanzanian security forces to check the quality of the kits, who then randomly obtained several non-human samples, including from a pawpaw, a goat, and a sheep, but had assigned them human names and ages. According to him, these samples were then submitted to Tanzania’s laboratory to test for the coronavirus, with the lab technicians left deliberately unaware of their origins. President Magufuli later disclosed that samples from the pawpaw and the goat tested positive for COVID-19, adding it was likely that some people were being tested positive when in fact they were not infected by the Coronavirus. “We extracted a sample from a goat which turned positive. This tells you that something is not adding up,” he stated. “Are we now supposed to quarantine goats and fruits?” President Magufuli questioned. Featured Video
3 May 00:00 • Peacefmonline • https://www.peacefmonline.com/pages/local/social/202005/407323.phpRating: 0.30
Brazil's Bolsonaro headlines anti-democratic rally amid alarm over handling of coronavirus
4 May 15:45
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Brazil's Bolsonaro headlines anti-democratic rally amid alarm over handling of coronavirus
BRASILIA/RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attacked Congress and the courts in a speech to hundreds of supporters on Sunday as the number of coronavirus cases blew past 100,000 in Brazil, underlining the former army captain’s increasing isolation as he downplays the impacts of the pandemic. The right-wing Bolsonaro has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum for dismissing the threat of the virus in Brazil, which has registered 101,147 confirmed cases and 7,025 deaths, according to the most recent data from the Health Ministry. On Sunday, dozens of public figures signed an open letter to the Brazilian government calling on officials to protect the nation’s indigenous people, who often live in remote locations with limited access to healthcare. At the same time, Bolsonaro faces the most serious political crisis of his mandate, after his justice minister, Sergio Moro, quit last week and accused the president of firing the federal police chief in a bid to appoint a personal ally to the post and meddle in sensitive investigations. Brazil’s Supreme Court blocked Bolsonaro’s pick for a new chief on Wednesday, enraging the president. On Saturday, Moro, among Brazil’s most popular public figures due to his tough stance on corruption, presented testimony regarding possible obstruction of justice by Bolsonaro. Hours before, the president called Moro “Judas” on Twitter, referring to the apostle who betrayed Jesus. As Bolsonaro’s relationship with legislators and the courts has cooled, he has become increasingly dependent on a cadre of advisers in his government who are active or former military. As in an April rally also attended by Bolsonaro, demonstrators called on Sunday for the closing of the Supreme Court and Congress, and a return to authoritarian measures used during Brazil’s 1964-1985 military government. “We have the armed forces at the people’s side: the side of order, democracy, liberty,” Bolsonaro said in a speech transmitted live on Facebook. “Enough interference. We’re not allowing any more interference. Our patience is over.” Bolsonaro did not call for a military takeover at the rally in Brasilia, and such an occurrence is widely considered unlikely in Brazil, where Congress, the courts, the press and civil society wield significant power. But political leaders have called Bolsonaro’s participation in anti-democratic rallies irresponsible, especially as he has spoken approvingly of the nation’s former military dictatorship, which was responsible for hundreds of extrajudicial executions. Bolsonaro’s attendance also drew criticism as the nation is a major coronavirus hot spot. Bolsonaro, who did not wear a mask on Sunday, has dismissed the coronavirus as a “little flu,” saying the economic fallout of quarantining measures would be deadlier than the virus itself. The open letter on Sunday, which warned that loggers and ranchers could introduce the virus to indigenous communities in a development tantamount to “genocide,” was signed by celebrities ranging from U.S. television personality Oprah Winfrey to Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen. The government has banned people from entering indigenous reserves during the pandemic. It has also cut down, however, on law enforcement against illegal loggers and miners in remote regions as a safety measure. At the Sunday rally, at least three photographers were attacked by demonstrators, according to a Reuters witness - an increasingly routine occurrence in Brazil, where Bolsonaro routinely calls the work of major newspapers “fake news.” The Reuters witness saw one photographer from Sao Paulo newspaper O Estado de S. Paulo pulled off a ladder and repeatedly kicked in the ribs.
4 May 15:45 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-bolsonaro-idUSKBN22F0TQRating: 4.04
Brazil’s Bolsonaro headlines anti-democratic rally, amid alarm over handling of virus
BRASILIA/RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro attacked Congress and the courts in a speech to hundreds of supporters on Sunday as the number of coronavirus cases blew past 100,000 in Brazil, underlining the former army captain’s increasing isolation as he downplays the impacts of the pandemic. Right-wing Bolsonaro has drawn widespread criticism from across the political spectrum for dismissing the threat of the virus in Brazil, which has registered 101,147 confirmed cases and 7,025 deaths, according to the most recent data from the Health Ministry. On Sunday, dozens of public figures signed an open letter to the Brazilian government calling on officials to protect the nation’s indigenous people, who often live in remote locations with limited access to healthcare. At the same time, Bolsonaro faces the most serious political crisis of his mandate, after his popular justice minister, Sergio Moro, quit last week and accused the president of firing the federal police chief in a bid to appoint a personal ally to the post and obstruct graft probes targeting his sons. Brazil’s Supreme Court blocked Bolsonaro’s pick for a new chief on Wednesday, enraging the president. On Saturday, former justice minister Moro, among Brazil’s most popular public figures due to his tough stance on graft, presented testimony regarding possible obstruction of justice by Bolsonaro. Hours before, the president called Moro “Judas” on Twitter, referring to the apostle that betrayed Jesus. As Bolsonaro’s relationship with legislators and the courts has cooled, he has become increasingly dependent on a cadre of advisers in his government who are active or former military. As in an April rally also attended by Bolsonaro, demonstrators on Sunday called for the closing of the Supreme Court and Congress, and a return to authoritarian measures used during Brazil’s 1964 to 1985 military regime. “We have the armed forces at the people’s side: the side of order, democracy, liberty,” Bolsonaro said in a speech transmitted live on Facebook. “We want the best for our country. We want three truly independent branches (of government).”
3 May 23:56 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/brazils-bolsonaro-headlines-anti-democratic-rally-amid-alarm-over-handling-of-virus/Rating: 2.55
Bolsonaro headlines anti-democratic rally, amid alarm over handling of virus
Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro attacked Congress and the courts in a speech to hundreds of supporters on Sunday, underlining the former army captain’s increasing isolation as he downplays the impacts of the COVID-19 on Latin America’s largest nation. Right-wing Bolsonaro has drawn widespread criticism from across the political spectrum for dismissing the threat of the virus in Brazil, which had registered 95,559 confirmed cases and 6,750 deaths as of Saturday evening. On Sunday, dozens of public figures signed an open letter to the Brazilian government calling on officials to protect the nation’s indigenous people, who often live in remote locations with limited access to healthcare. At the same time, Mr. Bolsonaro faces the most serious political crisis of his mandate, after his popular justice minister, Sergio Moro, quit last week and accused the president of firing the federal police chief in a bid to appoint a personal ally to the post and obstruct graft probes targeting his sons. Brazil’s Supreme Court blocked Mr. Bolsonaro’s pick for a new chief on Wednesday, enraging the president. On Saturday, former justice minister Moro, among Brazil’s most popular public figures due to his tough stance on graft, presented testimony regarding possible obstruction of justice by Mr. Bolsonaro. Hours before, the president called Moro “Judas” on Twitter, referring to the apostle that betrayed Jesus. As Mr. Bolsonaro’s relationship with legislators and the courts has cooled, he has become increasingly dependent on a cadre of advisers in his government who are active or former military. As in an April rally also attended by Mr. Bolsonaro, demonstrators on Sunday called for the closing of the Supreme Court and Congress, and a return to authoritarian measures used during Brazil’s 1964 to 1985 military regime. “We have the armed forces at the people’s side: the side of order, democracy, liberty,” Mr. Bolsonaro said in a speech transmitted live on Facebook. “We want the best for our country. We want three truly independent branches (of government).” Mr. Bolsonaro did not call for a military takeover at the rally in Brasilia, and such an occurrence is widely considered unlikely in Brazil, where Congress, the courts, the press and civil society wield significant power. But political leaders have called Mr. Bolsonaro’s participation in anti-democratic rallies irresponsible, especially as he has spoken approvingly of the nation’s military dictatorship, which was responsible for hundreds of extrajudicial executions. His attendance also drew criticism as the nation is a major coronavirus hotspot. Mr. Bolsonaro, who did not wear a mask on Sunday, has dismissed the virus as a “little flu,” saying the economic fallout of quarantining measures will be deadlier that the virus itself. The open letter on Sunday, which warned that loggers and ranchers could introduce to virus to indigenous communities in a development tantamount to “genocide”, was signed by celebrities ranging from U.S. television personality Oprah Winfrey to Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen. The government has banned people from entering indigenous reserves during the pandemic. However, the state has also cut down on law enforcement against illegal loggers and miners in remote regions as a safety measure. At the Sunday rally, at least three photographers were attacked by demonstrators, according to a Reuters witness - an increasingly routine occurrence in Brazil, where Mr. Bolsonaro and other leaders routinely call the work of major newspapers “fake news.”
3 May 21:40 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/bolsonaro-headlines-anti-democratic-rally-amid-alarm-over-handling-of-virus/article31496584.eceRating: 0.30
Brazil's Bolsonaro headlines anti-democratic rally, amid alarm over handling of virus
BRASILIA/RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro attacked Congress and the courts in a speech to hundreds of supporters on Sunday as the number of coronavirus cases blew past 100,000 in Brazil, underlining the former army captain’s increasing isolation as he downplays the impacts of the pandemic. Right-wing Bolsonaro has drawn widespread criticism from across the political spectrum for dismissing the threat of the virus in Brazil, which has registered 101,147 confirmed cases and 7,025 deaths, according to the most recent data from the Health Ministry. On Sunday, dozens of public figures signed an open letter to the Brazilian government calling on officials to protect the nation’s indigenous people, who often live in remote locations with limited access to healthcare. At the same time, Bolsonaro faces the most serious political crisis of his mandate, after his popular justice minister, Sergio Moro, quit last week and accused the president of firing the federal police chief in a bid to appoint a personal ally to the post and obstruct graft probes targeting his sons. Brazil’s Supreme Court blocked Bolsonaro’s pick for a new chief on Wednesday, enraging the president. On Saturday, former justice minister Moro, among Brazil’s most popular public figures due to his tough stance on graft, presented testimony regarding possible obstruction of justice by Bolsonaro. Hours before, the president called Moro “Judas” on Twitter, referring to the apostle that betrayed Jesus. As Bolsonaro’s relationship with legislators and the courts has cooled, he has become increasingly dependent on a cadre of advisers in his government who are active or former military. As in an April rally also attended by Bolsonaro, demonstrators on Sunday called for the closing of the Supreme Court and Congress, and a return to authoritarian measures used during Brazil’s 1964 to 1985 military regime. “We have the armed forces at the people’s side: the side of order, democracy, liberty,” Bolsonaro said in a speech transmitted live on Facebook. “We want the best for our country. We want three truly independent branches (of government).” Bolsonaro did not call for a military takeover at the rally in Brasilia, and such an occurrence is widely considered unlikely in Brazil, where Congress, the courts, the press and civil society wield significant power. But political leaders have called Bolsonaro’s participation in anti-democratic rallies irresponsible, especially as he has spoken approvingly of the nation’s military dictatorship, which was responsible for hundreds of extrajudicial executions. Bolsonaro’s attendance also drew criticism as the nation is a major coronavirus hot spot. Bolsonaro, who did not wear a mask on Sunday, has dismissed the virus as a “little flu,” saying the economic fallout of quarantining measures will be deadlier than the virus itself. The open letter on Sunday, which warned that loggers and ranchers could introduce the virus to indigenous communities in a development tantamount to “genocide,” was signed by celebrities ranging from U.S. television personality Oprah Winfrey to Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen. The government has banned people from entering indigenous reserves during the pandemic. However, the state has also cut down on law enforcement against illegal loggers and miners in remote regions as a safety measure. At the Sunday rally, at least three photographers were attacked by demonstrators, according to a Reuters witness – an increasingly routine occurrence in Brazil, where Bolsonaro and other leaders routinely call the work of major newspapers “fake news.” One photographer from Sao Paulo newspaper O Estado de S. Paulo, the Reuters witness said, was pulled off a ladder and repeatedly kicked in the ribs. (Reporting by Ueslei Marcelino in Brasilia and Gram Slattery in Rio de Janeiro Editing by Daniel Flynn, Lisa Shumaker and Diane Craft)
3 May 21:16 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/pmn/health-pmn/brazils-bolsonaro-headlines-anti-democratic-rally-amid-alarm-over-handling-of-virus-2Rating: 1.59
Brazil’s Bolsonaro lashes out at courts, critics amid outcry over handling of COVID-19
Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro attacked Congress and the courts in a speech to hundreds of supporters on Sunday as the number of coronavirus cases blew past 100,000 in Brazil, underlining the former army captain’s increasing isolation as he downplays the impacts of the pandemic. The right-wing President has drawn widespread criticism from across the political spectrum for dismissing the threat of the virus in Brazil, which has registered 101,147 confirmed cases and 7,025 deaths, according to the most recent data from the Health Ministry. On Sunday, dozens of public figures signed an open letter to the Brazilian government calling on officials to protect the nation’s indigenous people, who often live in remote locations with limited access to health care. At the same time, Mr. Bolsonaro faces the most serious political crisis of his mandate, after his popular justice minister, Sergio Moro, quit last week and accused the President of firing the federal police chief in a bid to appoint a personal ally to the post and obstruct graft probes targeting his sons. Brazil’s Supreme Court blocked Mr. Bolsonaro’s pick for a new chief on Wednesday, enraging the President. On Saturday, Mr. Moro, among Brazil’s most popular public figures due to his tough stance on graft, presented testimony regarding possible obstruction of justice by Mr. Bolsonaro. Hours before, the President called Mr. Moro “Judas” on Twitter, referring to the apostle who betrayed Jesus. As Mr. Bolsonaro’s relationship with legislators and the courts has cooled, he has become increasingly dependent on a cadre of advisers in his government who are active or former military. As in an April rally also attended by Mr. Bolsonaro, demonstrators on Sunday called for the closing of the Supreme Court and Congress, and a return to authoritarian measures used during Brazil’s 1964 to 1985 military regime. “We have the armed forces at the people’s side: the side of order, democracy, liberty,” Mr. Bolsonaro said in a speech transmitted live on Facebook. “We want the best for our country. We want three truly independent branches [of government].” Mr. Bolsonaro did not call for a military takeover at the rally in Brasilia, and such an occurrence is widely considered unlikely in Brazil, where Congress, the courts, the press and civil society wield significant power. But political leaders have called Mr. Bolsonaro’s participation in anti-democratic rallies irresponsible, especially as he has spoken approvingly of the nation’s military dictatorship, which was responsible for hundreds of extrajudicial executions. Mr. Bolsonaro’s attendance also drew criticism as the nation is a major coronavirus hot spot. Mr. Bolsonaro, who did not wear a mask on Sunday, has dismissed the virus as a “little flu,” saying the economic fallout of quarantining measures will be deadlier than the virus itself. The open letter on Sunday, which warned that loggers and ranchers could introduce the virus to indigenous communities in a development tantamount to “genocide”, was signed by celebrities ranging from U.S. television personality Oprah Winfrey to Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bündchen. The government has banned people from entering indigenous reserves during the pandemic. However, the state has also cut down on law enforcement against illegal loggers and miners in remote regions as a safety measure. At the Sunday rally, at least three photographers were attacked by demonstrators, according to a Reuters witness – an increasingly routine occurrence in Brazil, where Bolsonaro and other leaders routinely call the work of major newspapers “fake news.” One photographer from São Paulo newspaper O Estado de S. Paulo, the Reuters witness said, was pulled off a ladder and repeatedly kicked in the ribs. Sign up for the Coronavirus Update newsletter to read the day’s essential coronavirus news, features and explainers written by Globe reporters and editors.
3 May 20:10 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-brazils-bolsonaro-headlines-anti-democratic-rally-amid-outcry-over/Rating: 2.18
Italy starts slow return to normality, fears resurgence of coronavirus
5 May 10:51
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3 articles
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Italy starts slow return to normality, fears resurgence of coronavirus
ROME (Reuters) - Grandparents hugged their grandchildren, toddlers rushed excitedly through parks and factories revived their long-stalled production lines as Italy started the slow process of unwinding Europe’s longest coronavirus lockdown. Nearly two months after ordering Italians to stay home in an effort to slow one of the worst outbreaks of the new coronavirus in the world, the government on Monday cautiously eased a few restrictions, while keeping many others in place. Despite more than 29,000 Italians dying of COVID-19 since the outbreak emerged on Feb. 21, some people have nonetheless complained that the rollback is too timid, while others worry that complacency will lead to a fresh wave of infections. Many are simply overjoyed to get some of their old life back. “I woke up at 5.30 a.m. I was so excited,” said Maria Antonietta Galluzzo, a grandmother taking her 3-year-old grandson for a walk in Rome’s Villa Borghese park — the first time they had seen each other in eight weeks. The unkempt grass towered above the boy’s head and the air was full of the sound of lawnmowers as park staff began to restore some order to one of Italy’s most elegant gardens. “He has grown by this much,” she said, holding up three horizontal fingers to show the spurt. “It is wonderful.” Under the new rules, 4.5 million Italians can clock back in, construction work can resume and relatives can reunite. More importantly for some, cafes were allowed to reopen for takeaways, with customers sipping their coffees on the pavement. “This is my first proper coffee for eight weeks,” said Riccardo Monti, the CEO of an e-commerce company. “Perhaps it is the thing I missed most. The bar is the focal point of our social life so to see them closed was a trauma.” While some old rituals returned, many curbs stayed in place to try to prevent a resurgence of COVID-19 in the country with the world’s second highest death toll after the United States. There were 195 new deaths on Monday, up from 174 the day before and twice as many as the daily tally on March 9, when Italy’s lockdown began. Friends are still barred from meeting up, the cause of much grumbling on social media, most shops must stay shut until May 18, and schools, cinemas and theatres remain closed indefinitely. Despite facing the worst recession since World War Two, the government has said it can only lift restrictions gradually. Well over a thousand new cases of the highly infectious coronavirus are still being reported daily. In a reminder of the risks involved in easing the lockdown, 14 out of 60 people randomly stopped by police at they entered Naples by car from the north on Monday tested positive, Corriere della Sera daily reported. None of them had symptoms. “If we want to avoid painful backward steps now more than ever, we need cooperation, a sense of responsibility, respect for the rules by all,” Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte said in an interview with the same newspaper. A continuous hum of cars, buses and motorbikes pointed to an increase in early morning commuting, but traffic was noticeably lighter than before the virus struck and those out appeared to be following the guidelines on social distancing. “Common sense is prevailing in this beginning phase,” said Massimo Improta, a police officer in Rome. “We have not seen people without masks, we are not seeing gatherings.” Gianluca Martucci joined the ranks of those returning to work for the first time since March 12, pulling up the shutters on a small warehouse in the backstreets of Rome. “It is good to be back, but the world has totally changed,” he said. The company he works for normally organises weddings and corporate events, but these have long since been cancelled. The firm is adjusting by offering a catering service. Although he was happy to see business resume, Martucci was anxious that infections might spread again. “The government has been very wise so far, but I worry that we might be starting up a little too soon,” he said. “I don’t know if the country could survive a second wave.”
5 May 10:51 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-italy-idUSKBN22F0KTRating: 4.04
Joy and trepidation as Spaniards enjoy easing of restrictions
People have flocked to the streets and coastal paths of Spain as they were allowed out to enjoy some exercise for the first time in seven weeks. One of the worst-hit countries in the world by COVID-19, Spain eased its lockdown restrictions slightly on Saturday morning, allowing people out to enjoy the spring sunshine. It is a mixed picture at the moment in Europe. Residents in Italy, another country hit hard by coronavirus, are still stuck indoors - at least until May 4, when a slight easing of restrictions begins. And while German children enjoyed time in playgrounds on Saturday, there are growing concerns in Russia about the possibility of hospitals becoming overwhelmed. "It felt so good to stretch our legs and to actually see we were still in Barcelona and not in some apocalyptic world," said Rosanna West, who has been stuck inside in the capital of Catalonia for seven weeks. But while it was a huge relief to get out and enjoy the outdoors for an hour, she also found the experience a little worrying. "Runners were almost running shoulder to shoulder with you, it was like nobody was in quarantine at all. And they weren't running with masks," she said. "We’ll see, but it felt a bit like standing too close to the fire." These sentiments were echoed by a resident of neighbouring town Sant Cugat del Vallès. "I feel super excited to be able to go out and have a walk with ‘normality’, see people, and feel that everything is slowly going back to normal," said Clàudia Castrejón. "On the other hand, if I go out and see that people are not following the safety precautions, like the different times allowed for different age groups, I'm going to be angry." "I believe that it is impossible to avoid new infections when people are together because the virus is so contagious, but it is possible to avoid large numbers of new infections if people are responsible. "People have to respond to this vote of confidence conscientiously, and follows the rules," she added. Spain enforced a strict lockdown on March 14, only allowing adults to leave home for food shopping, medicine, or other essential goods, and to walk dogs close to home. This meant no outdoors exercise - and children were stuck inside for weeks on end. From Saturday (April 2), the government has set up time slots for age groups and activities, and social-distancing measures are still in place. Spain has detailed a complex rollback plan that will vary by province. Those with the fewest cases and with health care resources in place to handle a rebound of the virus will be the first to enjoy a further loosening of the measures. With the situation improving in Spain, a huge field hospital the military helped set up at a Madrid convention center was closed on Friday, while a morgue in an ice rink was closed before that. After people enjoyed their morning outings, Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez announced that wearing masks on public transport will be an "obligation" from Monday, as an added measure to try to avoid another breakout of the virus. Millions of masks, which until Saturday had only been "highly recommended", will be distributed throughout the country next week, Sanchez said. Around half of coronavirus cases and deaths worldwide have been recorded in Europe, the continent hardest hit by the disease. There have been more than 1.5 million cases confirmed across Europe, but with infections rates slowing, countries are starting to plan their post-lockdown ‘new normal’. Germany, which has registered more than 164,000 cases but seen only about 6,700 deaths, has strict social distancing guidelines but never restricted people going outside for exercise. Smaller shops have already been opened and this is the first weekend in which playgrounds, museums and zoos have been permitted to open as well. In Italy, measures will be relaxed from 4 May, with people being allowed to visit relatives in small numbers, and parks, factories, and smaller shops opening back up.
2 May 16:01 • euronews • https://www.euronews.com/2020/05/02/joy-and-trepidation-as-spaniards-enjoy-easing-of-restrictions?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=TwitterRating: 3.04
Joy and trepidation as Spaniards enjoy easing of restrictions
euronews_icons_loading People have flocked to the streets and coastal paths of Spain as they were allowed out to enjoy some exercise for the first time in seven weeks. One of the worst-hit countries in the world by COVID-19, Spain eased its lockdown restrictions slightly on Saturday morning, allowing people out to enjoy the spring sunshine. It is a mixed picture at the moment in Europe. Residents in Italy, another country hit hard by coronavirus, are still stuck indoors - at least until May 4, when a slight easing of restrictions begins. And while German children enjoyed time in playgrounds on Saturday, there are growing concerns in Russia about the possibility of hospitals becoming overwhelmed. "It felt so good to stretch our legs and to actually see we were still in Barcelona and not in some apocalyptic world," said Rosanna West, who has been stuck inside in the capital of Catalonia for seven weeks. But while it was a huge relief to get out and enjoy the outdoors for an hour, she also found the experience a little worrying. "Runners were almost running shoulder to shoulder with you, it was like nobody was in quarantine at all. And they weren't running with masks," she said. "We’ll see, but it felt a bit like standing too close to the fire." These sentiments were echoed by a resident of neighbouring town Sant Cugat del Vallès. "I feel super excited to be able to go out and have a walk with ‘normality’, see people, and feel that everything is slowly going back to normal," said Clàudia Castrejón. "On the other hand, if I go out and see that people are not following the safety precautions, like the different times allowed for different age groups, I'm going to be angry." "I believe that it is impossible to avoid new infections when people are together because the virus is so contagious, but it is possible to avoid large numbers of new infections if people are responsible. "People have to respond to this vote of confidence conscientiously, and follows the rules," she added. Spain enforced a strict lockdown on March 14, only allowing adults to leave home for food shopping, medicine, or other essential goods, and to walk dogs close to home. This meant no outdoors exercise - and children were stuck inside for weeks on end. From Saturday (April 2), the government has set up time slots for age groups and activities, and social-distancing measures are still in place. Spain has detailed a complex rollback plan that will vary by province. Those with the fewest cases and with health care resources in place to handle a rebound of the virus will be the first to enjoy a further loosening of the measures. With the situation improving in Spain, a huge field hospital the military helped set up at a Madrid convention center was closed on Friday, while a morgue in an ice rink was closed before that. After people enjoyed their morning outings, Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez announced that wearing masks on public transport will be an "obligation" from Monday, as an added measure to try to avoid another breakout of the virus. Millions of masks, which until Saturday had only been "highly recommended", will be distributed throughout the country next week, Sanchez said. Around half of coronavirus cases and deaths worldwide have been recorded in Europe, the continent hardest hit by the disease. There have been more than 1.5 million cases confirmed across Europe, but with infections rates slowing, countries are starting to plan their post-lockdown ‘new normal’. Germany, which has registered more than 164,000 cases but seen only about 6,700 deaths, has strict social distancing guidelines but never restricted people going outside for exercise. Smaller shops have already been opened and this is the first weekend in which playgrounds, museums and zoos have been permitted to open as well. In Italy, measures will be relaxed from 4 May, with people being allowed to visit relatives in small numbers, and parks, factories, and smaller shops opening back up.
2 May 16:01 • euronews • https://www.euronews.com/2020/05/02/joy-and-trepidation-as-spaniards-enjoy-easing-of-restrictionsRating: 3.04
At low point, doctors prepared my death announcement: UK PM
3 May 19:02
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At low point, doctors prepared my death announcement: UK PM
LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered more insight into his hospitalization for coronavirus, telling a British newspaper that he knew doctors were preparing for the worst. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care during his week of treatment in a London hospital after falling ill with COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper he was aware that doctors were discussing his fate. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.’’ Johnson couldn’t believe how quickly his health had deteriorated and had difficulty understanding why he wasn’t getting better. Medical workers gave him “liters and liters of oxygen” but he said the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction.’ “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he told the newspaper. “That was when it got a bit ... they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” The remarks were Johnson’s most candid yet on his brush with death, though he acknowledged when he left the hospital that his fight to survive “could have gone either way,″ as he paid tribute to the two nurses who never left his bedside for 48 hours. Jenny McGee from New Zealand and Luis Pitarma from Portugal, he said, embodied the caring and sacrifice of National Health Service staff on the front lines of the pandemic, which has already killed 28,131 people in Britain. Johnson’s close call is reflected in the name that he and fiancée Carrie Symonds gave to their newborn son. Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson was named after Johnson and Symonds’ grandfathers and after Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart — the two doctors who saved the prime minister’s life. Johnson’s actions since leaving the hospital suggest the NHS has a powerful new advocate as it seeks to reverse a decade of austerity that has left Britain’s doctors and nurses struggling to treat the flood of coronavirus patients with inadequate supplies of protective gear. Dozens of NHS workers have died in the outbreak. T he interview follows an emotional video made by Johnson after being released from the hospital on April 12. Johnson called the NHS “unconquerable” and “the beating heart of this country” after seeing its response to the outbreak first-hand. He also lauded the courage of everyone from doctors to cooks. The prime minister returned to work on April 27.
3 May 19:02 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543873-At-low-point-doctors-prepared-my-death-announcement-UK-PMRating: 1.71
UK PM: At low point, doctors prepared my death announcement
LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered more insight into his hospitalization for coronavirus, telling a British newspaper that he knew doctors were preparing for the worst. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care during his week of treatment in a London hospital after falling ill with COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper he was aware that doctors were discussing his fate. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,’’ he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.’’ Johnson couldn’t believe how quickly his health had deteriorated and had difficulty understanding why he wasn’t getting better. Medical workers gave him “liters and liters of oxygen’’ but he said the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction.’ “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,’’ he told the newspaper. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” The remarks were Johnson’s most candid yet on his brush with death, though he acknowledged when he left the hospital that his fight to survive “could have gone either way,″ as he paid tribute to the two nurses who never left his bedside for 48 hours. Jenny McGee from New Zealand and Luis Pitarma from Portugal, he said, embodied the caring and sacrifice of National Health Service staff on the front lines of the pandemic, which has already killed 28,131 people in Britain. Johnson’s close call is reflected in the name that he and fiancée Carrie Symonds gave to their newborn son. Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson was named after Johnson and Symonds’ grandfathers and after Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart — the two doctors who saved the prime minister’s life. Johnson’s actions since leaving the hospital suggest the NHS has a powerful new advocate as it seeks to reverse a decade of austerity that has left Britain’s doctors and nurses struggling to treat the flood of coronavirus patients with inadequate supplies of protective gear. Dozens of NHS workers have died in the outbreak. T he interview follows an emotional video made by Johnson after being released from the hospital on April 12. Johnson called the NHS “unconquerable” and “the beating heart of this country” after seeing its response to the outbreak first-hand. He also lauded the courage of everyone from doctors to cooks. The prime minister returned to work on April 27.
3 May 14:33 • WSVN 7News • https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/uk-pm-at-low-point-doctors-prepared-my-death-announcement/Rating: 0.30
Boris Johnson says doctors prepared his death announcement
LONDON — Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered more insight into his hospitalization for coronavirus, telling a British newspaper that he knew doctors were preparing for the worst. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care during his week of treatment in a London hospital after falling ill with COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper he was aware that doctors were discussing his fate. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.” Johnson couldn’t believe how quickly his health had deteriorated and had difficulty understanding why he wasn’t getting better. Medical workers gave him “liters and liters of oxygen” but he said the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction.’ “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he told the newspaper. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” The remarks were Johnson’s most candid yet on his brush with death, though he acknowledged when he left the hospital that his fight to survive “could have gone either way,″ as he paid tribute to the two nurses who never left his bedside for 48 hours. Jenny McGee from New Zealand and Luis Pitarma from Portugal, he said, embodied the caring and sacrifice of National Health Service staff on the front lines of the pandemic, which has already killed 28,131 people in Britain. Johnson’s close call is reflected in the name that he and fiancée Carrie Symonds gave to their newborn son. Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson was named after Johnson and Symonds’ grandfathers and after Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart — the two doctors who saved the prime minister’s life. Johnson’s actions since leaving the hospital suggest the NHS has a powerful new advocate as it seeks to reverse a decade of austerity that has left Britain’s doctors and nurses struggling to treat the flood of coronavirus patients with inadequate supplies of protective gear. Dozens of NHS workers have died in the outbreak. The interview follows an emotional video made by Johnson after being released from the hospital on April 12. Johnson called the NHS “unconquerable” and “the beating heart of this country” after seeing its response to the outbreak first-hand. He also lauded the courage of everyone from doctors to cooks. The prime minister returned to work on April 27.
3 May 17:13 • Las Vegas Review-Journal • https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/nation-and-world/boris-johnson-says-doctors-prepared-his-death-announcement-2020288/Rating: 0.30
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson Reveals How Seriously Sick He Was With COVID-19
LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered more insight into his hospitalization for coronavirus, telling a British newspaper that he knew doctors were preparing for the worst. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care during his week of treatment in a London hospital after falling ill with COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper he was aware that doctors were discussing his fate. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,’’ he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.’’ Johnson couldn’t believe how quickly his health had deteriorated and had difficulty understanding why he wasn’t getting better. Medical workers gave him “liters and liters of oxygen’’ but he said the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction.’ “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,’’ he told the newspaper. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” The remarks were Johnson’s most candid yet on his brush with death, though he acknowledged when he left the hospital that his fight to survive “could have gone either way,″ as he paid tribute to the two nurses who never left his bedside for 48 hours. Jenny McGee from New Zealand and Luis Pitarma from Portugal, he said, embodied the caring and sacrifice of National Health Service staff on the front lines of the pandemic, which has already killed 28,131 people in Britain. Johnson’s close call is reflected in the name that he and fiancée Carrie Symonds gave to their newborn son. Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson was named after Johnson and Symonds’ grandfathers and after Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart — the two doctors who saved the prime minister’s life. Johnson’s actions since leaving the hospital suggest the NHS has a powerful new advocate as it seeks to reverse a decade of austerity that has left Britain’s doctors and nurses struggling to treat the flood of coronavirus patients with inadequate supplies of protective gear. Dozens of NHS workers have died in the outbreak. T he interview follows an emotional video made by Johnson after being released from the hospital on April 12. Johnson called the NHS “unconquerable” and “the beating heart of this country” after seeing its response to the outbreak first-hand. He also lauded the courage of everyone from doctors to cooks. The prime minister returned to work on April 27. ___ Follow AP pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
3 May 13:46 • Talking Points Memo • https://talkingpointsmemo.com/news/boris-johnson-coronavirus-interviewRating: 0.30
UK PM: At low point, doctors prepared my death announcement
LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered more insight into his hospitalization for coronavirus, telling a British newspaper that he knew doctors were preparing for the worst. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care during his week of treatment in a London hospital after falling ill with COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper he was aware that doctors were discussing his fate. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it,'' he said. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario.'' Johnson couldn’t believe how quickly his health had deteriorated and had difficulty understanding why he wasn’t getting better. Medical workers gave him "liters and liters of oxygen'' but he said the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction.” "But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,'' he told the newspaper. "That was when it got a bit...they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally." The remarks were Johnson's most candid yet on his brush with death, though he acknowledged when he left the hospital that his fight to survive "could have gone either way," as he paid tribute to the two nurses who never left his bedside for 48 hours. Jenny McGee from New Zealand and Luis Pitarma from Portugal, he said, embodied the caring and sacrifice of National Health Service staff on the front lines of the pandemic, which has already killed 28,131 people in Britain. Johnson’s close call is reflected in the name that he and fiancée Carrie Symonds gave to their newborn son. Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson was named after Johnson and Symonds’ grandfathers and after Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart — the two doctors who saved the prime minister’s life. Johnson's actions since leaving the hospital suggest the NHS has a powerful new advocate as it seeks to reverse a decade of austerity that has left Britain's doctors and nurses struggling to treat the flood of coronavirus patients with inadequate supplies of protective gear. Dozens of NHS workers have died in the outbreak. The interview follows an emotional video made by Johnson after being released from the hospital on April 12. Johnson called the NHS "unconquerable" and "the beating heart of this country" after seeing its response to the outbreak first-hand. He also lauded the courage of everyone from doctors to cooks. The prime minister returned to work on April 27. ___ Follow AP pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
3 May 13:30 • WBTV • https://www.wbtv.com/2020/05/03/uk-pm-low-point-doctors-prepared-my-death-announcement/Rating: 0.30
Boris Johnson says doctors were preparing to announce his death
U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said his condition deteriorated so rapidly from the coronavirus that his doctors were preparing how to explain his death, according to an interview with the Sun on Sunday. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” Johnson said. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.” Johnson spent three days in the critical unit at St Thomas’s Hospital in London and was given oxygen treatment to help him breathe. He said later it could have gone either way and thanked the medicals pros for saving his life. “It was thanks to some wonderful, wonderful nursing that I made it,” he said to the Sun. “They really did it and they made a huge difference.” In a series of tweets on Sunday, Johnson reiterated the five tests that must be met before lifting Britain’s lockdown. The government has come under increasing pressure to set out how it will relax the restrictions as the economy craters. The conditions are: Maintaining capacity in the National Health Service • A sustained and consistent fall in deaths• The infection rate falling to manageable levels• Adequate supplies of testing and protective equipment• No risk of a second spike that would overwhelm the NHS
3 May 08:46 • BNN • https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/u-k-s-johnson-says-doctors-prepared-to-announce-his-death-sun-1.1430706Rating: 1.34
Boris Johnson Says Doctors Prepared to Announce His Death
Sign up here for our daily coronavirus newsletter on what you need to know, and subscribe to our Covid-19 podcast for the latest news and analysis. U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said his condition deteriorated so rapidly from the coronavirus that his doctors were preparing how to explain his death, according to an interview with the Sun on Sunday. “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” the premier said. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it. They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.” Johnson spent three days in the critical unit at St Thomas’s Hospital in London and was given oxygen treatment to help him breathe. He said later it could have gone either way and thanked the medicals pros for saving his life. “It was thanks to some wonderful, wonderful nursing that I made it,” he said to the Sun. “They really did it and they made a huge difference.” Boris Johnson Pledges Lockdown Exit Plan With U.K. Past Peak (2) In a series of tweets on Sunday, Johnson reiterated the five tests that must be met before lifting Britain’s lockdown. The government has come under increasing pressure to set out how it will relax the restrictions as the economy craters. The conditions are:
3 May 08:20 • Bloomberg.com • https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-03/u-k-s-johnson-says-doctors-prepared-to-announce-his-death-sunRating: 4.04
At low point, doctors prepared my death announcement – Boris Johnson
LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson has offered more insight into his hospitalization for coronavirus, telling a British newspaper that he knew doctors were preparing for the worst. The 55-year-old Johnson, who spent three nights in intensive care during his week of treatment in a London hospital after falling ill with COVID-19, told The Sun newspaper he was aware that doctors were discussing his fate. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he said. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario.’’ Johnson couldn’t believe how quickly his health had deteriorated and had difficulty understanding why he wasn’t getting better. Medical workers gave him “liters and liters of oxygen” but he said the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction.’ “But the bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe,” he told the newspaper. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” The remarks were Johnson’s most candid yet on his brush with death, though he acknowledged when he left the hospital that his fight to survive “could have gone either way,″ as he paid tribute to the two nurses who never left his bedside for 48 hours. Jenny McGee from New Zealand and Luis Pitarma from Portugal, he said, embodied the caring and sacrifice of National Health Service staff on the front lines of the pandemic, which has already killed 28,131 people in Britain. Johnson’s close call is reflected in the name that he and fiancée Carrie Symonds gave to their newborn son. Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson was named after Johnson and Symonds’ grandfathers and after Dr. Nick Price and Dr. Nick Hart — the two doctors who saved the prime minister’s life. Johnson’s actions since leaving the hospital suggest the NHS has a powerful new advocate as it seeks to reverse a decade of austerity that has left Britain’s doctors and nurses struggling to treat the flood of coronavirus patients with inadequate supplies of protective gear. Dozens of NHS workers have died in the outbreak. T he interview follows an emotional video made by Johnson after being released from the hospital on April 12. Johnson called the NHS “unconquerable” and “the beating heart of this country” after seeing its response to the outbreak first-hand. He also lauded the courage of everyone from doctors to cooks. The prime minister returned to work on April 27. ___
3 May 00:00 • The Zimbabwe Mail • https://www.thezimbabwemail.com/world-news/at-low-point-doctors-prepared-my-death-announcement-boris-johnson/Rating: 0.30
Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus after developing ‘mild’ symptom
3 May 20:57
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4 articles
Weight: 1.97
Importance: 1.97
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:37
Average US: 14.45
Weighted average US: 17.947731053978572
Average GB: 27.95
Weighted average GB: 15.919558774319992
Average IN: 6.15
Weighted average IN: 5.838237756237465
Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus after developing ‘mild’ symptom
Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan said he will be temporarily stepping back from the programme after developing a “mild” coronavirus symptom. The programme will be hosted by ITV presenter Ben Shephard alongside Susanna Reid as Mr Morgan waits for his test results, which are due on Monday. Mr Morgan said in a tweet: “On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in the past 48 hours, I’ve had a test for Covid-19 and so won’t be working on Good Morning Britain until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow.” This week, Mr Morgan was cleared of breaching TV watchdog Ofcom’s rules after attracting more than 3,000 complaints over his “combative” questioning of care minister Helen Whately in two interviews. During an animated interview, he asked Ms Whately for the number of health workers and care workers who had died from the illness. She accused him of “shouting at me and not giving me a chance to answer your questions” and “attempting to score points”. Mr Morgan defended his approach, saying it was not as “uncomfortable” as the conditions for the carers on the front line of the coronavirus crisis. Almost 600 viewers also complained about another interview, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock on April 16, who accused him of constantly interrupting him. Mr Morgan has also attracted positive publicity in recent weeks, as one of the famous faces taking on the 2.6 challenge which replaced the London Marathon, and raised money for struggling charities last Sunday. A host of huge names, including Sir Andrew Strauss, Kevin Pietersen, Andrew Flintoff and David Haye went through a workout, led by Piers Morgan, in aid of the Ruth Strauss Foundation.
3 May 20:57 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/piers-morgan-tested-for-coronavirus-after-developing-mild-symptom/Rating: 0.30
Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus after developing ‘mild’ symptom
Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan said he will be temporarily stepping back from the programme after developing a “mild” coronavirus symptom. The programme will be hosted by ITV presenter Ben Shephard alongside Susanna Reid as Mr Morgan waits for his test results, which are due on Monday. Mr Morgan said in a tweet: “On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in the past 48 hours, I’ve had a test for Covid-19 and so won’t be working on Good Morning Britain until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow.” This week, Mr Morgan was cleared of breaching TV watchdog Ofcom’s rules after attracting more than 3,000 complaints over his “combative” questioning of care minister Helen Whately in two interviews. During an animated interview, he asked Ms Whately for the number of health workers and care workers who had died from the illness. She accused him of “shouting at me and not giving me a chance to answer your questions” and “attempting to score points”. Mr Morgan defended his approach, saying it was not as “uncomfortable” as the conditions for the carers on the front line of the coronavirus crisis. Almost 600 viewers also complained about another interview, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock on April 16, who accused him of constantly interrupting him. Mr Morgan has also attracted positive publicity in recent weeks, as one of the famous faces taking on the 2.6 challenge which replaced the London Marathon, and raised money for struggling charities last Sunday. A host of huge names, including Sir Andrew Strauss, Kevin Pietersen, Andrew Flintoff and David Haye went through a workout, led by Piers Morgan, in aid of the Ruth Strauss Foundation.
3 May 20:55 • independent • https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/piers-morgan-tested-for-coronavirus-after-developing-mild-symptom-39177747.htmlRating: 1.21
Piers Morgan tested for coronavirus after developing ‘mild’ symptom
The presenter has stepped back from Good Morning Britain and Ben Shephard will be covering for him. Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan said he will be temporarily stepping back from the programme after developing a “mild” coronavirus symptom. The programme will be hosted by ITV presenter Ben Shephard alongside Susanna Reid as Mr Morgan waits for his test results, which are due on Monday. Mr Morgan said in a tweet: “On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in the past 48 hours, I’ve had a test for Covid-19 and so won’t be working on Good Morning Britain until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow.” This week, Mr Morgan was cleared of breaching TV watchdog Ofcom’s rules after attracting more than 3,000 complaints over his “combative” questioning of care minister Helen Whately in two interviews. During an animated interview, he asked Ms Whately for the number of health workers and care workers who had died from the illness. She accused him of “shouting at me and not giving me a chance to answer your questions” and “attempting to score points”. Mr Morgan defended his approach, saying it was not as “uncomfortable” as the conditions for the carers on the front line of the coronavirus crisis. Almost 600 viewers also complained about another interview, with Health Secretary Matt Hancock on April 16, who accused him of constantly interrupting him. Mr Morgan has also attracted positive publicity in recent weeks, as one of the famous faces taking on the 2.6 challenge which replaced the London Marathon, and raised money for struggling charities last Sunday. A host of huge names, including Sir Andrew Strauss, Kevin Pietersen, Andrew Flintoff and David Haye went through a workout, led by Piers Morgan, in aid of the Ruth Strauss Foundation.
3 May 20:57 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/piers-morgan-tested-for-coronavirus-after-developing-mild-symptom/Rating: 0.30
Piers Morgan replaced by Ben Shephard on GMB as he's tested for coronavirus
Good Morning Britain has confirmed Piers Morgan's replacement on the show on Monday, as the host was forced to take leave. Piers, 55, has been tested for coronavirus after suffering "mild symptoms" in the last 48 hours. While he awaits confirmation on whether he has COVID-19 or not, he's been forced to miss the show. It isn't yet known when he will be back, depending on the what the results say - while Piers confirmed he was following medical advice. Now, GMB have confirmed host Ben Shephard will be covering for him. Ben normally hosts the show on the days Piers isn't scheduled in, with Piers recently upping his weekly amount to four episodes from Monday to Thursday. As Piers remains at home, Ben will host the show alongside Susanna Reid. Piers broke the news of his illness on Sunday on Twitter. He told his followers: "UPDATE: On medical advice, and out of an abundance of caution for a mild symptom that arose in past 48hrs, I’ve had a test for COVID-19 and so won’t be working on @GMB until I get the result back, which should be tomorrow." Piers revealed he is still awaiting the test results, which should come in tomorrow (Monday). The host, alongside co-presenter Susanna Reid, has been keeping GMB viewers up to date with all the latest COVID-19 news. Susanna was forced to miss two weeks of GMB at the start of lockdown measures being introduced in March, after her son had a cough. She soon returned, and Piers upped his episodes to four a week and has been vowing to get the answers the public wants on COVID-19. After posting the news on Twitter, Piers was met with a huge response from his followers. One fan tweeted: "I hope you’re well Piers. We need you!" Another said: "Hope all is well Piers we need you." Others commented on the fact Piers had been in the GMB studio for weeks, so were concerned over whether he should have been there. But Piers had only began experiencing "mild symptoms" in the past 48 hours and wasn't on the show on Friday. Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV.
3 May 20:37 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/piers-morgan-replaced-ben-shephard-21968222Rating: 2.39
Mosques and schools to reopen in Iran's low-risk areas
3 May 10:33
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3 articles
Weight: 1.91
Importance: 2.06
Age penalty: 0.93
Best date: 3 May 09:39
Average US: 11.666666666666666
Weighted average US: 13.90038966637231
Average GB: 2.0066666666666664
Weighted average GB: 1.5084870265407562
Average IN: 6.506666666666666
Weighted average IN: 6.477187553056786
Mosques and schools to reopen in Iran's low-risk areas
DUBAI (Reuters) - Iran plans to reopen mosques and schools in areas that have been consistently free of the coronavirus as President Hassan Rouhani’s government starts to ease restrictions that were aimed at containing the outbreak. With mosques closed and religious gatherings banned since mid-March as the outbreak spread in the Middle East’s worst-hit country, ordinary Iranians have turned to drive-ins for ceremonies during the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. State TV and videos on social media showed people in their cars watching a religious ceremony on a big screen in a Tehran car park. “Mosques will reopen in 132 low-risk or ‘white cities’ and towns from Monday. Friday prayer sermons will resume in those areas as well ... However, all these steps will be taken by respecting the health protocols,” Rouhani said in a televised meeting. Iran’s health ministry has divided the country into white, yellow and red areas based on the number of infections and deaths. The ministry said on Saturday that the trajectory of infections has started a “gradual” downward trend in Iran. On Sunday the health ministry said the country’s coronavirus death toll had risen to 6,203 and the total number of diagnosed cases had reached 97,424. Iran has already lifted a ban on inter-city trips and malls, with large shopping centres resuming activities despite warnings by some health officials of a new wave of infections. School and university closures were maintained and cultural and sports gatherings are also still banned, though Rouhani said the plan is for some schools to reopen soon. “The schools in the white and low-risk areas will reopen from May 16 ... However, we will continue to review the situation,” he said.
3 May 10:33 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-iran-idUSKBN22F090Rating: 4.04
COVID-19: Mosques and schools to reopen in Iran's low-risk areas
TEHRAN: Iran plans to reopen mosques and schools in areas that have been consistently free of COVID-19 as President Hassan Rouhani's government starts to ease restrictions that were aimed at containing the outbreak. With mosques closed and religious gatherings banned since mid-March as the outbreak spread in the Middle East's worst-hit country, ordinary Iranians have turned to drive-ins for ceremonies during the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. State TV and videos on social media showed people in their cars watching a religious ceremony on a big screen in a Tehran car park. "Mosques will reopen in 132 low-risk or 'white cities' and towns from Monday. Friday prayer sermons will resume in those areas as well ... However, all these steps will be taken by respecting the health protocols," Rouhani said in a televised meeting. Iran's health ministry has divided the country into white, yellow and red areas based on the number of infections and deaths. The ministry said on Saturday that the trajectory of infections has started a "gradual" downward trend in Iran, where the death toll is 6,156 and total number of diagnosed cases has reached 96,448. Iran has already lifted a ban on inter-city trips and malls, with large shopping centres resuming activities despite warnings by some health officials of a new wave of infections. School and university closures were maintained and cultural and sports gatherings are also still banned, though Rouhani said the plan is for some schools to reopen soon. "The schools in the white and low-risk areas will reopen from May 16 ... However, we will continue to review the situation," he said. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 18:04 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/covid-19-mosques-and-schools-to-reopen-in-iran-s-low-risk-areas-12697960Rating: 3.25
Mosques and schools to reopen in Iran's low-risk areas
IRAN: Iran plans to reopen mosques and schools in areas that have been consistently free of the coronavirus as President Hassan Rouhani’s government starts to ease restrictions that were aimed at containing the outbreak. With mosques closed and religious gatherings banned since mid-March as the outbreak spread in the Middle East’s worst-hit country, ordinary Iranians have turned to drive-ins for ceremonies during the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramazan. State TV and videos on social media showed people in their cars watching a religious ceremony on a big screen in a Tehran car park. “Mosques will reopen in 132 low-risk or ‘white cities’ and towns from Monday. Friday prayer sermons will resume in those areas as well. However, all these steps will be taken by respecting the health protocols,” Rouhani said in a televised meeting. Iran’s health ministry has divided the country into white, yellow and red areas based on the number of infections and deaths. The ministry said on Saturday that the trajectory of infections has started a “gradual” downward trend in Iran, where the death toll is 6,156 and total number of diagnosed cases has reached 96,448. Iran has already lifted a ban on inter-city trips and malls, with large shopping centres resuming activities despite warnings by some health officials of a new wave of infections. School and university closures were maintained and cultural and sports gatherings are also still banned, though Rouhani said the plan is for some schools to reopen soon. “The schools in the white and low-risk areas will reopen from May 16. However, we will continue to review the situation,” he said.
3 May 09:39 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213112/3-mosques-schools-reopen-irans-low-risk-areas/Rating: 1.80
Perth FIFO worker shot dead after stabbing rampage had stopped taking anti-psychotic medication
3 May 22:15
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6 articles
Weight: 1.90
Importance: 1.90
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 22:15
Average US: 3.0
Weighted average US: 3.2366415807958493
Average GB: 0.0
Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 0.9166666666666666
Weighted average IN: 1.2864517635928376
Perth FIFO worker shot dead after stabbing rampage had stopped taking anti-psychotic medication
The construction worker who went on a stabbing rampage in South Hedland, injuring seven people, had stopped taking prescribed anti-psychotic medication before he was shot dead by police. Police sources say Ashley Fildes suffered from serious mental health issues and had been noticeably deteriorating at work in the months leading up to Friday’s horrific stabbing frenzy. Detectives have uncovered no evidence of illicit drug use, after searching his accomodation in South Hedland. A recent drug test Fildes completed for work also came back negative, but the results of a post mortem toxicology report have not yet come back. Homicide Detectives have confirmed that all seven victims were randomly attacked and were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. The Perth father-of-one was working in South Hedland on an asphalting contract when work colleagues became concerned about his erratic behaviour. On Friday, Fildes was asked to leave his work site by his boss, after he was ruled an Occupational Health and Safety Hazard. Police say his boss drove Fildes to The Lodge Motel where he had been staying, and that the 34-year-old left the car and headed straight in to the building. When he entered the lobby area he was greeted by a receptionist, who asked him how he was. She told police the 34-year-old did not answer, and had an expression of rage on his face. She said Fildes then headed straight in to the motel’s dining hall, despite her telling him he was not allowed in there. Police say Mr Fildes then seized a knife from the kitchen and grabbed the woman. After a brief struggle she managed to break free but he then chased her around the dining hall between tables. He then threw the knife at the woman, but missed, before taking a second knife from the kitchen and threatening the chef on the premises. The two staff members were able to escape Fildes, but moments later, he stabbed his first victim, a woman who had been staying at the motel and was standing outside her room. Fildes then continued on towards the South Hedland courthouse, where he stabbed a man waiting outside the complex. He then began walking towards the local McDonald’s where he stabbed another man, his third victim quickly followed by a fourth person, a man who had left the fast foood outler and was getting in to his vehicle. Police say that man tried to fight back, but couldn’t stop the knife attack. Fildes then stabbed his fifth victim, a 39-year-old man who was waiting outside the South Hedland Shopping Centre. His injuries are the most serious of the seven victims, and he was airlifted to Royal Perth Hospital on Friday night in a critical condition. When Ashley Fildes entered the shopping centre, dozens of people began running and screaming for help as he charged forward with a knife in his hand, but said nothing. He then stabbed young mother Kimberley Abbott in the back as she pushed her one-year-old daughter Dakota in a trolley. Detectives say the CCTV captured of that attack is particularly distressing, and shows Ms Abbott desperately trying to protect her child. The two police officers who would initially Taser and shoot Mr Fildes dead were already in the shopping complex when Ms Abbott was stabbed, and heard the screams for help. They began running after Mr Fildes, but he didn’t stop, and stabbed another woman in the back before police Tasered him several times. But as the Tasering proved ineffective and the 34-year-old continued on, before one of the police officer fired three bullets. The first two did not stop Mr Fildes, but the third killed him. Ashley Fildes was previously a teacher in the remote Pilbara town of Nullagin, where he met his ex-wife and the mother of his child. The couple were married in 2011, and had a baby girl but have since separated. Police Union President Harry Arnott today praised the officers who shot Fildes dead, as heroes. “They’ve done exactly as they’ve been trained,” he said. “It’s pretty clear to everyone that this man had to be stopped.” Detectives say up to sixty people witnessed the horrific attacks. Concurrent Homicide and Internal Affairs investigations could take months to complete.
3 May 22:15 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-fifo-worker-shot-dead-after-stabbing-rampage-had-stopped-taking-anti-psychotic-medication-20200504-p54phf.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
Perth FIFO worker shot dead after stabbing rampage had stopped taking anti-psychotic medication
The construction worker who went on a stabbing rampage in South Hedland, injuring seven people, had stopped taking prescribed anti-psychotic medication before he was shot dead by police. Police sources say Ashley Fildes suffered from serious mental health issues and had been noticeably deteriorating at work in the months leading up to Friday’s horrific stabbing frenzy. Detectives have uncovered no evidence of illicit drug use, after searching his accomodation in South Hedland. A recent drug test Fildes completed for work also came back negative, but the results of a post mortem toxicology report have not yet come back. Homicide Detectives have confirmed that all seven victims were randomly attacked and were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. The Perth father-of-one was working in South Hedland on an asphalting contract when work colleagues became concerned about his erratic behaviour. On Friday, Fildes was asked to leave his work site by his boss, after he was ruled an Occupational Health and Safety Hazard. Police say his boss drove Fildes to The Lodge Motel where he had been staying, and that the 34-year-old left the car and headed straight in to the building. When he entered the lobby area he was greeted by a receptionist, who asked him how he was. She told police the 34-year-old did not answer, and had an expression of rage on his face. She said Fildes then headed straight in to the motel’s dining hall, despite her telling him he was not allowed in there. Police say Mr Fildes then seized a knife from the kitchen and grabbed the woman. After a brief struggle she managed to break free but he then chased her around the dining hall between tables. He then threw the knife at the woman, but missed, before taking a second knife from the kitchen and threatening the chef on the premises. The two staff members were able to escape Fildes, but moments later, he stabbed his first victim, a woman who had been staying at the motel and was standing outside her room. Fildes then continued on towards the South Hedland courthouse, where he stabbed a man waiting outside the complex. He then began walking towards the local McDonald’s where he stabbed another man, his third victim quickly followed by a fourth person, a man who had left the fast foood outler and was getting in to his vehicle. Police say that man tried to fight back, but couldn’t stop the knife attack. Fildes then stabbed his fifth victim, a 39-year-old man who was waiting outside the South Hedland Shopping Centre. His injuries are the most serious of the seven victims, and he was airlifted to Royal Perth Hospital on Friday night in a critical condition. When Ashley Fildes entered the shopping centre, dozens of people began running and screaming for help as he charged forward with a knife in his hand, but said nothing. He then stabbed young mother Kimberley Abbott in the back as she pushed her one-year-old daughter Dakota in a trolley. Detectives say the CCTV captured of that attack is particularly distressing, and shows Ms Abbott desperately trying to protect her child. The two police officers who would initially Taser and shoot Mr Fildes dead were already in the shopping complex when Ms Abbott was stabbed, and heard the screams for help. They began running after Mr Fildes, but he didn’t stop, and stabbed another woman in the back before police Tasered him several times. But as the Tasering proved ineffective and the 34-year-old continued on, before one of the police officer fired three bullets. The first two did not stop Mr Fildes, but the third killed him. Ashley Fildes was previously a teacher in the remote Pilbara town of Nullagin, where he met his ex-wife and the mother of his child. The couple were married in 2011, and had a baby girl but have since separated. Police Union President Harry Arnott today praised the officers who shot Fildes dead, as heroes. “They’ve done exactly as they’ve been trained,” he said. “It’s pretty clear to everyone that this man had to be stopped.” Detectives say up to sixty people witnessed the horrific attacks. Concurrent Homicide and Internal Affairs investigations could take months to complete.
3 May 22:15 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-fifo-worker-shot-dead-after-stabbing-rampage-had-stopped-taking-anti-psychotic-medication-20200504-p54phf.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Perth FIFO worker had stopped taking anti-psychotic medication before going on stabbing rampage
The construction worker who went on a stabbing rampage in South Hedland, injuring seven people, had stopped taking prescribed anti-psychotic medication before he was shot dead by police. Police sources say Ashley Fildes suffered from serious mental health issues and had been noticeably deteriorating at work in the months leading up to Friday’s horrific stabbing frenzy. Detectives have uncovered no evidence of illicit drug use, after searching his accomodation in South Hedland. A recent drug test Fildes completed for work also came back negative, but the results of a post mortem toxicology report have not yet come back. Homicide Detectives have confirmed that all seven victims were randomly attacked and were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. The Perth father-of-one was working in South Hedland on an asphalting contract when work colleagues became concerned about his erratic behaviour. On Friday, Fildes was asked to leave his work site by his boss, after he was ruled an Occupational Health and Safety Hazard. Police say his boss drove Fildes to The Lodge Motel where he had been staying, and that the 34-year-old left the car and headed straight in to the building. When he entered the lobby area he was greeted by a receptionist, who asked him how he was. She told police the 34-year-old did not answer, and had an expression of rage on his face. She said Fildes then headed straight in to the motel’s dining hall, despite her telling him he was not allowed in there. Police say Mr Fildes then seized a knife from the kitchen and grabbed the woman. After a brief struggle she managed to break free but he then chased her around the dining hall between tables. He then threw the knife at the woman, but missed, before taking a second knife from the kitchen and threatening the chef on the premises. The two staff members were able to escape Fildes, but moments later, he stabbed his first victim, a woman who had been staying at the motel and was standing outside her room. Fildes then continued on towards the South Hedland courthouse, where he stabbed a man waiting outside the complex. He then began walking towards the local McDonald’s where he stabbed another man, his third victim, quickly followed by a fourth person, a man who had left the fast food outlet and was getting into his vehicle. Police say that man tried to fight back, but couldn’t stop the knife attack. Fildes then stabbed his fifth victim, a 39-year-old man who was waiting outside the South Hedland Shopping Centre. His injuries are the most serious of the seven victims, and he was airlifted to Royal Perth Hospital on Friday night in a critical condition. When Ashley Fildes entered the shopping centre, dozens of people began running and screaming for help as he charged forward with a knife in his hand, but said nothing. He then stabbed young mother Kimberley Abbott in the back as she pushed her one-year-old daughter Dakota in a trolley. Detectives say the CCTV captured of that attack is particularly distressing, and shows Ms Abbott desperately trying to protect her child. The two police officers who would initially Taser and shoot Mr Fildes dead were already in the shopping complex when Ms Abbott was stabbed, and heard the screams for help. They began running after Mr Fildes, but he didn’t stop, and stabbed another woman in the back before police Tasered him several times. But as the Tasering proved ineffective and the 34-year-old continued on, before one of the police officer fired three bullets. The first two did not stop Mr Fildes, but the third killed him. Ashley Fildes was married in 2011. The couple had a baby girl but have since separated. Police Union President Harry Arnott today praised the officers who shot Fildes dead, as heroes. “They’ve done exactly as they’ve been trained,” he said. “It’s pretty clear to everyone that this man had to be stopped.” Detectives say up to sixty people witnessed the horrific attacks. Concurrent Homicide and Internal Affairs investigations could take months to complete.
3 May 22:15 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-fifo-worker-shot-dead-after-stabbing-rampage-had-stopped-taking-anti-psychotic-medication-20200504-p54phf.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_western-australiaRating: 0.55
Rider seriously injured in early morning jetski accident
A man has been seriously injured in a jetski accident at Coomera this morning. Paramedics were called to a boat ramp on Colman Rd just before 8am. An adult male had suffered head and chest injuries in the accident. He’s been taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital in a serious condition. A QAS spokesperson says no other watercraft were involved in the accident.
3 May 22:55 • myGC.com.au • http://www.mygc.com.au/rider-seriously-injured-in-early-morning-jetski-accident/Rating: 0.30
Man in serious condition after alleged stabbing on Gold Coast
A man has been rushed to hospital following an alleged stabbing on the Gold Coast early this morning. Emergency crews rushed to a home in Paradise Point just before 3.00am, following reports of an alleged wounding. Upon arrival, they found a man, aged in his 30s, suffering neck and leg injuries. He was treated at the scene by critical care paramedics before being taken to the Gold Coast University Hospital. A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson told myGC the man was transported in a serious condition with the High Acuity Response Unit also on board. Investigations are continuing.
2 May 21:43 • myGC.com.au • http://www.mygc.com.au/man-in-serious-condition-after-alleged-wounding-on-gold-coast/Rating: 0.30
4 people suffer 'traumatic' injuries in Mississauga incident
Four people have been taken to hospital after suffering “traumatic” injuries during an incident in Mississauga. Peel police say they were called to the area of Burnamthorpe and Cawthra Road just after 9 a.m. for a dangerous weapons call. Paramedics tell 680 NEWS two men were taken to trauma with life-threatening injuries, while a third man and a woman were taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. No details about the incident have been released, but police say to expect a heavy officer presence in the area.
2 May 14:31 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/02/4-people-suffer-traumatic-injuries-in-mississauga-incident/Rating: 0.61
Man sentenced for sex with 15-year-old, sending indecent images
3 May 21:00
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Man sentenced for sex with 15-year-old, sending indecent images
A Sebastopol man who sexually penetrated a 15-year-old girl and sent indecent images of himself to two 14-year-olds will be released from prison in two and a half months. Jeremy Gay, 23, was sentenced at the County Court in Melbourne on Friday to 14 months jail followed by a two year community corrections order. Gay pleaded guilty in November 2019 to one charge of sexual penetration of a child under 16 and two charges of using a carriage service to transmit indecent communication to a person under 16. The court heard the offence of sexual penetration against a 15-year-old was committed on four occasions, at least two times when the teenager stayed with Gay for three nights at his mother's house. Gay also sent pictures of himself naked to 15-year-old and to the two 14-year-old victims, who were friends, via social media and mobile phone. In his sentencing remarks, Judge Michael Bourke said the 'substantial' victim impact must be taken into account. "The three girls have suffered loss of trust, fear and social isolation. There is depression and anxiety. School, family life, sleep and eating patterns have been affected," he said. "Their mothers described the broad effect on family, their own emotional distress and feelings of helplessness." The court heard Gay, who was 21 and 22 at the time of the offending, has an intellectual disability, suffered a damaging childhood of neglect and exposure to alcohol, and has had limited employment. Judge Bourke said Gay's actions were unsophisticated examples of this type of offending. He referred to a psychologists report that stated Gay did not have the 'intellectual ability, including the moral development, to fully grasp the criminality of his offending'. "He expressed ongoing confusions as to why his behaviour was considered illegal and unacceptable," the report writer said. The report recommended psychological therapy to address Gay's moral deficits and understanding of sexual boundaries, the online world and his problematic behaviour, in addition to support to engage in community activities and develop appropriate relationships. Judge Bourke said Gay had not had the benefit of such assistance before. "Objectively viewed the circumstances of this offending are very serious indeed," he said. "Young, vulnerable teenagers have been targeted and exploited, particularly you sexually penetrated girl on more than one occasion when she was 15. "Protection of the community's young is important." Judge Bourke said the usual sentence was one of a substantial length of imprisonment, but Gay's moral culpability was reduced because of his disability, his personal history was damaging and he pleaded guilty at an early stage. "I see this as a case in which community protection is better served by a concerted attempt at the treatment and rehabilitation recommended, than by prolonged incarceration," he said. Gay has already served 321 days pre-sentence detention and will be released in around two and a half months. He will undergo treatment and rehabilitation for mental health, programs to reduce specific offending, judicial monitoring and specialist sex offenders treatment for two years after his release.
3 May 21:00 • The Courier • https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/6742854/man-sentenced-for-sexually-assaulting-15-year-old-sending-indecent-images/Rating: 0.30
Woman gets 100 years in prison for delivering children to convicted rapist
A woman was sentenced to a century in prison after she confessed to delivering children to a convicted rapist. Kimberly Feigert, 32, received the 100-year sentence and was branded a tier-one sex offender last week in Helena, Montana. The judge restricted Feigert from being eligible for parole for at least 25 years. She will be required to complete the first two phases of Montana’s three-phase sex offender treatment before being considered for release. Feigert was arrested in January 2017 after police learned she brought a young girl to a building where convicted rapist Andrew Page was undergoing sex offender treatment. Authorities began investigating after they found pictures on Page’s phone which showed the child in his bathroom, which is where he reportedly raped the victim. Prosecutors said Feigert knew Page planned to rape the girl, according to the Helena Independent Record. According to court documents, Paige and Feigert discussed the sex crime during a recorded phone call page made from jail. During the call, Feigert told Page that the girl ‘would not tell.’ Feigert was later charged with taking and distributing sexual photographs of a child under the age of 10. Parole Officer Lloyd Dopp testified at the sentencing hearing and said he believes Feigert has not taken full responsibility for her actions because she claimed not to remember talking to Page about the sex abuse plot despite the overwhelming amount of recorded correspondence. Dopp added that Feigert insists that she was being controlled through the use of drugs. However, Feigert appeared to show some remorse for her actions during the hearing as she sobbed and read a prepared statement. ‘I’m sorry I lost my way. I ask for the chance to turn my words into actions,’ she said.
3 May 20:36 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/woman-gets-100-years-12649319/Rating: 2.18
Maple Valley paraeducator charged with sexual abuse of 3rd boy; sheriff’s investigation is ongoing
A 23-year-old Maple Valley man charged with molesting two young boys at the COVID-19 child-care center at Lake Wilderness Elementary School last month has since been charged with first-degree rape of a child and two counts of first-degree child molestation, accused of sexually abusing a 7-year-old boy in his neighborhood. Bryan Neyers, a paraeducator in the Tahoma School District, was arrested April 24 at his residence after two boys, ages 7 and 9, reported they had been sexually touched while attending the child-care center set up to look after the children of essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, jail and court records show. He was released from jail two days later, after posting $250,000 bail. Neyers was charged Tuesday with two counts of first-degree child molestation, according to charging documents. That same day, King County sheriff’s detectives arrested Neyers on investigation of child rape as he left the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent following a court hearing on the earlier molestation charges, said Sgt. Ryan Abbott. Neyers is now being held in lieu of $750,000 bail, jail records show. King County Senior Deputy Prosecutor Celia Lee acknowledged in charging documents that Neyers is being held on substantial bail. “However, given the nature and scope of the defendant’s actions — multiple rapes and molestations of multiple victims under the age of 10 — and his positions of authority over young children, it is apparent to the State that the defendant actively seeks out victims and develops relationships of trust with young boys anywhere he can find them: in his workplace, in schools and day care, and in his own neighborhood,” Lee wrote in the charges. In both cases, Neyers told the child victims to keep his actions secret, Lee wrote. Advertising “Given the number of children the defendant had access to as a paraeducator, day care worker and camp counselor, this is an active and dynamic multi-victim investigation with interviews and additional investigation presently underway,” she wrote. Neyers worked as a paraeducator at Glacier Park Elementary School and also previously worked in the Extended Enrichment Program at Tahoma Elementary School, the Tahoma School District announced in a Facebook post following Neyers’ initial arrest. The post, which did not identify Neyers by name, said Neyers was placed on administrative leave. According to the most recent charges, which were filed Wednesday: During the investigation into child molestation allegations involving the two boys at the day care center, a King County sheriff’s detective conducted a safety interview with a 7-year-old boy who lived in Neyers’ neighborhood, after learning Neyers had spent one-on-one time with the child. The boy was interviewed April 27 and did not report anything inappropriate, but spoke about playing video games and sometimes getting rides from Neyers. After the detective left, the boy and his mother went for a bike ride — and it was at that time that the boy began making incremental disclosures to his mother about sexual abuse that began in December 2018, the charges say. The boy’s mother called police. One of the first rapes disclosed by the boy happened in the back seat of Neyers’ car, while the boy’s mother was at the hospital with a dying family member. Other sexual assaults occurred in Neyers’ car, bedroom and inside a motor home, the charges say. During a child-forensic interview, the boy said he had been sexually touched by Neyers multiple times and reported that Neyers had told him, “Still keeping the secret buddy.” Sara Jean Green: 206-515-5654 or sgreen@seattletimes.com; on Twitter: @SJGTimes.
3 May 17:15 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/crime/maple-valley-paraeducator-charged-with-sexual-abuse-of-3rd-boy-sheriffs-investigation-is-ongoing/Rating: 0.74
Chad Daybell Graded Lori Vallow’s Family on Whether They Had Light or Dark Spirits: Report
Lori Vallow Throw this new report on the pile of bewildering claims about Lori Vallow Daybell. About a year before she married Chad Daybell, she apparently had him grade her family–including son Joshua Vallow, daughter Tylee Ryan, and then-husband Charles Vallow–on whether they had light or dark spirits, according to an email obtained by Fox 10 Phoenix. The message was dated October 30, 2018. “Here are the family history documents you requested,” Chad Daybell wrote. It was unclear what led up to the email, or how long they’d been communicating. The outlet cited a source who said that Chad Daybell believed that people are reborn or graduate to levels after they die. Author Julie Rowe, a former friend of his, said that he had had two near-death experiences, “so his veil is kind of open, but not completely.” An attorney for him and Lori Vallow Daybell did not immediately respond to comment. Lori Daybell’s brother Alex Cox shot and killed her previous husband Charles Vallow on July 11, back when the family lived in Arizona. In September, less than two months later, she and her kids Joshua and Tylee moved to Rexburg, Idaho. Police say that the last firm proof of Tylee’s whereabouts was a Sept. 8 family trip to Yellowstone National Park, and no one has seen Joshua since after the 23rd. Officers said that their mother married Chad Daybell amid their disappearance, and she bolted out of Rexburg instead of helping find them. Alex Cox died in December; records showed that the son of his girlfriend found him passed out in a bathroom. The cause of death remains publicly unknown. Also, authorities said that Lori and Chad married about two weeks after Chad’s wife Tammy Daybell died. Only Vallow Daybell has been charged with any crime, and that’s in connection to the children’s disappearance. She has denied criminal allegations through her attorney. With that in mind, a lot of familiar names pop up in the reported document. Alex Cox, for example, was considered a 2L, meaning a light soul of the second estate. There are supposed to be six estates, with six being the highest. “The dark side can only match the light numbers, not exceed them,” states the document. “That is why there are a few 5’s on earth right now. It limits the dark’s power. 2’s and 3’s are fluid and can change sides during earth life. 4.1 and above have made covenants to their side. They rarely switch sides.” Lori Vallow was ranked a 4.3L. Tylee Ryan, however, was ranked 4.1D. The girl’s biological father Joseph Ryan, who died in 2018 of an apparent heart attack, was considered a 4.3D. “Is now sealed away,” according the document. Charles Vallow was ranked a 3L, and adopted son Joshua was a 4.2L. Joshua “JJ” Vallow, and Tylee Ryan Joshua Vallow has brown hair, has brown eyes, stands 4’0″, and weighs 50 pounds, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Tylee Ryan has blonde hair, has blue eyes, stands 5’0″, and weighs 160 pounds. Officials said the little brother “may be in need of medical attention.” [Screengrab of Lori Daybell via CBS This Morning; images of the children via the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children]
3 May 21:48 • Law & Crime • https://lawandcrime.com/crazy/chad-daybell-graded-lori-vallows-family-on-whether-they-had-light-or-dark-spirits-report/Rating: 0.30
'Cult mom' Lori Vallow asked Chad Daybell to judge the 'dark' and 'light' spirits in her two missing children
Newly obtained emails alleged “cult mom”Lori Vallow had asked her future husband and doomsday novel author Chad Daybell to judge the “light” and “dark” spirits in her family members, including her since-killed fourth husband and two now-missing children -- almost a year before their disappearance. Daybell emailed Vallow on October 30, 2018. It read: “Here are the family history documents you requested.” The email had several attachments, including a rubric which graded the levels of “dark” and “light” spirits in several of her family members, Fox 10 Phoenix first reported this past Friday. Tylee Ryan, 17, and Joshua “JJ” Vallow, 7, who have both been missing from Idaho since September, were included on the rubric. LORI VALLOW'S MISSING IDAHO KIDS: EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT DOOMSDAY CULT CASE Within weeks of Chad Daybell’s first and former wife Tammy’s mysterious death, and a month after Vallow’s children were last seen alive, the couple tied the knot in Hawaii before returning to Idaho. They left the state again in November, shortly after investigators came to perform a welfare check on JJ. Last week, a judge in Rexburg denied Vallow’s motion to have her bail reduced a second time amid the coronavirus pandemic. She has been charged in the disappearance of her two children and was being held on $1 million bail. Initially, the bail was $5 million. 'CULT MOM' LORI VALLOW UNDER INVESTIGATION IN SUSPICIOUS DEATH OF CHAD DAYBELL'S FIRST WIFE An unnamed source told Fox 10 that Daybell believed people were reborn, or graduated, to the next level when they died. His rubric graded Tylee as a level 4.1 dark spirt. JJ was listed as a 4.2 light spirit. Daybell said those graded “4.1 and above have made covenants to their side. They rarely switch sides.” Vallow’s third husband, Joseph Ryan, who was Tylee’s father, was listed as a dark spirit who has been “sealed away.” Ryan died in 2018 from an apparent heart attack in his Arizona apartment and was cremated. He and Vallow had divorced, and the two parents relocated from Texas amid a contentious child custody battle over Tylee around the time of his death, his sister and Tylee’s aunt, Annie Cushing, told KSL-TV in Salt Lake City, Utah. Meanwhile, the rubric graded her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, a level 3 light spirit with roots in “1700s London.” Vallow’s brother, Alex Cox, was ranked a level 2 light spirit. Cox shot Charles Vallow to death in Arizona in July, claimed self-defense and was never arrested before his own unexpected death in December. In February 2019, Charles Vallow filed for divorce, claiming in court documents that he feared his wife would kill him and that she’d developed strange, doomsday-cultlike beliefs, reportedly calling herself “a god assigned to carry out the work of the 144,000 at Christ’s second coming in July 2020.” CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP After his death, Lori Vallow moved from Arizona to Idaho with her two underage children, presumably to be closer to Daybell. The Idaho attorney general’s office announced last month that both Vallow and Daybell were under investigation in connection to Tammy’s death. Daybell’s first wife of nearly 30 years, and mother to their five adult children, died unexpectedly in their Idaho home. Investigators initially said she died of natural causes. By December, they exhumed her body to perform an autopsy, ruling the death “suspicious.” The results have not been released. Fox News' Robert Gearty contributed to this report.
3 May 18:22 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/us/cult-mom-lori-vallow-chad-daybell-light-dark-spirits-missing-childrenRating: 3.32
Jailed 'lollipop paedophile' wrote letters to victim's family, investigation under way
An investigation is underway after a jailed child sex abuser - dubbed the lollipop paedophile - managed to write letters to a victim’s family from behind bars. Michael Cyril Hyde, 60, molested three young girls, including a child aged just 22-months old at the time. Despite being convicted in 2019, and slapped with a violence restraining order, Hyde has been sending letters to a teenage girl who still lives at the Perth address where many of his sickening crimes were committed. He had befriended the girl’s family while working as the cross-walk attendant for a western suburbs primary school. Nine News and WAtoday have obtained one of the letters, in which Hyde asks the young woman to help him secure a court appeal against his convictions. The teenager is a sister of Hyde’s youngest victim and was filmed by the paedophile during some of his depravity. “All I am asking for is the truth to be told,” Hyde wrote. “I ask for you, your dad and your mum to help bring out that truth. It’s all very simple.” He included 10 issues he wanted the teenager to address “as soon as possible” and told her to write back to him and “treat it like an essay”. The victim’s family is appalled that Hyde’s letters were not blocked before leaving Casuarina Prison. “I’m extremely surprised,” the teenage daughter said. “I thought I wasn't going to receive any kind of contact from him at all. He's a liar. I thought he was a good man until I found out about the things he did.” Corrective Services Minister Fran Logan said steps were taken immediately after Nine News contacted him to ensure the letter writing was halted. “It is outrageous that this convicted paedophile can communicate with anybody at the victim’s home,” he said. “The family must be traumatised. We’ll make sure we put a stop to it.” Corrective Services Commissioner Tony Hassall said police may also need to investigate if the letters breach the VRO. “If we need to put any further controls around this individual administratively then we absolutely will,” he said. “If there is a gap we need to fix that gap.” Hyde committed his crimes between 2011 and 2016, and in sentencing him to 12 years prison, Judge Felicity Davis said videos found by police spoke for themselves and that he had acted with “depravity and perversion” and had shown no remorse. Lifeline: 13 11 14, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, Sexual Assault Resource Centre: 1800 199 888
3 May 10:12 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/western-australia/jailed-lollipop-paedophile-wrote-letters-to-victim-s-family-investigation-under-way-20200503-p54pfz.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_nationalRating: 2.20
Jailed 'lollipop paedophile' wrote letters to victim's family, investigation under way
An investigation is underway after a jailed child sex abuser - dubbed the lollipop paedophile - managed to write letters to a victim’s family from behind bars. Michael Cyril Hyde, 60, molested three young girls, including a child aged just 22-months old at the time. Despite being convicted in 2019, and slapped with a violence restraining order, Hyde has been sending letters to a teenage girl who still lives at the Perth address where many of his sickening crimes were committed. He had befriended the girl’s family while working as the cross-walk attendant for a western suburbs primary school. Nine News and WAtoday have obtained one of the letters, in which Hyde asks the young woman to help him secure a court appeal against his convictions. The teenager is a sister of Hyde’s youngest victim and was filmed by the paedophile during some of his depravity. “All I am asking for is the truth to be told,” Hyde wrote. “I ask for you, your dad and your mum to help bring out that truth. It’s all very simple.” He included 10 issues he wanted the teenager to address “as soon as possible” and told her to write back to him and “treat it like an essay”. The victim’s family is appalled that Hyde’s letters were not blocked before leaving Casuarina Prison. “I’m extremely surprised,” the teenage daughter said. “I thought I wasn't going to receive any kind of contact from him at all. He's a liar. I thought he was a good man until I found out about the things he did.” Corrective Services Minister Fran Logan said steps were taken immediately after Nine News contacted him to ensure the letter writing was halted. “It is outrageous that this convicted paedophile can communicate with anybody at the victim’s home,” he said. “The family must be traumatised. We’ll make sure we put a stop to it.” Corrective Services Commissioner Tony Hassall said police may also need to investigate if the letters breach the VRO. “If we need to put any further controls around this individual administratively then we absolutely will,” he said. “If there is a gap we need to fix that gap.” Hyde committed his crimes between 2011 and 2016, and in sentencing him to 12 years prison, Judge Felicity Davis said videos found by police spoke for themselves and that he had acted with “depravity and perversion” and had shown no remorse. Lifeline: 13 11 14, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, Sexual Assault Resource Centre: 1800 199 888
3 May 10:12 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/western-australia/jailed-lollipop-paedophile-wrote-letters-to-victim-s-family-investigation-under-way-20200503-p54pfz.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
'Cult mom' Lori Vallow loses bid for lower bail in missing children case
“Cult mom” Lori Vallow was escorted back to jail after an Idaho judge denied her request for lower bail. Vallow appeared at the bail hearing Friday in jail garb, wearing a coronavirus mask. Her attorney and the prosecutor also had masks on in the Rexburg courtroom. She has been charged in the disappearance of her two children and is being held on $1 million bail. Initially the bail was $5 million. In his request for lower bail, defense attorney Mark Means argued that the pandemic was hampering his ability to communicate with Vallow behind bars, the Idaho Statesman reported. 'CULT MOM' LORI VALLOW UNDER INVESTIGATION IN SUSPICIOUS DEATH OF CHAD DAYBELL'S FIRST WIFE He also claimed that his conversations with Vallow on the telephone were recorded at the Madison County Jail in violation of attorney-client privilege, the paper reported. Means asked the judge to set bail at between $100,000 and $250,000. Prosecutors said that nothing at the jail is recorded without proper warning, so if any conversation was recorded, the parties knew that was happening, the paper reported. FBI RELEASES PHOTO SHOWING 'CULT' MOM LORI VALLOW'S DAUGHTER ON THE DAY OF HER DISAPPEARANCE “If conversations between an attorney and client, without a warning that they are being recorded, are being recorded, then that would certainly be something that I would want to know about,” Magistrate Judge Michelle Mallard said, the Statesman reported. “But I don’t really have any evidence that is what is going on here.” KSL-TV quoted Mallard as telling Means that he should contact other defense attorneys “about ways to surmount any virus problems at the jail in regard to communicating with clients." CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE The disappearance of Vallow’s children Joshua “JJ” Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 17, who were last seen in Rexburg, has drawn international attention. Idaho police have accused Vallow of lying about their whereabouts and then fleeing the state. In February, Vallow was arrested on child abandonment charges in Hawaii where she was living with Chad Daybell, whom she married shortly after the death of his wife, Tammy Daybell. Reports last month quoted a letter from the Idaho Attorney General’s Office as saying that Vallow and Daybell were being investigated in connection with the death. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Vallow’s family has accused Vallow of being part of a cult with Daybell, the author of more than a dozen self-published doomsday novels. Charles Vallow, Vallow's ex-husband, was shot and killed by her brother, Alex Cox, in Chandler, Arizona, back in July. Cox claimed self-defense.
2 May 13:33 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/us/cult-mom-lori-vallow-loses-bid-for-lower-bail-in-missing-children-caseRating: 3.32
Child sex offender spared immediate jail time by senior judge amid coronavirus concerns
A child sex offender from Bristol has been spared an immediate jail sentence by a judge who said the coronavirus crisis would have made his time behind bars worse. Christopher Manning admitted four counts of sexual activity with a child and one of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity earlier this year. The court heard he befriended a 15-year-old, groped her and told her he loved her. He sent her sexualized texts and placed her hand on his private parts over his trousers. In court, Mannings' representative said he had 'behaved extraordinarily badly'. The 49-year-old from Clay Bottom, Eastville, Bristol, was given a 12-month suspended sentence and a curfew at Bristol Crown Court - shocking the family which called the punishment 'rubbish'. However, his sentence was referred to the Court of Appeal by Solicitor General Michael Ellis QC, who argued it was unduly lenient for his crimes. At the Court of Appeal, Lord Chief Justice Lord Burnett sitting with Mrs Justice Cutts and Mrs Justice Tipples, concluded the sentence was too lenient and increased it to two years, but ordered that it should remain suspended. He said those responsible for passing sentences should bear in mind that the impact of a prison sentence on an offender is likely to be greater due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Customise your news feed and get Bristol news personalised to you with our free app. Click here to find out more, or visit the Apple App Store or Google Play to download it for Android. He said: “The current conditions in prisons represent a factor which can properly be taken into account in deciding whether to suspend a sentence. “Judges and magistrates can therefore, and in our judgment should, keep in mind that the impact of a custodial sentence at the moment is likely to be greater during the current emergency than it would otherwise be.” Lord Burnett said prisoners are currently locked in their cells 23 hours a day, are unable to receive visits and are likely to be anxious about the risk of transmission of the virus in jails. Cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed in more than half of jails in England and Wales. A total of 341 prisoners had tested positive in 72 jails – and 18 had died – as of 5pm on Wednesday (April 29). Some 364 prison staff have now contracted the virus in 64 jails and six have died. On Thursday, Justice Secretary Robert Buckland confirmed “about 40” prisoners had been freed from jail early as part of efforts to control the spread of coronavirus behind bars.
2 May 09:40 • BristolLive • https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/child-sex-offender-spared-immediate-4098954Rating: 0.30
Lori Vallow, mom of missing Idaho kids, appeared in court Friday; New husband could be called to testify
Lori Vallow, the mother of two missing children, appeared in an Idaho courtroom Friday, and her new husband may be called as a witness to testify against her. Vallow asked for a reduction on her $1 million bond, but a judge denied her request, saying there was no good cause. The mystery of her children's disappearances and the deaths of three people close to the couple, including their spouses, has sparked investigations in several states and worldwide headlines.Lori Vallow came under police scrutiny in November after authorities learned that her two children, 17-year-old Tylee Ryan and 7-year-old Joshua "JJ" Vallow, had not been seen since September. Rexburg, Idaho, police say both Lori and husband Chad Daybell lied about the children's whereabouts. Authorities tracked the couple to Hawaii months after the disappearances, and in March, Lori Vallow was extradited back to Idaho. She is currently being held in jail on charges that she deserted or abandoned the kids, asked a friend to lie for her and obstructed the officers investigating the case. She's pleaded not guilty. Lori Vallow's court appearence was delayed twice due to the coronavirus pandemic, and everyone in court was wearing masks and physically distancing. Defense Attorney, Mark Means, said he's unable to privately communicate with her while in jail during COVID19 stay-at-home order, claiming some private calls with Lori Vallow were accidentally recorded by Madison County Jail. The prosecution, in turn, said this claim was a lie. ABC News has learned that prosecutors may call as many as 48 witnesses in the case, including Chad Daybell. Investigators say the tangled case also includes three other mysterious deaths. Chad Daybell's ex-wife Tammy died on Oct. 19, 2019, and her death was described in her obituary as being from natural causes, and Chad Daybell reportedly told authorities that she died in her sleep. But law enforcement became suspicious when he married Lori Vallow about two weeks later, and in December authorities had Daybell's body exhumed. Autopsy and toxicology tests have not been released. Lori Daybell's estranged late husband, Charles Vallow, was shot and killed by her brother, Alex Cox, in Phoenix last July. Cox, who said the shooting was in self-defense, then died of unknown causes several months later. Loved ones are gravely worried about the kids' safety. JJ's grandfather Larry Woodcock said the Lori he knew kept the children's best interests at heart. But he said her relationship with Chad Daybell, an author of several religious-themed fiction books about prophecies and the end of the world, changed that. According to court documents, Charles Vallow said Lori started to believe she was a "translated being" and "a god assigned to carry out the work of the 144,000 at Christ's second coming in July 2020." "Those children would be with her, and ever since she's been involved in his doomsday cult, that is not the same Lori that we knew for 13 years, and the last year has been not understandable," Larry Woodcock said. "We just don't understand how any mother could walk away from her children for months now." The Associated Press contributed to this report.
2 May 13:48 • ABC7 New York • https://abc7ny.com/mom-of-missing-kids-appeared-in-court;-husband-could-testify-in-case/6144998/Rating: 0.30
Missing Idaho kids: Judge won't lower Lori Vallow's $1 million bond
An Idaho judge on Friday refused to lower bond for Idaho mother Lori Vallow, whose two children have not been seen since September. Magistrate Judge Michelle Mallard said she found no compelling reasons to adjust Vallow's $1 million bond to between $100,000 and $250,000 as requested by the defense. A lawyer for Vallow, who also goes by her married name Lori Daybell, argued for the reduction, saying he suspects that privileged attorney-client conversations are being recorded in the jail. But Mallard said there's no evidence to back those claims. "I have heard nothing to indicate, to me, that Ms. Daybell is being treated differently than anyone else," the judge said. "On that basis, I am denying the motion for bond reduction." For most of the hearing, everyone in the Rexburg courtroom was wearing a facial covering. Vallow's children, Joshua Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 17, have not been seen since seen September. Police have said Vallow either knows the location of her children or what happened to them. Vallow was arrested in February, when she and her husband were found in Hawaii, and extradited to Idaho on charges of desertion and nonsupport of dependent children. Vallow and husband Chad Daybell got married weeks his previous wife, Tammy Daybell, died.
2 May 00:40 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/missing-idaho-kids-judge-wont-004055665.html/Rating: 0.30
Missing Idaho kids: Judge won't lower Lori Vallow's $1 million bond
An Idaho judge on Friday refused to lower bond for Idaho mother Lori Vallow, whose two children have not been seen since September. Magistrate Judge Michelle Mallard said she found no compelling reasons to adjust Vallow's $1 million bond to between $100,000 and $250,000 as requested by the defense. A lawyer for Vallow, who also goes by her married name Lori Daybell, argued for the reduction, saying he suspects that privileged attorney-client conversations are being recorded in the jail. But Mallard said there's no evidence to back those claims. "I have heard nothing to indicate, to me, that Ms. Daybell is being treated differently than anyone else," the judge said. "On that basis, I am denying the motion for bond reduction." For most of the hearing, everyone in the Rexburg courtroom was wearing a facial covering. Vallow's children, Joshua Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 17, have not been seen since seen September. Police have said Vallow either knows the location of her children or what happened to them. Vallow was arrested in February, when she and her husband were found in Hawaii, and extradited to Idaho on charges of desertion and nonsupport of dependent children. Vallow and husband Chad Daybell got married weeks his previous wife, Tammy Daybell, died.
2 May 00:40 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/missing-idaho-kids-judge-wont-004055675.htmlRating: 0.30
Gowdy on FBI notes from Michael Flynn investigation: 'We need an FBI that we can trust'
3 May 18:06
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Gowdy on FBI notes from Michael Flynn investigation: 'We need an FBI that we can trust'
Former House Oversight Committee Chairman Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., told "Sunday Morning Futures" that America needs "an FBI that we can trust," following the release of explosive internal FBI documents on the investigation into then-National Security Adviser Michael Flynn. The FBI documents showed top bureau officials discussed their motivations for interviewing Flynn in the White House in January 2017 -- and openly questioned if their "goal" was "to get him to lie, so we can prosecute him or get him fired." The handwritten notes -- written by the FBI's former head of counterintelligence Bill Priestap after a meeting with then-FBI Director James Comey and then-FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, Fox News is told -- further suggested that agents planned in the alternative to get Flynn "to admit to breaking the Logan Act" when he spoke to then-Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak during the presidential transition period. The Logan Act is an obscure statute that has never been used in a criminal prosecution; enacted in 1799 in an era before telephones, it was intended to prevent individuals from falsely claiming to represent the United States government abroad. "We need an FBI that we can trust and what I read in these notes, is not the FBI I used to work with," Gowdy, a Fox News contributor, said. READ THE UNSEALED FBI EMAILS, HANDWRITTEN DOCUMENTS "What is our goal?" one of the notes read. "Truth/Admission or to get him to lie, so we can prosecute him or get him fired?" Another note read, "If we get him to admit to breaking the Logan Act, give facts to DOJ + have them decide." The memo appeared to weigh the pros and cons of pursuing those different paths. "I don't see how getting someone to admit their wrongdoing is going easy on him," one note read. Flynn did not admit to wrongdoing in the interview. The document indicated that the agents at least discussed the merits of a by-the-book approach: "If we’re seen as playing games, WH [White House] will be furious." The bombshell materials strongly suggested the agents weren't truly concerned about Flynn's intercepted contacts with Kislyak during the presidential transition period, except as a pretext. The materials surfaced as Attorney General Bill Barr has continued to oversee the DOJ's investigation into the handling of the Flynn case. Flynn previously charged that top FBI officials, including McCabe, pressed him not to have the White House counsel present during the questioning with two agents that led to his guilty plea on a single charge of lying to federal investigators. Flynn was not charged with any Logan Act violation. When host Maria Bartiromo asked Gowdy what struck him most when he reviewed the new documents he said, "That there was absolutely no evidence that Michael Flynn was an agent of a foreign power." Internal FBI documents unsealed Thursday indicated that Peter Strzok -- the now-disgraced anti-Trump former head of FBI counterintelligence -- ordered the investigation of Flynn to remain open even after it was slated to be closed due to a lack of so-called "derogatory" information. "The entire time they spent looking at him in December of 2016, they had nothing," Gowdy noted. "They're about to close the investigation without even interviewing him, keep in mind they had no interest in interviewing Michael Flynn," he continued. "They're about to close the case, then you get the call with Kislyak and Peter Strzok seems more interested in setting up an American general than he is figuring out what the Russian generals were doing to this country." He added, "They send two agents over there without informing the White House, without informing the Department of Justice, and they wanted to set him up. That is not the FBI that this country needs." Bartiromo then asked Gowdy, "will we see accountability?" "Accountability takes consensus," Gowdy said in response. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP He noted that it would have been difficult to find "a single Democrat" in the House who would have been interested "at looking into the treatment of the FBI." "When I was there, the Democrats finally found a cop that they liked. Unfortunately, his name was Peter Strzok, whose only interest in this investigation was if it would lead to the impeachment of Donald Trump," Gowdy continued. "So, accountability requires consensus. Where is it?" Fox News' Gregg Re and Fox Business' Maria Bartiromo contributed to this report.
3 May 18:06 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/media/trey-gowdy-michael-flynn-investigation-fbi-notesRating: 3.32
Fox's Maria Bartiromo presses Graham to make good on pledge to subpoena DOJ and FBI officials
Fox Business anchor Maria Bartiromo grilled South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham about compelling witnesses to testify about the Russia investigation. Following the release of documents related to the Michael Flynn case, Bartiromo reminded Graham on Sunday that he has repeatedly assured her that the Senate Judiciary Committee would seek testimony from current and former Justice Department and FBI officials as she committed to reporting on a "cabal" that allegedly tried to undermine President Trump. She asserted that Graham has yet to make good on his promises, to which the senator stressed that he doesn't want to interfere in the Justice Department's criminal inquiry of the matter. "When I first came on the scene and said, look, this is a coup to take down Donald Trump, I got slammed," Bartiromo said on her weekend Fox News show, Sunday Morning Futures. "Everybody out there was just going on this, you know, Russia collusion witch-hunt, which was ridiculous." She went over instances dating back more than a year in which she said Graham vowed to call and subpoena witnesses, — such as former FBI Director James Comey, former FBI agent Peter Strzok, former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, and former Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein — promised a "deep dive" into alleged surveillance abuse, and pledged to put a stop to any future misconduct. "You are the only one with subpoena power right now in the Republican Party," Bartiromo said, adding, "We need you to call these individuals down to testify as witnesses. People want you to move on this, senator. Are you going to do it?" Graham responded in the affirmative but couched that assurance by saying timing is a factor. "Yes, but I have told you, and I will tell you again, I'm not going to interfere in an ongoing criminal matter," he said. "This is a rule of law nation. I'm a politician. My goal is to write a report of how it got off the rails." The Senate Judiciary Committee chairman further promised he will carry out his oversight role the "right" way. "I'm not going to jump in the middle of this case. But when it's over, we're going to find out why the Mueller investigation lasted two years. We're going to find out what kind of FBI shop was run out of the seventh floor. We're going to find out how you could issue warrants against Carter Page when the Russian sub-source told the FBI in January of 2017 it's all a bunch of garbage," he said. He concluded by drawing the difference between his work and that of U.S. Attorney John Durham, who was hand-picked by Attorney General William Barr to conduct a review into possible misconduct during the Trump-Russia investigation. "Durham is a prosecutor. I'm an oversight guy," he said. "But I'm not going to interfere — interfere in an ongoing criminal matter, period." While there has been some hesitation to call witnesses, Graham made moves last month in his investigation of the Trump-Russia investigators. The Senate Judiciary Committee released a trove of declassified documents related to the FBI's counterintelligence investigation of the Trump campaign and Russia, including new details about the secret surveillance of members on the then-candidate's team. Graham then asked the Justice Department to hand over documents that he said “undercut” one of the sources for British ex-spy Christopher Steele’s anti-Trump dossier.
3 May 18:14 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/foxs-maria-bartiromo-presses-lindsey-graham-to-make-good-on-pledge-to-subpoena-doj-and-fbi-officialsRating: 0.51
Rep. Collins: Comey tried to play 'Superman' in FBI 'corrupt cabal'
Rep. Doug Collins told "Fox & Friends Weekend" that he was outraged -- but not surprised -- at the bombshell new FBI documents that reveal an alleged scheme to set up former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn during a January 2017 interview under the purview of the Russia probe. "I [and] many others have been looking at this. We know this was going on. We could tell through the documents, we knew if we could continue to find out, we could see the corrupt cabal over there...[former FBI Director James] Comey and [former Deputy FBI Director Andrew] McCabe...were moving toward this," Collins, R-Ga., said. FLYNN BOMBSHELL STIRS SPECULATION OF POSSIBLE PARDON, DISMISSAL Collins said Comey tried to "play Superman," referencing a TV appearance in which the former FBI director admitted that the Flynn interview was set up – not through the White House counsel’s office, but directly with Flynn – which was not standard practice. He called it “something I probably wouldn't have done or maybe gotten away with in a more … organized administration.” "Comey used — and he said it — the first weeks of the administration to attack basically this president," Collins said. "I want to remind viewers, if they can do this to General Flynn, they can do it to anybody." SCALISE SAYS 'DIRTY COPS IN FBI' WERE OUT TO GET TRUMP AND FLYNN Flynn's case has been facing renewed scrutiny with the emergence of the documents containing handwritten notes from top bureau officials openly questioning whether their “goal” was “to get him to lie, so we can prosecute him or get him fired." The bombshell evidence puts attention on the Durham probe, Collings said, referencing the investigation by U.S. Attorney John Durham into the handling of the Russia probe by intelligence agencies. "When you see notes where they were actively targeting General Flynn, actively subverting the rules and protocols, I think Durham is building a case," Collins said. FLYYN BOMBSHELL PUTS RENEWED ATTENTION ON DURHAM PROBE "He’s got access to everything he needs, and it’s also why you’ll see the cabal scurrying around because they’re scared of what’s going on," Collins continued. "I think we’re going to see accountability. That’s what we’ve all wanted from Day One, and it’s time. You should never be able to attack a candidate for president just because you don’t like him...you can’t use the FISA court and the methods at your ability." "This is nothing more than an attack on a candidate and then on a sitting president," Collins said. GIULIANI ON FLYNN'S CASE: COMEY SHOULDN'T GET AWAY WITH IT "If they can do it to a candidate and a president, they can do it to you and me. That’s why this has to be investigated, has to stop." Fox News' Victor Garcia contributed to this report.
3 May 22:43 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/media/rep-doug-collins-flynn-fbi-documents-durhamRating: 3.32
Gaetz: If Mueller Knew Flynn Deal Was a Set Up, His Bar License Might Be in Question
Representative Matt Gaetz (R-FL) reacted to the latest developments in the newly unearthed controversial aspects of former National Security Advisor Michael Flynn’s prosecution by the Department of Justice. Gaetz told Fox News Channel’s Jeanine Pirro on Saturday if former Department of Justice special counsel Robert Mueller was aware that Flynn was set up by the FBI under the direction of former FBI Director James Comey and proceeded without raising that point, Mueller’s license may be in jeopardy. “[T]here is one person I have questions for, and that’s Robert Mueller,” Gaetz said. “What did Robert Mueller know and when did he know it? Did he come before the Judiciary Committee and make those accusations knowing that the Flynn deal was a setup directed by Comey? If he did, Robert Mueller’s own bar license might be in question.” Pirro asked Gaetz if there was anything Congress could do. Gaetz indicated it was his intention to urge those in place now within the Trump administration to continue their pursuit of what led to the Mueller-Russia probe. “Well, we can’t arrest anybody, unfortunately,” he said. “But we are encouraging the Durham investigation because we believe that is going to lead to the prosecutions that ultimately show why this is the case. “But judge, why are we three years away from Donald Trump’s election still learning about the things that our own corrupt government did to try to derail him? This is the stuff that should have been well out into the open before now. So, I want to encourage John Ratcliffe, who will be taking over as the Director of National Intelligence, and I want to encourage Attorney General Bill Barr — don’t be like your predecessors Jeff Sessions and Dan Coats, who just sat on this stuff. Let’s get it out before the people and show them how devious and how deep the plot was to go after our duly elected president. And it really shows how impressive Donald Trump is fighting through this attack on his own government to go and lead our country until one of the greatest times we had until this coronavirus.” The Florida Republican lawmaker also predicted that neither Flynn nor Republican political strategist Roger Stone would be exonerated or pardoned by Trump. “I believe that Michael Flynn will either be exonerated or pardoned,” Gaetz added. “All the charges against him should be dropped, and he should be a free man. But if that does not happen, I know our president has a deep sense of justice, and I know that he would not allow Flynn or Stone to go to jail and disproportionately shoulder the burden of the Mueller investigation that now we all know is a joke. Just what we learned since the start of coronavirus is that the Steele dossier was targeted by Russian intelligence and that our own FBI knew that the Steele dossier was targeted by Russian intelligence and that they used it as the main file to advance the Trump-Russia investigation despite the fact there was no collusion, and there was no basis to put our country through this. How small do these Democrats look, and do these prosecutors look now in the circumstance we are in given all they did to try to railroad the president without facts?” Follow Jeff Poor on Twitter @jeff_poor
3 May 04:55 • Breitbart • https://www.breitbart.com/clips/2020/05/02/gaetz-if-mueller-knew-flynn-deal-was-a-set-up-his-bar-license-might-be-in-question/Rating: 0.30
Rudy Giuliani on Michael Flynn case: Ex-FBI boss Comey 'shouldn't get away with it'
Former FBI Director James Comey and others linked to the bureau should be held accountable for their handling of the Michael Flynn case, Rudy Giuliani said Saturday night. "[Comey] shouldn't get away with it," Giuliani, a personal attorney for President Trump and a former mayor of New York City, said during an appearance on Fox News' "Watters' World." "It really is one of the more horrible episodes in law enforcement history," he added, referring to the case of Flynn, a former national security adviser to the president who pleaded guilty in 2017 to making false statements to federal investigators. "It should be part of the textbooks about what you shouldn't do." FLYNN BOMBSHELL STIRS SPECULATION OF POSSIBLE PARDON, DISMISSAL Flynn's case has been facing new scrutiny since documents emerged this week that call into question investigators' motivations for intervewing Flynn in the White House in January 2017. The documents reveal that top bureau officials openly questioned if their “goal” was “to get him to lie, so we can prosecute him or get him fired." Giuliani accused the FBI agents of "creating a crime." "I mean, they absolutely created a crime. There was no crime," Giuliani said. "They knew the answer to the question. They went and asked him. They believe he didn't give the answer correctly. And then they charge him. You don't go around testing people. It would be as if they they knew the answer to a question." In December 2018, Comey acknowledged in a TV interview that the way the Flynn interview was set up – not through the White House counsel’s office, but directly with Flynn – was not standard practice. He called it “something I probably wouldn't have done or maybe gotten away with in a more … organized administration.” “If the FBI wanted to send agents into the White House itself to interview a senior official, you would work through the White House counsel, and there would be discussions and approvals and who would be there,” Comey told MSNBC. But with the Trump administration newly installed and still taking over from the Obama adminstration at the time, Comey said, “I thought: ‘It’s early enough, let’s just send a couple guys over.’” CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Giuliani also questioned why the judge overseeing Flynn's case did not dismiss it. "That's a total setup. I don't understand why the judge hasn't thrown it out now already, as a deterrent for future Justice Departments to do the same thing," Giuliani said. "But now [with] all the other things coming out about this case I can't believe this judge will not dismiss this case as a violation of due process." Fox News' Alex Pappas contributed to this story.
3 May 02:27 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/media/rudy-giuliani-on-michael-flynn-case-ex-fbi-boss-comey-shouldnt-get-away-with-itRating: 3.32
Trey Gowdy: Don't expect prosecutions in Durham review of Russia investigation
Former Rep. Trey Gowdy said he does not expect prosecutions in U.S. Attorney John Durham's review of the Russia investigation. As allies of President Trump demand justice for the people they believe were unfairly prosecuted in special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, Gowdy, a former federal prosecutor, said accountability should not be inextricably tied to criminal charges. "No ma'am," the South Carolina Republican said when asked Friday by Fox News anchor Martha MacCallum whether he believes there will be prosecutions in Durham's inquiry into possible misconduct by federal law enforcement and counterintelligence officials. "We have got to not only associate accountability with prosecutions," Gowdy added after mentioning he had just spoken to another former federal prosecutor. "I don’t think it — I think being a terrible FBI agent and treating people unfairly, maybe it ought to be a crime, but I don’t think it is a crime. The takeaway is, the next time the FBI says, 'Hey, we'd like to talk,' tell them no. Say, 'When you clean up your act, when you quit trying to get people fired and see what you can get away with, we will start treating you like a dispassionate law enforcement agency, but until then, no thanks we're done talking with you.'" Attorney General William Barr, who tasked Durham with the review, recently said he was "very troubled" by what the Connecticut prosecutor has found. Asked by radio host Hugh Hewitt when an announcement about Durham's work might happen, Barr said it would be “as soon as we feel we have something that we are confident in to tell the people about." Gowdy spoke after the release of FBI notes that lawyers for retired Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn argue are proof the FBI unfairly treated their client. Flynn, who was briefly Trump's first national security adviser, pleaded guilty to lying to agents about his communications with a Russian envoy but is now trying to get the case dismissed. Gowdy told Fox News earlier in the week that he believes the FBI sprung a "gotcha investigation" on Flynn by failing to follow proper procedure when they interviewed him about his conversation with a Russian envoy in January 2017. He also characterized the actions of James Comey, who was the FBI director at the time of the interview, as reckless, referring to Comey's public admission that he took advantage of the chaos in the early days of Trump's administration when he sent FBI agents to talk to Flynn. "This is not the way law enforcement officers proceed," Gowdy said. "It's not the department of 'let's see if we can get away with it.' Remember, Jim Comey told that giggling gaggle of liberals at that little interview he had, 'I did it because I could get away with it.'"
3 May 01:57 • Washington Examiner • https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/trey-gowdy-dont-expect-prosecutions-in-john-durham-review-of-russia-investigationRating: 0.51
Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers
3 May 13:53
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8 articles
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Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers
Washington - Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation's capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. "Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity," first lady Melania Trump tweeted, including a photo of herself watching the fly-by from outside the White House. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. "They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honor to fly for them today," the group said on Twitter. The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds last month flew over US virus epicenter New York City, as well as Newark and Trenton, New Jersey and Philadelphia. Read MoreEiffel Tower caps 'Heroes Shine Bright' tribute The nine-day #HeroesShineBright initiative started on April 24 in New York and each night a different colour is used there to salute various groups including health care staff, transit workers, and police or military personnel, SETE added. Read MoreAustralia fights virus clusters as parts of country ease restrictions "What I'm worried about is the unknown unknowns," Victoria's Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said at a televised briefing, urging more people to get tested. Read MoreWith fighter jets and army bands, India's military thank health workers In the financial capital of Mumbai, television showed fighter jets roaring over the famous Marine Drive, which runs parallel to the Arabian Sea, as some residents craned for a view from their balconies.
3 May 13:53 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Military-jets-fly-over-US-cities-to-salute-frontline-workersRating: 3.14
COVID-19: Military jets fly over US to salute frontline workers
Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation’s capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy’s Blue Angels and the Air Force’s Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. “Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity,” first lady Melania Trump tweeted, including a photo of herself watching the fly-by from outside the White House. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. “They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honor to fly for them today,” the group said on Twitter. The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds last month flew over US virus epicenter New York City, as well as Newark and Trenton, New Jersey and Philadelphia. (AFP)
3 May 07:02 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/covid-19-military-jets-fly-over-us-to-salute-frontline-workers/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: US Air Force and Navy stage spectacular flypast to salute frontline workers
The US Air Force and Navy pilots staged a rare joint flyover in three American cities, including Washington, to salute the frontline coronavirus responders and essential workers as the country, the worst hit by the pandemic, fought a grim battle against the "invincible enemy". Scores of people descended upon the National Mall here on Saturday as the elite pilots of the Thunderbirds and the Blue Angles performed a rare joint flyover over Washington, Baltimore and Atlanta called 'America Strong' to thank the frontline workers, some of whom have sacrificed their lives. The Thunderbirds and the Blue Angels performed flyovers in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC, on Saturday before the aircraft travelled to Atlanta, Georgia. A formation of six F-16C/D Fighting Falcon and 6 F/A-18C/D Hornet aircraft conducted the flyover. Washington is under a stay-at-home order to slow down the spread of the virus but that did not stop crowds from gathering between the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. While many people practised social distancing and some wore masks, the sidewalks around the mall were crowded, US media reports said. The novel coronavirus, which originated from the Chinese city of Wuhan in December last year, has claimed 243,922 lives and has infected over 3.4 million people globally, according to Johns Hopkins University data. The US has the highest number of infections at 1,133,069 and over 67,400 people have died due to the disease. "During today's tribute, viewers were encouraged to watch the flyover online from the safety of their home quarantine and asked to refrain from traveling to landmarks, hospitals and gathering in large groups," an Air Force official told CNN. They are the US military's flight demonstration squadrons, and this is the second joint flyover mission being conducted to salute the health care workers, first responders, military and other essential workers risking their lives during the pandemic. The first joint flight was conducted on Tuesday across New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The joint operation is part of a series of multi-city flyovers being conducted over the next two weeks. "Beautiful, thank you to our GREAT@BlueAngles and @AFThunderbirds," President Donald Trump, who has described the coronavirus as an"“invisible enemy", tweeted. Trump's wife and first lady Melania Trump also tweeted and said it was a proud moment to see the American military saluting the healthcare and frontline workers. "Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @Blueangels for this beautiful display of solidarity," she tweeted. The White House also joined, taking note of the flypast to honour the country's incredible healthcare workers, first responders and essential personnel fighting the coronavirus. Manhattan's Dr Sarah Vossoughi, a clinical pathologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia thanked the US military for showing solidarity with medical professionals like her. "For them to show us that sign of respect and that sign of honour, for them to do that for us, that makes me feel really special, and it makes it worth it," Vossoughi was quoted as saying by the CBSNews. "We salute the healthcare workers and first responders who are at the forefront of our nation's fight against COVID-19. They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honour to fly for them today," the official handle of the Thunderbirds tweeted. "We couldn't have asked for clearer weather today while we honoured our frontline healthcare workers and essential employees. We saw you, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Atlanta, and we’re #InThisTogether!” the official Twitter handle of the Blue Angeles tweeted. The two teams are now planning more "America Strong" flyovers — an airborne show of thanks bearing the message, "We're all in this together."
3 May 15:40 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/world-trending/covid-19-us-air-force-and-navy-stage-spectacular-flypast-to-salute-frontline-workers-833013.htmlRating: 2.25
Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers
WASHINGTON: Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation's capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. "Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity," first lady Melania Trump tweeted, including a photo of herself watching the fly-by from outside the White House. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. "They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honor to fly for them today," the group said on Twitter. The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds last month flew over US virus epicenter New York City, as well as Newark and Trenton, New Jersey and Philadelphia.
3 May 02:47 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/military-jets-fly-over-us-cities-to-salute-frontline-workers/articleshow/75513647.cmsRating: 0.30
Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers
WASHINGTON, May 3 — Military jets flew over US cities yesterday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation’s capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy’s Blue Angels and the Air Force’s Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. “Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity,” first lady Melania Trump tweeted, including a photo of herself watching the fly-by from outside the White House. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. “They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honour to fly for them today,” the group said on Twitter. The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds last month flew over US virus epicentre New York City, as well as Newark and Trenton, New Jersey and Philadelphia. — AFP
3 May 01:32 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2020/05/03/military-jets-fly-over-us-cities-to-salute-frontline-workers/1862529Rating: 1.42
Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers
Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation's capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. "Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity," first lady Melania Trump tweeted, including a photo of herself watching the fly-by from outside the White House. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. "They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honor to fly for them today," the group said on Twitter. The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds last month flew over US virus epicenter New York City, as well as Newark and Trenton, New Jersey and Philadelphia.
3 May 00:10 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/military-jets-fly-over-us-cities-to-salute-frontline-workers/article/571110Rating: 0.78
Military jets fly over US cities to salute frontline workers
Military jets flew over US cities on Saturday to salute frontline workers in the country with the highest coronavirus caseload and death toll in the world. Residents of the nation's capital Washington, as well as Baltimore and Atlanta were treated to sights of the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's Thunderbirds arcing across the sky. Crowds turned out on the National Mall to see the jets fly in formation past sites such as the US Capitol and the Washington Monument. Most of those in attendance appeared to be following social distancing rules, and many wore face masks. "Proud to see the #AmericaStrong salute to our healthcare & frontline workers with a spectacular flyover today in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels for this beautiful display of solidarity," first lady Melania Trump tweeted, including a photo of herself watching the fly-by from outside the White House. The Thunderbirds hailed health workers and first responders battling the novel coronavirus, which has infected more than 1.1 million in the US and killed more than 66,000. "They are an inspiration for the entire country during these challenging times and it was an honor to fly for them today," the group said on Twitter. The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds last month flew over US virus epicenter New York City, as well as Newark and Trenton, New Jersey and Philadelphia. acb/st https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 00:08 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/military-jets-fly-over-us-cities-to-salute-frontline-workers/45jdgheRating: 0.51
Large crowds gather to watch Thunderbirds salute frontline coronavirus responders
The Blue Angels and Thunderbirds saluted frontline responders battling the coronavirus pandemic with a flyover on Saturday as large crowds gathered to watch - with some appearing to ignore public health officials advice on social distancing. The US Air Force and Navy's elite demonstration teams said that the performance was in honour of those on the frontlines, to show that "we're in this together". The "America Strong" display took place on the east coast on Saturday. The tour started in Baltimore shortly after 11am before flying over Washington, DC, and a few hours later, Atlanta. The warm sunny weather drew people out of lockdown and into public parks in large numbers, including on the National Mall in DC where authorities had asked people not to gather ahead of the display. However, some were not wearing masks and the six feet of social distancing recommended by public health officials was not always evident. First Lady Melania Trump was also pictured watching the display from the portico of the White House, waving as the aircraft soared across the National Mall. Ms Trump tweeted that she was proud to see the salute to healthcare and frontline workers, thanking the pilots for the beautiful display of solidarity. “We want people to basically walk outside, and be able to look up and see it, and feel that sense of our country coming together since we’re all in this together,” Major Zane J. Taylor, USAF Thunderbirds pilot, said, prior to the display. Earlier this week, the elite pilots honoured medical workers, emergency responders and other essential employees with a flyover in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
2 May 20:36 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/large-crowds-gather-watch-thunderbirds-203640984.htmlRating: 0.30
High school graduations loom as possible pandemic casualty
3 May 18:43
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High school graduations loom as possible pandemic casualty
Urmila Persaud spent months picturing herself walking across a stage to collect her high-school diploma in front of friends and family. But the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced that vision with a big question mark as schools and boards across Canada grapple with how to handle graduation ceremonies because of COVID-19 restrictions. For soon-to-be graduates like Persaud, this typically joyous milestone is fraught with uncertainty about whether they'll get a chance to celebrate the end of their high school chapter, and the murky future that lies ahead. "I imagined and dreamed about my graduation for months," the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, Ont., said. "And before March break, I had no idea that might be the last time I see my class in person." It's not just graduation -- Persaud had imagined moving into a dorm and starting university come September, but that picture has been supplanted by questions about whether she'll have to take her first post-secondary courses online from her parents' home. But the ceremony is a particular sore spot -- a final hurrah with her tight-knit class of just 17 students. "We pretty much grew up together," she said. "Our graduation would be our last time together -- all together -- in person. And now that might not happen." The French-language board to which Persaud's school belongs cancelled graduation dances but has yet to make a formal decree on graduation ceremonies, a spokeswoman said. A spokeswoman for Ontario's education minister said a decision on such ceremonies would be left with the school boards, and the province's largest -- the Toronto District School Board -- announced Friday that all of its graduation ceremonies would be either cancelled or postponed "until at least the end of the school year." "As there are still many unknowns, the rescheduling of postponed events will be handled at the school level, depending on local circumstances," reads a letter to parents from TDSB director of education John Malloy. In Prince Edward Island, meanwhile, Education Minister Brad Trivers said graduation ceremonies at the province's 15 secondary schools will be held the week of June 22, along with other end-of-year activities. And a spokeswoman said that if commencement ceremonies in New Brunswicks go ahead, they will be different than usual as the Department of Education looks for "positive alternatives to traditional graduation ceremonies that would meet the restrictions recommended by Public Health." So too for 17-year-old Trinity Parchment of Barrie, Ont., who learned on Friday that her school wouldn't be holding a graduation ceremony, but would try to do something to mark the occasion online. "But it just takes away the whole idea," she said. "My friends and I were planning on decorating our caps and just making it a whole thing. It's really upsetting. It's like one moment, you're just getting an extra long March break. And then the next moment, everything's cancelled." Parchment said that while her grades have gone up since classes moved online -- something she attributes to a lack of distractions -- the school experience has gotten far harder. "I don't get to wake up and have purpose. You know what I mean?" she said. "Like, I don't wake up excited for something new, excited to see my friends. I just wake up to wake up, and it's sad." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 18:43 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/high-school-graduations-loom-as-possible-pandemic-casualty-1.4922903Rating: 2.87
Canadian high school grads-to-be grapple with possible ceremony cancellations
Urmila Persaud spent months picturing herself walking across a stage to collect her high-school diploma in front of friends and family. But the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced that vision with a big question mark as schools and boards across Canada grapple with how to handle graduation ceremonies because of COVID-19 restrictions. For soon-to-be graduates like Persaud, this typically joyous milestone is fraught with uncertainty about whether they’ll get a chance to celebrate the end of their high school chapter, and the murky future that lies ahead. “I imagined and dreamed about my graduation for months,” the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, Ont., said. ”And before March break, I had no idea that might be the last time I see my class in person.” It’s not just graduation — Persaud had imagined moving into a dorm and starting university come September, but that picture has been supplanted by questions about whether she’ll have to take her first post-secondary courses online from her parents’ home. But the ceremony is a particular sore spot — a final hurrah with her tight-knit class of just 17 students. “We pretty much grew up together,” she said. “Our graduation would be our last time together — all together — in person. And now that might not happen.” The French-language board to which Persaud’s school belongs cancelled graduation dances but has yet to make a formal decree on graduation ceremonies, a spokeswoman said. A spokeswoman for Ontario’s education minister said a decision on such ceremonies would be left with the school boards, and the province’s largest — the Toronto District School Board — announced Friday that all of its graduation ceremonies would be either cancelled or postponed “until at least the end of the school year.” “As there are still many unknowns, the rescheduling of postponed events will be handled at the school level, depending on local circumstances,” reads a letter to parents from TDSB director of education John Malloy. VIDEO: Dr. Bonnie Henry offers words of encouragement to B.C.’s 2020 graduating class In Prince Edward Island, meanwhile, Education Minister Brad Trivers said graduation ceremonies at the province’s 15 secondary schools will be held the week of June 22, along with other end-of-year activities. And a spokeswoman said that if commencement ceremonies in New Brunswicks go ahead, they will be different than usual as the Department of Education looks for “positive alternatives to traditional graduation ceremonies that would meet the restrictions recommended by Public Health.” So too for 17-year-old Trinity Parchment of Barrie, Ont., who learned on Friday that her school wouldn’t be holding a graduation ceremony, but would try to do something to mark the occasion online. “But it just takes away the whole idea,” she said. ”My friends and I were planning on decorating our caps and just making it a whole thing. It’s really upsetting. It’s like one moment, you’re just getting an extra long March break. And then the next moment, everything’s cancelled.” Parchment said that while her grades have gone up since classes moved online — something she attributes to a lack of distractions — the school experience has gotten far harder. “I don’t get to wake up and have purpose. You know what I mean?” she said. ”Like, I don’t wake up excited for something new, excited to see my friends. I just wake up to wake up, and it’s sad.” Nicole Thompson, The Canadian Press
3 May 23:00 • North Delta Reporter • https://www.northdeltareporter.com/news/canadian-high-school-grads-to-be-grapple-with-possible-ceremony-cancellations/Rating: 0.30
High school grads-to-be grapple with possible ceremony cancellations
Urmila Persaud spent months picturing herself walking across a stage to collect her high-school diploma in front of friends and family. But the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced that vision with a big question mark as schools and boards across Canada grapple with how to handle graduation ceremonies because of COVID-19 restrictions. For soon-to-be graduates like Persaud, this typically joyous milestone is fraught with uncertainty about whether they'll get a chance to celebrate the end of their high school chapter, and the murky future that lies ahead. "I imagined and dreamed about my graduation for months," the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, Ont., said. "And before March break, I had no idea that might be the last time I see my class in person." It's not just graduation -- Persaud had imagined moving into a dorm and starting university come September, but that picture has been supplanted by questions about whether she'll have to take her first post-secondary courses online from her parents' home. But the ceremony is a particular sore spot -- a final hurrah with her tight-knit class of just 17 students. "We pretty much grew up together," she said. "Our graduation would be our last time together -- all together -- in person. And now that might not happen." The French-language board to which Persaud's school belongs cancelled graduation dances but has yet to make a formal decree on graduation ceremonies, a spokeswoman said. A spokeswoman for Ontario's education minister said a decision on such ceremonies would be left with the school boards, and the province's largest -- the Toronto District School Board -- announced Friday that all of its graduation ceremonies would be either cancelled or postponed "until at least the end of the school year." "As there are still many unknowns, the rescheduling of postponed events will be handled at the school level, depending on local circumstances," reads a letter to parents from TDSB director of education John Malloy. In Prince Edward Island, meanwhile, Education Minister Brad Trivers said graduation ceremonies at the province's 15 secondary schools will be held the week of June 22, along with other end-of-year activities. And a spokeswoman said that if commencement ceremonies in New Brunswicks go ahead, they will be different than usual as the Department of Education looks for "positive alternatives to traditional graduation ceremonies that would meet the restrictions recommended by Public Health." So too for 17-year-old Trinity Parchment of Barrie, Ont., who learned on Friday that her school wouldn't be holding a graduation ceremony, but would try to do something to mark the occasion online. "But it just takes away the whole idea," she said. "My friends and I were planning on decorating our caps and just making it a whole thing. It's really upsetting. It's like one moment, you're just getting an extra long March break. And then the next moment, everything's cancelled." Parchment said that while her grades have gone up since classes moved online -- something she attributes to a lack of distractions -- the school experience has gotten far harder. "I don't get to wake up and have purpose. You know what I mean?" she said. "Like, I don't wake up excited for something new, excited to see my friends. I just wake up to wake up, and it's sad." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 16:02 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/high-school-grads-to-be-grapple-with-possible-ceremony-cancellations-1.4922797Rating: 1.66
High school grads-to-be grapple with possible ceremony cancellations
Urmila Persaud spent months picturing herself walking across a stage to collect her high-school diploma in front of friends and family. But the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced that vision with a big question mark as schools and boards across Canada grapple with how to handle graduation ceremonies because of COVID-19 restrictions. For soon-to-be graduates like Persaud, this typically joyous milestone is fraught with uncertainty about whether they'll get a chance to celebrate the end of their high school chapter, and the murky future that lies ahead. "I imagined and dreamed about my graduation for months," the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, Ont., said. "And before March break, I had no idea that might be the last time I see my class in person." It's not just graduation — Persaud had imagined moving into a dorm and starting university come September, but that picture has been supplanted by questions about whether she'll have to take her first post-secondary courses online from her parents' home. But the ceremony is a particular sore spot — a final hurrah with her tight-knit class of just 17 students. "We pretty much grew up together," she said. "Our graduation would be our last time together — all together — in person. And now that might not happen." The French-language board to which Persaud's school belongs cancelled graduation dances but has yet to make a formal decree on graduation ceremonies, a spokeswoman said. A spokeswoman for Ontario's education minister said a decision on such ceremonies would be left with the school boards, and the province's largest — the Toronto District School Board — announced Friday that all of its graduation ceremonies would be either cancelled or postponed "until at least the end of the school year." "As there are still many unknowns, the rescheduling of postponed events will be handled at the school level, depending on local circumstances," reads a letter to parents from TDSB director of education John Malloy. In Prince Edward Island, meanwhile, Education Minister Brad Trivers said graduation ceremonies at the province's 15 secondary schools will be held the week of June 22, along with other end-of-year activities. And a spokeswoman said that if commencement ceremonies in New Brunswicks go ahead, they will be different than usual as the Department of Education looks for "positive alternatives to traditional graduation ceremonies that would meet the restrictions recommended by Public Health." So too for 17-year-old Trinity Parchment of Barrie, Ont., who learned on Friday that her school wouldn't be holding a graduation ceremony, but would try to do something to mark the occasion online. "But it just takes away the whole idea," she said. "My friends and I were planning on decorating our caps and just making it a whole thing. It's really upsetting. It's like one moment, you're just getting an extra long March break. And then the next moment, everything's cancelled." Parchment said that while her grades have gone up since classes moved online — something she attributes to a lack of distractions — the school experience has gotten far harder. "I don't get to wake up and have purpose. You know what I mean?" she said. "Like, I don't wake up excited for something new, excited to see my friends. I just wake up to wake up, and it's sad." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 15:21 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-graduations/cp1164232749Rating: 0.30
High school grads-to-be grapple with possible ceremony cancellations
Urmila Persaud spent months picturing herself walking across a stage to collect her high-school diploma in front of friends and family. But the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced that vision with a big question mark as schools and boards across Canada grapple with how to handle graduation ceremonies because of COVID-19 restrictions. For soon-to-be graduates like Persaud, this typically joyous milestone is fraught with uncertainty about whether they'll get a chance to celebrate the end of their high school chapter, and the murky future that lies ahead. "I imagined and dreamed about my graduation for months," the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, Ont., said. "And before March break, I had no idea that might be the last time I see my class in person." It's not just graduation — Persaud had imagined moving into a dorm and starting university come September, but that picture has been supplanted by questions about whether she'll have to take her first post-secondary courses online from her parents' home. But the ceremony is a particular sore spot — a final hurrah with her tight-knit class of just 17 students. "We pretty much grew up together," she said. "Our graduation would be our last time together — all together — in person. And now that might not happen." The French-language board to which Persaud's school belongs cancelled graduation dances but has yet to make a formal decree on graduation ceremonies, a spokeswoman said. A spokeswoman for Ontario's education minister said a decision on such ceremonies would be left with the school boards, and the province's largest — the Toronto District School Board — announced Friday that all of its graduation ceremonies would be either cancelled or postponed "until at least the end of the school year." "As there are still many unknowns, the rescheduling of postponed events will be handled at the school level, depending on local circumstances," reads a letter to parents from TDSB director of education John Malloy. In Prince Edward Island, meanwhile, Education Minister Brad Trivers said graduation ceremonies at the province's 15 secondary schools will be held the week of June 22, along with other end-of-year activities. And a spokeswoman said that if commencement ceremonies in New Brunswicks go ahead, they will be different than usual as the Department of Education looks for "positive alternatives to traditional graduation ceremonies that would meet the restrictions recommended by Public Health." So too for 17-year-old Trinity Parchment of Barrie, Ont., who learned on Friday that her school wouldn't be holding a graduation ceremony, but would try to do something to mark the occasion online. "But it just takes away the whole idea," she said. "My friends and I were planning on decorating our caps and just making it a whole thing. It's really upsetting. It's like one moment, you're just getting an extra long March break. And then the next moment, everything's cancelled." Parchment said that while her grades have gone up since classes moved online — something she attributes to a lack of distractions — the school experience has gotten far harder. "I don't get to wake up and have purpose. You know what I mean?" she said. "Like, I don't wake up excited for something new, excited to see my friends. I just wake up to wake up, and it's sad." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Nicole Thompson, The Canadian Press
3 May 15:21 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/high-school-grads-to-be-grapple-with-possible-ceremony-cancellations-2320666Rating: 0.30
High school grads-to-be grapple with possible ceremony cancellations
Urmila Persaud spent months picturing herself walking across a stage to collect her high-school diploma in front of friends and family. But the COVID-19 pandemic has replaced that vision with a big question mark as schools and boards across Canada grapple with how to handle graduation ceremonies because of COVID-19 restrictions. For soon-to-be graduates like Persaud, this typically joyous milestone is fraught with uncertainty about whether they’ll get a chance to celebrate the end of their high school chapter, and the murky future that lies ahead. “I imagined and dreamed about my graduation for months,” the 17-year-old from Richmond Hill, Ont., said. “And before March break, I had no idea that might be the last time I see my class in person.” It’s not just graduation – Persaud had imagined moving into a dorm and starting university come September, but that picture has been supplanted by questions about whether she’ll have to take her first post-secondary courses online from her parents’ home. But the ceremony is a particular sore spot – a final hurrah with her tight-knit class of just 17 students. “We pretty much grew up together,” she said. “Our graduation would be our last time together – all together – in person. And now that might not happen.” The French-language board to which Persaud’s school belongs cancelled graduation dances but has yet to make a formal decree on graduation ceremonies, a spokeswoman said. A spokeswoman for Ontario’s education minister said a decision on such ceremonies would be left with the school boards, and the province’s largest – the Toronto District School Board – announced Friday that all of its graduation ceremonies would be either cancelled or postponed “until at least the end of the school year.” “As there are still many unknowns, the rescheduling of postponed events will be handled at the school level, depending on local circumstances,” reads a letter to parents from TDSB director of education John Malloy. In Prince Edward Island, meanwhile, Education Minister Brad Trivers said graduation ceremonies at the province’s 15 secondary schools will be held the week of June 22, along with other end-of-year activities. And a spokeswoman said that if commencement ceremonies in New Brunswicks go ahead, they will be different than usual as the Department of Education looks for “positive alternatives to traditional graduation ceremonies that would meet the restrictions recommended by Public Health.” So too for 17-year-old Trinity Parchment of Barrie, Ont., who learned on Friday that her school wouldn’t be holding a graduation ceremony, but would try to do something to mark the occasion online. “But it just takes away the whole idea,” she said. “My friends and I were planning on decorating our caps and just making it a whole thing. It’s really upsetting. It’s like one moment, you’re just getting an extra long March break. And then the next moment, everything’s cancelled.” Parchment said that while her grades have gone up since classes moved online – something she attributes to a lack of distractions – the school experience has gotten far harder. “I don’t get to wake up and have purpose. You know what I mean?” she said. “Like, I don’t wake up excited for something new, excited to see my friends. I just wake up to wake up, and it’s sad.” Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 15:05 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-several-schools-boards-across-canada-cancelling-high-school/Rating: 2.18
Iran warns of nuclear deal 'death' if arms embargo extended
3 May 17:44
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Iran warns of nuclear deal 'death' if arms embargo extended
Tehran: A top Iranian official on Sunday warned that a nuclear deal the US withdrew unilaterally from would "die forever" if an arms embargo on Tehran is extended. The United States is campaigning to extend the ban on selling conventional weapons to Iran, which is set to be progressively lifted as of October. The ban's lifting is part of a 2015 United Nations Security Council resolution that blessed the nuclear accord reached between Iran and world powers. Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, on Sunday tweeted that the nuclear deal "will die forever" by "circumventing 2231 Resolution & continuing Iran's illegal weapons sanction". He also questioned what would Iran's EU partners to the deal do in such a case. "What will #EU do: Save dignity & support multilateralism or accept humiliation & help unilateralism?" Shamkhani said. Iran and the United States have been at loggerheads for decades. Tensions escalated in 2018 when President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from the nuclear deal and reimposed sanctions as part of a campaign of "maximum pressure". Tehran has progressively rolled up its commitments to the deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or JCPOA in retaliation to the US pulling out of the accord. The other partners to the JCPOA are Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia. The accord gave the Islamic republic relief from international sanctions in return for limits on its nuclear programme. US Secretary of States Mike Pompeo said last month he would ask the UN Security Council to prolong the ban. Washington would use a legal argument based on an interpretation of Resolution 2231 that it remains a "participant" in the nuclear deal despite renouncing it, and can extend the arms embargo on Tehran or see more stringent sanctions reimposed. Iran, for its part, accuses the US of violating the resolution over its 2018 withdrawal.
3 May 17:44 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Iran-warns-of-nuclear-deal-death-if-arms-embargo-extendedRating: 3.14
Iran: Nuclear deal will 'die forever' if arms embargo continues - Middle East
Iran warned Sunday that the 2015 nuclear deal signed by the US and its European allies with Tehran would “die forever” if the US is able to maintain an arms embargo on the Islamic republic. In a tweet Sunday morning, Ali Shamkhani, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, accused the US of using the arms embargo on Tehran to maintain what he dubbed America’s “declining hegemony”, and said that if the embargo is not halted, it will mean the end of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action – better known as the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. “#JCPOA will die forever by circumventing 2231 Resolution & continuing #Iran's illegal weapons sanctions. Sanctions' virus is the US tool for survival of its declining hegemony. What will #EU do: Save dignity & support multilateralism or Accept humiliation & help unilateralism?” Under the 2015 nuclear deal, the arms embargo on Iran is set to be lifted progressively beginning in October. But the United States, which withdrew from the JCPOA in May 2018, has pushed to have the ban on conventional arms sales to the Islamic republic be extended.
3 May 20:58 • Israel National News • http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/279606Rating: 0.83
Iran Nuclear Deal Will ‘Die Forever’ If US Uses ‘Sanctions Virus’ to Extend Arms Embargo – Tehran
The Trump administration has been searching for options to try to extend the United Nations ban on the sale of conventional weapons to Iran beyond October, proposing sanctions and even considering making the argument that the US is still effectively a party to the Iran nuclear deal, despite its decision to walk out of the agreement in 2018. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal will “die forever” if the UN arms embargo against Tehran is not lifted, Ali Shamkhani, chief of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, has warned. “Sanctions’ virus is the US tool for survival of its declining hegemony. What will #EU do: Save dignity and support multilateralism or Accept humiliation and help unilateralism,” Shamkhani added, in an apparent dig against the JCPOA’s European signatories’ failure to circumvent crushing US sanctions and fulfill their obligations under the nuclear deal. The United States recently stepped up efforts to try to extend the global arms embargo against Iran, despite the lack of a legal justification for doing so. On Thursday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo suggested that the US had the power to extend the ban on conventional arms sales to Iran under Resolution 2231, despite abandoning the Iran nuclear deal to which it is linked two years ago. Days earlier, Pompeo similarly referred to Resolution 2231 following Iran’s launch of a military satellite. Also last week, US Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook suggested that Russia and China had no reason to vote against or veto the prolongation of the arms embargo on Iran. On Wednesday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told Sputnik that there was no case to be made to extend the arms embargo, and as far as Moscow was concerned, the issue was “closed.” He added that Washington had no right to talk about the provisions of Resolution 2231, given its own decision to stop adhering to the resolution and attempts to pressure other countries to stop complying with its provisions by introducing unilateral sanctions. Pompeo had earlier promised to “urge” Washington’s European partners to “make sure” that Iran remains unable to purchase conventional weapons from abroad. Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has called on Pompeo to “stop dreaming” about extending the embargo, saying the US had no legal case for doing so. The United States unilaterally scrapped its commitments to the Iran nuclear deal in May 2018, slapping Iran with tough banking an energy sanctions. Amid the deal’s European signatories’ failure to create a package of measures to soften the economic blow caused by US actions, Iran has reneged on some of the nuclear deal’s provisions, including limitations on its uranium stockpile and enrichment. Tehran has stressed however that it has no intention of pursuing nuclear weapons or any other weapons of mass destruction, claiming the pursuit of such weapons run counter to the country’s Islamic faith.
3 May 10:03 • Sputniknews • https://sputniknews.com/world/202005031079180868-iran-nuclear-deal-will-die-forever-if-us-uses-sanctions-virus-to-extend-arms-embargo--tehran/Rating: 3.96
Iran warns US of ‘harsh response’ if arms embargo is extended
BEIRUT, LEBANON (4:30 P.M.) – The Iranian government said it had informed Washington that an extension of the U.S. arms embargo would “face a severe response.” According to Iranian state media, government spokesperson, Ali Rabei, said at a press conference on Saturday that “we have informed the United States of America and Europe that the extension of the international community’s arms embargo against Iran is inconsistent with previous agreements and will face a harsh response.” Rabiei stressed that this procedure “will have serious repercussions on the nuclear agreement and beyond the nuclear agreement, and will have negative repercussions on the security and stability of the region.” “We talked to the member states of the nuclear agreement and they informed us that they will not accept the United States’ method of extending our arms embargo.” A spokesman for the Iranian government continued: “The United States of America must realize that the world and international agreements are not a game in their hands.” He considered that any extension of the embargo would indicate that the United States is balking at the laws and unilaterally using international treaties. “The United States cannot bully the international scene and we believe that the permanent members of the U.N. Security Council will oppose the extension of the embargo, just as the United States cannot use the nuclear agreement and UN resolution 2231 without abiding by its nuclear obligations,” he continued. Rabiei stressed that there is no international or legal destination for Washington’s attempt to use the nuclear agreement to extend the arms embargo on Iran, stating: “America withdrew from the nuclear agreement and cannot use its content to achieve its goals, and it can express its opinion as a member of the agreement if it returns to it and fulfills its obligations.”
2 May 13:43 • AMN • https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/iran-warns-us-of-harsh-response-if-arms-embargo-is-extended/Rating: 0.63
Pompeo says gunfire exchange between North, South Korea thought to be 'accidental'
3 May 15:13
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Pompeo says gunfire exchange between North, South Korea thought to be 'accidental'
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Sunday that the U.S. thinks the gunfire exchanged between North and South Korea was “accidental.” Pompeo told ABC’s “This Week” that he can confirm the initial reports that North Korea fired shots at a South Korean guard tower are “just about right” and that South Korea returned fire. “We think those are accidental,” he said, adding, “So far as we can tell, there was no loss of life on either side.” A South Korean guard post reported that gunshots were fired at it from the North, Sunday morning local time, The Associated Press reported. South Korea responded after a warning with two shots. Early South Korean analysis indicated that the gunfire was not an intentional provocation. The gunfire exchange follows weeks of speculation about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s health status. He reappeared on Saturday after having not been seen in public since April 11. Pompeo said the U.S. did not know why the North Korean leader missed his late grandfather’s birthday celebration on April 15. “We know there have been other extended periods of time where Chairman Kim's been out of public view as well, so it's not unprecedented,” he said. The secretary of state told ABC he “just can’t say anything about” whether he thinks Kim was gravely ill during the period he was not in the public eye. Pompeo also reiterated Sunday the administration’s goal of negotiating with the communist country to give up their nuclear weapons.
3 May 15:13 • TheHill • https://thehill.com/homenews/sunday-talk-shows/495863-pompeo-says-koreas-gunfire-exchange-are-thought-to-be-accidentalRating: 1.94
Shots fired by forces on Korean border appear ‘accidental’: Pompeo
A volley of shots fired by forces on either side of the border between North and South Korea appear to have been “accidental,” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday. “I’ve seen some of our internal information as well. We can confirm at least the initial reports that you’ve described are just about right, a handful of shots that came across from the North,” he said on ABC News’ “This Week.” “We think those are accidental. South Koreans did return fire. So far as we can tell, there was no loss of life on either side,” Pompeo said. The exchange of rounds, reported by South Korea’s military, came just days after North Korean media reported that its leader Kim Jong Un was seen publicly for the first time in weeks at a fertilizer factory near Pyongyang. For the first time since he assumed power in 2011, Kim had missed the commemoration of his late grandfather and North Korea’s founder Kim Il Sung on April 15, leading to speculation that he was seriously ill or dead. Pompeo said he couldn’t share any information about why Kim was out of the public eye during that period. “So there’s not much I can share with you other than we’ve seen the same images from yesterday that the world saw. It looks like Chairman Kim is alive and well,” he said. Pompeo also would not acknowledge whether Kim had become ill after contracting the coronavirus or had a cardiovascular problem.
3 May 19:40 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/mike-pompeo-shots-fired-by-forces-on-korean-border-accidental/?utm_medium=SocialFlow&utm_source=NYPTwitter&utm_campaign=SocialFlowRating: 2.55
Shots fired from NKorea believed to be 'accidental': Pompeo
Washington: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said shots fired Sunday from North Korea towards the South in the DMZ that divides the peninsula were believed to have been "accidental." "Handful of shots came across from the north; we think those were accidental," he said on ABC's "This Week." "South Koreans did return fire. There was no loss of life on either side," he added. The border incident came a day after North Korean state media said Kim Jong Un had made his first public appearance after a nearly three-week unexplained absence from public view. Pompeo declined to comment on what the US knew about the North Korean leader's absence, or whether it was linked to a rumored health issue. "We have seen the same images from yesterday that the world saw. It looks like Chairman Kim is alive and well," he said. "Our mission remains the same, to convince the North Koreans to give up their nuclear weapons and create a brighter future for the North Korean people."
3 May 17:41 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Shots-fired-from-NKorea-believed-to-be-accidental-PompeoRating: 3.14
For Muslims in the U.S., Ramadan Presents Unprecedented Obstacles and Opportunities
3 May 13:38
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For Muslims in the U.S., Ramadan Presents Unprecedented Obstacles and Opportunities
For Jamilah Shakir, the first week of Ramadan has been an adjustment. She typically spends every night of the month at the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam or another mosque nearby. Now Ramadan has come, and mosques are closed to worshippers to prevent spread of the coronavirus. So Shakir and her family have had to improvise. “It feels a little weird,” she says. “Not praying in community has been very, very different.” For Muslims in the United States, there is no other time more centered around gathering in congregation than the holy month of Ramadan. In every corner of the country, believers attend community iftar meals to break the fast and then pack neatly into tight rows for nightly prayers at the mosque. On weekends, especially, some may linger longer as they catch up, share in the pre-dawn suhoor meal and line up again for the fajr, dawn, prayers. “The mosque plays a more significant role in being also a community center for American Muslims,” says Feryal Salem, associate professor of Arabic and Islamic studies at American Islamic College. “Because Muslims are a minority, they have to go the extra mile to create that unique communal experience that’s unique to Ramadan.” But this year, Ramadan falls during a global pandemic. In the U.S., with the world's highest COVID-19 death toll, that means being forced to mark the month in different, more virtual and sometimes solitary ways. As they re-imagine some of the spiritual and social rituals, many are relying on a mix of at-home worship and a myriad of online religious programming. Virtual iftar options have sprung up so the devout don’t have to break their fast alone. But not all moments can be recreated on a screen. There will be dishes not shared, prayers not lifted together, hugs not given. Hugs and congregational prayers are the two things Shakir misses the most. But she looks for the blessings. She lives in a close-knit community in South Atlanta with dozens of other Muslim families. She still plans to catch her neighbors — at a distance — on the days she and her sons might be grilling meat for iftar outside. “Although it’s very different from how we normally gather, I’m still so grateful that Allah put us in this Islamic community during this time.” Around the country, Muslims are adapting to the unprecedented challenges. From a recent convert observing his first Ramadan to a respiratory therapist balancing her faith with a job on the frontline of the battle, The Associated Press follows a few of their journeys. HOUSTON: RICARDO RAMIREZ, 28 Ricardo Ramirez became a Muslim before a crowd of believers. As soon as he uttered the shahada, the Islamic testimony of faith, the faithful broke into chants of “Allahu Akbar.” He was told that day that “all of these brothers and sisters are your brothers and sisters.” There were handshakes, pats on the back and hugs. So many hugs. Since then, he says, the community has been there for him. But Ramirez is experiencing a milestone in his faith journey — his first Ramadan as a Muslim — as the virus disrupts worship and mosques close. “It’s going to be really difficult,” he said before Ramadan started. “I do have a lot of questions, and there’s a lot I want to observe and ask about.” It was a conversation about Ramadan that sparked Ramirez’s interest in Islam. In 2017, he noticed a co-worker wouldn’t eat during the day. She told him she was fasting. Something resonated. “I’ve never seen anybody speak about their religion the way she did,” he says. “Even with everything going on in the world negatively toward Muslims, she was still very excited to tell me.” Born in Texas to parents of Mexican descent, Ramirez was baptized Catholic. But growing up, he experienced Catholicism as largely confined to culture and celebrations. His mom was upset when he told her he was considering Islam. “A lot of people seem to have that same conversation with their parents,” he says. Eventually, she came around. While on work trips to Saudi Arabia, she got him a prayer mat, a copy of the Quran, prayer beads and some dates. He has been saving the dates for breaking his fast during Ramadan. The first day of the Islamic holy month left him feeling “accomplished.” But he also missed being around others observing it. Attending virtual iftars — “being able to share that moment with other people” — has helped. And in the compulsory solitude, he’s determined to find strength. “The more I think about it, I think this is the path that Allah has set for me as a challenge ... to know that this religion is for me.” CHICAGO: JUMANA AZAM, 33 On the first night of Ramadan, respiratory therapist Jumana Azam stayed up through suhoor and only slept after making the prayer at dawn. She had come home at 2 A.M. from an odd shift in the ICU of Rush University Medical Center. Just weeks ago, Azam's own mortality weighed heavy. She worried that while caring for dying patients, she could contract the new coronavirus herself and end up on the very ventilators she was operating nonstop. “I was upset and confused, and I didn’t know if I was physically or mentally strong enough to be a frontliner,” she says. At times, she says, her faith wavered. As Chicago experienced a surge of COVID-19 patients in early April, Azam’s days quickly turned into 16-hour shifts, with barely a break to eat or make one of the five daily prayers. The physical demands of the job have taken a toll on her, and while abstaining from any food or drink for 15-hour Ramadan fasts, Azam worries she won’t be able to keep up. She started observing the holy month at about age 10, she recalls. For the first time since then, she considered not fasting as the month approached. “Emotionally and spiritually, this was really hard for me to even reflect on,” she says. Azam looks forward to this month every year, saying her struggle with hunger, especially while at work, gives her day meaning and purpose. Last year, Azam, like many other professional Muslims observing the month, decreased her working hours slightly to make the days more manageable. This year, she knows that won’t be possible. Still, Azam is planning to wake up each morning to eat before dawn and try. “I’m going to take it in stages and try to fast while I’m at work,” she says. “But if I feel like I’m getting light-headed, I’m going to have to break it.” NEW YORK CITY: IMAM MUFTI MOHAMMED ISMAIL, 38 The An-Noor Cultural Center and masjid is located blocks from Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, where patients have been dying from COVID-19 at an alarming rate. The immigrant-rich neighborhood has been deemed one of New York City's hardest-hit areas. Imam Mufti Mohammed Ismail is the principal of the religious school at An-Noor. Most who are part of the center are Bangladeshi. “We have lost a lot of Muslim brothers and sisters in my community,” Imam Ismail says. A prayer of “protection from diseases” is printed in Arabic and English on a paper posted to the mosque wall, and Ismail says the Bangladeshi community has lost “close to 150 people” to COVID-19 across New York City, many from this neighborhood. As deaths rise, Imam Ismail is trying to serve community members suffering in other ways. With mosques shuttered as the city reels, volunteers from An-Noor Cultural Center are preparing food boxes for those who would have relied on the center for iftar every evening. With so many from this immigrant community losing jobs, the demand has increased. “I’m receiving so many phone calls from families who are saying, ‘We are not poor, but the situation has (made) it so hard, so we need a food box,’” Imam Ismail says. On this day, volunteers, including the imam's son, help him sort food in the prayer area. When the time for afternoon prayer arrives, the men break and pray amid half-assembled food boxes filled with dates, cooking oil, vermicelli and potatoes, standing with a little extra room between them. They load the items into a car and head off to begin deliveries. Imam Ismail says this gives the center the opportunity to fulfill one of Ramadan's tenets — to serve those less fortunate, regardless of religion. “Once we receive a call asking for help, we never question about the caller’s faith. It’s just a family,” he says. “A human being. We are ready to serve them.” MINNEAPOLIS: IMAM SHARIF MOHAMED For all the things Muslims are doing without this year, one community in Minneapolis has gained a new voice during the holy month: the call to prayer. Throughout Ramadan, the azan, or adhan — which summons the faithful for prayers five times a day — will be broadcast over loudspeakers for the first time at the Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque. Mayor Jacob Frey facilitated the noise permit after community leaders requested the service. For Muslims feeling isolated at home, the sound of the azan will offer connection, says Imam Sharif Mohamed. It will also alert observant Muslims when it’s time to break fast or start abstaining from eating and drinking. “It’s calming and soothing for them,” he says. “The emotional and spiritual connection, I think, is beyond our imagination.” Mohamed walked around the neighborhood as the azan blared out from the mosque and into the streets and buildings surrounding it. Hearing that, he says, took him back to when he was in Somalia. For non-Muslims, the imam says, this can be an educational experience. And for Muslims, it can be deeply moving. “I am happy. I am going to cry,” Mohamed Salah, who lives near the mosque, said about hearing the azan from home. “Something is better than nothing.” WHEELING, ILLINOIS: SHAHEEN KHAN, 54 Over the last six weeks, Shaheen Khan has gotten a little more comfortable sitting in front of the camera and conducting online Islamic lessons. “Salam-alaikum, boys and girls,” she recites in a cheerful voice before launching into reading a storybook, “Allah Gives Us Food,” with an image of mosaic tiles from the Blue Mosque in Tabriz, Iran, as her Zoom background. The 54-year-old mother of four teaches at the Hadi School, a Montessori Islamic school in Schaumburg, Illinois, that provides Islamic teachings according to the Shia tradition. Khan arrived in the U.S. from India in 1990 and has been teaching ever since. But in 30 years, she’s never had to face the challenge of connecting with her students remotely day after day. Now, she’s trying to figure out how to offer new lessons about an unprecedented Ramadan, as she tries to make sense of the unique challenges herself. She’s realizing the increased time at home could be used as an opportunity for reflection “to come back to our roots.” “Maybe," she says, "this is Allah’s way of resetting a button for us.”
3 May 13:38 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/us-news/MAGAZINE-for-muslims-in-the-u-s-ramadan-presents-obstacles-and-opportunities-1.8815083Rating: 1.13
In US, Ramadan in COVID-19 presents obstacles, opportunities
New York: For Jamilah Shakir, the first week of Ramadan has been an adjustment. She typically spends every night of the month at the Atlanta Masjid of Al Islam or another mosque nearby. Now Ramadan has come, and mosques are closed to worshippers to prevent spread of the coronavirus. So Shakir and her family have had to improvise. “It feels a little weird,” she says. “Not praying in community has been very, very different.” For Muslims in the United States, there is no other time more centered around gathering in congregation than the holy month of Ramadan. In every corner of the country, believers attend community iftar meals to break the fast and then pack neatly into tight rows for nightly prayers at the mosque. On weekends, especially, some may linger longer as they catch up, share in the pre-dawn suhoor meal and line up again for the fajr, dawn, prayers. “The mosque plays a more significant role in being also a community centre for American Muslims,” says Feryal Salem, associate professor of Arabic and Islamic studies at American Islamic College. “Because Muslims are a minority, they have to go the extra mile to create that unique communal experience that’s unique to Ramadan.” But this year, Ramadan falls during a global pandemic. In the US, with the world’s highest COVID-19 death toll, that means being forced to mark the month in different, more virtual and sometimes solitary ways. As they re-imagine some of the spiritual and social rituals, many are relying on a mix of at-home worship and a myriad of online religious programming. Virtual iftar options have sprung up so the devout don’t have to break their fast alone. But not all moments can be recreated on a screen. There will be dishes not shared, prayers not lifted together, hugs not given. Hugs and congregational prayers are the two things Shakir misses the most. But she looks for the blessings. She lives in a close-knit community in South Atlanta with dozens of other Muslim families. She still plans to catch her neighbors - at a distance - on the days she and her sons might be grilling meat for iftar outside. “Although it’s very different from how we normally gather, I’m still so grateful that Allah put us in this Islamic community during this time.” Around the country, Muslims are adapting to the unprecedented challenges. From a recent convert observing his first Ramadan to a respiratory therapist balancing her faith with a job on the frontline of the battle, The Associated Press follows a few of their journeys. Ricardo Ramirez became a Muslim before a crowd of believers. As soon as he uttered the shahada, the Islamic testimony of faith, the faithful broke into chants of “Allahu Akbar.” He was told that day that “all of these brothers and sisters are your brothers and sisters.” There were handshakes, pats on the back and hugs. So many hugs. Since then, he says, the community has been there for him. But Ramirez is experiencing a milestone in his faith journey - his first Ramadan as a Muslim - as the virus disrupts worship and mosques close. “It’s going to be really difficult,” he said before Ramadan started. “I do have a lot of questions, and there’s a lot I want to observe and ask about.” It was a conversation about Ramadan that sparked Ramirez’s interest in Islam. In 2017, he noticed a co-worker wouldn’t eat during the day. She told him she was fasting. Something resonated. “I’ve never seen anybody speak about their religion the way she did,” he says. “Even with everything going on in the world negatively towards Muslims, she was still very excited to tell me.” Born in Texas to parents of Mexican descent, Ramirez was baptised Catholic. But growing up, he experienced Catholicism as largely confined to culture and celebrations. His mum was upset when he told her he was considering Islam. “A lot of people seem to have that same conversation with their parents,” he says. Eventually, she came around. While on work trips to Saudi Arabia, she got him a prayer mat, a copy of the Quran, prayer beads and some dates. He has been saving the dates for breaking his fast during Ramadan. The first day of the Islamic holy month left him feeling “accomplished.” But he also missed being around others observing it. Attending virtual iftars - “being able to share that moment with other people” - has helped. And in the compulsory solitude, he’s determined to find strength. “The more I think about it, I think this is the path that Allah has set for me as a challenge ... to know that this religion is for me.” On the first night of Ramadan, respiratory therapist Jumana Azam stayed up through suhoor and only slept after making the prayer at dawn. She had come home at 2am from an odd shift in the ICU of Rush University Medical Centre. Just weeks ago, Azam’s own mortality weighed heavy. She worried that while caring for dying patients, she could contract the new coronavirus herself and end up on the very ventilators she was operating nonstop. “I was upset and confused, and I didn’t know if I was physically or mentally strong enough to be a frontliner,” she says. At times, she says, her faith wavered. As Chicago experienced a surge of COVID-19 patients in early April, Azam’s days quickly turned into 16-hour shifts, with barely a break to eat or make one of the five daily prayers. The physical demands of the job have taken a toll on her, and while abstaining from any food or drink for 15-hour Ramadan fasts, Azam worries she won’t be able to keep up. She started observing the holy month at about age 10, she recalls. For the first time since then, she considered not fasting as the month approached. “Emotionally and spiritually, this was really hard for me to even reflect on,” she says. Azam looks forward to this month every year, saying her struggle with hunger, especially while at work, gives her day meaning and purpose. Last year, Azam, like many other professional Muslims observing the month, decreased her working hours slightly to make the days more manageable. This year, she knows that won’t be possible. Still, Azam is planning to wake up each morning to eat before dawn and try. “I’m going to take it in stages and try to fast while I’m at work,” she says. “But if I feel like I’m getting light-headed, I’m going to have to break it.” The An Noor Cultural Center and masjid is located blocks from Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, where patients have been dying from COVID-19 at an alarming rate. The immigrant-rich neighbourhood has been deemed one of New York City’s hardest-hit areas. Imam Mufti Mohammed Ismail is the principal of the religious school at An Noor. Most who are part of the centtr are Bangladeshi. “We have lost a lot of Muslim brothers and sisters in my community,” Imam Ismail says. A prayer of “protection from diseases” is printed in Arabic and English on a paper posted to the mosque wall, and Ismail says the Bangladeshi community has lost “close to 150 people” to COVID-19 across New York City, many from this neighbourhood. As deaths rise, Imam Ismail is trying to serve community members suffering in other ways. With mosques shuttered as the city reels, volunteers from An Noor Cultural Centre are preparing food boxes for those who would have relied on the centre for iftar every evening. With so many from this immigrant community losing jobs, the demand has increased. “I’m receiving so many phone calls from families who are saying, ‘We are not poor, but the situation has (made) it so hard, so we need a food box,”’ Imam Ismail says. On this day, volunteers, including the imam’s son, help him sort food in the prayer area. When the time for afternoon prayer arrives, the men break and pray amid half-assembled food boxes filled with dates, cooking oil, vermicelli and potatoes, standing with a little extra room between them. They load the items into a car and head off to begin deliveries. Imam Ismail says this gives the centre the opportunity to fulfil one of Ramadan’s tenets - to serve those less fortunate, regardless of religion. “Once we receive a call asking for help, we never question about the caller’s faith. It’s just a family,” he says. “A human being. We are ready to serve them.” For all the things Muslims are doing without this year, one community in Minneapolis has gained a new voice during the holy month: the call to prayer. Throughout Ramadan, the azan, or adhan - which summons the faithful for prayers five times a day - will be broadcast over loudspeakers for the first time at the Dar Al Hijrah Mosque. Mayor Jacob Frey facilitated the noise permit after community leaders requested the service. For Muslims feeling isolated at home, the sound of the azan will offer connection, says Imam Sharif Mohamed. It will also alert observant Muslims when it’s time to break fast or start abstaining from eating and drinking. “It’s calming and soothing for them,” he says. “The emotional and spiritual connection, I think, is beyond our imagination.” Mohamed walked around the neighbourhood as the azan blared out from the mosque and into the streets and buildings surrounding it. Hearing that, he says, took him back to when he was in Somalia. For non-Muslims, the imam says, this can be an educational experience. And for Muslims, it can be deeply moving. “I am happy. I am going to cry,” Mohamed Salah, who lives near the mosque, said about hearing the azan from home. “Something is better than nothing.” Over the last six weeks, Shaheen Khan has gotten a little more comfortable sitting in front of the camera and conducting online Islamic lessons. “Salam-alaikum, boys and girls,” she recites in a cheerful voice before launching into reading a storybook, “Allah Gives Us Food,” with an image of mosaic tiles from the Blue Mosque in Tabriz, Iran, as her Zoom background. The 54-year-old mother of four teaches at the Hadi School, a Montessori Islamic school in Schaumburg, Illinois, that provides Islamic teachings according to the Shiite tradition. Khan arrived in the US from India in 1990 and has been teaching ever since. But in 30 years, she’s never had to face the challenge of connecting with her students remotely day after day. Now, she’s trying to figure out how to offer new lessons about an unprecedented Ramadan, as she tries to make sense of the unique challenges herself. She’s realizing the increased time at home could be used as an opportunity for reflection “to come back to our roots.” “Maybe,” she says, “this is Allah’s way of resetting a button for us.”
3 May 14:00 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/americas/in-us-ramadan-in-covid-19-presents-obstacles-opportunities-1.71305236Rating: 3.21
Ramzan in United States amid coronavirus pandemic seems different for many Muslims
For Jamilah Shakir, the first week of Ramzan has been an adjustment. She typically spends every night of the month at the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam or another mosque nearby. Now Ramzan has come, and mosques are closed to worshippers to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. So Shakir and her family have had to improvise. “It feels a little weird,” she says. “Not praying in the community has been very, very different.” For Muslims in the United States, there is no other time more centred around gathering in the congregation than the holy month of Ramzan. In every corner of the country, believers attend community iftar meals to break the fast and then pack neatly into tight rows for nightly prayers at the mosque. On weekends, especially, some may linger longer as they catch up, share in the pre-dawn suhoor meal and line up again for the fajr, dawn, prayers. For latest updates on coronavirus outbreak, click here “The mosque plays a more significant role in being also a community centre for American Muslims,” says Feryal Salem, associate professor of Arabic and Islamic studies at American Islamic College. “Because Muslims are a minority, they have to go the extra mile to create that unique communal experience that's unique to Ramzan.” But this year, Ramzan falls during a global pandemic. In the US, with the world's highest COVID-19 death toll, that means being forced to mark the month in different, more virtual and sometimes solitary ways. As they re-imagine some of the spiritual and social rituals, many are relying on a mix of at-home worship and a myriad of online religious programming. Virtual iftar options have sprung up so the devout don't have to break their fast alone. But not all moments can be recreated on a screen. There will be dishes not shared, prayers not lifted together, hugs not given. Hugs and congregational prayers are the two things Shakir misses the most. But she looks for the blessings. She lives in a close-knit community in South Atlanta with dozens of other Muslim families. She still plans to catch her neighbours — at a distance — on the days she and her sons might be grilling meat for iftar outside. “Although it's very different from how we normally gather, I'm still so grateful that Allah put us in this Islamic community during this time.” Around the country, Muslims are adapting to unprecedented challenges. From a recent convert observing his first Ramzan to a respiratory therapist balancing her faith with a job on the frontline of the battle, The Associated Press follows a few of their journeys. Ricardo Ramirez became a Muslim before a crowd of believers. As soon as he uttered the shahada, the Islamic testimony of faith, the faithful broke into chants of “Allahu Akbar.” He was told that day that “all of these brothers and sisters are your brothers and sisters.” There were handshakes, pats on the back and hugs. So many hugs. Since then, he says, the community has been there for him. But Ramirez is experiencing a milestone in his faith journey — his first Ramzan as a Muslim — as the virus disrupts worship and mosques close. “It's going to be really difficult,” he said before Ramzan started. “I do have a lot of questions, and there's a lot I want to observe and ask about.” It was a conversation about Raman that sparked Ramirez's interest in Islam. In 2017, he noticed a co-worker wouldn't eat during the day. She told him she was fasting. Something resonated. “I've never seen anybody speak about their religion the way she did,” he says. “Even with everything going on in the world negatively toward Muslims, she was still very excited to tell me.” Born in Texas to parents of Mexican descent, Ramirez was baptized Catholic. But growing up, he experienced Catholicism as largely confined to culture and celebrations. His mom was upset when he told her he was considering Islam. “A lot of people seem to have that same conversation with their parents,” he says. Eventually, she came around. While on work trips to Saudi Arabia, she got him a prayer mat, a copy of the Quran, prayer beads and some dates. He has been saving the dates for breaking his fast during Ramzan. The first day of the Islamic holy month left him feeling “accomplished.” But he also missed being around others observing it. Attending virtual iftars — “being able to share that moment with other people” — has helped. And in the compulsory solitude, he's determined to find strength. “The more I think about it, I think this is the path that Allah has set for me as a challenge ... to know that this religion is for me.” On the first day of Ramzan, respiratory therapist Jumana Azam slept through her alarm for suhoor. She had come home at 2 a.m. from an odd shift at the hospital. Still, when she woke up, she set her intention to fast, ignoring the doubts of whether she'd be able to keep it throughout the day. Then she changed back into scrubs and left to start another shift in the ICU of Rush University Medical Center. Just weeks ago, Azam's own mortality weighed heavy. She worried that while caring for dying patients, she could contract the new coronavirus herself and end up on the very ventilators she was operating nonstop. “I was upset and confused, and I didn't know if I was physically or mentally strong enough to be a frontliner,” she says. At times, she says, her faith wavered.
2 May 22:34 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/ramzan-in-united-states-amid-coronavirus-pandemic-seems-different-for-many-muslims-832860.htmlRating: 2.25
British MPs demand UK sanctions over Israel’s West Bank annexation plan
NEW YORK: For Jamilah Shakir, the first week of Ramadan has been an adjustment. She typically spends every night of the month at the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam or another mosque nearby. Now Ramadan has come, and mosques are closed to worshippers to prevent spread of the coronavirus. So Shakir and her family have had to improvise.“It feels a little weird,” she says. “Not praying in community has been very, very different.” Jamilah Shakir discusses the observation of Ramadan on Wednesday, April 29, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP) For Muslims in the United States, there is no other time more centered around gathering in congregation than the holy month of Ramadan. In every corner of the country, believers attend community iftar meals to break the fast and then pack neatly into tight rows for nightly prayers at the mosque. On weekends, especially, some may linger longer as they catch up, share in the pre-dawn suhoor meal and line up again for the fajr, dawn, prayers.“The mosque plays a more significant role in being also a community center for American Muslims,” says Feryal Salem, associate professor of Arabic and Islamic studies at American Islamic College. “Because Muslims are a minority, they have to go the extra mile to create that unique communal experience that’s unique to Ramadan.”But this year, Ramadan falls during a global pandemic. In the U.S., with the world's highest COVID-19 death toll, that means being forced to mark the month in different, more virtual and sometimes solitary ways.As they re-imagine some of the spiritual and social rituals, many are relying on a mix of at-home worship and a myriad of online religious programming. Virtual iftar options have sprung up so the devout don’t have to break their fast alone. But not all moments can be recreated on a screen. There will be dishes not shared, prayers not performed together, hugs not given.Hugs and congregational prayers are the two things Shakir misses the most.But she looks for the blessings. She lives in a close-knit community in South Atlanta with dozens of other Muslim families. She still plans to catch her neighbors — at a distance — on the days she and her sons might be grilling meat for iftar outside.“Although it’s very different from how we normally gather, I’m still so grateful that Allah put us in this Islamic community during this time.”Around the country, Muslims are adapting to the unprecedented challenges. From a recent convert observing his first Ramadan to a respiratory therapist balancing her faith with a job on the frontline of the battle, The Associated Press follows a few of their journeys.Houston: Ricardo Ramirez, 28 Ricardo Ramirez is observing Ramadan for the first time as a Muslim after converting to Islam last year. (AP) Ricardo Ramirez converted to Islam before a crowd of Muslims.He was told that day that “all of these brothers and sisters are your brothers and sisters.” There were handshakes, pats on the back and hugs. So many hugs.Since then, he says, the community has been there for him. But Ramirez is experiencing a milestone in his faith journey — his first Ramadan as a Muslim — as the virus disrupts worship and mosques close.“It’s going to be really difficult,” he said before Ramadan started. “I do have a lot of questions, and there’s a lot I want to observe and ask about.”It was a conversation about Ramadan that sparked Ramirez’s interest in Islam. In 2017, he noticed a co-worker wouldn’t eat during the day. She told him she was fasting. Something resonated.“I’ve never seen anybody speak about their religion the way she did,” he says. “Even with everything going on in the world negatively toward Muslims, she was still very excited to tell me.”Born in Texas to parents of Mexican descent, Ramirez was baptized Catholic. But growing up, he experienced Catholicism as largely confined to culture and celebrations.His mom was upset when he told her he was considering Islam. “A lot of people seem to have that same conversation with their parents,” he says. Eventually, she came around. While on work trips to Saudi Arabia, she got him a prayer mat, a copy of the Quran, prayer beads and some dates. He has been saving the dates for breaking his fast during Ramadan.The first day of the Islamic holy month left him feeling “accomplished.” But he also missed being around others observing it. Attending virtual iftars — “being able to share that moment with other people” — has helped.And in the compulsory solitude, he’s determined to find strength. “The more I think about it, I think this is the path that Allah has set for me as a challenge ... to know that this religion is for me.”Chicago: Jumana Azam, 33 On the first night of Ramadan, respiratory therapist Jumana Azam stayed up through suhoor and only slept after making the prayer at dawn. She had come home at 2 a.m. from an odd shift in the ICU of Rush University Medical Center.Just weeks ago, Azam's own mortality weighed heavy. She worried that while caring for dying patients, she could contract the new coronavirus herself and end up on the very ventilators she was operating nonstop.“I was upset and confused, and I didn’t know if I was physically or mentally strong enough to be a frontliner,” she says. At times, she says, her faith wavered.As Chicago experienced a surge of COVID-19 patients in early April, Azam’s days quickly turned into 16-hour shifts, with barely a break to eat or make one of the five daily prayers.The physical demands of the job have taken a toll on her, and while abstaining from any food or drink for 15-hour Ramadan fasts, Azam worries she won’t be able to keep up. She started observing the holy month at about age 10, she recalls. For the first time since then, she considered not fasting as the month approached.“Emotionally and spiritually, this was really hard for me to even reflect on,” she says.Azam looks forward to this month every year, saying her struggle with hunger, especially while at work, gives her day meaning and purpose.Last year, Azam, like many other professional Muslims observing the month, decreased her working hours slightly to make the days more manageable. This year, she knows that won’t be possible. Still, Azam is planning to wake up each morning to eat before dawn and try.“I’m going to take it in stages and try to fast while I’m at work,” she says. “But if I feel like I’m getting light-headed, I’m going to have to break it.”New York City: Imam Mufti Mohammed Ismail, 38 The An-Noor Cultural Center and masjid is located blocks from Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, where patients have been dying from COVID-19 at an alarming rate.The immigrant-rich neighborhood has been deemed one of New York City's hardest-hit areas. Imam Mufti Mohammed Ismail is the principal of the religious school at An-Noor. Most who are part of the center are Bangladeshi.“We have lost a lot of Muslim brothers and sisters in my community,” Imam Ismail says.He says the Bangladeshi community has lost “close to 150 people” to COVID-19 across New York City, many from this neighborhood.As deaths rise, Imam Ismail is trying to serve community members suffering in other ways. With mosques shuttered as the city reels, volunteers from An-Noor Cultural Center are preparing food boxes for those who would have relied on the center for iftar every evening. With so many from this immigrant community losing jobs, the demand has increased.“I’m receiving so many phone calls from families who are saying, ‘We are not poor, but the situation has (made) it so hard, so we need a food box,’” Imam Ismail says.On this day, volunteers, including the imam's son, help him sort food in the prayer area. When the time for afternoon prayer arrives, the men break and pray amid half-assembled food boxes filled with dates, cooking oil, vermicelli and potatoes, standing with a little extra room between them.They load the items into a car and head off to begin deliveries. Imam Ismail says this gives the center the opportunity to fulfill one of Ramadan's tenets — to serve those less fortunate, regardless of religion. “Once we receive a call asking for help, we never question about the caller’s faith. It’s just a family,” he says. “A human being. We are ready to serve them.”Minneapolis: Imam Sharif Mohamed For all the things Muslims are doing without this year, one community in Minneapolis has gained a new voice during the holy month: the call to prayer.Throughout Ramadan, the adhan — which summons the faithful for prayers five times a day — will be broadcast over loudspeakers for the first time at the Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque.Mayor Jacob Frey facilitated the noise permit after community leaders requested the service. For Muslims feeling isolated at home, the sound of the adhan will offer connection, says Imam Sharif Mohamed. It will also alert observant Muslims when it’s time to break fast or start abstaining from eating and drinking.“It’s calming and soothing for them,” he says. “The emotional and spiritual connection, I think, is beyond our imagination.”Mohamed walked around the neighborhood as the adhan blared out from the mosque and into the streets and buildings surrounding it. Hearing that, he says, took him back to when he was in Somalia.For non-Muslims, the imam says, this can be an educational experience. And for Muslims, it can be deeply moving.“I am happy. I am going to cry,” Mohamed Salah, who lives near the mosque, said about hearing the adhan from home. “Something is better than nothing.”
2 May 17:46 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1668651/worldRating: 1.72
In US, a virus-era Ramadan presents obstacles, opportunities
For Jamilah Shakir, the first week of Ramadan has been an adjustment. She typically spends every night of the month at the Atlanta Masjid of Al-Islam or another mosque nearby. Now Ramadan has come, and mosques are closed to worshippers to prevent spread of the coronavirus. So Shakir and her family have had to improvise. “It feels a little weird,” she says. “Not praying in community has been very, very different.” For Muslims in the United States, there is no other time more centred around gathering in congregation than the holy month of Ramadan. In every corner of the country, believers attend community iftar meals to break the fast and then pack neatly into tight rows for nightly prayers at the mosque. On weekends, especially, some may linger longer as they catch up, share in the pre-dawn suhoor meal and line up again for the fajr, dawn, prayers. “The mosque plays a more significant role in being also a community centre for American Muslims,” says Feryal Salem, associate professor of Arabic and Islamic studies at American Islamic College. “Because Muslims are a minority, they have to go the extra mile to create that unique communal experience that’s unique to Ramadan.” But this year, Ramadan falls during a global pandemic. In the U.S., with the world's highest COVID-19 death toll, that means being forced to mark the month in different, more virtual and sometimes solitary ways. As they re-imagine some of the spiritual and social rituals, many are relying on a mix of at-home worship and a myriad of online religious programming. Virtual iftar options have sprung up so the devout don’t have to break their fast alone. But not all moments can be recreated on a screen. There will be dishes not shared, prayers not lifted together, hugs not given. Hugs and congregational prayers are the two things Shakir misses the most. But she looks for the blessings. She lives in a close-knit community in South Atlanta with dozens of other Muslim families. She still plans to catch her neighbours — at a distance — on the days she and her sons might be grilling meat for iftar outside. “Although it’s very different from how we normally gather, I’m still so grateful that Allah put us in this Islamic community during this time.” Around the country, Muslims are adapting to the unprecedented challenges. From a recent convert observing his first Ramadan to a respiratory therapist balancing her faith with a job on the frontline of the battle, The Associated Press follows a few of their journeys. HOUSTON: RICARDO RAMIREZ, 28 Ricardo Ramirez became a Muslim before a crowd of believers. As soon as he uttered the shahada, the Islamic testimony of faith, the faithful broke into chants of “Allahu Akbar.” He was told that day that “all of these brothers and sisters are your brothers and sisters.” There were handshakes, pats on the back and hugs. So many hugs. Since then, he says, the community has been there for him. But Ramirez is experiencing a milestone in his faith journey — his first Ramadan as a Muslim — as the virus disrupts worship and mosques close. “It’s going to be really difficult,” he said before Ramadan started. “I do have a lot of questions, and there’s a lot I want to observe and ask about.” It was a conversation about Ramadan that sparked Ramirez’s interest in Islam. In 2017, he noticed a co-worker wouldn’t eat during the day. She told him she was fasting. Something resonated. “I’ve never seen anybody speak about their religion the way she did,” he says. “Even with everything going on in the world negatively toward Muslims, she was still very excited to tell me.” Born in Texas to parents of Mexican descent, Ramirez was baptized Catholic. But growing up, he experienced Catholicism as largely confined to culture and celebrations. His mom was upset when he told her he was considering Islam. “A lot of people seem to have that same conversation with their parents,” he says. Eventually, she came around. While on work trips to Saudi Arabia, she got him a prayer mat, a copy of the Qur’an, prayer beads and some dates. He has been saving the dates for breaking his fast during Ramadan. The first day of the Islamic holy month left him feeling “accomplished.” But he also missed being around others observing it. Attending virtual iftars — “being able to share that moment with other people” — has helped. And in the compulsory solitude, he’s determined to find strength. “The more I think about it, I think this is the path that Allah has set for me as a challenge ... to know that this religion is for me.” CHICAGO: JUMANA AZAM, 33 On the first night of Ramadan, respiratory therapist Jumana Azam stayed up through suhoor and only slept after making the prayer at dawn. She had come home at 2 a.m. from an odd shift in the ICU of Rush University Medical Center. Just weeks ago, Azam's own mortality weighed heavy. She worried that while caring for dying patients, she could contract the new coronavirus herself and end up on the very ventilators she was operating nonstop. “I was upset and confused, and I didn’t know if I was physically or mentally strong enough to be a frontliner,” she says. At times, she says, her faith wavered. As Chicago experienced a surge of COVID-19 patients in early April, Azam’s days quickly turned into 16-hour shifts, with barely a break to eat or make one of the five daily prayers. The physical demands of the job have taken a toll on her, and while abstaining from any food or drink for 15-hour Ramadan fasts, Azam worries she won’t be able to keep up. She started observing the holy month at about age 10, she recalls. For the first time since then, she considered not fasting as the month approached. “Emotionally and spiritually, this was really hard for me to even reflect on,” she says. Azam looks forward to this month every year, saying her struggle with hunger, especially while at work, gives her day meaning and purpose. Last year, Azam, like many other professional Muslims observing the month, decreased her working hours slightly to make the days more manageable. This year, she knows that won’t be possible. Still, Azam is planning to wake up each morning to eat before dawn and try. “I’m going to take it in stages and try to fast while I’m at work,” she says. “But if I feel like I’m getting light-headed, I’m going to have to break it.” NEW YORK CITY: IMAM MUFTI MOHAMMED ISMAIL, 38 The An-Noor Cultural Center and masjid is located blocks from Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, where patients have been dying from COVID-19 at an alarming rate. The immigrant-rich neighbourhood has been deemed one of New York City's hardest-hit areas. Imam Mufti Mohammed Ismail is the principal of the religious school at An-Noor. Most who are part of the centre are Bangladeshi. “We have lost a lot of Muslim brothers and sisters in my community,” Imam Ismail says. A prayer of “protection from diseases” is printed in Arabic and English on a paper posted to the mosque wall, and Ismail says the Bangladeshi community has lost “close to 150 people” to COVID-19 across New York City, many from this neighbourhood. As deaths rise, Imam Ismail is trying to serve community members suffering in other ways. With mosques shuttered as the city reels, volunteers from An-Noor Cultural Center are preparing food boxes for those who would have relied on the centre for iftar every evening. With so many from this immigrant community losing jobs, the demand has increased. “I’m receiving so many phone calls from families who are saying, ‘We are not poor, but the situation has (made) it so hard, so we need a food box,’” Imam Ismail says. On this day, volunteers, including the imam's son, help him sort food in the prayer area. When the time for afternoon prayer arrives, the men break and pray amid half-assembled food boxes filled with dates, cooking oil, vermicelli and potatoes, standing with a little extra room between them. They load the items into a car and head off to begin deliveries. Imam Ismail says this gives the centre the opportunity to fulfil one of Ramadan's tenets — to serve those less fortunate, regardless of religion. “Once we receive a call asking for help, we never question about the caller’s faith. It’s just a family,” he says. “A human being. We are ready to serve them.” MINNEAPOLIS: IMAM SHARIF MOHAMED For all the things Muslims are doing without this year, one community in Minneapolis has gained a new voice during the holy month: the call to prayer. Throughout Ramadan, the azan, or adhan — which summons the faithful for prayers five times a day — will be broadcast over loudspeakers for the first time at the Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque. Mayor Jacob Frey facilitated the noise permit after community leaders requested the service. For Muslims feeling isolated at home, the sound of the azan will offer connection, says Imam Sharif Mohamed. It will also alert observant Muslims when it’s time to break fast or start abstaining from eating and drinking. “It’s calming and soothing for them,” he says. “The emotional and spiritual connection, I think, is beyond our imagination.” Mohamed walked around the neighbourhood as the azan blared out from the mosque and into the streets and buildings surrounding it. Hearing that, he says, took him back to when he was in Somalia. For non-Muslims, the imam says, this can be an educational experience. And for Muslims, it can be deeply moving. “I am happy. I am going to cry,” Mohamed Salah, who lives near the mosque, said about hearing the azan from home. “Something is better than nothing.” WHEELING, ILLINOIS: SHAHEEN KHAN, 54 Over the last six weeks, Shaheen Khan has gotten a little more comfortable sitting in front of the camera and conducting online Islamic lessons. “Salam-alaikum, boys and girls,” she recites in a cheerful voice before launching into reading a storybook, “Allah Gives Us Food,” with an image of mosaic tiles from the Blue Mosque in Tabriz, Iran, as her Zoom background. The 54-year-old mother of four teaches at the Hadi School, a Montessori Islamic school in Schaumburg, Illinois, that provides Islamic teachings according to the Shia tradition. Khan arrived in the U.S. from India in 1990 and has been teaching ever since. But in 30 years, she’s never had to face the challenge of connecting with her students remotely day after day. Now, she’s trying to figure out how to offer new lessons about an unprecedented Ramadan, as she tries to make sense of the unique challenges herself. She’s realizing the increased time at home could be used as an opportunity for reflection “to come back to our roots.” “Maybe," she says, "this is Allah’s way of resetting a button for us.” ___ Fam reported from Winter Park, Florida and Deen from New York. ___ Associated Press religion coverage receives support from the Lilly Endowment through the Religion News Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
2 May 15:25 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/us-virus-outbreak-ramadan-in-america-1st-ld-writethru/cp1476330812Rating: 0.30
Eiffel Tower caps 'HeroesShineBright' tribute
3 May 15:00
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4 articles
Weight: 1.85
Importance: 1.86
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 13:39
Average US: 7.247499999999999
Weighted average US: 6.129849675771709
Average GB: 1.29
Weighted average GB: 0.9054450834334927
Average IN: 1.5124999999999997
Weighted average IN: 1.3348475320091502
Eiffel Tower caps 'HeroesShineBright' tribute
The Eiffel Tower joined other global landmarks Saturday in capping a sparkling tribute launched by the Empire State Building in New York to those battling the coronavirus. At 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), when people in France have been clapping daily from windows and balconies to thank health-care workers, the Paris landmark lit up in "sparkling white" to hail "the unfailing courage of care workers confronting the coronavirus pandemic," said SETE, the company that manages the Eiffel Tower. A half hour later, the lights on the 20th century Montparnasse Tower, another tall landmark in the French capital, transitioned from white to red "to show its support even more intensively, like a beating heart," the company added. The nine-day #HeroesShineBright initiative started on April 24 in New York and each night a different color is used there to salute various groups including health care staff, transit workers and police or military personnel, SETE added. Other landmarks that have supported the initiative are the Euromast in Rotterdam, 360 Chicago, the UAE'S Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure, the CN Tower in Toronto, the Macao tower in China, the Busan Tower in South Korea, the Ostankino TV Tower in Russia, the Tallinn TV Tower in Estonia and the OVNI Tower in Slovakia. If you want to help in the fight against COVID-19, we have compiled an up-to-date list of community initiatives designed to aid medical workers and low-income people in this article. Link: [UPDATED] Anti-COVID-19 initiatives: Helping Indonesia fight the outbreak
3 May 15:00 • The Jakarta Post • https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/05/03/eiffel-tower-caps-heroesshinebright-tribute.htmlRating: 1.40
Eiffel Tower caps 'Heroes Shine Bright' tribute
Paris - The Eiffel Tower joined other global landmarks Saturday in capping a sparkling tribute launched by the Empire State Building in New York to those battling the coronavirus. At 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), when people in France have been clapping daily from windows and balconies to thank health-care workers, the Paris landmark lit up in "sparkling white" to hail "the unfailing courage of care workers confronting the coronavirus pandemic," said SETE, the company that manages the Eiffel Tower. A half hour later, the lights on the 20th century Montparnasse Tower, another tall landmark in the French capital, transitioned from white to red "to show its support even more intensively, like a beating heart," the company added. The nine-day #HeroesShineBright initiative started on April 24 in New York and each night a different colour is used there to salute various groups including health care staff, transit workers, and police or military personnel, SETE added. Other landmarks that have supported the initiative are the Euromast in Rotterdam, 360 Chicago, the UAE'S Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure, the CN Tower in Toronto, the Macao tower in China, the Busan Tower in South Korea, the Ostankino TV Tower in Russia, the Tallinn TV Tower in Estonia and the OVNI Tower in Slovakia. Read MoreS.Korea says Kim Jong Un did not have surgery, as two Koreas exchange gunfire After weeks of intense speculation about Kim's health and whereabouts, which included one report he had undergone cardiovascular surgery, North Korea's official media published photographs and a report Read MoreAustralia fights virus clusters as parts of country ease restrictions "What I'm worried about is the unknown unknowns," Victoria's Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said at a televised briefing, urging more people to get tested. Read MoreMore people hit China roads in first major holiday since coronavirus easing The country recorded more than 23 million domestic tourists on May 1, according to China's culture and tourism ministry.
3 May 13:39 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Eiffel-Tower-caps-Heroes-Shine-Bright-tributeRating: 3.14
Eiffel Tower lights up in 'Heroes Shine Bright' tribute to healthcare workers
At 8:00 pm (1800 GMT), when people in France have been clapping daily from windows and balconies to thank health-care workers, the Paris landmark lit up in "sparkling white" to hail "the unfailing courage of care workers confronting the coronavirus pandemic," said SETE, the company that manages the Eiffel Tower. A half hour later, the lights on the 20th century Montparnasse Tower, another tall landmark in the French capital, transitioned from white to red "to show its support even more intensively, like a beating heart," the company added. The nine-day #HeroesShineBright initiative started on April 24 in New York and each night a different colour is used there to salute various groups including health care staff, transit workers, and police or military personnel, SETE added. Other landmarks that have supported the initiative are the Euromast in Rotterdam, 360 Chicago, the UAE'S Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure, the CN Tower in Toronto, the Macao tower in China, the Busan Tower in South Korea, the Ostankino TV Tower in Russia, the Tallinn TV Tower in Estonia and the OVNI Tower in Slovakia. (AFP)
3 May 08:09 • France 24 • https://www.france24.com/en/20200503-eiffel-tower-lights-up-in-heroes-shine-bright-tribute-to-healthcare-workersRating: 2.48
Eiffel Tower caps 'HeroesShineBright' tribute
PARIS, France – The Eiffel Tower joined other global landmarks Saturday, May 2, in capping a sparkling tribute launched by the Empire State Building in New York to those battling the coronavirus. At 8:00 pm, when people in France have been clapping daily from windows and balconies to thank healthcare workers, the Paris landmark lit up in "sparkling white" to hail "the unfailing courage of care workers confronting the coronavirus pandemic," said SETE, the company that manages the Eiffel Tower. A half hour later, the lights on the 20th century Montparnasse Tower, another tall landmark in the French capital, transitioned from white to red "to show its support even more intensively, like a beating heart," the company added The 9-day #HeroesShineBright initiative started on April 24 in New York, and each night, a different colour is used there to salute various groups including health care staff, transit workers, and police or military personnel, SETE added. (READ: Spaniards flock outdoors as European countries ease lockdowns) Other landmarks that have supported the initiative are the Euromast in Rotterdam, 360 Chicago, the UAE'S Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest structure, the CN Tower in Toronto, the Macao tower in China, the Busan Tower in South Korea, the Ostankino TV Tower in Russia, the Tallinn TV Tower in Estonia and the OVNI Tower in Slovakia. – Rappler.com
3 May 04:50 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/europe/259766-eiffel-tower-caps-heroes-shine-bright-tributeRating: 1.64
Southern Queensland dips below freezing as mercury hits minus 2 degrees
3 May 21:25
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3 articles
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Best date: 3 May 21:25
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Southern Queensland dips below freezing as mercury hits minus 2 degrees
The southern Queensland town of Applethorpe near the New South Wales border has plummeted to minus 2 degrees on Monday morning in a final chill for the state's weekend cold snap. The Bureau of Meteorology expects the weather to warm up from Tuesday and Wednesday in Queensland's coastal areas, while inland parts should get relief from Thursday to Saturday. On Monday, Darling Downs and Granite Belt was coldest with Applethorpe's minus 2 degrees, Oakey, near Toowoomba, had minus 0.2 and Warwick, south of Toowoomba, got 0.1. In the south-east, the Scenic Rim town of Canungra shivered through 2.4 degrees, the Logan suburb of Greenbank hit 3.8, the Ipswich suburb of Amberley recorded 3.9, the Scenic Rim town of Beaudesert experienced 4.1 and Gatton in the Lockyer Valley got 5.2 degrees. Brisbane dropped to 11.6 degrees on Monday, the Gold Coast Seaway recorded 12.5 and the Sunshine Coast Airport had a low of 12.4. In the Wide Bay and Burnett region, Kingaroy shivered through 1.7 degrees, Gympie had a minimum of 5.3 and Gayndah recorded 5.5. Roma, 430 kilometres north-west of Brisbane, in the Maranoa region dropped to 0.7 degrees. Weather bureau senior meteorologist Gabriel Branescu said the Sunshine Coast was 7 degrees below the May average on Sunday, while the Wide Bay region recorded 7-10 degrees below average. "We have a slow-moving high-pressure system in the Great Australian Bight directing the really dry and cool air mass directly across the state," he said. “Temperatures will start to moderate from Tuesday and Wednesday next week as the winds will tend more easterly and bring in more moisture from the ocean. "We’re expecting the minimum temperatures to stay about 13 or 14 degrees in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, around 11 or 12 degrees in the Gold Coast area. "Cool temperatures will remain inland for another two or three mornings until the warmer and more moist air mass makes its way to the Northern Territory border later next week." On Saturday, the mercury in Oakey, west of Toowoomba, sank to minus 0.4 degrees and Kingaroy, north-west of Brisbane, broke the freezing barrier by the narrowest of margins with minus 0.1.
3 May 21:25 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/queensland/southern-queensland-dips-below-freezing-as-mercury-hits-minus-2-degrees-20200504-p54pgy.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
Southern Queensland dips below freezing as mercury hits minus 2 degrees
The southern Queensland town of Applethorpe near the New South Wales border has plummeted to minus 2 degrees on Monday morning in a final chill for the state's weekend cold snap. The Bureau of Meteorology expects the weather to warm up from Tuesday and Wednesday in Queensland's coastal areas, while inland parts should get relief from Thursday to Saturday. On Monday, Darling Downs and Granite Belt was coldest with Applethorpe's minus 2 degrees, Oakey, near Toowoomba, had minus 0.2 and Warwick, south of Toowoomba, got 0.1. In the south-east, the Scenic Rim town of Canungra shivered through 2.4 degrees, the Logan suburb of Greenbank hit 3.8, the Ipswich suburb of Amberley recorded 3.9, the Scenic Rim town of Beaudesert experienced 4.1 and Gatton in the Lockyer Valley got 5.2 degrees. Brisbane dropped to 11.6 degrees on Monday, the Gold Coast Seaway recorded 12.5 and the Sunshine Coast Airport had a low of 12.4. In the Wide Bay and Burnett region, Kingaroy shivered through 1.7 degrees, Gympie had a minimum of 5.3 and Gayndah recorded 5.5. Roma, 430 kilometres north-west of Brisbane, in the Maranoa region dropped to 0.7 degrees. Weather bureau senior meteorologist Gabriel Branescu said the Sunshine Coast was 7 degrees below the May average on Sunday, while the Wide Bay region recorded 7-10 degrees below average. "We have a slow-moving high-pressure system in the Great Australian Bight directing the really dry and cool air mass directly across the state," he said. “Temperatures will start to moderate from Tuesday and Wednesday next week as the winds will tend more easterly and bring in more moisture from the ocean. "We’re expecting the minimum temperatures to stay about 13 or 14 degrees in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, around 11 or 12 degrees in the Gold Coast area. "Cool temperatures will remain inland for another two or three mornings until the warmer and more moist air mass makes its way to the Northern Territory border later next week." On Saturday, the mercury in Oakey, west of Toowoomba, sank to minus 0.4 degrees and Kingaroy, north-west of Brisbane, broke the freezing barrier by the narrowest of margins with minus 0.1.
3 May 21:25 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/southern-queensland-dips-below-freezing-as-mercury-hits-minus-2-degrees-20200504-p54pgy.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_queenslandRating: 0.86
Southern Queensland dips below freezing as mercury hits minus 2 degrees
The southern Queensland town of Applethorpe near the New South Wales border has plummeted to minus 2 degrees on Monday morning in a final chill for the state's weekend cold snap. The Bureau of Meteorology expects the weather to warm up from Tuesday and Wednesday in Queensland's coastal areas, while inland parts should get relief from Thursday to Saturday. On Monday, Darling Downs and Granite Belt was coldest with Applethorpe's minus 2 degrees, Oakey, near Toowoomba, had minus 0.2 and Warwick, south of Toowoomba, got 0.1. In the south-east, the Scenic Rim town of Canungra shivered through 2.4 degrees, the Logan suburb of Greenbank hit 3.8, the Ipswich suburb of Amberley recorded 3.9, the Scenic Rim town of Beaudesert experienced 4.1 and Gatton in the Lockyer Valley got 5.2 degrees. Brisbane dropped to 11.6 degrees on Monday, the Gold Coast Seaway recorded 12.5 and the Sunshine Coast Airport had a low of 12.4. In the Wide Bay and Burnett region, Kingaroy shivered through 1.7 degrees, Gympie had a minimum of 5.3 and Gayndah recorded 5.5. Roma, 430 kilometres north-west of Brisbane, in the Maranoa region dropped to 0.7 degrees. Weather bureau senior meteorologist Gabriel Branescu said the Sunshine Coast was 7 degrees below the May average on Sunday, while the Wide Bay region recorded 7-10 degrees below average. "We have a slow-moving high-pressure system in the Great Australian Bight directing the really dry and cool air mass directly across the state," he said. “Temperatures will start to moderate from Tuesday and Wednesday next week as the winds will tend more easterly and bring in more moisture from the ocean. "We’re expecting the minimum temperatures to stay about 13 or 14 degrees in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, around 11 or 12 degrees in the Gold Coast area. "Cool temperatures will remain inland for another two or three mornings until the warmer and more moist air mass makes its way to the Northern Territory border later next week." On Saturday, the mercury in Oakey, west of Toowoomba, sank to minus 0.4 degrees and Kingaroy, north-west of Brisbane, broke the freezing barrier by the narrowest of margins with minus 0.1.
3 May 21:25 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/queensland/southern-queensland-dips-below-freezing-as-mercury-hits-minus-2-degrees-20200504-p54pgy.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
'He's a blatant liar': Accused Claremont serial killer's six-hour police interview to be played to court
3 May 22:23
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5 articles
Weight: 1.80
Importance: 1.80
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 22:23
Average US: 21.72
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Weighted average GB: 0.7646714621727223
Average IN: 2.14
Weighted average IN: 1.8462814795262936
'He's a blatant liar': Accused Claremont serial killer's six-hour police interview to be played to court
Prosecutors who allege Bradley Edwards is the Claremont serial killer will wrap up their case this week, ending with the playing of his 6½ hour police interview from the day of his arrest. As the trial enters its seventh month, lead prosecutor Carmel Barbagallo said the video would show the 51-year-old Telstra technician was a “blatant liar”. It will be the first time the Supreme Court trial will hear Mr Edwards speak, with the accused only ever uttering a few words while in the dock to confirm his name, or enter a plea. “During the course of the interview the accused provided an overview of his life including his family life, friendships, sexual relationships and employment history,” Ms Barbagallo said. “The state at the end of this trial will ask that in light of the repeated lies, Your Honour place no weight upon the accused’s denials and self-serving statements.” The lies Ms Barbagallo refers to are Mr Edwards' initial denials he abducted and raped a 17-year-old girl as she walked home from a night out at Club Bay View in Claremont a year before he is accused of murdering Sarah Spiers. He also denied attacking an 18-year-old woman as she slept in her bed in 1988 but later pleaded guilty to the offence after police recovered a kimono from the scene with his DNA on it. Mr Edwards’ DNA was also recovered from his rape victim and allegedly found under the fingernails of his third murder victim, Ciara Glennon, when her body was recovered from bushland in 1997. Ms Barbagallo said during the police interview, Mr Edwards “feigned disbelief” at his DNA being recovered from the three scenes as detectives told him “DNA doesn’t lie”. She said he also distanced himself from ever having been in Claremont, which the state claims is a “consciousness of guilt” lie. “For example, he denied his knowledge or involvement in relation to the [Karrakatta cemetery rape] offences, claiming that he didn’t know anything about any of this,” she said. “He claimed to have no idea where Rowe Park was, the very location from which he abducted [his victim]. “He claimed to have never been to the Karrakatta Cemetery at night or early hours in the morning. “He distanced himself from his association with the Claremont area by claiming that he attended only from about 2009 onwards.” Mr Edwards confessed to the rape and Huntingdale attack on the eve of his triple-murder trial. He denies murdering Ms Spiers, Jane Rimmer and Ciara Glennon. Prominent Perth lawyer John Hammond said playing the police video as the last piece of the state’s evidence would leave it fresh in the mind of Justice Stephen Hall, who is tasked with deciding Mr Edwards’ fate. “It’s like any piece of evidence that’s put before the court, that if it has a very resounding impact on the judge or jury then it certainly doesn’t hurt the state to play that tape or put that evidence last in line,” he said. “The other argument that may be put by some lawyers is that given the trial has been very long, that that video will be very fresh in the court’s mind.” The recording will be played to the court from either Monday or Tuesday, when the state calls its final witness, Detective Senior Sergeant Joseph Marrapodi, a long-serving member of the Macro Taskforce who interviewed Mr Edwards 2½ hours after his dramatic early morning arrest at his Kewdale home on December 22, 2016. The trial continues.
3 May 22:23 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/western-australia/he-s-a-blatant-liar-accused-claremont-serial-killer-s-six-hour-police-interview-to-be-played-to-court-20200503-p54pgf.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
'He's a blatant liar': Accused Claremont serial killer's six-hour police interview to be played to court
Prosecutors who allege Bradley Edwards is the Claremont serial killer will wrap up their case this week, ending with the playing of his 6½ hour police interview from the day of his arrest. As the trial enters its seventh month, lead prosecutor Carmel Barbagallo said the video would show the 51-year-old Telstra technician was a “blatant liar”. It will be the first time the Supreme Court trial will hear Mr Edwards speak, with the accused only ever uttering a few words while in the dock to confirm his name, or enter a plea. “During the course of the interview the accused provided an overview of his life including his family life, friendships, sexual relationships and employment history,” Ms Barbagallo said. “The state at the end of this trial will ask that in light of the repeated lies, Your Honour place no weight upon the accused’s denials and self-serving statements.” The lies Ms Barbagallo refers to are Mr Edwards' initial denials he abducted and raped a 17-year-old girl as she walked home from a night out at Club Bay View in Claremont a year before he is accused of murdering Sarah Spiers. He also denied attacking an 18-year-old woman as she slept in her bed in 1988 but later pleaded guilty to the offence after police recovered a kimono from the scene with his DNA on it. Mr Edwards’ DNA was also recovered from his rape victim and allegedly found under the fingernails of his third murder victim, Ciara Glennon, when her body was recovered from bushland in 1997. Ms Barbagallo said during the police interview, Mr Edwards “feigned disbelief” at his DNA being recovered from the three scenes as detectives told him “DNA doesn’t lie”. She said he also distanced himself from ever having been in Claremont, which the state claims is a “consciousness of guilt” lie. “For example, he denied his knowledge or involvement in relation to the [Karrakatta cemetery rape] offences, claiming that he didn’t know anything about any of this,” she said. “He claimed to have no idea where Rowe Park was, the very location from which he abducted [his victim]. “He claimed to have never been to the Karrakatta Cemetery at night or early hours in the morning. “He distanced himself from his association with the Claremont area by claiming that he attended only from about 2009 onwards.” Mr Edwards confessed to the rape and Huntingdale attack on the eve of his triple-murder trial. He denies murdering Ms Spiers, Jane Rimmer and Ciara Glennon. Prominent Perth lawyer John Hammond said playing the police video as the last piece of the state’s evidence would leave it fresh in the mind of Justice Stephen Hall, who is tasked with deciding Mr Edwards’ fate. “It’s like any piece of evidence that’s put before the court, that if it has a very resounding impact on the judge or jury then it certainly doesn’t hurt the state to play that tape or put that evidence last in line,” he said. “The other argument that may be put by some lawyers is that given the trial has been very long, that that video will be very fresh in the court’s mind.” The recording will be played to the court from either Monday or Tuesday, when the state calls its final witness, Detective Senior Sergeant Joseph Marrapodi, a long-serving member of the Macro Taskforce who interviewed Mr Edwards 2½ hours after his dramatic early morning arrest at his Kewdale home on December 22, 2016. The trial continues.
3 May 22:23 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/western-australia/he-s-a-blatant-liar-accused-claremont-serial-killer-s-six-hour-police-interview-to-be-played-to-court-20200503-p54pgf.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
'He's a blatant liar': Accused Claremont serial killer's six-hour police interview to be played to court
Prosecutors who allege Bradley Edwards is the Claremont serial killer will wrap up their case this week, ending with the playing of his 6½ hour police interview from the day of his arrest. As the trial enters its seventh month, lead prosecutor Carmel Barbagallo said the video would show the 51-year-old Telstra technician was a “blatant liar”. It will be the first time the Supreme Court trial will hear Mr Edwards speak, with the accused only ever uttering a few words while in the dock to confirm his name, or enter a plea. “During the course of the interview the accused provided an overview of his life including his family life, friendships, sexual relationships and employment history,” Ms Barbagallo said. “The state at the end of this trial will ask that in light of the repeated lies, Your Honour place no weight upon the accused’s denials and self-serving statements.” The lies Ms Barbagallo refers to are Mr Edwards' initial denials he abducted and raped a 17-year-old girl as she walked home from a night out at Club Bay View in Claremont a year before he is accused of murdering Sarah Spiers. He also denied attacking an 18-year-old woman as she slept in her bed in 1988 but later pleaded guilty to the offence after police recovered a kimono from the scene with his DNA on it. Mr Edwards’ DNA was also recovered from his rape victim and allegedly found under the fingernails of his third murder victim, Ciara Glennon, when her body was recovered from bushland in 1997. Ms Barbagallo said during the police interview, Mr Edwards “feigned disbelief” at his DNA being recovered from the three scenes as detectives told him “DNA doesn’t lie”. She said he also distanced himself from ever having been in Claremont, which the state claims is a “consciousness of guilt” lie. “For example, he denied his knowledge or involvement in relation to the [Karrakatta cemetery rape] offences, claiming that he didn’t know anything about any of this,” she said. “He claimed to have no idea where Rowe Park was, the very location from which he abducted [his victim]. “He claimed to have never been to the Karrakatta Cemetery at night or early hours in the morning. “He distanced himself from his association with the Claremont area by claiming that he attended only from about 2009 onwards.” Mr Edwards confessed to the rape and Huntingdale attack on the eve of his triple-murder trial. He denies murdering Ms Spiers, Jane Rimmer and Ciara Glennon. Prominent Perth lawyer John Hammond said playing the police video as the last piece of the state’s evidence would leave it fresh in the mind of Justice Stephen Hall, who is tasked with deciding Mr Edwards’ fate. “It’s like any piece of evidence that’s put before the court, that if it has a very resounding impact on the judge or jury then it certainly doesn’t hurt the state to play that tape or put that evidence last in line,” he said. “The other argument that may be put by some lawyers is that given the trial has been very long, that that video will be very fresh in the court’s mind.” The recording will be played to the court from either Monday or Tuesday, when the state calls its final witness, Detective Senior Sergeant Joseph Marrapodi, a long-serving member of the Macro Taskforce who interviewed Mr Edwards 2½ hours after his dramatic early morning arrest at his Kewdale home on December 22, 2016. The trial continues.
3 May 22:23 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/western-australia/he-s-a-blatant-liar-accused-claremont-serial-killer-s-six-hour-police-interview-to-be-played-to-court-20200503-p54pgf.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_western-australiaRating: 0.55
Jimmy Henchman Loses Appeal in Murder of 50 Cent Associate
Previously, James "Jimmy Henchman" Rosemond was hit with a life sentence in prison for his reported role in a murder-for-hire situation involving a former associate of 50 Cent. Since then, Henchman has tried to appeal his conviction. However, news surfaced that the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeal has denied the appeal. The initial incident found Henchman being convicted for the murder of G-Unit affiliate Lodi Mack, which was reportedly in retaliation from Mack assaulting Henchman’s 14-year-old son at the time. Reports noted Tony Yayo and Lodi Mack were involved in the assault against the son of Henchman, and both were convicted for their part. From there, Henchman reportedly hired a crew to hit Mack a few weeks later after the G-Unit affiliate was released from prison for assault. Lodi Mack was ultimately murdered in the Bronx in 2009. Jimmy Henchman was previously given two life sentences by a judge for gun and drug convictions not related to this case. One of the trials that resulted in a life conviction for Henchman found his lawyers saying witnesses only testified against Henchman to get their sentences lowered. source: Billboard
3 May 10:44 • VLADTV • https://www.vladtv.com/article/262254/jimmy-henchman-loses-appeal-in-murder-of-50-cent-associateRating: 0.30
Man charged in Paul Smyth death probe
A man has been charged in the probe into the death of a man in Lisburn last year. Paul Smyth was found dead at his home on Coulson Avenue in June. He had been shot. A 37-year-old man has been charged with encouraging or assisting offences believing one or more will be committed. He is due to appear before Lisburn Magistrates’ Court later this month. As is normal procedure, the charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service. Two men have previously appeared before the court charged with murder in the case.
2 May 13:41 • The Irish News • http://www.irishnews.com/news/northernirelandnews/2020/05/02/news/man-charged-in-paul-smyth-death-probe-1924352/Rating: 0.30
Perth to get first taste of winter after glorious autumn weather
3 May 23:23
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10 articles
Weight: 1.80
Importance: 1.80
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 23:23
Average US: 18.84
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Average IN: 1.01
Weighted average IN: 0.9741007080053251
Perth to get first taste of winter after glorious autumn weather
A cold front bringing buckets of rain and damaging winds has sparked a severe weather warning for the Perth metropolitan area, the South West and parts of the Great Southern and Southern coastal districts. The Bureau of Meteorology said a cold front will move through the state, bringing showers, isolated thunderstorms and winds with speeds of up to 100km/h which could damage properties. The damaging winds are most likely to occur ahead of the leading edge of the storm but thunderstorms but showers and gusty winds will continue through much of Monday morning. Bureau of Meteorology spokesman Neil Bennett said the worst of the storm would hit Perth in the afternoon. "We are expecting some very localised gusty winds of up to 100 km/h. But the key thing with this front is the rain, we are expecting some decent falls out this one, round about 20 millimetres for Perth," he said. "The strongest winds will probably be about mid-afternoon and continuing with rain right through the afternoon and the evening and then slowly easing off." On Tuesday evening a much stronger cold front is expected to come through, bringing with it more thunderstorms affecting communities in Albany, Bunbury, Busselton, Mandurah, Margaret River, Mount Barker and the Perth metropolitan area. "We are more concerned with a front due to arrive during Tuesday evening, it does look like it will be a particularly strong front," Mr Bennett said. He said the front is due to go through the state from mid-afternoon and winds with speeds of up to 125km/h were possible. "This is a very much stronger front ...[it] will be packing much more of a punch." The wet weather will continue throughout the rest of the week.
3 May 23:23 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-to-get-first-taste-of-winter-after-glorious-autumn-weather-20200504-p54pih.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
Perth to get first taste of winter after glorious autumn weather
A cold front bringing buckets of rain and damaging winds has sparked a severe weather warning for the Perth metropolitan area, the South West and parts of the Great Southern and Southern coastal districts. The Bureau of Meteorology said a cold front will move through the state, bringing showers, isolated thunderstorms and winds with speeds of up to 100km/h which could damage properties. The damaging winds are most likely to occur ahead of the leading edge of the storm but thunderstorms but showers and gusty winds will continue through much of Monday morning. Bureau of Meteorology spokesman Neil Bennett said the worst of the storm would hit Perth in the afternoon. "We are expecting some very localised gusty winds of up to 100 km/h. But the key thing with this front is the rain, we are expecting some decent falls out this one, round about 20 millimetres for Perth," he said. "The strongest winds will probably be about mid-afternoon and continuing with rain right through the afternoon and the evening and then slowly easing off." On Tuesday evening a much stronger cold front is expected to come through, bringing with it more thunderstorms affecting communities in Albany, Bunbury, Busselton, Mandurah, Margaret River, Mount Barker and the Perth metropolitan area. "We are more concerned with a front due to arrive during Tuesday evening, it does look like it will be a particularly strong front," Mr Bennett said. He said the front is due to go through the state from mid-afternoon and winds with speeds of up to 125km/h were possible. "This is a very much stronger front ...[it] will be packing much more of a punch." The wet weather will continue throughout the rest of the week.
3 May 23:23 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-to-get-first-taste-of-winter-after-glorious-autumn-weather-20200504-p54pih.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Perth to get first taste of winter after glorious autumn weather
A cold front bringing buckets of rain and damaging winds has sparked a severe weather warning for the Perth metropolitan area, the South West and parts of the Great Southern and Southern coastal districts. The Bureau of Meteorology said a cold front will move through the state, bringing showers, isolated thunderstorms and winds with speeds of up to 100km/h which could damage properties. The damaging winds are most likely to occur ahead of the leading edge of the storm but thunderstorms but showers and gusty winds will continue through much of Monday morning. Bureau of Meteorology spokesman Neil Bennett said the worst of the storm would hit Perth in the afternoon. "We are expecting some very localised gusty winds of up to 100 km/h. But the key thing with this front is the rain, we are expecting some decent falls out this one, round about 20 millimetres for Perth," he said. "The strongest winds will probably be about mid-afternoon and continuing with rain right through the afternoon and the evening and then slowly easing off." On Tuesday evening a much stronger cold front is expected to come through, bringing with it more thunderstorms affecting communities in Albany, Bunbury, Busselton, Mandurah, Margaret River, Mount Barker and the Perth metropolitan area. "We are more concerned with a front due to arrive during Tuesday evening, it does look like it will be a particularly strong front," Mr Bennett said. He said the front is due to go through the state from mid-afternoon and winds with speeds of up to 125km/h were possible. "This is a very much stronger front ...[it] will be packing much more of a punch." The wet weather will continue throughout the rest of the week.
3 May 23:23 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/western-australia/perth-to-get-first-taste-of-winter-after-glorious-autumn-weather-20200504-p54pih.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_western-australiaRating: 0.55
UPDATE: Watch for snow on Interior highways
A weather statement for snow on Interior Highways this morning has ended. "A vigorous cold front over southeastern B.C. will move out of the province this morning. Snow has already begun at Kootenay Pass and will begin at Rogers Pass early this morning," according to Environment Canada's special weather statement. Rogers Pass on Highway 1 and from Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass on Highway 3 could see between five to 10 cm of snow. The snow is expected to ease mid-morning, according to Environment Canada. "This afternoon, an unstable airmass will bring a chance of occasionally heavy flurries and a risk of thunderstorms. The flurries will be highly localized but could result in poor visibility and rapidly accumulating snow." Road conditions are available on DriveBC's website. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm. READ MORE: iN VIDEO: Ryan Reynolds offers advice to graduating class of his old B.C. high school READ MORE: Enderby Starlight Drive-In sells out entire opening week READ MORE: Okanagan florists busy during pandemic, some busier than ever
3 May 14:18 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/watch-for-snow-on-interior-highways/it72902Rating: 0.30
Sunny, windy conditions conclude Las Vegas weekend
Sunday’s weather in Las Vegas will be a carbon copy of Saturday — sunny skies, a high in the low 90s and windy conditions. Southwest winds may gust up to 22-25 mph and continue into the night when the mercury will drop to about 65, according to the latest National Weather Service forecast. Monday’s forecast calls for similar temperatures, into the low 90s, but winds will diminish to about 7-11 mph. Building high pressure will boost high temperatures during the middle up the week into the upper 90s or even 100. The high reading Saturday at McCarran International Airport was 91.
3 May 13:25 • Las Vegas Review-Journal • https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/weather/sunny-windy-conditions-conclude-las-vegas-weekend-2020217/Rating: 0.30
Flurries expected on Interior highways tonight
Flurries are expected on Interior highways tonight including the Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector, according to Environment Canada. "A vigorous cold front will cross the southern Interior of B.C. tonight. Rain will begin this evening, but as cold air moves in behind the front snow levels will drop rapidly. As this happens rain will change to flurries over higher elevations," according to the latest Environment Canada weather statement. Between five to 10 centimetres of snow is possible over higher elevations of the Coquihalla Highway, from Hope to Merritt. The Okanagan Connector at Pennask Summit, Highway 3 via Allison Pass, and Highway 3 from Paulson Summit to Kootenay Pass will likely see two to five cm, according to the statement. "Strong, gusty winds are also possible with the passage of the front," according to the statement. Weather in the mountains can change suddenly resulting in hazardous driving conditions. Road conditions are available on DriveBC's website. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm.
2 May 14:15 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/flurries-expected-on-interior-highways-tonight/it72881Rating: 0.30
It's going to be windy
Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for many parts of B.C.'s Interior. The agency is calling for strong wind gusts in the Shuswap early this evening, between 60 and 70 km/h. "A cold front approaching the B.C. coast will sweep across the Southern Interior early this evening. Brief but strong, gusty winds, as well as isolated thunderstorms, are to be expected," reads a statement. The Fraser Canyon will get the same (between 60 and 80 km/h), as will the southern Okanagan Valley, Similkameen, Nicola and South Thompson regions. Snow is also in the forecast for B.C. Interior highways.
2 May 10:13 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/Kamloops/298929/Strong-winds-expected-in-the-InteriorRating: 1.34
Snow forecast for highways
After a toasty day in the Valley bottom Friday, snow could be coming to the high mountain passes this evening. Environment Canada is calling for five to 10 centimetres of snow to fall at higher elevations through the night, including on the Okanagan Connector, the Coquihalla Highway and Allison Pass. “A vigorous cold front will cross the southern interior of BC tonight,” Environment Canada said in a weather alert. “Rain will begin this evening, but as cold air moves in behind the front, snow levels will drop rapidly. As this happens rain will change to flurries over higher elevations.” While up to 10 cm could fall on the Coquihalla, the Connector, Allison Pass and the Paulson Summit is expected to see two to four cm. Strong, gusting winds are also forecast along with the snow. This comes after temperatures hit 20.8 C at Kelowna International Airport Friday, just shy of the 21.9 C record for May 1 set in 2009. Despite the snow in the forecast, temperatures are still expected to hit 20 C in Kelowna Saturday.
2 May 09:21 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/298926/Flurries-in-forecast-for-Coquihalla-and-ConnectorRating: 1.34
Sunny, windy conditions continue in Las Vegas all weekend
Windy conditions in the Las Vegas Valley will continue through the weekend with winds gusting close to 25 mph. “A couple of disturbances that passed to our north and brought rain to northern Nevada and Utah but we just got the wind,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Alex Boothe. Saturday’s forecast calls for sunny skies, a high of 93 with southerly winds 7-11 mph. Winds may gust as high as 22 in the overnight hours as the low temperature drops to 65. Sunday will be near identical with a forecast high of 92 and winds from 8-17 with gusts to 24 mph. The overnight low will be about 65. Temperatures will gradually warm next week with Wednesday possibly reaching 100. “There will be a high pressure ridge building and how warm it gets and which day is the hottest depends on how long it decides to stay around,” Boothe said. “It could get close to 100 and stay that way for a few days.”
2 May 13:25 • Las Vegas Review-Journal • https://www.reviewjournal.com/local/weather/sunny-windy-conditions-continue-in-las-vegas-all-weekend-2019682/Rating: 0.30
Up to 80 km/hr winds, thunderstorms expected in Okanagan, Thompson
Strong winds could reach 80 km/hr across the Okanagan tonight as the Interior prepares for a storm. "A cold front approaching the B.C. coast will sweep across the southern Interior early this evening. Brief but strong, gusty winds, as well as isolated thunderstorms, are to be expected," according to Environment Canada in a special weather statement. READ MORE: Flurries expected on Interior highways tonight "The southern Okanagan Valley, including Penticton, can expect very strong westerly wind gusts reaching 80 km/h early in the evening. The potential for heavy but brief downpours and isolated thunderstorms also exists," according to the statement. The Similkameen to South Thompson, northern Okanagan Valley and the Shuswap should also expect strong southwesterly winds of 60 to 70 km/h, according to the statement. To report severe weather, send an email to BCstorm@canada.ca or tweet reports using #BCStorm.
2 May 16:35 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/up-to-80-km-hr-winds-thunderstorms-expected-in-okanagan-thompson/it72886Rating: 0.30
Laidley lawyers hit out after former North Melbourne coach's arrest
3 May 23:43
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Laidley lawyers hit out after former North Melbourne coach's arrest
Lawyers for former AFL player and coach Dean Laidley are demanding an investigation into how photos of him inside a police station after his arrest were leaked. The 53-year-old was arrested on Saturday night outside a home in St Kilda and was charged with stalking and other offences. But his mug shot and a photo of him in a long blonde wig and wearing a dress, taken inside a police station, were leaked. "Disgraceful. Taking photos unlawfully and sharing them. And these were sneaky photos while in Police interview in Police Station by a Police Officer," one of his lawyers, Bill Doogue, tweeted. "Police should investigate and those involved pull down immediately." Defence lawyer Dee Giannopoulos also voiced her anger. "Outraged that pictures of my client, taken by some police officer, on the sly, when in custody in interview have hit the media. Typical #grossbreachofprivacy," Giannopoulos tweeted. Victoria Police is investigating the dissemination of the images. "Professional standards command have been notified of the matter and at this stage it would be inappropriate to comment further," the force said in a statement. Laidley, a 1996 premiership winner and later coach with the Kangaroos, faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Sunday and will remain in custody until May 11 after not applying for bail. AAP
3 May 23:43 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/laidley-lawyers-hit-out-after-former-north-melbourne-coach-s-arrest-20200504-p54pj0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
Laidley lawyers hit out after former North Melbourne coach's arrest
Lawyers for former AFL player and coach Dean Laidley are demanding an investigation into how photos of him inside a police station after his arrest were leaked. The 53-year-old was arrested on Saturday night outside a home in St Kilda and was charged with stalking and other offences. But his mug shot and a photo of him in a long blonde wig and wearing a dress, taken inside a police station, were leaked. "Disgraceful. Taking photos unlawfully and sharing them. And these were sneaky photos while in Police interview in Police Station by a Police Officer," one of his lawyers, Bill Doogue, tweeted. "Police should investigate and those involved pull down immediately." Defence lawyer Dee Giannopoulos also voiced her anger. "Outraged that pictures of my client, taken by some police officer, on the sly, when in custody in interview have hit the media. Typical #grossbreachofprivacy," Giannopoulos tweeted. Victoria Police is investigating the dissemination of the images. "Professional standards command have been notified of the matter and at this stage it would be inappropriate to comment further," the force said in a statement. Laidley, a 1996 premiership winner and later coach with the Kangaroos, faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Sunday and will remain in custody until May 11 after not applying for bail. AAP
3 May 23:43 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/sport/afl/laidley-lawyers-hit-out-after-former-north-melbourne-coach-s-arrest-20200504-p54pj0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Laidley lawyers hit out after former North Melbourne coach's arrest
Lawyers for former AFL player and coach Dean Laidley are demanding an investigation into how photos of him inside a police station after his arrest were leaked. The 53-year-old was arrested on Saturday night outside a home in St Kilda and was charged with stalking and other offences. But his mug shot and a photo of him in a long blonde wig and wearing a dress, taken inside a police station, were leaked. "Disgraceful. Taking photos unlawfully and sharing them. And these were sneaky photos while in Police interview in Police Station by a Police Officer," one of his lawyers, Bill Doogue, tweeted. "Police should investigate and those involved pull down immediately." Defence lawyer Dee Giannopoulos also voiced her anger. "Outraged that pictures of my client, taken by some police officer, on the sly, when in custody in interview have hit the media. Typical #grossbreachofprivacy," Giannopoulos tweeted. Victoria Police is investigating the dissemination of the images. "Professional standards command have been notified of the matter and at this stage it would be inappropriate to comment further," the force said in a statement. Laidley, a 1996 premiership winner and later coach with the Kangaroos, faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Sunday and will remain in custody until May 11 after not applying for bail.
3 May 23:43 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/sport/afl/laidley-lawyers-hit-out-after-former-north-melbourne-coach-s-arrest-20200504-p54pj0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
Google fires back as ACCC code of conduct talks ramp up
3 May 14:15
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3 articles
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Best date: 3 May 14:15
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Google fires back as ACCC code of conduct talks ramp up
Google has dismissed claims it has not worked constructively with Australian news organisations and rejected calls for it to directly pay publishers, as the search giant looks to safeguard its business from a major regulatory overhaul. Melanie Silva, Google Australia's managing director, on Sunday claimed in a blog post that the tech giant struggles to make money from news content as she attempted to break down "misconceptions" on the firm's relationships with publishers. The comments come as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission ramps up industry consultations after it was charged by the Morrison government two weeks ago to create a mandatory code to oversee the commercial arrangements between digital platforms and news publishers. The deadline for submissions to the ACCC is June 5. Sources involved in the talks who spoke on the condition of anonymity said Rupert Murdoch's News Corp Australia wants publishers to be able to individually strike payment deals with the digital giants, with the ACCC code of conduct serving as a backstop if they refuse to negotiate. Other publishers want the code to govern how much a publisher should be paid, but sources said all discussions are in the early stages. Ms Silva said that news content had "significant social value", but that Google did not make money from organic search results or news that appears in the 'News' tab. She said publishers benefit by appearing in Google search results. "In the offline print world, publishers have long paid retailers, news stands and kiosks to distribute their newspapers and magazines – acknowledging the value of acquiring audiences to a publisher's content and the advertising publishers sell alongside it," Ms Silva said. "In contrast, Google Search sends readers from Australia and all over the world to the publishers’ sites for free – helping them to generate advertising revenues from those audiences and convert them into paying subscribers. Everyone benefits from this exchange. While news content has significant social value, it is often difficult to make money from." Ms Silva added Google Search did not make "any money" when a user clicks on a news search result and that there were no ads on its news results tab. Experts, including former PwC partner Megan Brownlow, have been sceptical that Google and Facebook will ever pay publishers for content. Economists have previously warned that the Morrison government needed to be careful with plans to force digital giants to pay publishers for news content. Google closed its news service in Spain in 2014 in response to legislation requiring payment to publishers and when France attempted to make Google pay for publishers content last year, the tech giant said it would instead change the way articles appear in search results. Hannah Marshall, a partner at Marque Lawyers, said classifying Google and Facebook's news referral services as essential under consumer law was a way to avoid a revolt or refusal to pay for content. "The only way they are going to force Google to come to the party on things like paying for news snippets is to take away the opportunity for them to drop the news service altogether," Ms Marshall said. Australia's competition law currently allows mandated access to ‘facilities’ like telco infrastructure and railways, where an essential service is provided. Ms Marshall believes adding "virtual infrastructure" to the access regime, which would require a change in legislation, could resolve this problem. “From Google’s perspective, the news publishers aren’t their customers and the news referral that comes via their search results ... that’s not a service that they perceive as being a separate service and they certainly don’t perceive it as a supply that occurs in any kind of economic market," said Ms Marshall, a specialist in competition and defamation law. "The bottom line is the power these guys have to switch off the news referrals. That’s why they’ve got what we now call an imbalance in bargaining power. The solution to that is to tell them they have to [provide news referral services] by law."
3 May 14:15 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/business/companies/google-fires-back-as-accc-code-of-conduct-talks-ramp-up-20200430-p54ori.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
Google fires back as ACCC code of conduct talks ramp up
Google has dismissed claims it has not worked constructively with Australian news organisations and rejected calls for it to directly pay publishers, as the search giant looks to safeguard its business from a major regulatory overhaul. Melanie Silva, Google Australia's managing director, on Sunday claimed in a blog post that the tech giant struggles to make money from news content as she attempted to break down "misconceptions" on the firm's relationships with publishers. The comments come as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission ramps up industry consultations after it was charged by the Morrison government two weeks ago to create a mandatory code to oversee the commercial arrangements between digital platforms and news publishers. The deadline for submissions to the ACCC is June 5. Sources involved in the talks who spoke on the condition of anonymity said Rupert Murdoch's News Corp Australia wants publishers to be able to individually strike payment deals with the digital giants, with the ACCC code of conduct serving as a backstop if they refuse to negotiate. Other publishers want the code to govern how much a publisher should be paid, but sources said all discussions are in the early stages. Ms Silva said that news content had "significant social value", but that Google did not make money from organic search results or news that appears in the 'News' tab. She said publishers benefit by appearing in Google search results. "In the offline print world, publishers have long paid retailers, news stands and kiosks to distribute their newspapers and magazines – acknowledging the value of acquiring audiences to a publisher's content and the advertising publishers sell alongside it," Ms Silva said. "In contrast, Google Search sends readers from Australia and all over the world to the publishers’ sites for free – helping them to generate advertising revenues from those audiences and convert them into paying subscribers. Everyone benefits from this exchange. While news content has significant social value, it is often difficult to make money from." Ms Silva added Google Search did not make "any money" when a user clicks on a news search result and that there were no ads on its news results tab. Experts, including former PwC partner Megan Brownlow, have been sceptical that Google and Facebook will ever pay publishers for content. Economists have previously warned that the Morrison government needed to be careful with plans to force digital giants to pay publishers for news content. Google closed its news service in Spain in 2014 in response to legislation requiring payment to publishers and when France attempted to make Google pay for publishers content last year, the tech giant said it would instead change the way articles appear in search results. Hannah Marshall, a partner at Marque Lawyers, said classifying Google and Facebook's news referral services as essential under consumer law was a way to avoid a revolt or refusal to pay for content. "The only way they are going to force Google to come to the party on things like paying for news snippets is to take away the opportunity for them to drop the news service altogether," Ms Marshall said. Australia's competition law currently allows mandated access to ‘facilities’ like telco infrastructure and railways, where an essential service is provided. Ms Marshall believes adding "virtual infrastructure" to the access regime, which would require a change in legislation, could resolve this problem. “From Google’s perspective, the news publishers aren’t their customers and the news referral that comes via their search results ... that’s not a service that they perceive as being a separate service and they certainly don’t perceive it as a supply that occurs in any kind of economic market," said Ms Marshall, a specialist in competition and defamation law. "The bottom line is the power these guys have to switch off the news referrals. That’s why they’ve got what we now call an imbalance in bargaining power. The solution to that is to tell them they have to [provide news referral services] by law."
3 May 14:15 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/business/companies/google-fires-back-as-accc-code-of-conduct-talks-ramp-up-20200430-p54ori.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Google fires back as ACCC code of conduct talks ramp up
Google has dismissed claims it has not worked constructively with Australian news organisations and rejected calls for it to directly pay publishers, as the search giant looks to safeguard its business from a major regulatory overhaul. Melanie Silva, Google Australia's managing director, on Sunday claimed in a blog post that the tech giant struggles to make money from news content as she attempted to break down "misconceptions" on the firm's relationships with publishers. The comments come as the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission ramps up industry consultations after it was charged by the Morrison government two weeks ago to create a mandatory code to oversee the commercial arrangements between digital platforms and news publishers. The deadline for submissions to the ACCC is June 5. Sources involved in the talks who spoke on the condition of anonymity said Rupert Murdoch's News Corp Australia wants publishers to be able to individually strike payment deals with the digital giants, with the ACCC code of conduct serving as a backstop if they refuse to negotiate. Other publishers want the code to govern how much a publisher should be paid, but sources said all discussions are in the early stages. Ms Silva said that news content had "significant social value", but that Google did not make money from organic search results or news that appears in the 'News' tab. She said publishers benefit by appearing in Google search results. "In the offline print world, publishers have long paid retailers, news stands and kiosks to distribute their newspapers and magazines – acknowledging the value of acquiring audiences to a publisher's content and the advertising publishers sell alongside it," Ms Silva said. "In contrast, Google Search sends readers from Australia and all over the world to the publishers’ sites for free – helping them to generate advertising revenues from those audiences and convert them into paying subscribers. Everyone benefits from this exchange. While news content has significant social value, it is often difficult to make money from." Ms Silva added Google Search did not make "any money" when a user clicks on a news search result and that there were no ads on its news results tab. Experts, including former PwC partner Megan Brownlow, have been sceptical that Google and Facebook will ever pay publishers for content. Economists have previously warned that the Morrison government needed to be careful with plans to force digital giants to pay publishers for news content. Google closed its news service in Spain in 2014 in response to legislation requiring payment to publishers and when France attempted to make Google pay for publishers content last year, the tech giant said it would instead change the way articles appear in search results. Hannah Marshall, a partner at Marque Lawyers, said classifying Google and Facebook's news referral services as essential under consumer law was a way to avoid a revolt or refusal to pay for content. "The only way they are going to force Google to come to the party on things like paying for news snippets is to take away the opportunity for them to drop the news service altogether," Ms Marshall said. Australia's competition law currently allows mandated access to ‘facilities’ like telco infrastructure and railways, where an essential service is provided. Ms Marshall believes adding "virtual infrastructure" to the access regime, which would require a change in legislation, could resolve this problem. “From Google’s perspective, the news publishers aren’t their customers and the news referral that comes via their search results ... that’s not a service that they perceive as being a separate service and they certainly don’t perceive it as a supply that occurs in any kind of economic market," said Ms Marshall, a specialist in competition and defamation law. "The bottom line is the power these guys have to switch off the news referrals. That’s why they’ve got what we now call an imbalance in bargaining power. The solution to that is to tell them they have to [provide news referral services] by law."
3 May 14:15 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/business/companies/google-fires-back-as-accc-code-of-conduct-talks-ramp-up-20200430-p54ori.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
Strippers, scrap gold and a $3.9 million heist
3 May 14:01
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Weight: 1.80
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Best date: 3 May 14:01
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Strippers, scrap gold and a $3.9 million heist
A $3.9 million armed robbery in Melbourne's CBD last week, allegedly involving a man with a surgical mask, a gun and a trolley has exposed extraordinary security failings but also reveals the unusual business practices of the city's gold and precious gem dealers. In a nondescript building near the corner of Collins and Swanston streets, bags of gold jewellery are exchanged for cash, diamonds are used to secure high-interest loans and deposits worth millions of dollars are made into company bank accounts using pseudonyms such as 'Aghtogde'. Business has been booming in recent months, as the coronavirus battered global financial markets and spooked investors turned to gold bullion as a safe haven. Others had been forced to trade or pawn their old gold jewellery and watches after suddenly facing financial hardship. Last week, Karl Kachami, 48, from Hawthorn East, allegedly entered the building at 227 Collins Street where many of Melbourne's gold and diamond dealers ply their trade. At about 9.40am, he is accused of pointing a Glock pistol at the head of an employee of the Melbourne Gold Company based on the seventh floor, before leaving with almost $4 million worth of gold bullion, jewellery and cash. Mr Kachami was charged on April 30 with armed robbery, theft, false imprisonment and assault, after police found the loot buried at a rural property near the Gippsland town of Dollar. Lawyer Sazz Nasimi acts for Melbourne Gold Company and its owner Michael Kukulka, who was not present at the time of the robbery. Mr Nasimi said security was usually extremely tight. "This was a human error and protocols were not followed on the day," he said. Mr Nasimi said the safe was unusually full because the company had received a significant consignment of gold a few days earlier amid a surge in demand for the precious metal because of coronavirus. Mr Nasimi thanked police for the swift arrest and said it was business as usual at Mr Kukulka's company. However, Mr Kukulka's relationship with Victoria Police has not always been cordial. In January this year, Licensing Inspector Scott Johnson opposed an application by Mr Kukulka to reopen strip club Showgirls Bar 20 at a new site on King Street. Mr Kukulka invested $1.2 million in the relaunch of the notorious gentlemen's club, but Victoria Police raised concerns about his involvement in the gold industry. In an 18-page submission, police identify more than $6 million in irregular transactions in a bank account linked to his business, including dozens of payments from unidentified pseudonyms such as 'Gdetoagch' and 'Aghtogde.' Mr Kukulka has never been charged with any offence in connection with any of those transactions, and he is not accused of any wrongdoing. Despite the police objections, Mr Kukulka's application was approved last month by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, and the strip club is expected to open when social distancing guidelines are relaxed. The scale of Mr Kukulka's previous gold business MAK Precious Metals was revealed in a recent Administrative Appeals Tribunal case, where he was found to have provided almost $460 million in scrap gold to a Sydney-based company called ABC Refinery Pty Limited. Mr Kukulka sourced gold from a range of sources, including $1.5 million in just six days from Melbourne fraudster-turned-bullion dealer Rocco Calabrese, according to court documents. Calabrese, aka Rocco De Gonza, has been bankrupt twice, jailed for three dozen deception offences in 2002, and convicted again in 2014 for stealing 5500 kilograms of prawns worth $82,000. Mr Kukulka was not involved in any of Calabrese's wrongdoing. According to court documents, gold sourced from Mr Calabrese was referred to as ‘Rocco jobs’. Mr Kukulka's former business also appears to have offered short-term loans, usually secured by diamonds or gold bullion. Mr Kukulka's former business lent diamond dealer Ron Bensimon $334,000, which was never repaid when Bensimon's empire collapsed in 2016, after amassing personal and business debts of more than $10 million. Mr Nasimi said Mr Kukulka launched legal action to recoup the debt, but abandoned the claim when Bensimon was declared bankrupt.
3 May 14:01 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/strippers-scrap-gold-and-a-3-9-million-heist-20200503-p54pe7.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_victoriaRating: 2.20
Strippers, scrap gold and a $3.9 million heist
A $3.9 million armed robbery in Melbourne's CBD last week, allegedly involving a man with a surgical mask, a gun and a trolley has exposed extraordinary security failings but also reveals the unusual business practices of the city's gold and precious gem dealers. In a nondescript building near the corner of Collins and Swanston streets, bags of gold jewellery are exchanged for cash, diamonds are used to secure high-interest loans and deposits worth millions of dollars are made into company bank accounts using pseudonyms such as 'Aghtogde'. Business has been booming in recent months, as the coronavirus battered global financial markets and spooked investors turned to gold bullion as a safe haven. Others had been forced to trade or pawn their old gold jewellery and watches after suddenly facing financial hardship. Last week, Karl Kachami, 48, from Hawthorn East, allegedly entered the building at 227 Collins Street where many of Melbourne's gold and diamond dealers ply their trade. At about 9.40am, he is accused of pointing a Glock pistol at the head of an employee of the Melbourne Gold Company based on the seventh floor, before leaving with almost $4 million worth of gold bullion, jewellery and cash. Mr Kachami was charged on April 30 with armed robbery, theft, false imprisonment and assault, after police found the loot buried at a rural property near the Gippsland town of Dollar. Lawyer Sazz Nasimi acts for Melbourne Gold Company and its owner Michael Kukulka, who was not present at the time of the robbery. Mr Nasimi said security was usually extremely tight. "This was a human error and protocols were not followed on the day," he said. Mr Nasimi said the safe was unusually full because the company had received a significant consignment of gold a few days earlier amid a surge in demand for the precious metal because of coronavirus. Mr Nasimi thanked police for the swift arrest and said it was business as usual at Mr Kukulka's company. However, Mr Kukulka's relationship with Victoria Police has not always been cordial. In January this year, Licensing Inspector Scott Johnson opposed an application by Mr Kukulka to reopen strip club Showgirls Bar 20 at a new site on King Street. Mr Kukulka invested $1.2 million in the relaunch of the notorious gentlemen's club, but Victoria Police raised concerns about his involvement in the gold industry. In an 18-page submission, police identify more than $6 million in irregular transactions in a bank account linked to his business, including dozens of payments from unidentified pseudonyms such as 'Gdetoagch' and 'Aghtogde.' Mr Kukulka has never been charged with any offence in connection with any of those transactions, and he is not accused of any wrongdoing. Despite the police objections, Mr Kukulka's application was approved last month by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, and the strip club is expected to open when social distancing guidelines are relaxed. The scale of Mr Kukulka's previous gold business MAK Precious Metals was revealed in a recent Administrative Appeals Tribunal case, where he was found to have provided almost $460 million in scrap gold to a Sydney-based company called ABC Refinery Pty Limited. Mr Kukulka sourced gold from a range of sources, including $1.5 million in just six days from Melbourne fraudster-turned-bullion dealer Rocco Calabrese, according to court documents. Calabrese, aka Rocco De Gonza, has been bankrupt twice, jailed for three dozen deception offences in 2002, and convicted again in 2014 for stealing 5500 kilograms of prawns worth $82,000. Mr Kukulka was not involved in any of Calabrese's wrongdoing. According to court documents, gold sourced from Mr Calabrese was referred to as ‘Rocco jobs’. Mr Kukulka's former business also appears to have offered short-term loans, usually secured by diamonds or gold bullion. Mr Kukulka's former business lent diamond dealer Ron Bensimon $334,000, which was never repaid when Bensimon's empire collapsed in 2016, after amassing personal and business debts of more than $10 million. Mr Nasimi said Mr Kukulka launched legal action to recoup the debt, but abandoned the claim when Bensimon was declared bankrupt.
3 May 14:01 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/victoria/strippers-scrap-gold-and-a-3-9-million-heist-20200503-p54pe7.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Strippers, scrap gold and a $3.9 million heist
A $3.9 million armed robbery in Melbourne's CBD last week, allegedly involving a man with a surgical mask, a gun and a trolley has exposed extraordinary security failings but also reveals the unusual business practices of the city's gold and precious gem dealers. In a nondescript building near the corner of Collins and Swanston streets, bags of gold jewellery are exchanged for cash, diamonds are used to secure high-interest loans and deposits worth millions of dollars are made into company bank accounts using pseudonyms such as 'Aghtogde'. Business has been booming in recent months, as the coronavirus battered global financial markets and spooked investors turned to gold bullion as a safe haven. Others had been forced to trade or pawn their old gold jewellery and watches after suddenly facing financial hardship. Last week, Karl Kachami, 48, from Hawthorn East, allegedly entered the building at 227 Collins Street where many of Melbourne's gold and diamond dealers ply their trade. At about 9.40am, he is accused of pointing a Glock pistol at the head of an employee of the Melbourne Gold Company based on the seventh floor, before leaving with almost $4 million worth of gold bullion, jewellery and cash. Mr Kachami was charged on April 30 with armed robbery, theft, false imprisonment and assault, after police found the loot buried at a rural property near the Gippsland town of Dollar. Lawyer Sazz Nasimi acts for Melbourne Gold Company and its owner Michael Kukulka, who was not present at the time of the robbery. Mr Nasimi said security was usually extremely tight. "This was a human error and protocols were not followed on the day," he said. Mr Nasimi said the safe was unusually full because the company had received a significant consignment of gold a few days earlier amid a surge in demand for the precious metal because of coronavirus. Mr Nasimi thanked police for the swift arrest and said it was business as usual at Mr Kukulka's company. However, Mr Kukulka's relationship with Victoria Police has not always been cordial. In January this year, Licensing Inspector Scott Johnson opposed an application by Mr Kukulka to reopen strip club Showgirls Bar 20 at a new site on King Street. Mr Kukulka invested $1.2 million in the relaunch of the notorious gentlemen's club, but Victoria Police raised concerns about his involvement in the gold industry. In an 18-page submission, police identify more than $6 million in irregular transactions in a bank account linked to his business, including dozens of payments from unidentified pseudonyms such as 'Gdetoagch' and 'Aghtogde.' Mr Kukulka has never been charged with any offence in connection with any of those transactions, and he is not accused of any wrongdoing. Despite the police objections, Mr Kukulka's application was approved last month by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, and the strip club is expected to open when social distancing guidelines are relaxed. The scale of Mr Kukulka's previous gold business MAK Precious Metals was revealed in a recent Administrative Appeals Tribunal case, where he was found to have provided almost $460 million in scrap gold to a Sydney-based company called ABC Refinery Pty Limited. Mr Kukulka sourced gold from a range of sources, including $1.5 million in just six days from Melbourne fraudster-turned-bullion dealer Rocco Calabrese, according to court documents. Calabrese, aka Rocco De Gonza, has been bankrupt twice, jailed for three dozen deception offences in 2002, and convicted again in 2014 for stealing 5500 kilograms of prawns worth $82,000. Mr Kukulka was not involved in any of Calabrese's wrongdoing. According to court documents, gold sourced from Mr Calabrese was referred to as ‘Rocco jobs’. Mr Kukulka's former business also appears to have offered short-term loans, usually secured by diamonds or gold bullion. Mr Kukulka's former business lent diamond dealer Ron Bensimon $334,000, which was never repaid when Bensimon's empire collapsed in 2016, after amassing personal and business debts of more than $10 million. Mr Nasimi said Mr Kukulka launched legal action to recoup the debt, but abandoned the claim when Bensimon was declared bankrupt.
3 May 14:01 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/victoria/strippers-scrap-gold-and-a-3-9-million-heist-20200503-p54pe7.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
I'm a privacy expert - and I've downloaded the COVIDSafe app
3 May 14:00
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I'm a privacy expert - and I've downloaded the COVIDSafe app
As a privacy professional, I would normally be among the first to join the barricades opposing the new COVIDSafe app, which helps alert people who have come into contact with a COVID-19 case. But we’re in a genuine emergency. And the norms are out the window. Our government has long tended to put national security ahead of privacy and has a poor track record of technology deployments. Some fear the app could be tracking us and they reject assurances from Canberra that surveillance is not the intent. Critics claim the very idea of the app is unproven and its software not properly tested. The loudest objection is also the simplest: “I do not trust the government and I will not trust their app.” All these criticisms are valid. But it saddens me to see respected privacy advocates rehashing entrenched positions at a time like this. There’s very little wrong with the app itself, but people resent it because they resent the government. Yet I don’t see how we can afford that luxury right now. Do I wish that the COVIDSafe software had been commissioned in a better way? Of course I do. I wish the Department of Home Affairs had not been involved in the tender process and I wish that a certified Australian data centre had been selected to run the database instead of an American business. But given the circumstances, I am willing to climb off my moral high horse. For all the talk of “lost trust”, the Morrison government has done something big to earn my co-operation: it abandoned its fiscal ideology and without much fanfare went into enormous debt to safeguard Australians’ health and jobs. Now I am prepared to show comparable pragmatism around privacy and the contact tracing app. I am going to suspend my cynicism and give the Prime Minister a break. COVIDSafe is pretty innocuous. It works by anonymously logging each time another COVIDSafe user comes into range for a few minutes. The log is kept securely in the smartphone and rolls over every couple of weeks, with old records continually purged. If and when a user tests positive to coronavirus, they can upload the log to their state health department, which will then reach out to the logged contacts and arrange for them to quarantine and get tested. The app doesn’t track anyone but merely records when pairs of users have come close. By notifying people that they’ve been exposed before they show symptoms, community infection is reduced. Epidemiologists say COVIDSafe will be a useful addition to their existing disease management. The app won’t dramatically change contact tracing. Critics need to remember that COVID-19 is a notifiable disease and anyone who tests positive is already required by law to undergo an interview process with public health officials and account for their movements. Frankly, academic reference to “privacy risks” right now makes me a bit sick. Where is the proportionality? With people dying in unfathomable numbers elsewhere, we have a good chance to contain community transmission and save lives with better informed contact tracing. I am a privileged, relatively wealthy white male who has never really had a privacy problem. No software like COVIDSafe is ever going to harm me. I get how lucky I am and I understand that other sectors of the community have different risk profiles. By the same token, I admit my privacy advocacy is almost entirely ideological. Like most of my fellow professionals, I have the good fortune of being able to indulge in barbecue-stopping arguments about privacy at a time when tens of thousands are dying in countries just like Australia. It strikes me as self-indulgent to put one’s privacy principles first when, if we just chilled a little, we might deploy an innocent temporary smartphone app to help our public health system. So I’ve quit the highfalutin debates, and happily, even optimistically, installed COVIDSafe. Stephen Wilson is an independent privacy adviser.
3 May 14:00 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/i-m-a-privacy-expert-and-i-ve-downloaded-the-covidsafe-app-20200503-p54pc6.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_politics_federalRating: 2.20
I'm a privacy expert - and I've downloaded the COVIDSafe app
As a privacy professional, I would normally be among the first to join the barricades opposing the new COVIDSafe app, which helps alert people who have come into contact with a COVID-19 case. But we’re in a genuine emergency. And the norms are out the window. Our government has long tended to put national security ahead of privacy and has a poor track record of technology deployments. Some fear the app could be tracking us and they reject assurances from Canberra that surveillance is not the intent. Critics claim the very idea of the app is unproven and its software not properly tested. The loudest objection is also the simplest: “I do not trust the government and I will not trust their app.” All these criticisms are valid. But it saddens me to see respected privacy advocates rehashing entrenched positions at a time like this. There’s very little wrong with the app itself, but people resent it because they resent the government. Yet I don’t see how we can afford that luxury right now. Do I wish that the COVIDSafe software had been commissioned in a better way? Of course I do. I wish the Department of Home Affairs had not been involved in the tender process and I wish that a certified Australian data centre had been selected to run the database instead of an American business. But given the circumstances, I am willing to climb off my moral high horse. For all the talk of “lost trust”, the Morrison government has done something big to earn my co-operation: it abandoned its fiscal ideology and without much fanfare went into enormous debt to safeguard Australians’ health and jobs. Now I am prepared to show comparable pragmatism around privacy and the contact tracing app. I am going to suspend my cynicism and give the Prime Minister a break. COVIDSafe is pretty innocuous. It works by anonymously logging each time another COVIDSafe user comes into range for a few minutes. The log is kept securely in the smartphone and rolls over every couple of weeks, with old records continually purged. If and when a user tests positive to coronavirus, they can upload the log to their state health department, which will then reach out to the logged contacts and arrange for them to quarantine and get tested. The app doesn’t track anyone but merely records when pairs of users have come close. By notifying people that they’ve been exposed before they show symptoms, community infection is reduced. Epidemiologists say COVIDSafe will be a useful addition to their existing disease management. The app won’t dramatically change contact tracing. Critics need to remember that COVID-19 is a notifiable disease and anyone who tests positive is already required by law to undergo an interview process with public health officials and account for their movements. Frankly, academic reference to “privacy risks” right now makes me a bit sick. Where is the proportionality? With people dying in unfathomable numbers elsewhere, we have a good chance to contain community transmission and save lives with better informed contact tracing. I am a privileged, relatively wealthy white male who has never really had a privacy problem. No software like COVIDSafe is ever going to harm me. I get how lucky I am and I understand that other sectors of the community have different risk profiles. By the same token, I admit my privacy advocacy is almost entirely ideological. Like most of my fellow professionals, I have the good fortune of being able to indulge in barbecue-stopping arguments about privacy at a time when tens of thousands are dying in countries just like Australia. It strikes me as self-indulgent to put one’s privacy principles first when, if we just chilled a little, we might deploy an innocent temporary smartphone app to help our public health system. So I’ve quit the highfalutin debates, and happily, even optimistically, installed COVIDSafe. Stephen Wilson is an independent privacy adviser.
3 May 14:00 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/federal/i-m-a-privacy-expert-and-i-ve-downloaded-the-covidsafe-app-20200503-p54pc6.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_politics_federalRating: 0.86
I'm a privacy expert - and I've downloaded the COVIDSafe app
As a privacy professional, I would normally be among the first to join the barricades opposing the new COVIDSafe app, which helps alert people who have come into contact with a COVID-19 case. But we’re in a genuine emergency. And the norms are out the window. Our government has long tended to put national security ahead of privacy and has a poor track record of technology deployments. Some fear the app could be tracking us and they reject assurances from Canberra that surveillance is not the intent. Critics claim the very idea of the app is unproven and its software not properly tested. The loudest objection is also the simplest: “I do not trust the government and I will not trust their app.” All these criticisms are valid. But it saddens me to see respected privacy advocates rehashing entrenched positions at a time like this. There’s very little wrong with the app itself, but people resent it because they resent the government. Yet I don’t see how we can afford that luxury right now. Do I wish that the COVIDSafe software had been commissioned in a better way? Of course I do. I wish the Department of Home Affairs had not been involved in the tender process and I wish that a certified Australian data centre had been selected to run the database instead of an American business. But given the circumstances, I am willing to climb off my moral high horse. For all the talk of “lost trust”, the Morrison government has done something big to earn my co-operation: it abandoned its fiscal ideology and without much fanfare went into enormous debt to safeguard Australians’ health and jobs. Now I am prepared to show comparable pragmatism around privacy and the contact tracing app. I am going to suspend my cynicism and give the Prime Minister a break. COVIDSafe is pretty innocuous. It works by anonymously logging each time another COVIDSafe user comes into range for a few minutes. The log is kept securely in the smartphone and rolls over every couple of weeks, with old records continually purged. If and when a user tests positive to coronavirus, they can upload the log to their state health department, which will then reach out to the logged contacts and arrange for them to quarantine and get tested. The app doesn’t track anyone but merely records when pairs of users have come close. By notifying people that they’ve been exposed before they show symptoms, community infection is reduced. Epidemiologists say COVIDSafe will be a useful addition to their existing disease management. The app won’t dramatically change contact tracing. Critics need to remember that COVID-19 is a notifiable disease and anyone who tests positive is already required by law to undergo an interview process with public health officials and account for their movements. Frankly, academic reference to “privacy risks” right now makes me a bit sick. Where is the proportionality? With people dying in unfathomable numbers elsewhere, we have a good chance to contain community transmission and save lives with better informed contact tracing. I am a privileged, relatively wealthy white male who has never really had a privacy problem. No software like COVIDSafe is ever going to harm me. I get how lucky I am and I understand that other sectors of the community have different risk profiles. By the same token, I admit my privacy advocacy is almost entirely ideological. Like most of my fellow professionals, I have the good fortune of being able to indulge in barbecue-stopping arguments about privacy at a time when tens of thousands are dying in countries just like Australia. It strikes me as self-indulgent to put one’s privacy principles first when, if we just chilled a little, we might deploy an innocent temporary smartphone app to help our public health system. So I’ve quit the highfalutin debates, and happily, even optimistically, installed COVIDSafe.
3 May 14:00 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/politics/federal/i-m-a-privacy-expert-and-i-ve-downloaded-the-covidsafe-app-20200503-p54pc6.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_politics_federalRating: 0.55
NSW seeks to curb payouts to victims of child sexual abuse in custody
3 May 14:00
•
3 articles
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Best date: 3 May 14:00
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 1.8333333333333333
Weighted average IN: 1.720587750415579
NSW seeks to curb payouts to victims of child sexual abuse in custody
A NSW government agency is seeking to limit compensation payments to victims of child sexual abuse in custody by relying on laws restricting the ability of offenders to recover personal injury payouts from prisons. In a letter to NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman, plaintiff law firm Shine Lawyers said the Department of Communities and Justice had indicated it would argue that laws restricting payouts to offenders for injuries sustained in custody applied to all claims relating to child sexual abuse in juvenile detention between 1987 and 2019. "We are writing to implore you to prioritise the needs of survivors of child sexual abuse and intervene," the firm said. The restrictions were introduced in 2004 to rein in compensation claims against prisons, but the law has since been changed to carve out child abuse claims relating to alleged conduct after January 2019. The general provisions which still apply to older child abuse cases prevent offenders or their families receiving damages for an injury in custody arising from a defendant's negligence, unless the injury resulted in their death or "permanent impairment" above a 15 per cent threshold. Shine Lawyers said there was no indication in 2004 that the laws would apply to child sexual abuse. Sheree Buchanan, an abuse law expert at Shine, said: "We believe it was never the intention [of legislators] for the pain and suffering of victims abused while in juvenile detention as children to be determined by this impairment threshold, but this is exactly what’s happening and it’s not right." Ms Buchanan said many survivors represented by the firm "have had their entire lives ruined by disgusting perpetrators who ran correction centres, yet defendants are using this 15 per cent injury impairment threshold to prevent them from receiving the compensation they rightly deserve." Victims of childhood sexual abuse suffered from a range of conditions including PTSD and anxiety, and may struggle to form relationships or use drugs and alcohol to deal with trauma. These were all "terrible outcomes that can’t be measured on an impairment scale", Ms Buchanan said. The firm says in the letter that similar restrictions do not apply in other Australian jurisdictions and the laws effectively punish victims twice because they had already been sentenced for their crimes. Mr Speakman said: "Child abuse, wherever it occurs, is abhorrent. "I have received a letter from Shine Lawyers and have asked the Department of Communities and Justice to provide me with advice on the issues raised." Opposition attorney-general spokesman Paul Lynch said: "These provisions seem to result in manifest injustice. They give rise to what seem entirely unintended consequences. "Government departments should not be relying on these provisions in this way. The government should review the legislation without delay." The state government has been responsive to calls to improve access to justice for survivors of child abuse and implemented all of the recommendations of the Child Sexual Abuse Royal Commission's report on redress and civil litigation.
3 May 14:00 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/nsw/nsw-seeks-to-curb-payouts-to-victims-of-child-sexual-abuse-in-custody-20200429-p54o9g.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_nationalRating: 2.20
NSW seeks to curb payouts to victims of child sexual abuse in custody
A NSW government agency is seeking to limit compensation payments to victims of child sexual abuse in custody by relying on laws restricting the ability of offenders to recover personal injury payouts from prisons. In a letter to NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman, plaintiff law firm Shine Lawyers said the Department of Communities and Justice had indicated it would argue that laws restricting payouts to offenders for injuries sustained in custody applied to all claims relating to child sexual abuse in juvenile detention between 1987 and 2019. "We are writing to implore you to prioritise the needs of survivors of child sexual abuse and intervene," the firm said. The restrictions were introduced in 2004 to rein in compensation claims against prisons, but the law has since been changed to carve out child abuse claims relating to alleged conduct after January 2019. The general provisions which still apply to older child abuse cases prevent offenders or their families receiving damages for an injury in custody arising from a defendant's negligence, unless the injury resulted in their death or "permanent impairment" above a 15 per cent threshold. Shine Lawyers said there was no indication in 2004 that the laws would apply to child sexual abuse. Sheree Buchanan, an abuse law expert at Shine, said: "We believe it was never the intention [of legislators] for the pain and suffering of victims abused while in juvenile detention as children to be determined by this impairment threshold, but this is exactly what’s happening and it’s not right." Ms Buchanan said many survivors represented by the firm "have had their entire lives ruined by disgusting perpetrators who ran correction centres, yet defendants are using this 15 per cent injury impairment threshold to prevent them from receiving the compensation they rightly deserve." Victims of childhood sexual abuse suffered from a range of conditions including PTSD and anxiety, and may struggle to form relationships or use drugs and alcohol to deal with trauma. These were all "terrible outcomes that can’t be measured on an impairment scale", Ms Buchanan said. The firm says in the letter that similar restrictions do not apply in other Australian jurisdictions and the laws effectively punish victims twice because they had already been sentenced for their crimes. Mr Speakman said: "Child abuse, wherever it occurs, is abhorrent. "I have received a letter from Shine Lawyers and have asked the Department of Communities and Justice to provide me with advice on the issues raised." Opposition attorney-general spokesman Paul Lynch said: "These provisions seem to result in manifest injustice. They give rise to what seem entirely unintended consequences. "Government departments should not be relying on these provisions in this way. The government should review the legislation without delay." The state government has been responsive to calls to improve access to justice for survivors of child abuse and implemented all of the recommendations of the Child Sexual Abuse Royal Commission's report on redress and civil litigation.
3 May 14:00 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/nsw/nsw-seeks-to-curb-payouts-to-victims-of-child-sexual-abuse-in-custody-20200429-p54o9g.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
NSW seeks to curb payouts to victims of child sexual abuse in custody
A NSW government agency is seeking to limit compensation payments to victims of child sexual abuse in custody by relying on laws restricting the ability of offenders to recover personal injury payouts from prisons. In a letter to NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman, plaintiff law firm Shine Lawyers said the Department of Communities and Justice had indicated it would argue that laws restricting payouts to offenders for injuries sustained in custody applied to all claims relating to child sexual abuse in juvenile detention between 1987 and 2019. "We are writing to implore you to prioritise the needs of survivors of child sexual abuse and intervene," the firm said. The restrictions were introduced in 2004 to rein in compensation claims against prisons, but the law has since been changed to carve out child abuse claims relating to alleged conduct after January 2019. The general provisions which still apply to older child abuse cases prevent offenders or their families receiving damages for an injury in custody arising from a defendant's negligence, unless the injury resulted in their death or "permanent impairment" above a 15 per cent threshold. Shine Lawyers said there was no indication in 2004 that the laws would apply to child sexual abuse. Sheree Buchanan, an abuse law expert at Shine, said: "We believe it was never the intention [of legislators] for the pain and suffering of victims abused while in juvenile detention as children to be determined by this impairment threshold, but this is exactly what’s happening and it’s not right." Ms Buchanan said many survivors represented by the firm "have had their entire lives ruined by disgusting perpetrators who ran correction centres, yet defendants are using this 15 per cent injury impairment threshold to prevent them from receiving the compensation they rightly deserve." Victims of childhood sexual abuse suffered from a range of conditions including PTSD and anxiety, and may struggle to form relationships or use drugs and alcohol to deal with trauma. These were all "terrible outcomes that can’t be measured on an impairment scale", Ms Buchanan said. The firm says in the letter that similar restrictions do not apply in other Australian jurisdictions and the laws effectively punish victims twice because they had already been sentenced for their crimes. Mr Speakman said: "Child abuse, wherever it occurs, is abhorrent. "I have received a letter from Shine Lawyers and have asked the Department of Communities and Justice to provide me with advice on the issues raised." Opposition attorney-general spokesman Paul Lynch said: "These provisions seem to result in manifest injustice. They give rise to what seem entirely unintended consequences. "Government departments should not be relying on these provisions in this way. The government should review the legislation without delay." The state government has been responsive to calls to improve access to justice for survivors of child abuse and implemented all of the recommendations of the Child Sexual Abuse Royal Commission's report on redress and civil litigation.
3 May 14:00 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/nsw/nsw-seeks-to-curb-payouts-to-victims-of-child-sexual-abuse-in-custody-20200429-p54o9g.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
From the Archives, 1970: US campuses erupt in violence
3 May 14:00
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3 articles
Weight: 1.80
Importance: 1.80
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Best date: 3 May 14:00
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
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From the Archives, 1970: US campuses erupt in violence
First published in The Sydney Morning Herald on May 6, 1970 THE ANATOMY OF VIOLENCE How do 'non-violent' demonstrations come to end in tragedy, as happened at Kent UniversityOhio? ROY MACARTNEY takes a typical case and tells how tensions build up. It is May Day on the historic old green of New Haven, home of the world-famed Yale University.Glorious sunshine bathes an idyllic scene. But New Haven is uptight, tense, nervous, the city already paralysed by mid-Friday, normally abusiness day. A "non-violent" demonstration is in progress on the historic green, and "non-violent" rallies nowadays usually end in violence. Shops around the green are shuttered with plywood, restaurants and bars closed, business houseslocked, staffs — including that of the telephone exchange — dispatched home early. Riot police,even National Guard troops, are deployed. Yale students, amused at this apparent "over-kill" reaction, are taking pictures of the ranksof the "other half" in a city with a long history of town versus gown. Police are edgy because 280 bayonet-mounted riot guns were stolen from a New Haven armoury the previous weekend. They also know this has been a season for dynamite, for bombs and bomb-makers from Manhattan to Chicago, from Greenwich Village to Maryland. Clown of the "Chicago 7," Abbie Hoffman, is haranguing a good-natured crowd of about 8,000. Hepromises to make members "the VC of America." They cheer his sallies at "the bastards in Washington." His best laugh comes when he waves atthe Courthouse and says, "We'll pick it up and send it to the moon," if Bobby Seale isconvicted. The rally has been called because the 33-year-old Black Panther leader Bobby Seale faces trialon a charge of murder in the templed white courthouse fronting the green. He is alleged to haveordered the killing of a Black Panther whose tortured body was found near New Haven in May lastyear. It is a complicated story of informers and counter-informers. Police say they seized a tape ofthe "trial" which preceded the victim's slaying in a raid on Black Panther headquarters twodays after the murder. Three of 16 Panthers arrested have confessed to a charge of seconddegree murder. On May Day, 1970, the rally is not only protesting Seale's innocence but demanding that he notface trial. Rallies protesting the Vietnam war and other causes have generally lost popularity in theUnited States, their moderate organisers convinced they generate more resentment than converts.But on the platform are the old Vietnam radicals - David Dellinger, Jerry Rubin, Rennie Davis,Tom Hayden and Abbie Hoffman - whose paths we have followed from the steps of the Pentagon tothe Conrad Hilton in Chicago. Now — released on bail over Judge Julius Hoffmann's protest that they are a menace to society —we find them in New Haven. Because the Black Panther body was dumped near New Haven and Sealemust be tried here, students from Yale University have become involved. "Chicago 7" attorney William Kunstler has visited the Yale campus and invoked student aid. Thefaculty — even Yale President Kingman Brewster — are going along. The radicals have all the ingredients for provoking trouble: a cause, well-meaningdemonstrators, a "non-violent" situation for exploitation. The Democratic Governor ofConnecticut so rates the promise of non-violence he has called up troops of the New HavenNational Guard and asked Washington to fly in another 4,000 Federal soldiers on stand-by. On the New Haven green, where revolutionaries 195 years ago seized the powder house and muskets and marched against the British, May Day 1970 looks none the less peaceful, a picture of youth culture: beads and braid, banded heads and liberated bosoms, sun worship and good humour, "legalise marihuana" and Cuban flags, pets and "love animals" admonitions— in short, love, not war. 'Yippies' But there is a fringe of helmeted "yippies" on the green. Leather-jacketed motor cyclists guntheir machines down adjacent streets with English names like Main, Chapel, Temple and the like, towards the Gothic buildings of nearby Yale. And on the platform, it is not all love and let live. Jerry Rubin harangues the crowd for over an hour, the voice of the former Berkeley firebrand filtering over loudspeakers at the back of the square like that of Hitler surging on radio 30 years before. Youths hand out angry pamphlets put out by the "Progressive Labour Party," a hardline group which split from the U.S. Communist party when Peking broke with Moscow. Hanoi-sympathiser David Dellinger, wearing coast and tie, advises the placid crowd: "Don't let the Establishment provoke us into a violent encounter." Today he is less profane than the other speakers, and remarks only that the hands of the U.S. Government are "dripping with blood:" In Chicago, he employed a crudity in the courtroom to describe testimony against him. This is the mod language of revolution. Police are "pigs," troops are unprintable; epithets heard from riot to riot insult, provoke, invite "police brutality" or frame pictures of bayoneted rifles at the ready. It is 10.30 p.m. now, back on the fringe of the green. Near the centre, a mob is milling around the high Victorian Gothic church which Yale's chaplain, Dr William Sloane Coffin, has made available to demonstrators so they can "come into the church and be disengaged from the police." It is an Orwellian scene: helmeted riot police bracing themselves at New Haven's Main Street in front of plywood-protected shops, holding two ear-splitting portable machines ready to project "pepper smoke" — science's last word. The beautiful spires of three churches on the green are bathed in floodlights, a trash fire is flickering near on the steps of the courthouse which Abbie has not yet sent to the moon. Then the mob comes, led by "yippies." Their white helmets show as they try to break past thepolice liner. Out of the dark whizz bottles and stones. The first bottle crashes on the pavement six feet from where the bare-headed Press arestanding. A shattered fragment hits one on the foot, other splinters cut the shins of the coffee shop waitress who served us not long before. Explosions The police toss smoke grenades into the crowd. They explode with a crack like a rifle shot. Theroaring "pepper smoke" machines drive the mob back to the chaplain's church. Yale students,acting as marshals, link hands shouting, "Move back" to the nearby campus. But the "yippies" come again, this time in an attempted outflanking move down Chapel Street.More smoke grenades, some tear gas this time, and National Guard troops are moved up to blockoff the street with fixed bayonets. Students pour out of nearby lecture rooms where they have been listening to tho "Chicago 7" —"There'll be a midnight sale at Macy's," Abbie Hoffman suggested to his group. But Macy's,wisely buried in an acre of plywood a block behind police lines, remains inviolate. The shouting turmoil continues well after midnight. The New Haven police chief rushes to every incident, restrains his men — now suffering a few bruises and excited as missiles continue whistling out of the darkness. It is no joke to be at the receiving end of unseen bottles. The cost We return down Chapel Street, led by a BBC correspondent preceded by his own spotlight and camera, bobbing along in a sea of helmeted maniacs saying "This is what it is like in New Haven," etcetera, etcetera, "end of take one, clapper board." A stick of dynamite explodes in the Yale skating rink. Many windows are shattered, no one is seriously injured. A quiet night really: only 17 arrests, not much damage. But a "non-violent" demonstration has held a fine city to ransom, cost Government and commerce over a million dollars and run the risk once more of smashed heads - even violent deaths.
3 May 14:00 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/world/north-america/from-the-archives-1970-us-campuses-erupt-in-violence-20200430-p54ope.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_worldRating: 2.20
From the Archives, 1970: US campuses erupt in violence
First published in The Sydney Morning Herald on May 6, 1970 THE ANATOMY OF VIOLENCE How do 'non-violent' demonstrations come to end in tragedy, as happened at Kent UniversityOhio? ROY MACARTNEY takes a typical case and tells how tensions build up. It is May Day on the historic old green of New Haven, home of the world-famed Yale University.Glorious sunshine bathes an idyllic scene. But New Haven is uptight, tense, nervous, the city already paralysed by mid-Friday, normally abusiness day. A "non-violent" demonstration is in progress on the historic green, and "non-violent" rallies nowadays usually end in violence. Shops around the green are shuttered with plywood, restaurants and bars closed, business houseslocked, staffs — including that of the telephone exchange — dispatched home early. Riot police,even National Guard troops, are deployed. Yale students, amused at this apparent "over-kill" reaction, are taking pictures of the ranksof the "other half" in a city with a long history of town versus gown. Police are edgy because 280 bayonet-mounted riot guns were stolen from a New Haven armoury the previous weekend. They also know this has been a season for dynamite, for bombs and bomb-makers from Manhattan to Chicago, from Greenwich Village to Maryland. Clown of the "Chicago 7," Abbie Hoffman, is haranguing a good-natured crowd of about 8,000. Hepromises to make members "the VC of America." They cheer his sallies at "the bastards in Washington." His best laugh comes when he waves atthe Courthouse and says, "We'll pick it up and send it to the moon," if Bobby Seale isconvicted. The rally has been called because the 33-year-old Black Panther leader Bobby Seale faces trialon a charge of murder in the templed white courthouse fronting the green. He is alleged to haveordered the killing of a Black Panther whose tortured body was found near New Haven in May lastyear. It is a complicated story of informers and counter-informers. Police say they seized a tape ofthe "trial" which preceded the victim's slaying in a raid on Black Panther headquarters twodays after the murder. Three of 16 Panthers arrested have confessed to a charge of seconddegree murder. On May Day, 1970, the rally is not only protesting Seale's innocence but demanding that he notface trial. Rallies protesting the Vietnam war and other causes have generally lost popularity in theUnited States, their moderate organisers convinced they generate more resentment than converts.But on the platform are the old Vietnam radicals - David Dellinger, Jerry Rubin, Rennie Davis,Tom Hayden and Abbie Hoffman - whose paths we have followed from the steps of the Pentagon tothe Conrad Hilton in Chicago. Now — released on bail over Judge Julius Hoffmann's protest that they are a menace to society —we find them in New Haven. Because the Black Panther body was dumped near New Haven and Sealemust be tried here, students from Yale University have become involved. "Chicago 7" attorney William Kunstler has visited the Yale campus and invoked student aid. Thefaculty — even Yale President Kingman Brewster — are going along. The radicals have all the ingredients for provoking trouble: a cause, well-meaningdemonstrators, a "non-violent" situation for exploitation. The Democratic Governor ofConnecticut so rates the promise of non-violence he has called up troops of the New HavenNational Guard and asked Washington to fly in another 4,000 Federal soldiers on stand-by. On the New Haven green, where revolutionaries 195 years ago seized the powder house and muskets and marched against the British, May Day 1970 looks none the less peaceful, a picture of youth culture: beads and braid, banded heads and liberated bosoms, sun worship and good humour, "legalise marihuana" and Cuban flags, pets and "love animals" admonitions— in short, love, not war. 'Yippies' But there is a fringe of helmeted "yippies" on the green. Leather-jacketed motor cyclists guntheir machines down adjacent streets with English names like Main, Chapel, Temple and the like, towards the Gothic buildings of nearby Yale. And on the platform, it is not all love and let live. Jerry Rubin harangues the crowd for over an hour, the voice of the former Berkeley firebrand filtering over loudspeakers at the back of the square like that of Hitler surging on radio 30 years before. Youths hand out angry pamphlets put out by the "Progressive Labour Party," a hardline group which split from the U.S. Communist party when Peking broke with Moscow. Hanoi-sympathiser David Dellinger, wearing coast and tie, advises the placid crowd: "Don't let the Establishment provoke us into a violent encounter." Today he is less profane than the other speakers, and remarks only that the hands of the U.S. Government are "dripping with blood:" In Chicago, he employed a crudity in the courtroom to describe testimony against him. This is the mod language of revolution. Police are "pigs," troops are unprintable; epithets heard from riot to riot insult, provoke, invite "police brutality" or frame pictures of bayoneted rifles at the ready. It is 10.30 p.m. now, back on the fringe of the green. Near the centre, a mob is milling around the high Victorian Gothic church which Yale's chaplain, Dr William Sloane Coffin, has made available to demonstrators so they can "come into the church and be disengaged from the police." It is an Orwellian scene: helmeted riot police bracing themselves at New Haven's Main Street in front of plywood-protected shops, holding two ear-splitting portable machines ready to project "pepper smoke" — science's last word. The beautiful spires of three churches on the green are bathed in floodlights, a trash fire is flickering near on the steps of the courthouse which Abbie has not yet sent to the moon. Then the mob comes, led by "yippies." Their white helmets show as they try to break past thepolice liner. Out of the dark whizz bottles and stones. The first bottle crashes on the pavement six feet from where the bare-headed Press arestanding. A shattered fragment hits one on the foot, other splinters cut the shins of the coffee shop waitress who served us not long before. Explosions The police toss smoke grenades into the crowd. They explode with a crack like a rifle shot. Theroaring "pepper smoke" machines drive the mob back to the chaplain's church. Yale students,acting as marshals, link hands shouting, "Move back" to the nearby campus. But the "yippies" come again, this time in an attempted outflanking move down Chapel Street.More smoke grenades, some tear gas this time, and National Guard troops are moved up to blockoff the street with fixed bayonets. Students pour out of nearby lecture rooms where they have been listening to tho "Chicago 7" —"There'll be a midnight sale at Macy's," Abbie Hoffman suggested to his group. But Macy's,wisely buried in an acre of plywood a block behind police lines, remains inviolate. The shouting turmoil continues well after midnight. The New Haven police chief rushes to every incident, restrains his men — now suffering a few bruises and excited as missiles continue whistling out of the darkness. It is no joke to be at the receiving end of unseen bottles. The cost We return down Chapel Street, led by a BBC correspondent preceded by his own spotlight and camera, bobbing along in a sea of helmeted maniacs saying "This is what it is like in New Haven," etcetera, etcetera, "end of take one, clapper board." A stick of dynamite explodes in the Yale skating rink. Many windows are shattered, no one is seriously injured. A quiet night really: only 17 arrests, not much damage. But a "non-violent" demonstration has held a fine city to ransom, cost Government and commerce over a million dollars and run the risk once more of smashed heads - even violent deaths.
3 May 14:00 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/world/north-america/from-the-archives-1970-us-campuses-erupt-in-violence-20200430-p54ope.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_worldRating: 0.86
From the Archives, 1970: US campuses erupt in violence
How do 'non-violent' demonstrations come to end in tragedy, as happened at Kent UniversityOhio? ROY MACARTNEY takes a typical case and tells how tensions build up. It is May Day on the historic old green of New Haven, home of the world-famed Yale University.Glorious sunshine bathes an idyllic scene. But New Haven is uptight, tense, nervous, the city already paralysed by mid-Friday, normally abusiness day. A "non-violent" demonstration is in progress on the historic green, and "non-violent" rallies nowadays usually end in violence. Shops around the green are shuttered with plywood, restaurants and bars closed, business houseslocked, staffs — including that of the telephone exchange — dispatched home early. Riot police,even National Guard troops, are deployed. Yale students, amused at this apparent "over-kill" reaction, are taking pictures of the ranksof the "other half" in a city with a long history of town versus gown. Police are edgy because 280 bayonet-mounted riot guns were stolen from a New Haven armoury the previous weekend. They also know this has been a season for dynamite, for bombs and bomb-makers from Manhattan to Chicago, from Greenwich Village to Maryland. Clown of the "Chicago 7," Abbie Hoffman, is haranguing a good-natured crowd of about 8,000. Hepromises to make members "the VC of America." They cheer his sallies at "the bastards in Washington." His best laugh comes when he waves atthe Courthouse and says, "We'll pick it up and send it to the moon," if Bobby Seale isconvicted. The rally has been called because the 33-year-old Black Panther leader Bobby Seale faces trialon a charge of murder in the templed white courthouse fronting the green. He is alleged to haveordered the killing of a Black Panther whose tortured body was found near New Haven in May lastyear. It is a complicated story of informers and counter-informers. Police say they seized a tape ofthe "trial" which preceded the victim's slaying in a raid on Black Panther headquarters twodays after the murder. Three of 16 Panthers arrested have confessed to a charge of seconddegree murder. On May Day, 1970, the rally is not only protesting Seale's innocence but demanding that he notface trial. Rallies protesting the Vietnam war and other causes have generally lost popularity in theUnited States, their moderate organisers convinced they generate more resentment than converts.But on the platform are the old Vietnam radicals - David Dellinger, Jerry Rubin, Rennie Davis,Tom Hayden and Abbie Hoffman - whose paths we have followed from the steps of the Pentagon tothe Conrad Hilton in Chicago. Now — released on bail over Judge Julius Hoffmann's protest that they are a menace to society —we find them in New Haven. Because the Black Panther body was dumped near New Haven and Sealemust be tried here, students from Yale University have become involved. "Chicago 7" attorney William Kunstler has visited the Yale campus and invoked student aid. Thefaculty — even Yale President Kingman Brewster — are going along. The radicals have all the ingredients for provoking trouble: a cause, well-meaningdemonstrators, a "non-violent" situation for exploitation. The Democratic Governor ofConnecticut so rates the promise of non-violence he has called up troops of the New HavenNational Guard and asked Washington to fly in another 4,000 Federal soldiers on stand-by. On the New Haven green, where revolutionaries 195 years ago seized the powder house and muskets and marched against the British, May Day 1970 looks none the less peaceful, a picture of youth culture: beads and braid, banded heads and liberated bosoms, sun worship and good humour, "legalise marihuana" and Cuban flags, pets and "love animals" admonitions— in short, love, not war. But there is a fringe of helmeted "yippies" on the green. Leather-jacketed motor cyclists guntheir machines down adjacent streets with English names like Main, Chapel, Temple and the like, towards the Gothic buildings of nearby Yale. And on the platform, it is not all love and let live. Jerry Rubin harangues the crowd for over an hour, the voice of the former Berkeley firebrand filtering over loudspeakers at the back of the square like that of Hitler surging on radio 30 years before. Youths hand out angry pamphlets put out by the "Progressive Labour Party," a hardline group which split from the U.S. Communist party when Peking broke with Moscow. Hanoi-sympathiser David Dellinger, wearing coast and tie, advises the placid crowd: "Don't let the Establishment provoke us into a violent encounter." Today he is less profane than the other speakers, and remarks only that the hands of the U.S. Government are "dripping with blood:" In Chicago, he employed a crudity in the courtroom to describe testimony against him. This is the mod language of revolution. Police are "pigs," troops are unprintable; epithets heard from riot to riot insult, provoke, invite "police brutality" or frame pictures of bayoneted rifles at the ready. It is 10.30 p.m. now, back on the fringe of the green. Near the centre, a mob is milling around the high Victorian Gothic church which Yale's chaplain, Dr William Sloane Coffin, has made available to demonstrators so they can "come into the church and be disengaged from the police." It is an Orwellian scene: helmeted riot police bracing themselves at New Haven's Main Street in front of plywood-protected shops, holding two ear-splitting portable machines ready to project "pepper smoke" — science's last word. The beautiful spires of three churches on the green are bathed in floodlights, a trash fire is flickering near on the steps of the courthouse which Abbie has not yet sent to the moon. Then the mob comes, led by "yippies." Their white helmets show as they try to break past thepolice liner. Out of the dark whizz bottles and stones. The first bottle crashes on the pavement six feet from where the bare-headed Press arestanding. A shattered fragment hits one on the foot, other splinters cut the shins of the coffee shop waitress who served us not long before. The police toss smoke grenades into the crowd. They explode with a crack like a rifle shot. Theroaring "pepper smoke" machines drive the mob back to the chaplain's church. Yale students,acting as marshals, link hands shouting, "Move back" to the nearby campus. But the "yippies" come again, this time in an attempted outflanking move down Chapel Street.More smoke grenades, some tear gas this time, and National Guard troops are moved up to blockoff the street with fixed bayonets. Students pour out of nearby lecture rooms where they have been listening to tho "Chicago 7" —"There'll be a midnight sale at Macy's," Abbie Hoffman suggested to his group. But Macy's,wisely buried in an acre of plywood a block behind police lines, remains inviolate. The shouting turmoil continues well after midnight. The New Haven police chief rushes to every incident, restrains his men — now suffering a few bruises and excited as missiles continue whistling out of the darkness. It is no joke to be at the receiving end of unseen bottles. We return down Chapel Street, led by a BBC correspondent preceded by his own spotlight and camera, bobbing along in a sea of helmeted maniacs saying "This is what it is like in New Haven," etcetera, etcetera, "end of take one, clapper board." A stick of dynamite explodes in the Yale skating rink. Many windows are shattered, no one is seriously injured. A quiet night really: only 17 arrests, not much damage. But a "non-violent" demonstration has held a fine city to ransom, cost Government and commerce over a million dollars and run the risk once more of smashed heads - even violent deaths.
3 May 14:00 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/world/north-america/from-the-archives-1970-us-campuses-erupt-in-violence-20200430-p54ope.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_worldRating: 0.55
'Socially irresponsible': Meriton bypasses council to build 1900 apartments
3 May 14:00
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Best date: 3 May 14:00
Average US: 3.733333333333333
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
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Weighted average IN: 1.720587750415579
'Socially irresponsible': Meriton bypasses council to build 1900 apartments
A dispute has erupted between the company owned by billionaire developer Harry Triguboff and Randwick City Council over plans to build 1900 apartments at Little Bay. Meriton lodged its plans with the NSW Planning Department on Thursday because the council had not made a final decision about new planning controls. A Meriton spokeswoman said the company would “build tomorrow” if planning approvals were issued for the proposal, which she said would provide up to 7800 jobs and $750 million in government taxes. “It is evident that it is unlikely we will receive an objective and fair decision in the council chambers,” she said. The department will prepare a report on the proposal for the Sydney East Planning Panel, which will determine Meriton’s rezoning request. Meriton’s Little Bay development was not among the 24 projects chosen last week by the state government to be fast-tracked through its Planning System Acceleration Program, which included the Snowy Hydro 2.0 energy storage scheme, the Ivanhoe public housing estate in Ryde, three housing developments in North Sydney and the revitalisation of Bankstown's town centre. “Should the government determine that the Little Bay project meets the criteria for inclusion in the program, then the necessary time frames can be achieved,” Meriton’s spokeswoman said. Planning Minister Rob Stokes said the program sought to fast-track projects to boost the economy and create jobs during the COVID-19 crisis. “It is not an invitation to rush projects through without the normal checks, balances and community consultation,” he said. Meriton submitted an alternative concept for the project in March after the council raised concerns about the initial plans for 1900 apartments in buildings up to 22-storeys or 73 metres. Meriton purchased the site for $245 million in 2017 with an approved masterplan for 450 dwellings. The company’s new plans still involve the construction of 1900 apartments in towers up to 17 floors and a hotel. A council spokesman said Meriton’s proposal was under assessment. “We do not believe the project is far enough advanced in the planning process for it to be considered as part of the acceleration program,” he said. Meriton’s plans have also met opposition from community group Save Little Bay, whose spokesman Olde Lorenzen said it “completely disregards” local planning controls and an “enormous oversupply” of high-rise development in the area. He also said Meriton had exaggerated the number of jobs that would be created. “It is socially irresponsible, meets unanimous community opposition and is lacking strategic merit in every aspect,” he said. In response, Meriton’s spokeswoman said the developer was “cognisant” of local concerns and had sought to mitigate the impact of the development on the surrounding community. “We note that there are some locals speaking in support but they are quickly accosted by others who do not share the same view,” she said. The project was nominated as “shovel-ready” that could be commenced within six months by developers’ lobby group, the Urban Taskforce, in a letter sent to the NSW Treasury and Planning Department in March. Other projects suggested included the redevelopment of the Bondi Junction and Roseville RSLs, a brewery in Newtown, the Eastlakes shopping centre and a golf resort in the Hunter Valley. Urban Taskforce head Tom Forrest said there was “clearly significant pent-up frustration” among developers with what they perceived as a slowdown in the planning system over the past two years. “The COVID-19 induced slow-down is an opportunity to push through some important economy saving reforms,” he said.
3 May 14:00 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/nsw/socially-irresponsible-meriton-bypasses-council-to-build-1900-apartments-20200502-p54p83.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 2.20
'Socially irresponsible': Meriton bypasses council to build 1900 apartments
A dispute has erupted between the company owned by billionaire developer Harry Triguboff and Randwick City Council over plans to build 1900 apartments at Little Bay. Meriton lodged its plans with the NSW Planning Department on Thursday because the council had not made a final decision about new planning controls. A Meriton spokeswoman said the company would “build tomorrow” if planning approvals were issued for the proposal, which she said would provide up to 7800 jobs and $750 million in government taxes. “It is evident that it is unlikely we will receive an objective and fair decision in the council chambers,” she said. The department will prepare a report on the proposal for the Sydney East Planning Panel, which will determine Meriton’s rezoning request. Meriton’s Little Bay development was not among the 24 projects chosen last week by the state government to be fast-tracked through its Planning System Acceleration Program, which included the Snowy Hydro 2.0 energy storage scheme, the Ivanhoe public housing estate in Ryde, three housing developments in North Sydney and the revitalisation of Bankstown's town centre. “Should the government determine that the Little Bay project meets the criteria for inclusion in the program, then the necessary time frames can be achieved,” Meriton’s spokeswoman said. Planning Minister Rob Stokes said the program sought to fast-track projects to boost the economy and create jobs during the COVID-19 crisis. “It is not an invitation to rush projects through without the normal checks, balances and community consultation,” he said. Meriton submitted an alternative concept for the project in March after the council raised concerns about the initial plans for 1900 apartments in buildings up to 22-storeys or 73 metres. Meriton purchased the site for $245 million in 2017 with an approved masterplan for 450 dwellings. The company’s new plans still involve the construction of 1900 apartments in towers up to 17 floors and a hotel. A council spokesman said Meriton’s proposal was under assessment. “We do not believe the project is far enough advanced in the planning process for it to be considered as part of the acceleration program,” he said. Meriton’s plans have also met opposition from community group Save Little Bay, whose spokesman Olde Lorenzen said it “completely disregards” local planning controls and an “enormous oversupply” of high-rise development in the area. He also said Meriton had exaggerated the number of jobs that would be created. “It is socially irresponsible, meets unanimous community opposition and is lacking strategic merit in every aspect,” he said. In response, Meriton’s spokeswoman said the developer was “cognisant” of local concerns and had sought to mitigate the impact of the development on the surrounding community. “We note that there are some locals speaking in support but they are quickly accosted by others who do not share the same view,” she said. The project was nominated as “shovel-ready” that could be commenced within six months by developers’ lobby group, the Urban Taskforce, in a letter sent to the NSW Treasury and Planning Department in March. Other projects suggested included the redevelopment of the Bondi Junction and Roseville RSLs, a brewery in Newtown, the Eastlakes shopping centre and a golf resort in the Hunter Valley. Urban Taskforce head Tom Forrest said there was “clearly significant pent-up frustration” among developers with what they perceived as a slowdown in the planning system over the past two years. “The COVID-19 induced slow-down is an opportunity to push through some important economy saving reforms,” he said.
3 May 14:00 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/nsw/socially-irresponsible-meriton-bypasses-council-to-build-1900-apartments-20200502-p54p83.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
'Socially irresponsible': Meriton bypasses council to build 1900 apartments
A dispute has erupted between the company owned by billionaire developer Harry Triguboff and Randwick City Council over plans to build 1900 apartments at Little Bay. Meriton lodged its plans with the NSW Planning Department on Thursday because the council had not made a final decision about new planning controls. A Meriton spokeswoman said the company would “build tomorrow” if planning approvals were issued for the proposal, which she said would provide up to 7800 jobs and $750 million in government taxes. “It is evident that it is unlikely we will receive an objective and fair decision in the council chambers,” she said. The department will prepare a report on the proposal for the Sydney East Planning Panel, which will determine Meriton’s rezoning request. Meriton’s Little Bay development was not among the 24 projects chosen last week by the state government to be fast-tracked through its Planning System Acceleration Program, which included the Snowy Hydro 2.0 energy storage scheme, the Ivanhoe public housing estate in Ryde, three housing developments in North Sydney and the revitalisation of Bankstown's town centre. “Should the government determine that the Little Bay project meets the criteria for inclusion in the program, then the necessary time frames can be achieved,” Meriton’s spokeswoman said. Planning Minister Rob Stokes said the program sought to fast-track projects to boost the economy and create jobs during the COVID-19 crisis. “It is not an invitation to rush projects through without the normal checks, balances and community consultation,” he said. Meriton submitted an alternative concept for the project in March after the council raised concerns about the initial plans for 1900 apartments in buildings up to 22-storeys or 73 metres. Meriton purchased the site for $245 million in 2017 with an approved masterplan for 450 dwellings. The company’s new plans still involve the construction of 1900 apartments in towers up to 17 floors and a hotel. A council spokesman said Meriton’s proposal was under assessment. “We do not believe the project is far enough advanced in the planning process for it to be considered as part of the acceleration program,” he said. Meriton’s plans have also met opposition from community group Save Little Bay, whose spokesman Olde Lorenzen said it “completely disregards” local planning controls and an “enormous oversupply” of high-rise development in the area. He also said Meriton had exaggerated the number of jobs that would be created. “It is socially irresponsible, meets unanimous community opposition and is lacking strategic merit in every aspect,” he said. In response, Meriton’s spokeswoman said the developer was “cognisant” of local concerns and had sought to mitigate the impact of the development on the surrounding community. “We note that there are some locals speaking in support but they are quickly accosted by others who do not share the same view,” she said. The project was nominated as “shovel-ready” that could be commenced within six months by developers’ lobby group, the Urban Taskforce, in a letter sent to the NSW Treasury and Planning Department in March. Other projects suggested included the redevelopment of the Bondi Junction and Roseville RSLs, a brewery in Newtown, the Eastlakes shopping centre and a golf resort in the Hunter Valley. Urban Taskforce head Tom Forrest said there was “clearly significant pent-up frustration” among developers with what they perceived as a slowdown in the planning system over the past two years. “The COVID-19 induced slow-down is an opportunity to push through some important economy saving reforms,” he said.
3 May 14:00 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/nsw/socially-irresponsible-meriton-bypasses-council-to-build-1900-apartments-20200502-p54p83.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
Making that sale during tough times
3 May 13:59
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3 articles
Weight: 1.80
Importance: 1.80
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 13:59
Average US: 3.733333333333333
Weighted average US: 3.1681237569867884
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Average IN: 1.8333333333333333
Weighted average IN: 1.720587750415579
Making that sale during tough times
Melbourne real estate agents face an uphill battle selling property under COVID-19 conditions but claim there’s still interest if sellers are motivated. Developer John Woodman, the prolific political donor and planner at the centre of a corruption probe into dodgy planning decisions at Casey Council, could be one of the lucky ones. Mornington Peninsula agents have secured $4 million selling the Flinders estate and hobby vineyard controlled by a company linked to Woodman and his son, Heath. Documents relating to the sale list Gregory Beilby, an executive general manager inside Raphael Geminder’s PACT Group packaging company, as the buyer. Another document related to the property has listed Susan Chadwick on the title deeds. The pair share the same Haverbrack Avenue residence in Malvern. It’s been almost six weeks since the Independent Broad-based anti-Corruption Commission put its probe into Casey Council on ice as it waits out the COVID-19 threat. In IBAC hearings at the end of 2019, commissioners heard Woodman had allegedly paid councillors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett more than $1.2 million in allegedly corrupt payments in a bid for favourable planning decisions. It was in early March when TheAge revealed Woodman was trying to raise more than $6 million by offloading waterfront and beachside properties held by companies that he controlled or owned. All this was happening as the corruption watchdog circled. Others mentioned in the hearings, including Aziz, have had their assets frozen. Spare a thought for the lawyers at Corrs Chambers Westgarth who go directly to LinkedIn whenever chief executive Gavin MacLaren announces the appointment of new partners. Inevitably, there’s an Allens connection. MacLaren, as this column has previously reported, was a senior partner at Allens for a decade. He arrived at Corrs in 2017 after a short stint at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. But since his arrival, it’s been a one-way street of Allens lawyers getting the most lucrative gigs at Corrs. So far, the Allens alumni who have made partner at Corrs have included Abigail Gill, Craig Phillips, Alexandra Feros and Nathaniel Popelianski. And it seems MacLaren has become sensitive to anger brewing among senior Corrs lawyers waiting on the sidelines for their own call up to partner. On Friday, MacLaren announced two new partners joining the firm: Anthony Arrow and Jennee Chan. Arrow, MacLaren wrote in a staff email, “has more than two decades of experience advising government, sponsors, developers and contractors across the full suite of procurement models”. Chan, he said, brings “significant experience and expertise”. No mention of where they got this experience. Allens, of course. Arrow, who is currently at American giant Pinsent Masons, was an Allens partner for six years until 2016. Chan has been at Allens for more than a decade. Both start in Corrs’ Melbourne office in July. That was quick. Australia Post’s former international boss Annette Carey has scored a new job. She has been re-employed by Lindsay Fox, who has installed the well-regarded executive at the head of his cash delivery arm, Linfox Armaguard. Readers will recall Carey was a shock exit from Australia Post in early April, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic supposedly accelerating some elements of chief executive Christine Holgate’s cost-cutting drive. Carey’s left at the same time as parcels business boss Bob Black, who’s much-publicised plan for a European sabbatical was made er, permanent on the same day. Black remains overseas, meanwhile, Carey found luck immediately with her old employer. Prior to joining Australia Post, Carey was Linfox Logistics chief executive. The legal community has been characteristically direct when talking about how the coronavirus has made the job of administering the law more difficult. The Australian Bar Council, headed by Perth silk Matthew Howard, SC, brought in PwC in late March to provide advice for barristers dealing with a sudden slowdown in cases. Both Howard and Victorian Bar president Wendy Harris, QC, have been frank about their approaches to Attorney General Christian Porter and Victorian Attorney General Jill Hennessy about how some lawyers are struggling. Meanwhile, there has been some financial relief in the sector. Last week the Law Institute of Victoria slashed membership fees for full-fee paying members by 80 per cent to $99. The institute represents solicitors, and also performs some accreditation functions for the Legal Services Board. A mail-out from president Sam Pandya last week announced the fee cut but drew the line at reducing the price of other services. Harris’ Bar Council has taken similar steps, writing to members last week to advise them of membership fee cuts operating on a sliding scale, as well as an option to defer payment of professional indemnity insurance until November 30. Meanwhile, there’s been reprieve on rents too. Barristers Chambers Limited, a property company owning barristers' chambers along William Street, offered a moratorium on rent for April. Rental assistance is now being offered on a case-by-case basis.
3 May 13:59 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/making-that-sale-during-tough-times-20200503-p54pf0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_nationalRating: 2.20
Making that sale during tough times
Melbourne real estate agents face an uphill battle selling property under COVID-19 conditions but claim there’s still interest if sellers are motivated. Developer John Woodman, the prolific political donor and planner at the centre of a corruption probe into dodgy planning decisions at Casey Council, could be one of the lucky ones. Mornington Peninsula agents have secured $4 million selling the Flinders estate and hobby vineyard controlled by a company linked to Woodman and his son, Heath. Documents relating to the sale list Gregory Beilby, an executive general manager inside Raphael Geminder’s PACT Group packaging company, as the buyer. Another document related to the property has listed Susan Chadwick on the title deeds. The pair share the same Haverbrack Avenue residence in Malvern. It’s been almost six weeks since the Independent Broad-based anti-Corruption Commission put its probe into Casey Council on ice as it waits out the COVID-19 threat. In IBAC hearings at the end of 2019, commissioners heard Woodman had allegedly paid councillors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett more than $1.2 million in allegedly corrupt payments in a bid for favourable planning decisions. It was in early March when TheAge revealed Woodman was trying to raise more than $6 million by offloading waterfront and beachside properties held by companies that he controlled or owned. All this was happening as the corruption watchdog circled. Others mentioned in the hearings, including Aziz, have had their assets frozen. Spare a thought for the lawyers at Corrs Chambers Westgarth who go directly to LinkedIn whenever chief executive Gavin MacLaren announces the appointment of new partners. Inevitably, there’s an Allens connection. MacLaren, as this column has previously reported, was a senior partner at Allens for a decade. He arrived at Corrs in 2017 after a short stint at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. But since his arrival, it’s been a one-way street of Allens lawyers getting the most lucrative gigs at Corrs. So far, the Allens alumni who have made partner at Corrs have included Abigail Gill, Craig Phillips, Alexandra Feros and Nathaniel Popelianski. And it seems MacLaren has become sensitive to anger brewing among senior Corrs lawyers waiting on the sidelines for their own call up to partner. On Friday, MacLaren announced two new partners joining the firm: Anthony Arrow and Jennee Chan. Arrow, MacLaren wrote in a staff email, “has more than two decades of experience advising government, sponsors, developers and contractors across the full suite of procurement models”. Chan, he said, brings “significant experience and expertise”. No mention of where they got this experience. Allens, of course. Arrow, who is currently at American giant Pinsent Masons, was an Allens partner for six years until 2016. Chan has been at Allens for more than a decade. Both start in Corrs’ Melbourne office in July. That was quick. Australia Post’s former international boss Annette Carey has scored a new job. She has been re-employed by Lindsay Fox, who has installed the well-regarded executive at the head of his cash delivery arm, Linfox Armaguard. Readers will recall Carey was a shock exit from Australia Post in early April, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic supposedly accelerating some elements of chief executive Christine Holgate’s cost-cutting drive. Carey’s left at the same time as parcels business boss Bob Black, who’s much-publicised plan for a European sabbatical was made er, permanent on the same day. Black remains overseas, meanwhile, Carey found luck immediately with her old employer. Prior to joining Australia Post, Carey was Linfox Logistics chief executive. The legal community has been characteristically direct when talking about how the coronavirus has made the job of administering the law more difficult. The Australian Bar Council, headed by Perth silk Matthew Howard, SC, brought in PwC in late March to provide advice for barristers dealing with a sudden slowdown in cases. Both Howard and Victorian Bar president Wendy Harris, QC, have been frank about their approaches to Attorney General Christian Porter and Victorian Attorney General Jill Hennessy about how some lawyers are struggling. Meanwhile, there has been some financial relief in the sector. Last week the Law Institute of Victoria slashed membership fees for full-fee paying members by 80 per cent to $99. The institute represents solicitors, and also performs some accreditation functions for the Legal Services Board. A mail-out from president Sam Pandya last week announced the fee cut but drew the line at reducing the price of other services. Harris’ Bar Council has taken similar steps, writing to members last week to advise them of membership fee cuts operating on a sliding scale, as well as an option to defer payment of professional indemnity insurance until November 30. Meanwhile, there’s been reprieve on rents too. Barristers Chambers Limited, a property company owning barristers' chambers along William Street, offered a moratorium on rent for April. Rental assistance is now being offered on a case-by-case basis.
3 May 13:59 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/making-that-sale-during-tough-times-20200503-p54pf0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Making that sale during tough times
Melbourne real estate agents face an uphill battle selling property under COVID-19 conditions but claim there’s still interest if sellers are motivated. Developer John Woodman, the prolific political donor and planner at the centre of a corruption probe into dodgy planning decisions at Casey Council, could be one of the lucky ones. Mornington Peninsula agents have secured $4 million selling the Flinders estate and hobby vineyard controlled by a company linked to Woodman and his son, Heath. Documents relating to the sale list Gregory Beilby, an executive general manager inside Raphael Geminder’s PACT Group packaging company, as the buyer. Another document related to the property has listed Susan Chadwick on the title deeds. The pair share the same Haverbrack Avenue residence in Malvern. It’s been almost six weeks since the Independent Broad-based anti-Corruption Commission put its probe into Casey Council on ice as it waits out the COVID-19 threat. In IBAC hearings at the end of 2019, commissioners heard Woodman had allegedly paid councillors Sam Aziz and Geoff Ablett more than $1.2 million in allegedly corrupt payments in a bid for favourable planning decisions. It was in early March when TheAge revealed Woodman was trying to raise more than $6 million by offloading waterfront and beachside properties held by companies that he controlled or owned. All this was happening as the corruption watchdog circled. Others mentioned in the hearings, including Aziz, have had their assets frozen. Spare a thought for the lawyers at Corrs Chambers Westgarth who go directly to LinkedIn whenever chief executive Gavin MacLaren announces the appointment of new partners. Inevitably, there’s an Allens connection. MacLaren, as this column has previously reported, was a senior partner at Allens for a decade. He arrived at Corrs in 2017 after a short stint at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. But since his arrival, it’s been a one-way street of Allens lawyers getting the most lucrative gigs at Corrs. So far, the Allens alumni who have made partner at Corrs have included Abigail Gill, Craig Phillips, Alexandra Feros and Nathaniel Popelianski. And it seems MacLaren has become sensitive to anger brewing among senior Corrs lawyers waiting on the sidelines for their own call up to partner. On Friday, MacLaren announced two new partners joining the firm: Anthony Arrow and Jennee Chan. Arrow, MacLaren wrote in a staff email, “has more than two decades of experience advising government, sponsors, developers and contractors across the full suite of procurement models”. Chan, he said, brings “significant experience and expertise”. No mention of where they got this experience. Allens, of course. Arrow, who is currently at American giant Pinsent Masons, was an Allens partner for six years until 2016. Chan has been at Allens for more than a decade. Both start in Corrs’ Melbourne office in July. That was quick. Australia Post’s former international boss Annette Carey has scored a new job. She has been re-employed by Lindsay Fox, who has installed the well-regarded executive at the head of his cash delivery arm, Linfox Armaguard. Readers will recall Carey was a shock exit from Australia Post in early April, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic supposedly accelerating some elements of chief executive Christine Holgate’s cost-cutting drive. Carey’s left at the same time as parcels business boss Bob Black, who’s much-publicised plan for a European sabbatical was made er, permanent on the same day. Black remains overseas, meanwhile, Carey found luck immediately with her old employer. Prior to joining Australia Post, Carey was Linfox Logistics chief executive. The legal community has been characteristically direct when talking about how the coronavirus has made the job of administering the law more difficult. The Australian Bar Council, headed by Perth silk Matthew Howard, SC, brought in PwC in late March to provide advice for barristers dealing with a sudden slowdown in cases. Both Howard and Victorian Bar president Wendy Harris, QC, have been frank about their approaches to Attorney General Christian Porter and Victorian Attorney General Jill Hennessy about how some lawyers are struggling. Meanwhile, there has been some financial relief in the sector. Last week the Law Institute of Victoria slashed membership fees for full-fee paying members by 80 per cent to $99. The institute represents solicitors, and also performs some accreditation functions for the Legal Services Board. A mail-out from president Sam Pandya last week announced the fee cut but drew the line at reducing the price of other services. Harris’ Bar Council has taken similar steps, writing to members last week to advise them of membership fee cuts operating on a sliding scale, as well as an option to defer payment of professional indemnity insurance until November 30. Meanwhile, there’s been reprieve on rents too. Barristers Chambers Limited, a property company owning barristers' chambers along William Street, offered a moratorium on rent for April. Rental assistance is now being offered on a case-by-case basis.
3 May 13:59 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/making-that-sale-during-tough-times-20200503-p54pf0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
Early release of prisoners a worthy idea, but risks too high
3 May 13:51
•
3 articles
Weight: 1.80
Importance: 1.80
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 13:51
Average US: 3.733333333333333
Weighted average US: 3.1681237569867884
Average GB: 0.0
Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 1.8333333333333333
Weighted average IN: 1.720587750415579
Early release of prisoners a worthy idea, but risks too high
Last week, human rights lawyers filed an ultimately unsuccessful injunction for the early release of a Victorian prisoner with multiple medical conditions. This followed recent calls to immediately release vulnerable prisoners from custody nationwide. The impulse for this advocacy is intuitively reasonable. Custodial environments are susceptible to a COVID-19 outbreak given the confined conditions and potential for overcrowding. Moreover, prison populations are vulnerable, possessing poorer physical and mental health and other social challenges (substance misuse, homelessness) compared to the general population. As of writing, Australian governments have yet to immediately release select prisoners into the community as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, despite recent advocacy to do so. Experts across a number of sectors have recommended the early release of prisoners from vulnerable groups where possible, including Indigenous Australians, the elderly, victims of domestic violence and those with chronic health issues. However, the proposed de-carceration strategy (which the author is sympathetic to) requires an assessment of its potential community consequences, and most importantly, its immediate impact on the health and wellbeing of candidate prisoners for release. Stage three restrictions have now been in effect state-wide for one month. Victorian prisons have yet to record a case of COVID-19. A number of safety mechanisms were introduced by correctional facilities to help contain potential transmission of the virus. These include, but are not are not limited to: the infra-red temperature testing of all staff before entry to the facility; staff who present with high temperatures are sent home and required to undertake a COVID-19 test before returning to work; isolating all new prison admissions for 14 days; closing group programs to abide with physical distancing; allowing prisoners to connect with family members on tablet devices as an alternative to in-prison visitation. Moreover, conventional health and (cultural) support systems continue to be available to prisoners. With no confirmed cases and ongoing efforts to restrict the materialisation of COVID-19 in Victorian custodial settings, the potential costs of releasing vulnerable prisoners into the community necessitates further scrutiny. Any prisoners released under anti-coronavirus measures will return to a general community enduring stage-three shutdown restrictions and a societal-wide economic disruption. Support services that are ordinarily available to released offenders are currently compromised or are experiencing significant delays. Moreover, Centrelink services which are heavily relied upon by individuals post-release, are currently overwhelmed as they service thousands of newly unemployed clients. Mental health services are also strained as they adjust to remote service delivery and contend with a sharp spike in community-wide help-seeking. The reduced capacity for intensive case management, monitoring and re-entry assistance for released prisoners is a serious concern given their higher levels of mental and chronic health concerns, substance misuse and histories of unemployment and homelessness. Australian research points to high rates of mortality and self-harm shortly after release from custody. Predictors of post-release mortality include mental disorder, suicide and substance abuse – concerns which transitional support programs and other re-entry interventions will be unable to fully support during shutdown. This scenario poses elevated health risk for released prisoners, compounding their vulnerability and increasing the likelihood of problem behaviour. Without readily available coping strategies, released prisoners with histories of violence, aggression, impulsivity and serious mental illness, may put themselves and others (particularly co-habitants) at risk. Calls to release prisoners who are survivors of domestic violence must also consider the heightened risk of re-victimisation post-release. Moreover, physical distancing may not be adhered to for those whose behavioural and psychological needs are untreated. Proposals to immediately release vulnerable prisoners are worthy objectives. However it is important to balance the relative safety risks of remaining in custody – where in Victorian prisons there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 - with early release into a community with weakened social support and wellbeing services in the midst of a state of emergency shutdown. The potential for a COVID-19 outbreak in custody is a genuine concern, notwithstanding proactive measures employed in Victorian prisons. However, the real prospect of deleterious outcomes for immediately released vulnerable prisoners must also be weighed heavily during this demanding period. Stephane Shepherd is Associate Professor (Forensic Psychology) at Swinburne University.
3 May 13:51 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/early-release-of-prisoners-a-worthy-idea-but-risks-too-high-20200501-p54oy0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_victoriaRating: 2.20
Early release of prisoners a worthy idea, but risks too high
Last week, human rights lawyers filed an ultimately unsuccessful injunction for the early release of a Victorian prisoner with multiple medical conditions. This followed recent calls to immediately release vulnerable prisoners from custody nationwide. The impulse for this advocacy is intuitively reasonable. Custodial environments are susceptible to a COVID-19 outbreak given the confined conditions and potential for overcrowding. Moreover, prison populations are vulnerable, possessing poorer physical and mental health and other social challenges (substance misuse, homelessness) compared to the general population. As of writing, Australian governments have yet to immediately release select prisoners into the community as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, despite recent advocacy to do so. Experts across a number of sectors have recommended the early release of prisoners from vulnerable groups where possible, including Indigenous Australians, the elderly, victims of domestic violence and those with chronic health issues. However, the proposed de-carceration strategy (which the author is sympathetic to) requires an assessment of its potential community consequences, and most importantly, its immediate impact on the health and wellbeing of candidate prisoners for release. Stage three restrictions have now been in effect state-wide for one month. Victorian prisons have yet to record a case of COVID-19. A number of safety mechanisms were introduced by correctional facilities to help contain potential transmission of the virus. These include, but are not are not limited to: the infra-red temperature testing of all staff before entry to the facility; staff who present with high temperatures are sent home and required to undertake a COVID-19 test before returning to work; isolating all new prison admissions for 14 days; closing group programs to abide with physical distancing; allowing prisoners to connect with family members on tablet devices as an alternative to in-prison visitation. Moreover, conventional health and (cultural) support systems continue to be available to prisoners. With no confirmed cases and ongoing efforts to restrict the materialisation of COVID-19 in Victorian custodial settings, the potential costs of releasing vulnerable prisoners into the community necessitates further scrutiny. Any prisoners released under anti-coronavirus measures will return to a general community enduring stage-three shutdown restrictions and a societal-wide economic disruption. Support services that are ordinarily available to released offenders are currently compromised or are experiencing significant delays. Moreover, Centrelink services which are heavily relied upon by individuals post-release, are currently overwhelmed as they service thousands of newly unemployed clients. Mental health services are also strained as they adjust to remote service delivery and contend with a sharp spike in community-wide help-seeking. The reduced capacity for intensive case management, monitoring and re-entry assistance for released prisoners is a serious concern given their higher levels of mental and chronic health concerns, substance misuse and histories of unemployment and homelessness. Australian research points to high rates of mortality and self-harm shortly after release from custody. Predictors of post-release mortality include mental disorder, suicide and substance abuse – concerns which transitional support programs and other re-entry interventions will be unable to fully support during shutdown. This scenario poses elevated health risk for released prisoners, compounding their vulnerability and increasing the likelihood of problem behaviour. Without readily available coping strategies, released prisoners with histories of violence, aggression, impulsivity and serious mental illness, may put themselves and others (particularly co-habitants) at risk. Calls to release prisoners who are survivors of domestic violence must also consider the heightened risk of re-victimisation post-release. Moreover, physical distancing may not be adhered to for those whose behavioural and psychological needs are untreated. Proposals to immediately release vulnerable prisoners are worthy objectives. However it is important to balance the relative safety risks of remaining in custody – where in Victorian prisons there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 - with early release into a community with weakened social support and wellbeing services in the midst of a state of emergency shutdown. The potential for a COVID-19 outbreak in custody is a genuine concern, notwithstanding proactive measures employed in Victorian prisons. However, the real prospect of deleterious outcomes for immediately released vulnerable prisoners must also be weighed heavily during this demanding period. Stephane Shepherd is Associate Professor (Forensic Psychology) at Swinburne University.
3 May 13:51 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/victoria/early-release-of-prisoners-a-worthy-idea-but-risks-too-high-20200501-p54oy0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Early release of prisoners a worthy idea, but risks too high
Last week, human rights lawyers filed an ultimately unsuccessful injunction for the early release of a Victorian prisoner with multiple medical conditions. This followed recent calls to immediately release vulnerable prisoners from custody nationwide. The impulse for this advocacy is intuitively reasonable. Custodial environments are susceptible to a COVID-19 outbreak given the confined conditions and potential for overcrowding. Moreover, prison populations are vulnerable, possessing poorer physical and mental health and other social challenges (substance misuse, homelessness) compared to the general population. As of writing, Australian governments have yet to immediately release select prisoners into the community as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of coronavirus, despite recent advocacy to do so. Experts across a number of sectors have recommended the early release of prisoners from vulnerable groups where possible, including Indigenous Australians, the elderly, victims of domestic violence and those with chronic health issues. However, the proposed de-carceration strategy (which the author is sympathetic to) requires an assessment of its potential community consequences, and most importantly, its immediate impact on the health and wellbeing of candidate prisoners for release. Stage three restrictions have now been in effect state-wide for one month. Victorian prisons have yet to record a case of COVID-19. A number of safety mechanisms were introduced by correctional facilities to help contain potential transmission of the virus. These include, but are not are not limited to: the infra-red temperature testing of all staff before entry to the facility; staff who present with high temperatures are sent home and required to undertake a COVID-19 test before returning to work; isolating all new prison admissions for 14 days; closing group programs to abide with physical distancing; allowing prisoners to connect with family members on tablet devices as an alternative to in-prison visitation. Moreover, conventional health and (cultural) support systems continue to be available to prisoners. With no confirmed cases and ongoing efforts to restrict the materialisation of COVID-19 in Victorian custodial settings, the potential costs of releasing vulnerable prisoners into the community necessitates further scrutiny. Any prisoners released under anti-coronavirus measures will return to a general community enduring stage-three shutdown restrictions and a societal-wide economic disruption. Support services that are ordinarily available to released offenders are currently compromised or are experiencing significant delays. Moreover, Centrelink services which are heavily relied upon by individuals post-release, are currently overwhelmed as they service thousands of newly unemployed clients. Mental health services are also strained as they adjust to remote service delivery and contend with a sharp spike in community-wide help-seeking. The reduced capacity for intensive case management, monitoring and re-entry assistance for released prisoners is a serious concern given their higher levels of mental and chronic health concerns, substance misuse and histories of unemployment and homelessness. Australian research points to high rates of mortality and self-harm shortly after release from custody. Predictors of post-release mortality include mental disorder, suicide and substance abuse – concerns which transitional support programs and other re-entry interventions will be unable to fully support during shutdown. This scenario poses elevated health risk for released prisoners, compounding their vulnerability and increasing the likelihood of problem behaviour. Without readily available coping strategies, released prisoners with histories of violence, aggression, impulsivity and serious mental illness, may put themselves and others (particularly co-habitants) at risk. Calls to release prisoners who are survivors of domestic violence must also consider the heightened risk of re-victimisation post-release. Moreover, physical distancing may not be adhered to for those whose behavioural and psychological needs are untreated. Proposals to immediately release vulnerable prisoners are worthy objectives. However it is important to balance the relative safety risks of remaining in custody – where in Victorian prisons there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 - with early release into a community with weakened social support and wellbeing services in the midst of a state of emergency shutdown. The potential for a COVID-19 outbreak in custody is a genuine concern, notwithstanding proactive measures employed in Victorian prisons. However, the real prospect of deleterious outcomes for immediately released vulnerable prisoners must also be weighed heavily during this demanding period.
3 May 13:51 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/national/victoria/early-release-of-prisoners-a-worthy-idea-but-risks-too-high-20200501-p54oy0.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.55
Coronavirus | Italy reports lowest toll since first day of lockdown
3 May 22:00
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6 articles
Weight: 1.79
Importance: 1.79
Age penalty: 1.00
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Coronavirus | Italy reports lowest toll since first day of lockdown
Italy reported 174 new COVID-19 deaths on Sunday, its lowest toll since 168 fatalities were registered when the country’s stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10. The Mediterranean country’s toll on the eve of its first easing of lockdown measures on Monday officially stands at 28,884 dead, second only to the United States. The 1,389 new infections were also the lowest since the first week of March. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte introduced waves of restrictions as the pandemic swept across the northern half of the country, the first to be heavily hit in Europe. He imposed stay at home order for Milan’s Lombardy and two neighbouring regions responsible for 45 percent of Italy’s economic output on March 8. The measure was extended nationally on March 10. Mr. Conte closed all shops except for pharmacies and grocery stores on March 12, and all non-essential factories 10 days later. The easing on Monday will see Italians be able to visit parks and their nearby relatives for the first time in nine weeks. But most businesses will remain closed for another two weeks. Bars and restaurants are due to start seating customers on June 1.
3 May 22:00 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/coronavirus-italy-reports-lowest-toll-since-first-day-of-lockdown/article31496614.eceRating: 0.30
Italy reports lowest toll since first day of lockdown – 174 dead
Rome, Italy | AFP | Italy reported 174 new coronavirus deaths on Sunday, its lowest toll since 168 fatalities were registered when the country’s stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10. The Mediterranean country’s toll on the eve of its first easing of lockdown measures on Monday officially stands at 28,884 dead, second only to the United States. The 1,389 new infections were also the lowest since the first week of March. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte introduced waves of restrictions as the pandemic swept across the northern half of the country, the first to be heavily hit in Europe. He imposed stay at home order for Milan’s Lombardy and two neighbouring regions responsible for 45 percent of Italy’s economic output on March 8. The measure was extended nationally on March 10. Conte closed all shops except for pharmacies and grocery stores on March 12, and all non-essential factories 10 days later. The easing on Monday will see Italians be able to visit parks and their nearby relatives for the first time in nine weeks. But most businesses will remain closed for another two weeks. Bars and restaurants are due to start seating customers on June Share on: WhatsApp
3 May 16:49 • The Independent Uganda: • https://www.independent.co.ug/italy-reports-lowest-toll-since-first-day-of-lockdown-174-dead/Rating: 0.30
Italy's daily Covid-19 death toll hits seven-week low ahead of lockdown easing
The daily number of new cases declined sharply to 1,389 from 1,900 on Saturday. In recent weeks of the epidemic that emerged in Italy on Feb 21, the daily death count has tended to fall on Sundays only to rise again the following day. Nonetheless the latest data still offers encouragement to the country as it prepares to gradually ease its eight-week-old lockdown — the longest in Europe — from Monday. Saturday's daily death tally of 474, which bucked a gradual declining trend, was due to the addition of hundreds of deaths in the northern Lombardy region in April, which had not previously been recorded. >> Spectre of second wave haunts Italy as government mulls path out of lockdown Italy's total death toll since the outbreak came to light on Feb. 21 now stands at 28,884, the Civil Protection Agency said, the second highest in the world after that of the United States. The number of confirmed cases amounts to 210,717, the third highest global tally behind those of the United States and Spain. People registered as currently carrying the illness fell to 100,179 from 100,704 on Saturday. >> Faced with the Covid-19 crisis, the Italian mafia sees business opportunities There were 1,501 people in intensive care on Sunday, down from 1,539 the day before, maintaining a long-running decline. Of those originally infected, 81,654 were declared recovered against 79,914 on Saturday. The agency said 1.457 million people had been tested for the virus against 1.430 million the day before, out of a population of around 60 million. (FRANCE 24 with REUTERS)
3 May 17:02 • France 24 • https://www.france24.com/en/20200503-italy-s-daily-covid-19-death-toll-hits-seven-week-low-ahead-of-lockdown-easingRating: 2.48
Italy reports lowest daily death toll since lockdown began two months ago
ITALY REPORTED 174 new coronavirus deaths on Sunday, its lowest toll since 168 fatalities were registered when the country’s stay-at-home orders were imposed on 10 March. The latest death toll was announced on the eve of its first easing of lockdown measures on Monday officially stands at 28,884, second only to the United States. Today is its last day in full lockdown, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown has been causing some anxiety and confusion. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. “I’m hoping this morning’s paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the seaside, can I?” asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in Rome. In this first stage, Italy’s 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to re-opened parks with their children and cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. People cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy’s 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. “We’ve been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it’s finally arrived it’s a letdown. Until they tell me I’m really free, I’ll feel paranoid, like I’m breaking the rules in some way,” 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. ‘Extremely worried’ Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with “congiunti” were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had “relationships of steady affection”. The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives – including, for example, the children of their cousins – but friends were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used “as an excuse by many for a sort of free-for-all”. The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. Prime minister Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. #Open journalism No news is bad news Support The Journal Your contributions will help us continue to deliver the stories that are important to you Support us now
3 May 17:05 • TheJournal.ie • https://www.thejournal.ie/italy-lowest-death-toll-as-it-is-due-to-leave-lockdown-5090895-May2020/Rating: 1.13
Spain daily virus death toll drops below 200
Spain on Sunday counted another 164 coronavirus deaths, the lowest daily number in nearly seven weeks as the country begins to gradually lift its strict lockdown. The figures from the health ministry bring the total number of fatalities from the pandemic in Spain to 25,264 — the fourth-highest after the United States, Italy and Britain. It is the lowest daily increase since March 18 when 107 deaths were recorded but the ministry’s emergencies coordinator, Fernando Simon, said the figure had to be interpreted with “caution” as it comes on a long holiday weekend when reporting of fatalities by hospitals is usually slower. “The figures are very good and confirm the trend we have observed. We have to see if they are consolidated in the coming days,” he told a news conference. Confirmed cases of the virus rose by just 838 to 217,466, although the government recently began counting in its total only patients who test positive using a technique known as PCR. It was the tenth straight day that the number of cured, at 1,654, surpassed new infections. Health experts believe Spain’s outbreak peaked on April 2 when 950 people died over 24 hours. Since then, the toll has been gradually dropping. Spain’s nearly 47 million people have since March 14 lived under one of the strictest virus lockdowns in the world, with only adults authorised to leave home to buy food, medicine or walk the dog. But Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Tuesday unveiled a plan to gradually begin easing the restrictions in four phases that should be completed by the end of June. As of Saturday Spaniards have been allowed outside to excercise or go for a walk once a day.
3 May 11:33 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/spain-daily-virus-death-toll-drops-below-200/Rating: 0.30
Spain has recorded its lowest daily COVID-19 death toll in almost two months
Spain has recorded its lowest daily death toll from coronavirus in seven weeks as the country confirmed another 164 deaths. Spain has been one of the hardest-hit in the world, with a death toll of 25,264. Today's announcement is the country's lowest daily increase in deaths since March 18. The country's health ministry also confirmed a further 884 new cases of the deadly virus. The news is a sliver of hope for the country, which has been ravaged by the virus since it emerged there in February - and has seen one of the strictest lockdowns in the world. Masks will be compulsory on public transport in Spain from tomorrow as the country moves to gradually relax its restrictions. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said the government would distribute six million masks, mainly at transport locations, and give another seven million to local authorities. Adults in Spain were able to exercise outdoors on Saturday for the first time in seven weeks. The lockdown was eased for children under 14 last week after they were stuck indoors for six weeks. Lockdowns in other European countries are also being eased, though social distancing remains in force. Some countries require mask-wearing in shops and on public transport. Italy has Europe's highest death toll from COVID-19, closely followed by the UK and then Spain.
3 May 10:09 • Buzz.ie • https://www.buzz.ie/news/spain-recorded-lowest-daily-covid-19-death-toll-two-months-366886Rating: 0.30
Emerging from lockdown: '46 days in the house was enough'
3 May 16:46
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Best date: 3 May 12:10
Average US: 5.0371428571428565
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Emerging from lockdown: '46 days in the house was enough'
BEIJING (AP) — From the United States to Europe and Asia, people in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as virus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. But the global pandemic took a turn for the worse in other places. India on Sunday reported more than 2,600 new cases, its biggest single-day jump. That followed record increases in neighboring Pakistan and Russia the previous day. There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where about a third tested positive in a random test. China, which reported two new cases, is seeing a surge in visitors to tourist spots, many newly reopened, after domestic travel restrictions were relaxed ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than a million visitors, according to Chinese media reports. Many spots limited the number of daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less, keeping crowds below average. Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City’s Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday, and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. “It’s great to have an audience after all these weeks,” saxophonist Julia Banholzer, a native of Germany, said. “All my dates have been canceled through September, and I don’t know if any will come back this year. New York is a tough place, but this is just another tough period we need to get through.” Neighboring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. In Spain, many ventured out Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. “I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape,” Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. “Some people think it may be too early, as I do, but it is also important to do exercise for health reasons.” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. COVID-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. “Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Sánchez said. “What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. In India, air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities Sunday to thank doctors, nurses and police who have been at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. U.S. Navy and Air Force fighter jets flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., on Saturday in honor of health care workers. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives and millions of jobs. The official death toll reached 1,301. Afghanistan’s health ministry said Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Ministry spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said that more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 9,633 new cases Saturday, and Pakistan, nearly 1,300, both one-day highs. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, which is considering establishing temporary hospitals at sports complexes and shopping malls to deal with the influx of patients. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and those with health problems, it can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, or death. There are economic factors to consider as well. The shutdown of businesses has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. Singapore announced Saturday it will let selected businesses reopen from May 12 in a cautious rollback of a two-month partial lockdown, and Sri Lanka said the government and private sector should resume work from May 11 “to ensure a return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy.” Bangladesh, which opened thousands of garment factories last month, confirmed 552 new cases on Saturday. The South Asian country’s health care system is fragile, and authorities say they would not be able to provide ventilation and intensive care support for more than 500 people at one time.
3 May 16:46 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543844-Emerging-from-lockdown-46-days-in-the-house-was-enoughRating: 1.71
Emerging from lockdown: '46 days in the house was enough'
BEIJING -- From the United States to Europe and Asia, people in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as virus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. But the global pandemic took a turn for the worse in other places. India on Sunday reported more than 2,600 new cases, its biggest single-day jump. That followed record increases in neighbouring Pakistan and Russia the previous day. There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where about a third tested positive in a random test. China, which reported two new cases, is seeing a surge in visitors to tourist spots, many newly reopened, after domestic travel restrictions were relaxed ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai's main tourist spots welcomed more than a million visitors, according to Chinese media reports. Many spots limited the number of daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less, keeping crowds below average. Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City's Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday, and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. "It's great to have an audience after all these weeks," saxophonist Julia Banholzer, a native of Germany, said. "All my dates have been cancelled through September, and I don't know if any will come back this year. New York is a tough place, but this is just another tough period we need to get through." Neighbouring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. "Forty-six days in the house was enough," she said. In Spain, many ventured out Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. "I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape," Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. "Some people think it may be too early, as I do, but it is also important to do exercise for health reasons." Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. COVID-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. "Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks," Sanchez said. "What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger." The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. In India, air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities Sunday to thank doctors, nurses and police who have been at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. U.S. Navy and Air Force fighter jets flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., on Saturday in honour of health care workers. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives and millions of jobs. The official death toll reached 1,301. Afghanistan's health ministry said Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Ministry spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said that more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 9,633 new cases Saturday, and Pakistan, nearly 1,300, both one-day highs. More than half of Russia's new cases were in Moscow, which is considering establishing temporary hospitals at sports complexes and shopping malls to deal with the influx of patients. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and those with health problems, it can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, or death. There are economic factors to consider as well. The shutdown of businesses has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. Singapore announced Saturday it will let selected businesses reopen from May 12 in a cautious rollback of a two-month partial lockdown, and Sri Lanka said the government and private sector should resume work from May 11 "to ensure a return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy." Bangladesh, which opened thousands of garment factories last month, confirmed 552 new cases on Saturday. The South Asian country's health care system is fragile, and authorities say they would not be able to provide ventilation and intensive care support for more than 500 people at one time. ------ Porter reported from New York. AP journalists around the world contributed to this report.
3 May 12:10 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/emerging-from-lockdown-46-days-in-the-house-was-enough-1.4922684Rating: 2.87
Emerging from lockdown: ‘46 days in the house was enough’
From the United States to Europe and Asia, people in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as virus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. But the global pandemic took a turn for the worse in other places. India on Sunday reported more than 2,600 new cases, its biggest single-day jump. That followed record increases in neighboring Pakistan and Russia the previous day. There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where about a third tested positive in a random test. China, which reported two new cases, is seeing a surge in visitors to tourist spots, many newly reopened, after domestic travel restrictions were relaxed ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than a million visitors, according to Chinese media reports. Many spots limited the number of daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less, keeping crowds below average. Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City’s Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday, and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. “It’s great to have an audience after all these weeks,” saxophonist Julia Banholzer, a native of Germany, said. “All my dates have been canceled through September, and I don’t know if any will come back this year. New York is a tough place, but this is just another tough period we need to get through.” Neighboring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. In Spain, many ventured out Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. “I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape,” Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. “Some people think it may be too early, as I do, but it is also important to do exercise for health reasons.” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. COVID-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. “Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Sánchez said. “What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. In India, air force helicopters showered flower petals on hospitals in several cities Sunday to thank doctors, nurses and police who have been at the forefront of the battle against the pandemic. U.S. Navy and Air Force fighter jets flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., on Saturday in honor of health care workers. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives and millions of jobs. The official death toll reached 1,301. Afghanistan’s health ministry said Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Ministry spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said that more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 9,633 new cases Saturday, and Pakistan, nearly 1,300, both one-day highs. More than half of Russia’s new cases were in Moscow, which is considering establishing temporary hospitals at sports complexes and shopping malls to deal with the influx of patients. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and those with health problems, it can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, or death. There are economic factors to consider as well. The shutdown of businesses has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. Singapore announced Saturday it will let selected businesses reopen from May 12 in a cautious rollback of a two-month partial lockdown, and Sri Lanka said the government and private sector should resume work from May 11 “to ensure a return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy.” Bangladesh, which opened thousands of garment factories last month, confirmed 552 new cases on Saturday. The South Asian country’s health care system is fragile, and authorities say they would not be able to provide ventilation and intensive care support for more than 500 people at one time. ___ Porter reported from New York. AP journalists around the world contributed to this report. ___ Follow AP pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
3 May 08:49 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/emerging-from-lockdown-46-days-in-the-house-was-enough/story-G4wCGZgmSCyA33KLshtCBO.htmlRating: 0.30
Emerging from lockdown: '46 days in the house was enough'
From the United States to Europe and Asia, people in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as virus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. Chinese were flocking to tourist spots, many newly reopened, after a relaxation of domestic travel restrictions ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai's main tourist spots welcomed more than a million visitors, according to Chinese media reports. Many spots limited the number of daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less, keeping crowds below average. Masks were worn widely, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City's Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday, and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. "It’s great to have an audience after all these weeks,” saxophonist Julia Banholzer, a native of Germany, said. "All my dates have been canceled through September, and I don’t know if any will come back this year. New York is a tough place, but this is just another tough period we need to get through.” Neighboring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. "Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. U.S. Navy and Air Force fighter jets drew people outside as they flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., in honor of health care workers. In Spain, many ventured out Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. "I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape,” Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. "Some people think it may be too early, as I do, but it is also important to do exercise for health reasons.” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. COVID-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. "Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Sánchez said. "What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. Elsewhere, the pandemic’s danger remained evident. Pakistan followed Russia in reporting its biggest one-day spike in new infections. Pakistan announced nearly 1,300 new cases Saturday, raising the total in the country of 220 million people to about 18,000. The government has said it might ease controls, but doctors have pleaded for stricter lockdowns, warning an explosion of infections would overwhelm hospitals. Moscow is considering establishing temporary hospitals at sports complexes and shopping malls to deal with the influx of patients. Russia has reported around 125,000 cases and more than 1,200 deaths, but the actual numbers are believed to be much higher because not everyone is tested. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and those with health problems, it can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, or death. There are economic factors to consider as well. The shutdown of businesses has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. Singapore announced Saturday it will let selected businesses reopen from May 12 in a cautious rollback of a two-month partial lockdown, and Sri Lanka said the government and private sector should resume work from May 11 "to ensure a return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy.” Bangladesh, which opened thousands of garment factories last month, confirmed 552 new cases on Saturday. The South Asian country's health care system is fragile, and authorities say they would not be able to provide ventilation and intensive care support for more than 500 people at one time. Read MoreGermany's interior minister backs Bundesliga restart German Interior Minister Horst Seehofer on Sunday backed a possible restart for the Bundesliga season this month without spectators as the government prepares for a key meeting next week. Read MoreSpain daily virus death toll drops below 200 Spain on Sunday counted another 164 coronavirus deaths, the lowest daily number in nearly seven weeks as the country begins to gradually lift its strict lockdown. Read More'Once Upon a Virus': China mocks U.S. coronavirus response in Lego-like animation In an interview with Reuters, Trump said he believes China's handling of the coronavirus pandemic is proof that Beijing "will do anything they can" to make him lose his re-election bid in November.
3 May 14:49 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/Emerging-from-lockdown-46-days-in-the-house-was-enoughRating: 3.14
People venture outside as virus restrictions ease and temperatures rise
People in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as coronavirus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. The global pandemic, however, took a turn for the worse in other places, with India on Sunday reporting more than 2,600 new cases, its biggest single-day jump. That followed record increases in neighbouring Pakistan and Russia the previous day. There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where about a third tested positive in a random test. Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern US. In New York City’s Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday and a steady stream of people left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. In Spain, many had ventured out on Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. Covid-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. “Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Mr Sanchez said. “What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the US between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen on Monday while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives and millions of jobs. The official death toll reached 1,301. Afghanistan’s health ministry said on Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Ministry spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said that more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 9,633 new cases on Saturday and Pakistan nearly 1,300, both one-day highs. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically.
3 May 12:39 • Jersey Evening Post • https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/people-venture-outside-as-virus-restrictions-ease-and-temperatures-rise/Rating: 0.38
People venture outside as virus restrictions ease and temperatures rise
People in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as coronavirus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. The global pandemic, however, took a turn for the worse in other places, with India on Sunday reporting more than 2,600 new cases, its biggest single-day jump. That followed record increases in neighbouring Pakistan and Russia the previous day. There was also worrying news from Afghanistan, where about a third tested positive in a random test. Masks were worn widely around the world, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern US. In New York City’s Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday and a steady stream of people left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. Neighbouring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. In Spain, many had ventured out on Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. Covid-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. “Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Mr Sanchez said. “What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the US between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen on Monday while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. The number of confirmed cases in India neared 40,000 as the country of 1.3 billion people marked the 40th day of a nationwide lockdown that has upended lives and millions of jobs. The official death toll reached 1,301. Afghanistan’s health ministry said on Sunday that 156 people were confirmed positive out of 500 randomly tested in Kabul, the capital. Ministry spokesman Wahid Mayar called the results concerning and said that more cases would surely be found if the government was able to conduct more tests. Russia announced 9,633 new cases on Saturday and Pakistan nearly 1,300, both one-day highs. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically.
3 May 08:30 • independent • https://www.independent.ie/world-news/people-venture-outside-as-virus-restrictions-ease-and-temperatures-rise-39176902.htmlRating: 1.21
Emerging from lockdown: '46 days in the house was enough'
BEIJING — From the United States to Europe and Asia, people in many parts of the world are emerging from their homes as virus-related restrictions begin to ease and springtime temperatures climb. Chinese were flocking to tourist spots, many newly reopened, after a relaxation of domestic travel restrictions ahead of a five-day holiday that runs through Tuesday. Nearly 1.7 million people visited Beijing parks on the first two days of the holiday, and Shanghai’s main tourist spots welcomed more than a million visitors, according to Chinese media reports. Many spots limited the number of daily visitors to 30% of capacity or less, keeping crowds below average. Masks were worn widely, from runners in Spain to beach-goers in the southern United States. In New York City’s Central Park, joggers moved past each other without a glance on Saturday, and a steady stream of folks left tips for a trio working their way through a set of jazz standards alfresco. “It’s great to have an audience after all these weeks,” saxophonist Julia Banholzer, a native of Germany, said. “All my dates have been cancelled through September, and I don’t know if any will come back this year. New York is a tough place, but this is just another tough period we need to get through.” Neighbouring New Jersey reopened state parks, though several had to turn people away after reaching a 50% limit in their parking lots. Margie Roebuck and her husband were among the first on the sand at Island Beach State Park. “Forty-six days in the house was enough,” she said. U.S. Navy and Air Force fighter jets drew people outside as they flew over Atlanta, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., in honour of health care workers. In Spain, many ventured out Saturday for the first time since a lockdown began on March 14. “I feel good, but tired. You sure notice that it has been a month and I am not in shape,” Cristina Palomeque said in Barcelona. “Some people think it may be too early, as I do, but it is also important to do exercise for health reasons.” Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked citizens to remain vigilant. COVID-19 has caused more than 25,100 deaths in Spain. “Until we have a vaccine, we are going to see more outbreaks,” Sánchez said. “What we need to guarantee is that these outbreaks do not put our national health system in danger.” The divide in the United States between those who want lockdowns to end and those who want to move cautiously extended to Congress. The Republican-majority Senate will reopen Monday, while the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives stays shuttered. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s decision to convene 100 senators gives President Donald Trump, a Republican, the imagery he wants of America getting back to work, despite health worries and a lack of testing. Elsewhere, the pandemic’s danger remained evident. Pakistan followed Russia in reporting its biggest one-day spike in new infections. Pakistan announced nearly 1,300 new cases Saturday, raising the total in the country of 220 million people to about 18,000. The government has said it might ease controls, but doctors have pleaded for stricter lockdowns, warning an explosion of infections would overwhelm hospitals. Moscow is considering establishing temporary hospitals at sports complexes and shopping malls to deal with the influx of patients. Russia has reported around 125,000 cases and more than 1,200 deaths, but the actual numbers are believed to be much higher because not everyone is tested. The virus has killed more than 240,000 people worldwide, including more than 66,000 in the United States and more than 24,000 each in Italy, Britain, France and Spain, according to a count kept by Johns Hopkins University. Health experts warn a second wave of infections could hit unless testing is expanded dramatically. For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms. For some, especially older adults and those with health problems, it can cause severe illness such as pneumonia, or death. There are economic factors to consider as well. The shutdown of businesses has plunged the global economy into its deepest slump since the 1930s and wiped out millions of jobs. Singapore announced Saturday it will let selected businesses reopen from May 12 in a cautious rollback of a two-month partial lockdown, and Sri Lanka said the government and private sector should resume work from May 11 “to ensure a return to normalcy in civilian life and to revive the economy.” Bangladesh, which opened thousands of garment factories last month, confirmed 552 new cases on Saturday. The South Asian country’s health care system is fragile, and authorities say they would not be able to provide ventilation and intensive care support for more than 500 people at one time. ___ Porter reported from New York. AP journalists around the world contributed to this report. ___ Follow AP pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak Ken Moritsugu And David Porter, The Associated Press
3 May 05:04 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/emerging-from-lockdown-46-days-in-the-house-was-enough/Rating: 0.61
Looser COVID-19 rules mean more activity, but there may be some confusion
3 May 11:28
•
6 articles
Weight: 1.79
Importance: 1.81
Age penalty: 0.99
Best date: 3 May 11:28
Average US: 5.166666666666666
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Average GB: 0.06666666666666667
Weighted average GB: 0.12389543326215557
Average IN: 1.0999999999999999
Weighted average IN: 1.6325460679763804
Looser COVID-19 rules mean more activity, but there may be some confusion
WINNIPEG -- People in some provinces will enjoy more freedom Monday as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic are loosened. But the change appears set to leave some workers looking for child care, some employers looking for workers, and many people trying to figure out a new regimen for going about their daily routine. Manitoba is allowing many non-essential businesses, restaurant patios, museums, campgrounds and other facilities to reopen in one of the more aggressive restart-the-economy plans. At all venues, there will be rules in place to limit crowd gatherings and keep things sanitary in order to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Businesses that had been forced to close because of the pandemic learned last Wednesday, with just a few days notice, that they will be allowed to open at reduced capacity and with strict requirements for physical distancing between customers, hand sanitizer dispensers and more. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said some of its members are worried their employees may not come back right away for a variety of reasons, such as fear of catching COVID-19 or because they cannot find child care with Manitoba's schools still closed. "There's definitely going to be quite a few staff that are staying home and employers that are going to be having staff shortages," Jonathan Alward, the federation's director in Manitoba, said. Some hair salons have said they will not open immediately because they need time to acquire enough hand sanitizer, masks and other gear. A small clothing boutique posted on social media that it was scrambling to find a way to ensure customer and worker safety in the narrow floor space. There are also new rules at Manitoba campgrounds opening this week. One is that campers can use washrooms and outhouses, but they'll have to bring their own toilet paper from home. Manitoba's conservation and climate minister, Sarah Guillemard, said there will be signage at park entrances to remind people of the rules, which also include 10-person limits on gatherings and a requirement to fill up at gas stations close to home instead of near the camp site. "Social media will also be updated to help remind people, before they leave their home community, what they would do to prepare to go and enjoy the great outdoors," Guillemard said Friday. Alberta started allowing golf courses to reopen on the weekend, and has told dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals they can start operating again Monday. Non-essential retail stores will begin to open May 14. The Saskatchewan government is allowing dentists, optometrists and other medical providers to restart Monday, and is also opening fishing shoreline areas and boat launches. Quebec is letting retail stores outside the Montreal area reopen Monday. Those in the Montreal area will have the right to operate a week later. Ontario announced Friday that it would allow some largely outdoor-based businesses and workplaces to open up starting Monday, though with certain restrictions in place. The province's reopening list includes garden centres for curbside pickup, lawn care and landscaping companies, auto dealerships by appointment, automatic and self-serve car washes, and a broad list of essential construction projects. Golf courses and marinas will be allowed to start to prep for the season, but not yet open to the public. Back in Manitoba, restaurant patios will also be allowed to operate as of Monday, although at reduced capacity. The province's chief public health officer said the aim of the province's reopening plan is not just about the economy -- it's also about letting people resume parts of their normal lives and connect with others while still protecting them from the spread of COVID-19. "We need to still be cautious about this virus, but at the same time, we realize we have to start reopening things," Dr. Brent Roussin said at his daily briefing Friday. "This virus isn't the only thing that affects people's health." -- With files from Ian Bickis. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020
3 May 11:28 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/looser-covid-19-rules-mean-more-activity-but-there-may-be-some-confusion-1.4922672Rating: 2.87
Looser COVID-19 rules mean more activity, but there may be some confusion
WINNIPEG — People in some provinces will enjoy more freedom Monday as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic are loosened. But the change appears set to leave some workers looking for child care, some employers looking for workers, and many people trying to figure out a new regimen for going about their daily routine. Manitoba is allowing many non-essential businesses, restaurant patios, museums, campgrounds and other facilities to reopen in one of the more aggressive restart-the-economy plans. At all venues, there will be rules in place to limit crowd gatherings and keep things sanitary in order to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Businesses that had been forced to close because of the pandemic learned last Wednesday, with just a few days notice, that they will be allowed to open at reduced capacity and with strict requirements for physical distancing between customers, hand sanitizer dispensers and more. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said some of its members are worried their employees may not come back right away for a variety of reasons, such as fear of catching COVID-19 or because they cannot find child care with Manitoba’s schools still closed. “There’s definitely going to be quite a few staff that are staying home and employers that are going to be having staff shortages,” Jonathan Alward, the federation’s director in Manitoba, said. Some hair salons have said they will not open immediately because they need time to acquire enough hand sanitizer, masks and other gear. A small clothing boutique posted on social media that it was scrambling to find a way to ensure customer and worker safety in the narrow floor space. There are also new rules at Manitoba campgrounds opening this week. One is that campers can use washrooms and outhouses, but they’ll have to bring their own toilet paper from home. Manitoba’s conservation and climate minister, Sarah Guillemard, said there will be signage at park entrances to remind people of the rules, which also include 10-person limits on gatherings and a requirement to fill up at gas stations close to home instead of near the camp site. “Social media will also be updated to help remind people, before they leave their home community, what they would do to prepare to go and enjoy the great outdoors,” Guillemard said Friday. Alberta started allowing golf courses to reopen on the weekend, and has told dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals they can start operating again Monday. Non-essential retail stores will begin to open May 14. The Saskatchewan government is allowing dentists, optometrists and other medical providers to restart Monday, and is also opening fishing shoreline areas and boat launches. Quebec is letting retail stores outside the Montreal area reopen Monday. Those in the Montreal area will have the right to operate a week later. Ontario announced Friday that it would allow some largely outdoor-based businesses and workplaces to open up starting Monday, though with certain restrictions in place. The province’s reopening list includes garden centres for curbside pickup, lawn care and landscaping companies, auto dealerships by appointment, automatic and self-serve car washes, and a broad list of essential construction projects. Golf courses and marinas will be allowed to start to prep for the season, but not yet open to the public. Back in Manitoba, restaurant patios will also be allowed to operate as of Monday, although at reduced capacity. The province’s chief public health officer said the aim of the province’s reopening plan is not just about the economy — it’s also about letting people resume parts of their normal lives and connect with others while still protecting them from the spread of COVID-19. “We need to still be cautious about this virus, but at the same time, we realize we have to start reopening things,” Dr. Brent Roussin said at his daily briefing Friday. “This virus isn’t the only thing that affects people’s health.” — With files from Ian Bickis. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020 Steve Lambert, The Canadian Press
3 May 09:00 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/looser-covid-19-rules-mean-more-activity-but-there-may-be-some-confusion/Rating: 0.77
Looser COVID-19 rules mean more activity, but there may be some confusion
WINNIPEG - People in some provinces will enjoy more freedom Monday as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic are loosened. But the change appears set to leave some workers looking for child care, some employers looking for workers, and many people trying to figure out a new regimen for going about their daily routine. Manitoba is allowing many non-essential businesses, restaurant patios, museums, campgrounds and other facilities to reopen in one of the more aggressive restart-the-economy plans. At all venues, there will be rules in place to limit crowd gatherings and keep things sanitary in order to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Businesses that had been forced to close because of the pandemic learned last Wednesday, with just a few days notice, that they will be allowed to open at reduced capacity and with strict requirements for physical distancing between customers, hand sanitizer dispensers and more. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said some of its members are worried their employees may not come back right away for a variety of reasons, such as fear of catching COVID-19 or because they cannot find child care with Manitoba's schools still closed. "There's definitely going to be quite a few staff that are staying home and employers that are going to be having staff shortages," Jonathan Alward, the federation's director in Manitoba, said. Some hair salons have said they will not open immediately because they need time to acquire enough hand sanitizer, masks and other gear. A small clothing boutique posted on social media that it was scrambling to find a way to ensure customer and worker safety in the narrow floor space. There are also new rules at Manitoba campgrounds opening this week. One is that campers can use washrooms and outhouses, but they'll have to bring their own toilet paper from home. Manitoba's conservation and climate minister, Sarah Guillemard, said there will be signage at park entrances to remind people of the rules, which also include 10-person limits on gatherings and a requirement to fill up at gas stations close to home instead of near the camp site. "Social media will also be updated to help remind people, before they leave their home community, what they would do to prepare to go and enjoy the great outdoors," Guillemard said Friday. Alberta started allowing golf courses to reopen on the weekend, and has told dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals they can start operating again Monday. Non-essential retail stores will begin to open May 14. The Saskatchewan government is allowing dentists, optometrists and other medical providers to restart Monday, and is also opening fishing shoreline areas and boat launches. Quebec is letting retail stores outside the Montreal area reopen Monday. Those in the Montreal area will have the right to operate a week later. Ontario announced Friday that it would allow some largely outdoor-based businesses and workplaces to open up starting Monday, though with certain restrictions in place. The province's reopening list includes garden centres for curbside pickup, lawn care and landscaping companies, auto dealerships by appointment, automatic and self-serve car washes, and a broad list of essential construction projects. Golf courses and marinas will be allowed to start to prep for the season, but not yet open to the public. Back in Manitoba, restaurant patios will also be allowed to operate as of Monday, although at reduced capacity. The province's chief public health officer said the aim of the province's reopening plan is not just about the economy — it's also about letting people resume parts of their normal lives and connect with others while still protecting them from the spread of COVID-19. "We need to still be cautious about this virus, but at the same time, we realize we have to start reopening things," Dr. Brent Roussin said at his daily briefing Friday. "This virus isn't the only thing that affects people's health." — With files from Ian Bickis. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020
3 May 08:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-openings/cp1450388082Rating: 0.30
Looser COVID-19 rules mean more activity, but there may be some confusion
WINNIPEG — People in some provinces will enjoy more freedom Monday as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic are loosened. But the change appears set to leave some workers looking for child care, some employers looking for workers, and many people trying to figure out a new regimen for going about their daily routine. Manitoba is allowing many non-essential businesses, restaurant patios, museums, campgrounds and other facilities to reopen in one of the more aggressive restart-the-economy plans. At all venues, there will be rules in place to limit crowd gatherings and keep things sanitary in order to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Businesses that had been forced to close because of the pandemic learned last Wednesday, with just a few days notice, that they will be allowed to open at reduced capacity and with strict requirements for physical distancing between customers, hand sanitizer dispensers and more. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said some of its members are worried their employees may not come back right away for a variety of reasons, such as fear of catching COVID-19 or because they cannot find child care with Manitoba's schools still closed. "There's definitely going to be quite a few staff that are staying home and employers that are going to be having staff shortages," Jonathan Alward, the federation's director in Manitoba, said. Some hair salons have said they will not open immediately because they need time to acquire enough hand sanitizer, masks and other gear. A small clothing boutique posted on social media that it was scrambling to find a way to ensure customer and worker safety in the narrow floor space. There are also new rules at Manitoba campgrounds opening this week. One is that campers can use washrooms and outhouses, but they'll have to bring their own toilet paper from home. Manitoba's conservation and climate minister, Sarah Guillemard, said there will be signage at park entrances to remind people of the rules, which also include 10-person limits on gatherings and a requirement to fill up at gas stations close to home instead of near the camp site. "Social media will also be updated to help remind people, before they leave their home community, what they would do to prepare to go and enjoy the great outdoors," Guillemard said Friday. Alberta started allowing golf courses to reopen on the weekend, and has told dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals they can start operating again Monday. Non-essential retail stores will begin to open May 14. The Saskatchewan government is allowing dentists, optometrists and other medical providers to restart Monday, and is also opening fishing shoreline areas and boat launches. Quebec is letting retail stores outside the Montreal area reopen Monday. Those in the Montreal area will have the right to operate a week later. Ontario announced Friday that it would allow some largely outdoor-based businesses and workplaces to open up starting Monday, though with certain restrictions in place. The province's reopening list includes garden centres for curbside pickup, lawn care and landscaping companies, auto dealerships by appointment, automatic and self-serve car washes, and a broad list of essential construction projects. Golf courses and marinas will be allowed to start to prep for the season, but not yet open to the public. Back in Manitoba, restaurant patios will also be allowed to operate as of Monday, although at reduced capacity. The province's chief public health officer said the aim of the province's reopening plan is not just about the economy — it's also about letting people resume parts of their normal lives and connect with others while still protecting them from the spread of COVID-19. "We need to still be cautious about this virus, but at the same time, we realize we have to start reopening things," Dr. Brent Roussin said at his daily briefing Friday. "This virus isn't the only thing that affects people's health." — With files from Ian Bickis. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020 Steve Lambert, The Canadian Press
3 May 08:00 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/looser-covid-19-rules-mean-more-activity-but-there-may-be-some-confusion-2320290Rating: 0.30
Looser COVID-19 rules mean more activity, but there may be some confusion
WINNIPEG — People in some provinces will enjoy more freedom Monday as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic are loosened. But the change appears set to leave some workers looking for child care, some employers looking for workers, and many people trying to figure out a new regimen for going about their daily routine. Manitoba is allowing many non-essential businesses, restaurant patios, museums, campgrounds and other facilities to reopen in one of the more aggressive restart-the-economy plans. At all venues, there will be rules in place to limit crowd gatherings and keep things sanitary in order to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Businesses that had been forced to close because of the pandemic learned last Wednesday, with just a few days notice, that they will be allowed to open at reduced capacity and with strict requirements for physical distancing between customers, hand sanitizer dispensers and more. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said some of its members are worried their employees may not come back right away for a variety of reasons, such as fear of catching COVID-19 or because they cannot find child care with Manitoba’s schools still closed. “There’s definitely going to be quite a few staff that are staying home and employers that are going to be having staff shortages,” Jonathan Alward, the federation’s director in Manitoba, said. Some hair salons have said they will not open immediately because they need time to acquire enough hand sanitizer, masks and other gear. A small clothing boutique posted on social media that it was scrambling to find a way to ensure customer and worker safety in the narrow floor space. There are also new rules at Manitoba campgrounds opening this week. One is that campers can use washrooms and outhouses, but they’ll have to bring their own toilet paper from home. Manitoba’s conservation and climate minister, Sarah Guillemard, said there will be signage at park entrances to remind people of the rules, which also include 10-person limits on gatherings and a requirement to fill up at gas stations close to home instead of near the camp site. “Social media will also be updated to help remind people, before they leave their home community, what they would do to prepare to go and enjoy the great outdoors,” Guillemard said Friday. Alberta started allowing golf courses to reopen on the weekend, and has told dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals they can start operating again Monday. Non-essential retail stores will begin to open May 14. The Saskatchewan government is allowing dentists, optometrists and other medical providers to restart Monday, and is also opening fishing shoreline areas and boat launches. Quebec is letting retail stores outside the Montreal area reopen Monday. Those in the Montreal area will have the right to operate a week later. Ontario announced Friday that it would allow some largely outdoor-based businesses and workplaces to open up starting Monday, though with certain restrictions in place. The province’s reopening list includes garden centres for curbside pickup, lawn care and landscaping companies, auto dealerships by appointment, automatic and self-serve car washes, and a broad list of essential construction projects. Golf courses and marinas will be allowed to start to prep for the season, but not yet open to the public. Back in Manitoba, restaurant patios will also be allowed to operate as of Monday, although at reduced capacity. The province’s chief public health officer said the aim of the province’s reopening plan is not just about the economy — it’s also about letting people resume parts of their normal lives and connect with others while still protecting them from the spread of COVID-19. “We need to still be cautious about this virus, but at the same time, we realize we have to start reopening things,” Dr. Brent Roussin said at his daily briefing Friday. “This virus isn’t the only thing that affects people’s health.” — With files from Ian Bickis. This report by The Canadian Press was first published on May 3, 2020 Steve Lambert, The Canadian Press
3 May 08:00 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/looser-covid-19-rules-mean-more-activity-but-there-may-be-some-confusion/Rating: 0.61
Some provinces to enjoy more freedom Monday as COVID-19 restrictions are loosened
People in some provinces will enjoy more freedom Monday as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic are loosened. But the change appears set to leave some workers looking for child care, some employers looking for workers and many people trying to figure out a new regimen for going about their daily routine. Manitoba is allowing many non-essential businesses, restaurant patios, museums, campgrounds and other facilities to reopen in one of the more aggressive restart-the-economy plans. At all venues, there will be rules in place to limit crowd gatherings and keep things sanitary in order to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. Businesses that had been forced to close because of the pandemic learned last Wednesday, with just a few days notice, that they will be allowed to open at reduced capacity and with strict requirements for physical distancing between customers, hand sanitizer dispensers and more. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business said some of its members are worried their employees may not come back right away for a variety of reasons, such as fear of catching COVID-19 or because they cannot find child care with Manitoba’s schools still closed. “There’s definitely going to be quite a few staff that are staying home and employers that are going to be having staff shortages,” said Jonathan Alward, the federation’s director in Manitoba. Some hair salons have said they will not open immediately because they need time to acquire enough hand sanitizer, masks and other gear. A small clothing boutique posted on social media that it was scrambling to find a way to ensure customer and worker safety in the narrow floor space. There are also new rules at Manitoba campgrounds opening this week. One is that campers can use washrooms and outhouses, but they’ll have to bring their own toilet paper from home. Manitoba’s Minister of Conservation and Climate, Sarah Guillemard, said there will be signage at park entrances to remind people of the rules, which also include 10-person limits on gatherings and a requirement to fill up at gas stations close to home instead of near the campsite. “Social media will also be updated to help remind people, before they leave their home community, what they would do to prepare to go and enjoy the great outdoors,” Ms. Guillemard said Friday. Alberta started allowing golf courses to reopen on the weekend, and has told dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals they can start operating again Monday. Non-essential retail stores will begin to open May 14. The Saskatchewan government is allowing dentists, optometrists and other medical providers to restart Monday, and is also opening fishing shoreline areas and boat launches. Quebec is letting retail stores outside the Montreal area reopen Monday. Those in the Montreal area will have the right to operate a week later. Ontario announced Friday that it would allow some largely outdoor-based businesses and workplaces to open up starting Monday, though with certain restrictions in place. The province’s reopening list includes garden centres for curbside pickup, lawn care and landscaping companies, auto dealerships by appointment, automatic and self-serve car washes and a broad list of essential construction projects. Golf courses and marinas will be allowed to start to prep for the season, but not yet open to the public. Back in Manitoba, restaurant patios will also be allowed to operate as of Monday, although at reduced capacity. The province’s chief public health officer said the aim of the province’s reopening plan is not just about the economy – it’s also about letting people resume parts of their normal lives and connect with others while still protecting them from the spread of COVID-19. “We need to still be cautious about this virus, but at the same time, we realize we have to start reopening things,” Dr. Brent Roussin said at his daily briefing Friday. “This virus isn’t the only thing that affects people’s health.”
3 May 13:01 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-some-provinces-to-enjoy-more-freedom-monday-as-covid-19-restrictions/Rating: 2.18
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as U.S. reopens from lockdowns
3 May 22:40
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6 articles
Weight: 1.78
Importance: 1.78
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 22:08
Average US: 11.700000000000003
Weighted average US: 9.522296632853838
Average GB: 0.0
Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 2.9499999999999997
Weighted average IN: 2.67716806022564
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as U.S. reopens from lockdowns
Sunny days and warm weather are proving to be as challenging to manage as restaurants, hair salons and other businesses as about half of U.S. states partially reopen their economies after the COVID-19 lockdown. On Saturday, thousands of people gathered on the National Mall in Washington to view a U.S. Navy flyover to honour healthcare workers and others battling the pandemic. In New York City, the warmest weather yet this spring caused picnickers and sunbathers to flock to green spaces in Manhattan, including crowded conditions at Christopher Street Pier in Greenwich Village, according to photos on social media. Last week, California ordered beaches in Orange County to close, after crowds defied public health guidelines to throng the popular shoreline. That prompted protests by demonstrators who accused the state's Democratic governor of overreach. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said there are “some real issues” near the pier and police would increase patrols. Dr. Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House coronavirus task force, said on “Fox News Sunday” that massing on beaches was not safe unless people kept at least 6 feet apart. She also weighed in against allowing such businesses as beauty salons and spas to reopen in the first phase. “We've made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity,” she said, as the number of U.S. cases topped 1.1 million and the death toll rose to more than 67,000 on Sunday. Protesters gathering, as they did last week in Michigan and other parts of the country to demonstrate against stay-at-home restrictions, poses a huge risk, she said. “It's devastatingly worrisome to me personally if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or a very — or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” Ms. Birx said. Scott Gottlieb, a former Food and Drug Administration commissioner, said on Sunday the country was seeing a “mixed bag” of results from coronavirus mitigation efforts. He said there were about 20 states that are seeing a rising number of new cases including Illinois, Texas, Maryland, Indiana, Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Virginia reported a record number of deaths on Sunday, up 44 for a total of 660. “We expected that we would start seeing more significant declines in new cases and deaths around the nation at this point. And we're just not seeing that,” he said on CBS' “Face the Nation.” “If we don't snuff this out more and you have this slow burn of infection, it can ignite at any time.” Even in the face of rising cases, some Americans are eager to return to socializing and large gatherings — including sports. The National Football League said it will announce its schedule for the upcoming season this week including its season opening game on Sept. 10 and the Super Bowl, which is scheduled to be played in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 7. “We are planning on playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email, noting they will adjust to government regulations. On the other side of the spectrum is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh in Massachusetts, which has not begun reopening and is seeing COVID-19 cases still climbing. Massachusetts also has issued a statewide order telling people to wear masks in public. He said the rallies against coronavirus mitigation efforts were causing confusion and making his job harder. “I don't understand it. That makes messaging really confusing. ... It's the wrong message, because we're still very much in the beginning days of coronavirus. Even if you're a state that is seeing numbers go down,” Mr. Walsh said. “If we're not smart about the way we do things, those numbers could turn around and go right back up again.” As Texas becomes one of the leading states pushing for its businesses to reopen, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said people appear to be obeying the new rules. “People have not been rushing back into these restaurants and they have not been rushing back into the areas of the economy that the governor reopened on Friday,” he told CNN. ”What we are seeing is people sort of putting their toe back in.”
3 May 22:40 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/sunny-days-draw-crowds-to-beaches-parks-as-us-reopens-from-lockdowns/article31496767.eceRating: 0.30
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as US reopens from lockdowns
WASHINGTON, May 4 — Sunny days and warm weather are proving to be as challenging to manage as restaurants, hair salons and other businesses as about half of US states partially reopen their economies after the coronavirus lockdown. On Saturday, thousands of people gathered on the National Mall in Washington to view a US Navy flyover to honour healthcare workers and others battling the pandemic. In New York City, the warmest weather yet this spring caused picnickers and sunbathers to flock to green spaces in Manhattan, including crowded conditions at Christopher Street Pier in Greenwich Village, according to photos on social media. Last week, California ordered beaches in Orange County to close, after crowds defied public health guidelines to throng the popular shoreline. That prompted protests by demonstrators who accused the state's Democratic governor of overreach. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said there are “some real issues” near the pier and police would increase patrols. Dr Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House coronavirus task force, said on Fox News Sunday that massing on beaches was not safe unless people kept at least 6 feet apart. She also weighed in against allowing such businesses as beauty salons and spas to reopen in the first phase. “We've made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity,” she said, as the number of US cases topped 1.1 million and the death toll rose to more than 67,000 yesterday. Protesters gathering, as they did last week in Michigan and other parts of the country to demonstrate against stay-at-home restrictions, poses a huge risk, she said. “It's devastatingly worrisome to me personally if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or a very — or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” Birx said. Scott Gottlieb, a former Food and Drug Administration commissioner, said yesterday the country was seeing a “mixed bag” of results from coronavirus mitigation efforts. He said there were about 20 states that are seeing a rising number of new cases including Illinois, Texas, Maryland, Indiana, Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Virginia reported a record number of deaths yesterday, up 44 for a total of 660. “We expected that we would start seeing more significant declines in new cases and deaths around the nation at this point. And we're just not seeing that,” he said on CBS' Face the Nation. “If we don't snuff this out more and you have this slow burn of infection, it can ignite at any time.” Even in the face of rising cases, some Americans are eager to return to socialising and large gatherings — including sports. The National Football League said it will announce its schedule for the upcoming season this week including its season opening game on September 10 and the Super Bowl, which is scheduled to be played in Tampa, Florida on February 7. “We are planning on playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email, noting they will adjust to government regulations. On the other side of the spectrum is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh in Massachusetts, which has not begun reopening and is seeing coronavirus cases still climbing. Massachusetts also has issued a statewide order telling people to wear masks in public. He said the rallies against coronavirus mitigation efforts were causing confusion and making his job harder. “I don't understand it. That makes messaging really confusing. ... It's the wrong message, because we're still very much in the beginning days of coronavirus. Even if you're a state that is seeing numbers go down,” Walsh said. “If we're not smart about the way we do things, those numbers could turn around and go right back up again.” As Texas becomes one of the leading states pushing for its businesses to reopen, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said people appear to be obeying the new rules. “People have not been rushing back into these restaurants and they have not been rushing back into the areas of the economy that the governor reopened on Friday,” he told CNN. “What we are seeing is people sort of putting their toe back in.” — Reuters
3 May 23:41 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/04/sunny-days-draw-crowds-to-beaches-parks-as-us-reopens-from-lockdowns/1862735Rating: 1.42
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as U.S. reopens from lockdowns
Sunny days and warm weather are proving to be as challenging to manage as restaurants, hair salons and other businesses as about half of U.S. states partially reopen their economies after the coronavirus lockdown. On Saturday, thousands of people gathered on the National Mall in Washington to view a U.S. Navy flyover to honor healthcare workers and others battling the pandemic. In New York City, the warmest weather yet this spring caused picnickers and sunbathers to flock to green spaces in Manhattan, including crowded conditions at Christopher Street Pier in Greenwich Village, according to photos on social media. Last week, California ordered beaches in Orange County to close, after crowds defied public health guidelines to throng the popular shoreline. That prompted protests by demonstrators who accused the state’s Democratic governor of overreach. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said there are “some real issues” near the pier and police would increase patrols. Dr. Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House coronavirus task force, said on “Fox News Sunday” that massing on beaches was not safe unless people kept at least 6 feet apart. She also weighed in against allowing such businesses as beauty salons and spas to reopen in the first phase. “We’ve made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity,” she said, as the number of U.S. cases topped 1.1 million and the death toll rose to more than 67,000 on Sunday. Protesters gathering, as they did last week in Michigan and other parts of the country to demonstrate against stay-at-home restrictions, poses a huge risk, she said. “It’s devastatingly worrisome to me personally if they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or a very — or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” Birx said. Scott Gottlieb, a former Food and Drug Administration commissioner, said on Sunday the country was seeing a “mixed bag” of results from coronavirus mitigation efforts. He said there were about 20 states that are seeing a rising number of new cases including Illinois, Texas, Maryland, Indiana, Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Virginia reported a record number of deaths on Sunday, up 44 for a total of 660. “We expected that we would start seeing more significant declines in new cases and deaths around the nation at this point. And we’re just not seeing that,” he said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” “If we don’t snuff this out more and you have this slow burn of infection, it can ignite at any time.” Even in the face of rising cases, some Americans are eager to return to socializing and large gatherings — including sports. The National Football League said it will announce its schedule for the upcoming season this week including its season opening game on Sept. 10 and the Super Bowl, which is scheduled to be played in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 7. “We are planning on playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email, noting they will adjust to government regulations. On the other side of the spectrum is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh in Massachusetts, which has not begun reopening and is seeing coronavirus cases still climbing. Massachusetts also has issued a statewide order telling people to wear masks in public. He said the rallies against coronavirus mitigation efforts were causing confusion and making his job harder. “I don’t understand it. That makes messaging really confusing. … It’s the wrong message, because we’re still very much in the beginning days of coronavirus. Even if you’re a state that is seeing numbers go down,” Walsh said. “If we’re not smart about the way we do things, those numbers could turn around and go right back up again.” As Texas becomes one of the leading states pushing for its businesses to reopen, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said people appear to be obeying the new rules. “People have not been rushing back into these restaurants and they have not been rushing back into the areas of the economy that the governor reopened on Friday,” he told CNN. “What we are seeing is people sort of putting their toe back in.” (Reporting by Doina Chiacu in Washington and Jonathan Allen in New York; Additional reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit; Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
3 May 17:33 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/sunny-days-draw-crowds-to-beaches-parks-as-u-s-reopens-from-lockdowns-3Rating: 0.94
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as US reopens from lockdowns
Sunny days and warm weather are proving to be as challenging to manage as restaurants, hair salons and other businesses as about half of US states partially reopen their economies after the coronavirus lockdown. On Saturday, thousands of people gathered on the National Mall in Washington to view a US Navy flyover to honour healthcare workers and others battling the pandemic. In New York City, the warmest weather yet this spring caused picnickers and sunbathers to flock to green spaces in Manhattan, including crowded conditions at Christopher Street Pier in Greenwich Village, according to photos on social media. Last week, California ordered beaches in Orange County to close, after crowds defied public health guidelines to throng the popular shoreline. That prompted protests by demonstrators who accused the state's Democratic governor of overreach. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has there "some real issues" near the pier and police would increase patrols. Dr. Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House coronavirus task force, said on "Fox News Sunday" that massing on beaches was not safe unless people kept at least 6 feet apart. She also weighed in against allowing such businesses as beauty salons and spas to reopen in the first phase. "We've made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity," she said, as the number of US cases topped 1.1 million and the death toll rose to more than 67,000 on Sunday. Protesters gathering, as they did last week in Michigan and other parts of the country to demonstrate against stay-at-home restrictions, poses a huge risk, she said. "If they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or a very -- or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives," Birx said. Scott Gottlieb, a former Food and Drug Administration commissioner, said on Sunday the country was seeing a "mixed bag" of results from coronavirus mitigation efforts. He said there were about 20 states that are seeing a rising number of new cases including Illinois, Texas, Maryland, Indiana, Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. "We expected that we would start seeing more significant declines in new cases and deaths around the nation at this point. And we're just not seeing that," he said on CBS' "Face the Nation." "If we don't snuff this out more and you have this slow burn of infection, it can ignite at any time." Even in the face of rising cases, some Americans are eager to return to socialising and large gatherings -- including sports. The National Football League said it will announce its schedule for the upcoming season this week including its season opening game on Sept. 10 and the Super Bowl, which is scheduled to be played in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 7. "We are planning on playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled," NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email, noting they will adjust to government regulations. On the other side of the spectrum is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh in Massachusetts, which has not begun reopening and is seeing coronavirus cases still climbing. Massachusetts also has issued a statewide order telling people to wear masks in public. He said the rallies against coronavirus mitigation efforts were causing confusion and making his job harder. "I don't understand it. That makes messaging really confusing. ... It's the wrong message, because we're still very much in the beginning days of coronavirus. Even if you're a state that is seeing numbers go down," Walsh said. "If we're not smart about the way we do things, those numbers could turn around and go right back up again." As Texas becomes one of the leading states pushing for its businesses to reopen, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said people appear to be obeying the new rules. "People have not been rushing back into these restaurants and they have not been rushing back into the areas of the economy that the governor reopened on Friday," he told CNN. "What we are seeing is people sort of putting their toe back in."
3 May 22:08 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/world/2020/05/04/sunny-days-draw-crowds-to-beaches-parks-as-us-reopens-from-lockdownsRating: 2.85
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as U.S. reopens from lockdowns
Sunny days and warm weather are proving to be as challenging to manage as restaurants, hair salons and other businesses as about half of U.S. states partially reopen their economies after the coronavirus lockdown. On Saturday, thousands of people gathered on the National Mall in Washington to view a U.S. Navy flyover to honor healthcare workers and others battling the pandemic. In New York City, the warmest weather yet this spring caused picnickers and sunbathers to flock to green spaces in Manhattan, including crowded conditions at Christopher Street Pier in Greenwich Village, according to photos on social media. Last week, California ordered beaches in Orange County to close, after crowds defied public health guidelines to throng the popular shoreline. That prompted protests by demonstrators who accused the state’s Democratic governor of overreach. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio has there “some real issues” near the pier and police would increase patrols. Dr. Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House coronavirus task force, said on “Fox News Sunday” that massing on beaches was not safe unless people kept at least 6 feet apart. She also weighed in against allowing such businesses as beauty salons and spas to reopen in the first phase. “We’ve made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity,” she said, as the number of U.S. cases topped 1.1 million and the death toll rose to more than 67,000 on Sunday. Protesters gathering, as they did last week in Michigan and other parts of the country to demonstrate against stay-at-home restrictions, poses a huge risk, she said. “If they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or a very — or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” Birx said. Scott Gottlieb, a former Food and Drug Administration commissioner, said on Sunday the country was seeing a “mixed bag” of results from coronavirus mitigation efforts. He said there were about 20 states that are seeing a rising number of new cases including Illinois, Texas, Maryland, Indiana, Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. “We expected that we would start seeing more significant declines in new cases and deaths around the nation at this point. And we’re just not seeing that,” he said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” “If we don’t snuff this out more and you have this slow burn of infection, it can ignite at any time.” Even in the face of rising cases, some Americans are eager to return to socializing and large gatherings — including sports. The National Football League said it will announce its schedule for the upcoming season this week including its season opening game on Sept. 10 and the Super Bowl, which is scheduled to be played in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 7. “We are planning on playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email, noting they will adjust to government regulations. On the other side of the spectrum is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh in Massachusetts, which has not begun reopening and is seeing coronavirus cases still climbing. Massachusetts also has issued a statewide order telling people to wear masks in public. He said the rallies against coronavirus mitigation efforts were causing confusion and making his job harder. “I don’t understand it. That makes messaging really confusing. … It’s the wrong message, because we’re still very much in the beginning days of coronavirus. Even if you’re a state that is seeing numbers go down,” Walsh said. “If we’re not smart about the way we do things, those numbers could turn around and go right back up again.” As Texas becomes one of the leading states pushing for its businesses to reopen, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said people appear to be obeying the new rules. “People have not been rushing back into these restaurants and they have not been rushing back into the areas of the economy that the governor reopened on Friday,” he told CNN. “What we are seeing is people sort of putting their toe back in.” (Reporting by Doina Chiacu in Washington and Jonathan Allen in New York; Additional reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit; Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
3 May 17:04 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/sunny-days-draw-crowds-to-beaches-parks-as-u-s-reopens-from-lockdowns-2Rating: 0.94
Sunny days draw crowds to beaches, parks as U.S. reopens from lockdowns
Sunny days and warm weather are proving to be as challenging to manage as restaurants, hair salons and other businesses as about half of U.S. states partially reopen their economies after the coronavirus lockdown. On Saturday, thousands of people gathered on the National Mall in Washington to view a U.S. Navy flyover to honor healthcare workers and others battling the pandemic. In New York City, the warmest weather yet this spring caused picnickers and sunbathers to flock to green spaces in Manhattan, including crowded conditions at Christopher Street Pier in Greenwich Village, according to photos on social media. Last week, California ordered beaches in Orange County to close, after crowds defied public health guidelines to throng the popular shoreline. That prompted protests by demonstrators who accused the state’s Democratic governor of overreach. Dr. Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House coronavirus task force, said on “Fox News Sunday” that massing on beaches was not safe unless people kept at least 6 feet apart. She also weighed in against allowing such businesses as beauty salons and spas to reopen in the first phase. “We’ve made it clear that that is not a good phase one activity,” she said, as the number of U.S. cases topped 1.1 million and the death toll rose to more than 66,000 on Sunday. Protesters gathering, as they did last week in Michigan and other parts of the country to demonstrate against stay-at-home restrictions, poses a huge risk, she said. “If they go home and infect their grandmother or their grandfather who has a comorbid condition and they have a serious or a very — or an unfortunate outcome, they will feel guilty for the rest of our lives,” Birx said. After weeks of self-isolating and restrictions, Americans are eager to return to some type of normal living — including sports. The National Football League said it will announce its schedule for the upcoming season this week including its season opening game on Sept. 10 and the Super Bowl, which is scheduled to be played in Tampa, Florida on Feb. 7. “We are planning on playing the 2020 NFL season as scheduled,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said in an email, noting they will adjust to government regulations. On the other side of the spectrum is Boston Mayor Marty Walsh in Massachusetts, which has not begun reopening and is seeing coronavirus cases still climbing. Massachusetts also has issued a statewide order telling people to wear masks in public. He said the rallies against coronavirus mitigation efforts were causing confusion and making his job harder. “I don’t understand it. That makes messaging really confusing. … It’s the wrong message, because we’re still very much in the beginning days of coronavirus. Even if you’re a state that is seeing numbers go down,” Walsh said. “If we’re not smart about the way we do things, those numbers could turn around and go right back up again.” As Texas becomes one of the leading states pushing for its businesses to reopen, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said people appear to be obeying the new rules. “People have not been rushing back into these restaurants and they have not been rushing back into the areas of the economy that the governor reopened on Friday,” he told CNN. “What we are seeing is people sort of putting their toe back in.” (Reporting by Doina Chiacu in Washington and Jonathan Allen in New York; Additional reporting by Ben Klayman in Detroit; Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
3 May 15:34 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/sunny-days-draw-crowds-to-beaches-parks-as-u-s-reopens-from-lockdownsRating: 0.94
COVID-19: Attendees at Abba Kyari’s burial test negative
3 May 22:29
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Average US: 2.5920000000000005
Weighted average US: 5.84491685687197
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Weighted average IN: 0.18709538273727894
COVID-19: Attendees at Abba Kyari’s burial test negative
Kindly Share This Story: ABUJA – The Federal Capital Territory Administration FCTA has said those who attended the burial of the late Chief of Staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari have now completed their 14 days of isolation and have tested negative for Covid-19. Consequently, they have been reunited with their families. Acting Secretary Health and Human Services Secretariat in the FCT, Dr Muhammed Kawu disclosed this in a statement Sunday in Abuja. He said; “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late Chief of staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days of isolation. Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID 19. They have been reunited with their families”. Kyari was buried on April 18 at the Gudu Cemetery in Abuja, but the event saw many government officials violating the social distancing measures of the federal government. Consequently, both officials and journalists who attended the burial were sent on mandatory 14-day isolation. Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 22:29 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-attendees-at-abba-kyaris-burial-test-negative/Rating: 2.43
[BREAKING] COVID-19: Attendees at Abba Kyari’s burial test negative
Kindly Share This Story: ABUJA – The Federal Capital Territory Administration FCTA has said those who attended the burial of the late Chief of Staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari have now completed their 14 days of isolation and have tested negative for Covid-19. Consequently, they have been reunited with their families. Acting Secretary Health and Human Services Secretariat in the FCT, Dr Muhammed Kawu disclosed this in a statement Sunday in Abuja. He said; “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late Chief of staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days of isolation. Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID 19. They have been reunited with their families”. Kyari was buried on April 18 at the Gudu Cemetery in Abuja, but the event saw many government officials violating the social distancing measures of the federal government. Consequently, both officials and journalists who attended the burial were sent on mandatory 14-day isolation. Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 18:43 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/breaking-covid-19-attendees-at-abba-kyaris-burial-test-negative/Rating: 2.43
COVID-19: Attendees at Abba Kyari’s burial test negative ―FCTA
Kindly Share This Story: The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has said those who attended the burial of the late Chief of Staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have now completed their 14 days of isolation and have tested negative for COVID-19. Consequently, they have been reunited with their families. Acting Secretary Health and Human Services Secretariat in the FCT, Dr Muhammed Kawu disclosed this in a statement Sunday in Abuja. He said; “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration, is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late Chief of staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days of isolation. “Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID 19. They have been reunited with their families”. Kyari was buried on April 18 at the Gudu Cemetery in Abuja, but the event saw many government officials violating the social distancing measures of the federal government. Consequently, both officials and journalists who attended the burial were sent on mandatory 14-day isolation. Vanguard recall that the Presidency had told State House media office staff and correspondents covering Aso Rock that attended the burial rite of the late Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari to stay away from the Presidential Villa for 14 days. The respective journalists have been told to self-isolate themselves for two weeks as a precautionary measure. Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 18:40 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-attendees-at-abba-kyaris-burial-test-negative-%e2%80%95fcta/Rating: 2.43
Coronavirus: Attendees exposed at Abba Kyari's funeral test negative - Official
Some attendees at the burial of President Muhammadu’s late Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari, have tested negative to COVID-19 after completing their 14 days of isolation. The Acting Secretary, FCT Health Secretariat, Mohammed Kawu, made this known in a brief statement on Sunday. “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration, is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late Chief of staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days of isolation. “Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID 19. They have been reunited with their families,” he said. He however, did not disclose the number of participants who were isolated and tested. His statement comes about two weeks after the death of Mr Kyari. The late chief of staff died at a private hospital in Lagos, about four weeks after he was confirmed positive for COVID-19 after he returned from an official trip to Germany. He was buried at the military cemetery in Abuja’s Gudu neighbourhood, an event which triggered outrage over disregard for social distancing and other health advisories. Many Nigerians have asked the Task Force to arrest and prosecute those who violated the protocols and guidelines of the NCDCat the funeral. Some Nigerians have also faulted the team’s method of prosecuting defaulters of the lockdown order accusing it of targeting the vulnerable in the society. After the funeral, Mr Kawu had announced that 11 attendees were identified and isolated. Some presidential aides present at the burial were also barred from the villa by President Muhammadu Buhari. The president had ordered that they self-isolate. It is, however, not clear if they are part of those who have tested negative to the disease.
3 May 20:08 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/391231-coronavirus-attendees-exposed-at-abba-kyaris-funeral-test-negative-official.htmlRating: 0.30
BREAKING: Presidential aides, others at Kyari's burial test negative - Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics
Some presidential aides and others who attended the burial of Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari, have tested negative for COVID-19. There had been fears some of them might have contracted the virus during the funeral some weeks ago. However a statement on Sunday by the Acting secretary, Health and Human Services Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Mohammed Kawu said: “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration, is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late Chief of staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days of isolation. “Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID 19. “They have been reunited with their families”. Details shortly…
3 May 18:36 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/breaking-presidential-aides-others-at-kyaris-burial-test-negative/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus: Presidential aides, others at Kyari’s burial test negative
- Some people not properly kitted during Abba Kyari's burial test negative - They have reportedly completed the mandatory 14 days isolation - Dr Mohammed Kawu also said they have been reunited with their families - PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Legit.ng News on your Facebook News Feed! The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) says those who were not properly kitted at the burial of Abba Kyari, the late chief of staff to the president, tested negative to COVID-19. Dr Mohammed Kawu, Acting Secretary, FCT Health and Human Services Secretariat, made this known in a statement in Abuja on Sunday. Kawu explained that they have also completed the mandatory 14 days isolation and have been reunited with their families. Recall that Legit.ng had reported that amid growing dialogue on who becomes Nigeria's next chief of staff, members of the federal executive council are reportedly pushing for the appointment of one of them as Abba Kyari's successor. FG announces Covid-19 result of 15 Chinese medical experts brought to fight coronavirus Some of the ministers who want one of them to be chosen have set the wheel on the fast lane in order to convince President Muhammadu Buhari that one of them is capable of taking the baton where Kyari dropped it. PAY ATTENTION: Download our mobile app to enjoy the latest news update Legit.ng recalls that Kyari, considered the most powerful chief of staff in the history of Nigeria, died on Friday, April 17, at the First Consultants Hospital in Ikoyi, Lagos after weeks of a battle with complications from Covid-19 infection. The Borno-born lawyer turned politician was buried on Saturday, April 18, according to Islamic rites. He was interred at exactly 11.20am at the military cemetery in Abuja’s Gudu neighbourhood amidst tears from family members and supporters. While Kyari's death is a big blow that left a huge scar in the hearts of friends and family members, it is apparently a big loss in the Buhari-led administration which he co-managed with his powerful influence as the chief of staff. Covid-19: Lagos police fumigate vehicles against disease NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We have upgraded to serve you better Abba Kyari: 6 previously unknown facts about Buhari's late chief of staff | Legit TV
3 May 19:15 • Legit • https://www.legit.ng/1326431-coronavirus-presidential-aides-kyaris-burial-test-negative.htmlRating: 0.30
Kyari: Burial attendees test negative for COVID-19
Adelani Adepegba, Abuja The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration said it has discharged the individuals who attended the burial of the Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari, after testing negative for COVID-19. It explained that the men were released from isolation after 14 days, adding that they have been reunited with their families. Many prominent Nigerians had attended Kyari’s burial at Gudu Cemetery in Abuja on April 18, where minimal regard was paid to social distancing protocols. This had generated concern among Nigerians who expressed fears over the violation of the social distancing by the attendees. Following this, the FCT Administration directed all participants to go on self-isolation for two weeks. The Presidency equally directed officials who attended the funeral to go on self-isolation and keep away from the Presidential Villa for 14-days. But some of the attendees, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, and other top officials, did not go into self-isolation as directed by the authorities. Mustapha, who heads the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 later apologised for violation of the protocols at the funeral. Providing an update on Sunday, acting Secretary, HHSS, FCTA, Dr Mohammed Kawu said, “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration, is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of the late Chief of staff to the President, Malam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days isolation. “Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID-19. They have been reunited with their families.”
3 May 19:59 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/kyari-burial-attendees-test-negative-for-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
FCTA: Those who attended Abba Kyari’s burial tested negative for COVID-19
The federal capital territory administration (FCTA) says all persons who were exposed during the burial of Abba Kyari, the former chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, have tested negative for COVID-19. Mohammed Kawu, acting secretary, health and human services secretariat at the FCTA, made the announcement according to a tweet on the FCTA’s handle. Kyari died on April 17 as a result of COVID-19 complications in Lagos, and was buried in Abuja the next day. Events at the burial generated reactions on social media as attendees openly flouted prevention guidelines issued by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), such as social distancing, to limit the spread of COVID-19. On April 18, Kawu announced that all those who were not properly kitted at the burial would be isolated. Also, on April 19, Garba Shehu, senior special assistant on media and publicity to the president, confirmed that government officials who attended the burial were asked to distance themselves from the presidential villa. However, in an announcement on Sunday evening, Kawu said all those identified and isolated tested negative and have been reunited with their families. “The FCT Health & Human Services Secretariat is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late COS to the President have completed their 14days of isolation. Tests were conducted and they have all tested NEGATIVE to #COVID19,” it read.
3 May 19:41 • TheCable • https://www.thecable.ng/fcta-those-who-attended-abba-kyaris-burial-tested-negative-for-covid-19Rating: 0.30
Abba Kyari’s burial: FCTA confirms COVID-19 test results of exposed mourners
THE Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has confirmed that all the individuals that were not properly kitted during the burial of Abba Kyari, the late Chief of Staff (CoS) to President Muhammadu Buhari, have tested negative for Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) after the completion of their 14 days of isolation. In a short memo obtained by The ICIR, Mohammed Kawu, the acting Secretary of the FCTA Health and Human Services Secretariat disclosed that the exposed individuals have been reunited with their families after the results of their test showed negative. The ICIR had reported about the unethical internment of the late Kyari, which several mourners attending without observing the laid down rules and guidelines of Safe Management of a Dead Body by World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). According to the NCDC guide, “Family members, religious leaders, health care workers or mortuary staffpreparing the body should wear appropriate PPE according to standard precautions (gloves, impermeable disposable gown (or disposable gown with impermeable apron, medical mask, eye protection). However, none of the mourners at the interment wore any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) except the personnel of the NCDC.
3 May 18:52 • The ICIR • https://www.icirnigeria.org/abba-kyaris-burial-fcta-confirms-covid-19-test-results-of-exposed-mourners/Rating: 0.30
BREAKING: Buhari’s Aides, Other Attendees At Abba Kyari’s Burial Test Negative For COVID-19
Some aides of President Muhammadu Buhari and other government officials, who attended the burial of Mallam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14-day isolation and tested negative for COVID-19. Consequently, they have been reunited with their families. There had been fears that some of them might have contracted the virus during the funeral of Kyari on April 18 at Gudu Cemetery in Abuja. He said, “The Health and Human Services Secretariat of the FCT Administration is happy to announce that the individuals exposed during the burial of late Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari, have completed their 14 days of isolation. Tests were conducted on them and they have all tested negative to COVID-19. They have been reunited with their families.” According to findings by SaharaReporters, some of the Presidency aides, who attended the burial include State House Chief Protocol Officer, Ambassador Lawal Kazaure, Special Assistant to the President, Yusuf Sabiu, a nephew to the President, Musa Haro Daura, and Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the, Garba Shehu. Others are National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno, Director-General of National Intelligence Agency, Mr Ahmad Rufai, and Personal Assistant on New Media to President Buhari, Bashir Ahmed, among several more persons.
3 May 00:00 • Sahara Reporters • http://saharareporters.com/2020/05/03/breaking-buhari%E2%80%99s-aides-other-attendees-abba-kyari%E2%80%99s-burial-test-negative-covid-19Rating: 1.44
Indonesia reports 349 new COVID-19 cases, 14 deaths
3 May 18:56
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Indonesia reports 349 new COVID-19 cases, 14 deaths
JAKARTA: Indonesia reported 349 new COVID-19 cases, taking the total number of infections in the Southeast Asian country to 11,192, health ministry official Achmad Yurianto said on Sunday (May 3). Yurianto said 14 new coronavirus-related deaths were confirmed, bringing the total to 845. More than 83,000 people have been tested for the virus, he added. In Jakarta, the number of burials was close to record highs in April, indicating there may have been many more deaths from COVID-19 in the city than have been officially recorded. Official data showed on Friday that the 4,377 burials, combined with 4,422 burials in March, indicate that 2,500 more people have died in the city in the past two months than the average for the period. Jakarta is the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in the world's fourth most populous country. Authorities introduced a soft lockdown on Jakarta in March, closing schools and some businesses. On April 24 travel out of the city was strictly banned in an effort to stop more people leaving for the annual post-Ramadan exodus from Greater Jakarta. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 18:56 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/indonesia-covid-19-new-cases-deaths-may-3-12698008Rating: 3.25
Biggest 24-hour spike in deaths, cases
New Delhi: More than a month into a countrywide lockdown, India reported the biggest single-day jump in the number of coronavirus patients with 2,487 n... New Delhi: More than a month into a countrywide lockdown, India reported the biggest single-day jump in the number of coronavirus patients with 2,487 new cases in the last 24 hours, including 83 deaths - also the highest - taking the total to 40,263 cases and 1,306 deaths, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. In the last week, the country has registered more than 13,000 cases and more than 700 deaths linked to the highly contagious illness, which began in China's Wuhan city in December and has spread to over 180 countries. The lockdown is set to ease from tomorrow in parts of the country that are least affected by the pandemic identified as Orange and Green zones. Strict restrictions continue to be in place in worst-hit districts marked as "Red Zones" Maharashtra remained the worst-hit state with the total number of cases rising to 12296 with 521 deaths, though 2000 people have also recovered from the deadly virus. Gujarat reported 5055 cases so far followed by Delhi with 4122 cases, according to the Health Ministry data. The other states which have seen sharp rise in cases are Madhya Pradesh (2846), Rajasthan (2772), Tamil Nadu (2757) and Uttar Pradesh (2626). Maharashtra has the highest number of fatalities, among all the states, followed by Gujarat with 262 deaths, Madhya Pradesh 156, Rajasthan 65 and Delhi 64. Among other major states, Andhra Pradesh has reported 1583 cases and 33 deaths so far, Bihar 482 cases and 4 deaths, Haryana 394 and four deaths, Jammu and Kashmir 666 cases and 8 deaths, Karnataka 606 and 25 deaths and Kerala 500 cases and 4 deaths. States which have reported less than 10 cases are Tripura, Mizoram, Puducherry, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.nipur and Arunachal Pradesh. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 21:09 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/biggest-24-hour-spike-in-deaths-cases-620645Rating: 1.10
Coronavirus numbers explained: Despite lockdown, new cases and deaths rise
While the lockdown is still continuing, the number of new cases, as well as the number of deaths being reported every day, has been steadily rising for the last few days. On Saturday, over 2500 new cases were reported for the first time, while the number of deaths was at least 93. By the end of Saturday, India had just a little below 40,000 cases, while the death figures had crossed 1300. There were no new surprises on Saturday, and the numbers simply reinforced the trend that we have been witnessing for a few days now. The bulk of new cases, as well as deaths, are being reported from the top five or seven states, while the others contributing very modest numbers. Maharashtra and Gujarat both reported the highest number of deaths on any single day. While there were 37 deaths in Maharashtra, Gujarat counted 26 dead. In the south, Tamil Nadu has been seeing a rapid rise in its case numbers in recent days. On Saturday, it added 231 new cases, its biggest single-day jump, to reach a tally of 2757, the highest among the five southern states. On four previous days, it had increased its numbers by 121, 104, 161 and 203. The state now has the fifth-highest caseload in the country, after Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh. In the southern region at least, Tamil Nadu remains an outlier, as the other four states are growing their numbers at a considerably slower rate. • What are human challenge trials, and why are they controversial? • In homemade masks, two fabrics better than one • Govt's guidelines for home isolation of mild and pre-symptomatic Covid-19 patientsClick here for more On Saturday, Delhi’s total caseload crossed 4000 after an unusually high daily increase of 384 cases, while Gujarat’s numbers went over 5000. The infection amongst pilgrims returning from Nanded in Maharashtra has seen a sudden surge in the numbers for Punjab. On Saturday, 187 new cases were detected in the state, of which 142 were those who had returned from Nanded. Over 3500 Sikh pilgrims have returned from Nanded in the last few days, of which 242 have so far been found to be infected. Maharashtra PWD minister Ashok Chavan, who represents Nanded district in the state assembly, said that it was possible that some of the drivers of the vehicles who ferried the pilgrims from Maharashtra to Punjab might have been responsible for spreading the infection. He said the pilgrims had been transported in 78 buses, each of which had two drivers. But on Saturday, at least 20 sewadars of the Gurudwara Langar Sahib in Nanded, where the stranded pilgrims from Punjab had stayed during the lockdown, also tested positive for novel Coronavirus. 📣 Express Explained is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@ieexplained) and stay updated with the latest Meanwhile, Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh directed his officials to rapidly scale up testing facilities in the state, to at least 6000 every day. Punjab has been carrying out 1500 to 2000 tests every day right now. (*State government has said it was not counting 72 deaths of Coronavirus positive patients, because an expert committee had ascertained that they could be attributed to other pre-existing illnesses. State government now providing only daily number of deaths, and not the total number.)
3 May 10:27 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/despite-lockdown-new-cases-and-deaths-rise-coronavirus-maharashtra-gujarat-tamil-nadu-6391322/Rating: 0.30
WC remains epicentre of COVID-19 with 3,044 cases, SA registers 8 more deaths
JOHANNESBURG – As South Africa’s COVID-19 cases now sit at 6,783, the Western Cape remains the epicentre of the virus with 3,044 cases. Eight more deaths have been recorded with two from Western Cape, four from the Eastern Cape and two from Gauteng, bringing the number of total deaths to 131. According to the Health Department, as of 30 April, 7,216,777 citizens have been screened and from that community screening programme 72,087 were referred for testing. A total of 245,747 people have been tested in both the private and public sectors. Gauteng now has 1,624 cases followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 1,076. The Eastern Cape is also nearing the 1,000 mark with 774 cases.
3 May 00:00 • ewn.co.za • https://ewn.co.za/2020/05/03/wc-remains-epicentre-of-covid-19-with-3-044-cases-sa-registers-8-more-deathsRating: 1.68
Coronavirus crisis: Good news for Kerala as it records zero cases of COVID-19 on May 1
Thiruvananthapuram, May 02: Kerala, for the first time in over one month, has reported zero new cases of coronavirus on May 01, as the deadly virus has continued to spread all over the country. March 18 was the last time when Kerala did not have any new cases of coronavirus in the state. Recently, the state had also witnessed just one or two cases to its tally. Kerala, God's own country, was the first state in India to have COVID-19 patients. Also, this state has seen the slowest rise in numbers in April among states with large caseloads. Presently, there are 497 confirmed cases, and just three deaths, which too is the lowest among states with a significant number of cases. Apart from Kerala, there are about ten states and union territories in India that did not record new cases on Friday. Also, it can be seen that some of these states and union territory have not added to their tally for several days. Taking Telangana for an instance, the state has been adding cases mostly in single digits for the last few days. It has reported only six cases on Friday, taking the state tally to 1,044. Other states that gathered more number of coronavirus cases include Maharashtra, that has 11,506 confirmed cases out of which 1,879 have recovered from the disease. Tamil Nadu showed registered 203 cases on Friday to take its tally to 2,526. Currently, the total number of the novel coronavirus cases in the country has increased to 37,336 while the death toll has increased to 1,218, according to health ministry data.
2 May 05:13 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/coronavirus-crisis-good-news-for-kerala-as-it-records-zero-cases-of-covid19-on-may1-3081576.htmlRating: 0.30
Coronavirus numbers explained: No cases in Kerala, others surge
For the first time in over one month, Kerala reported zero new cases of Coronavirus on Friday, even as the infections continued to surge in many other states. The last time when Kerala did not have any new cases in a day was on March 18. In between, there were several days when it had added just one or two cases to its tally. Kerala, which was the first state in India to have Coronavirus patients, has seen the slowest rise in numbers in the last month among states with large caseloads. Right now it has 497 confirmed cases, and just three deaths, which too is the lowest among states with a significant number of cases. Apart from Kerala, there were at least ten states and union territories that did not have a single new case on Friday. Some of these have not added to their tally for several days now. Then there are other states, like Chhattisgarh, which have been adding numbers at a very slow pace. Telangana,which too has been adding cases mostly in single digits for the last few days, reported only six cases on Friday, taking its tally to 1044. Coronavirus Explained • What are human challenge trials, and why are they controversial? • In homemade masks, two fabrics better than one • Govt's guidelines for home isolation of mild and pre-symptomatic Covid-19 patientsClick here for more Top Ten States However, there was no let-up in the number of new cases in the statesthat are driving India’s growth of Coronavirus cases. Maharashtra added 1008 new cases on Friday, the first time that any state has crossed the 1000-figure mark in a day. Maharashtra now has 11506 confirmed cases out of which 1879 have recovered from the disease. Tamil Nadu showed a big surge,adding 203 cases on Friday to take its tally to 2526. Gujaratnumbers jumped by 326 while Delhishowed a rise of 223. The daily increase of cases in the country crossed 2000 for the first time. On Friday, 2283 new cases were discovered across the country, and now there are at least 37234 confirmed cases in India. 📣 Express Explained is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@ieexplained) and stay updated with the latest The very different rates at which numbers are increasing in different states is the primary reason why the next phase of lockdown, to be implemented from Monday, has taken a graded approach.There are wide variations within states as well. For example, even in Maharashtra, there are at least 25 municipal areas which have less than ten cases. Some of these do not have a single case.
2 May 11:15 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/coronavirus-numbers-kerala-maharashtra-tamil-nadu-gujarat-6389907/Rating: 0.30
JUST IN: Kano records three deaths, 92 fresh COVID-19 cases
Kano State Government has confirmed 92 fresh cases of COVID-19, with 3 additional deaths in the state. This was confirmed by the state ministry of health in a tweet on Friday at exactly 11.25pm. It said with the fresh cases, the total infections is now 311. Kano State Ministry of Health Twitter handle reads, @KNSMOH,#COVID19KN Update as at 11:25pm 1st May 2020. 92 new cases of #COVID19KN cases confirmed. Total confirmed cases in @KanostateNg are now 311. 3 additional #COVID19KN deaths were recorded. Total #COVID19KN deaths are now 8. The Nation reports that the state recorded 3 additional deaths, hence total deaths recorded in Kano is now 8.
2 May 09:06 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/just-in-kano-records-three-deaths-92-fresh-covid-19-cases/Rating: 0.30
Thailand reports six new COVID-19 cases
BANGKOK: Thailand reported six new coronavirus cases and no new deaths on Saturday (May 2), bringing the total number of cases to 2,966. New daily infections have stayed in the single digits for six consecutive days, prompting the government to allow some businesses and public parks to reopen starting on Sunday. Three of the new cases were found on the southern resort island of Phuket, said Taweesin Wisanuyothin, a spokesman of the government's Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration. While more than half of Thailand's nearly 3,000 cases were concentrated in Bangkok, Phuket has the highest rate of infection per population, Taweesin said. Since Thailand first detected the coronavirus in January, a total of 54 patients have died, 2,732 have recovered and 180 are still hospitalised, according to official figures. Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
2 May 16:12 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/asia/thailand-reports-six-new-covid-19-cases-12696470Rating: 3.25
Ukraine coronavirus update: 550 new cases in past day, bringing total to 11,411
Ukraine's Health Ministry says the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases across the country has reached 11,411. "According to the Public Health Center, there were 11,411 laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of 09:00 Kyiv time on May 2, including 279 deaths. Some 1,498 patients have recovered. A total of 550 new cases have been recorded over the past day," the ministry said on Facebook in its morning update on May 2. Now the novel coronavirus was recorded in the following regions: 427 cases in Vinnytsia region; 315 in Volyn region; 436 in Dnipropetrovsk region; 70 in Donetsk region; 393 in Zhytomyr region; 496 in Zakarpattia region; 267 in Zaporizhia region; 942 in Ivano-Frankivsk region; 394 in Kirovohrad region; 1,494 in the city of Kyiv; 747 in Kyiv region; 465 in Lviv region; 37 in Luhansk region; 140 in Mykolayiv region; 329 in Odesa region; 212 in Poltava region; 689 in Rivne region; 105 in Sumy region; 823 in Ternopil region; 311 in Kharkiv region; 121 in Kherson region; 98 in Khmelnytsky region; 1,745 in Chernivtsi region; 304 in Cherkasy region; and 51 in Chernihiv region. Data from Russia-occupied areas – the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, the city of Sevastopol, parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions – is not available. The tests were conducted with the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the Public Health Center's virological reference laboratory and regional laboratories. As of the morning of May 2, 2020, the Center had received 727 reports of suspected COVID-19 cases. In total, there have been 31,043 reports on suspected COVID-19 since the beginning of 2020.
2 May 11:57 • UNIAN • https://www.unian.info/society/coronavirus-in-ukraine-550-new-cases-in-past-day-10981415.htmlRating: 0.30
Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
3 May 12:46
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Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organisation.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the Covid-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work.”
3 May 12:46 • DAWN.COM • https://www.dawn.com/news/1554195Rating: 2.87
Journalism has effectively become a crime in Egypt in past 4 years: Report
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Donald Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work.”
3 May 13:08 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/journalism-has-effectively-become-a-crime-in-egypt-in-past-4-years-report/story-4tfheKeFyRL9x1AzpqTu8M.htmlRating: 0.30
Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished," said Philip Luther, Amnesty's Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government's escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi's rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt's television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country's intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn't spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry's coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt's public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt's crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump's proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan's violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state's political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work."
3 May 08:16 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/world-news-politics/amnesty-reports-chilling-details-of-egypt-press-crackdown-832926.htmlRating: 2.25
Journalism now ‘a crime’ in Egypt – Amnesty report
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International has said in a report. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organisation”. Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. One directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not adhere to the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work”.
3 May 12:38 • Jersey Evening Post • https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/journalism-now-a-crime-in-egypt-amnesty-report/Rating: 0.38
Saudi residents spreading ‘fake news’ face five years’ jail
CAIRO: Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday.As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis.“The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director.Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent.An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds.Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service.But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said.One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.”Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported.The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and El-Sisi have cultivated close ties.Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.”Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work.”
3 May 06:07 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1668851/mediaRating: 1.72
Journalism has become a crime in Egypt: Amnesty International
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International has said in a new report. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information instead of upholding transparency during the crisis, according to the London-based rights group's report on Sunday. "The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished," said Philip Luther, Amnesty's Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists arrested in the government's escalating crackdown on press freedom, many charged with "spreading false news" or "misusing social media" under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. Marking World Press Freedom Day on Sunday, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists - and to release those held "solely for carrying out their work". There was no comment by Egypt's government but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Among the media workers imprisoned in Egypt is Al Jazeera's Mahmoud Hussein, a Doha-based journalist who was arrested in 2016 during a visit to his family in Cairo. He has been detained without charge for more than 1,200 days, and there are concerns for his health during the coronavirus pandemic. Mostefa Souag, Al Jazeera Media Network's director general, called on the world leaders in a letter published on Sunday to join "the call to action for the immediate release of Mahmoud Hussein and all other journalists imprisoned around the world". "At Al Jazeera we stand in solidarity with all our colleagues in the media," he said. "We believe that no journalist should be intimidated, persecuted or imprisoned for carrying out their duty. We believe in the fundamental truth that freedom of speech is the very basic building block to uphold the values of democracy." Mahmoud Hussein has been detained without a charge for more than 1,200 days [Al Jazeera] Since general-turned-President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi seized power in 2013, most of Egypt's television programmes and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately-owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country's intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice has not spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, Amnesty's report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the health ministry's coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly arrested on suspicion of "joining a terrorist organisation". Egypt's public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread "false news" about the coronavirus pandemic may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have so far been caught up in the coronavirus-motivated crackdown, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt's crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and what to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle United States President Donald Trump's proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan's violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sisi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not tow the official line, including praising prison conditions and smearing the state's political opponents, "lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned", one journalist was quoted as saying by Amnesty. "I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply."
3 May 07:56 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/journalism-crime-egypt-amnesty-international-200503063513164.htmlRating: 2.44
Amnesty Reports Chilling Details of Egypt's Press Crackdown Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished," said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi's rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country's intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt's crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state's political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work."
3 May 08:59 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/egypt/amnesty-reports-chilling-details-of-egypt-s-press-crackdown-amid-coronavirus-1.8815887Rating: 1.13
Journalism now ‘a crime’ in Egypt – Amnesty report
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International has said in a report. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice has not spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organisation”. Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. One directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not adhere to the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work”.
3 May 02:51 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/journalism-now-a-crime-in-egypt-amnesty-report/Rating: 0.88
Journalism now ‘a crime’ in Egypt – Amnesty report
Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International has said in a report. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice has not spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organisation”. Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. One directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not adhere to the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work”.
3 May 02:49 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/journalism-now-a-crime-in-egypt-amnesty-report/Rating: 0.30
Journalism now ‘a crime’ in Egypt – Amnesty report
Marking World Press Freedom day on Sunday, the human rights group has condemned the Egyptian government’s increasing clampdowns on the media. Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International has said in a report. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice has not spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organisation”. Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. One directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not adhere to the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work”.
3 May 02:49 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/world-news/2020/05/03/journalism-now-a-crime-in-egypt-amnesty-report/Rating: 0.30
Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
CAIRO — Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work.” The Associated Press
3 May 00:02 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/02/amnesty-reports-chilling-details-of-egypt-press-crackdown/Rating: 0.61
Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
CAIRO (AP) — Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. Advertising But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work.” The Associated Press
2 May 17:01 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/amnesty-reports-chilling-details-of-egypt-press-crackdown/Rating: 0.74
Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
CAIRO — Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported. The journalists interviewed by Amnesty reported increasingly direct state intervention in their coverage. Many working for government-owned or aligned papers said they receive specific instructions via WhatsApp on what to report and to omit. For instance, a directive on how to handle President Trump’s proposal to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict this year asked reporters not to mention the plan’s violations of long-standing Arab policies, as Trump and el-Sissi have cultivated close ties. Those who do not hew the official line, such as by praising prison conditions and smearing the state’s political opponents, “lost their jobs, were interrogated or imprisoned,” one journalist was quoted as saying. “I cannot even imagine that someone could refuse to comply.” Marking World Press Freedom Day, Amnesty urged Egyptian authorities to halt their censorship, harassment and intimidation of journalists — and to release those detained “solely for carrying out their work.” The Associated Press
2 May 13:02 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/02/amnesty-reports-chilling-details-of-egypt-press-crackdown/Rating: 0.77
Amnesty reports chilling details of Egypt press crackdown
CAIRO (AP) - Journalism in Egypt has effectively become a crime over the past four years, as authorities clamp down on media outlets and muzzle dissent, Amnesty International said in a report released Sunday. As the number of coronavirus infections in Egypt continues to rise, the government is strengthening its control over information, the London-based rights group said, instead of upholding transparency during the public health crisis. “The Egyptian authorities have made it very clear that anyone who challenges the official narrative will be severely punished,” said Philip Luther, Amnesty’s Middle East and North Africa director. Amnesty documented 37 cases of journalists detained in the government’s escalating crackdown on press freedoms, many charged with “spreading false news” or “misusing social media” under a broad 2015 counterterrorism law that has expanded the definition of terror to include all kinds of dissent. An Egyptian press officer did not respond to multiple calls seeking comment, but authorities have previously denied rights violations and justified arrests on national security grounds. Following general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi’s rise to power in 2013, most of Egypt’s television programs and newspapers have taken the government position and steered clear of criticism, or else disappeared. Many privately owned Egyptian news outlets have been quietly acquired by companies affiliated with the country’s intelligence service. But even a pro-government voice hasn’t spared 12 journalists working for state-owned media outlets, who have landed in jail for expressing various private views on social media, the report said. One of them is Atef Hasballah, editor-in-chief of the AlkararPress website. When he challenged the Health Ministry’s coronavirus case count on his Facebook page last month, he was promptly bundled into a police van and detained on suspicion of “joining a terrorist organization.” Egypt’s public prosecutor warned in a recent statement that those who spread “false news” about the coronavirus may face up to five years imprisonment and steep fines. At least 12 individuals have been caught up in the COVID-19-motivated crackdown so far, according to Amnesty. Last month, authorities blocked a local news site that covered calls by activists to release political prisoners over fears of the coronavirus spreading in Egypt’s crowded prisons. Separately, Egypt expelled a correspondent for The Guardian newspaper over an article that indicated the coronavirus infection rate may be higher than officially reported.
2 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/2/amnesty-reports-chilling-details-of-egypt-press-cr/?utm_source=RSS_Feed&utm_medium=RSSRating: 0.79
Rapid test for COVID-19 recalled after Health Canada expresses concerns
3 May 17:42
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Rapid test for COVID-19 recalled after Health Canada expresses concerns
OTTAWA — An Ottawa biotech company is voluntarily recalling a rapid test for COVID-19 after Health Canada expressed concern about its effectiveness, dealing a setback to expanded testing in the country. Spartan Bioscience said Sunday that the concerns centre around the proprietary swab used in the test, but that the Health Canada report out Friday did not raise concerns about the accuracy of the test reagents and portable analyzer device. The company said it would recall the 5,500 test shipped nationally and work on additional clinical studies to assess the sampling method and swab. "Spartan will be working as quickly as possible to address the concerns and bring its test to market," the company said in a statement. Spartan declined an interview request. Chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said Sunday at a news conference that real-world trials of the test so far haven't delivered necessary outcomes. "While the Spartan system, or the device, performed very well in a laboratory setting, and along the specifications the manufacturer had provided, it was in the real-life setting, in the clinical setting, where it didn't perform well." Tam said the recall won't affect the national testing goal of 60,000 people a day, since that figure is based on systems already in use, but that it could affect the speed of further test increases and especially affect rural communities where local in-clinic tests would be especially useful. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government has moved to accelerate approvals for testing and other potentially life-saving measures, but also needs to be ready to respond quickly to new information. "That is why we are being as nimble as we possibly can to respond to what's working, to what perhaps isn't working as well as we hoped that it would, and we will always need to adjust every step of the way as new information comes in on a daily basis through this pandemic, through this crisis." Health Canada says the product is restricted to research use only until adequate evidence of clinical performance can be provided. The federal government announced it had approved the hand-held DNA analyzer on April 13. The need for greater testing is widely acknowledged as key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada, and how best to deploy suppression strategies. Canada was hoping to send the devices to remote and Indigenous communities where access and timely results have been hindered by distance and limited resources. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 17:42 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/rapid-test-for-covid-19-recalled-after-health-canada-expresses-concerns-2320735Rating: 0.30
Rapid test for COVID-19 recalled after Health Canada expresses concerns
OTTAWA - An Ottawa biotech company is voluntarily recalling a rapid test for COVID-19 after Health Canada expressed concern about its effectiveness, dealing a setback to expanded testing in the country. Spartan Bioscience said Sunday that the concerns centre around the proprietary swab used in the test, but that the Health Canada report out Friday did not raise concerns about the accuracy of the test reagents and portable analyzer device. The company said it would recall the 5,500 test shipped nationally and work on additional clinical studies to assess the sampling method and swab. "Spartan will be working as quickly as possible to address the concerns and bring its test to market," the company said in a statement. Spartan declined an interview request. Chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said Sunday at a news conference that real-world trials of the test so far haven't delivered necessary outcomes. "While the Spartan system, or the device, performed very well in a laboratory setting, and along the specifications the manufacturer had provided, it was in the real-life setting, in the clinical setting, where it didn't perform well." Tam said the recall won't affect the national testing goal of 60,000 people a day, since that figure is based on systems already in use, but that it could affect the speed of further test increases and especially affect rural communities where local in-clinic tests would be especially useful. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government has moved to accelerate approvals for testing and other potentially life-saving measures, but also needs to be ready to respond quickly to new information. "That is why we are being as nimble as we possibly can to respond to what's working, to what perhaps isn't working as well as we hoped that it would, and we will always need to adjust every step of the way as new information comes in on a daily basis through this pandemic, through this crisis." Health Canada says the product is restricted to research use only until adequate evidence of clinical performance can be provided. The federal government announced it had approved the hand-held DNA analyzer on April 13. The need for greater testing is widely acknowledged as key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada, and how best to deploy suppression strategies. Canada was hoping to send the devices to remote and Indigenous communities where access and timely results have been hindered by distance and limited resources. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 17:42 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-testing/cp1656395835Rating: 0.30
Rapid test for COVID-19 recalled after Health Canada expresses concerns
OTTAWA -- An Ottawa biotech company is voluntarily recalling a rapid test for COVID-19 after Health Canada expressed concern about its effectiveness, dealing a setback to expanded testing in the country. Spartan Bioscience said Sunday that the concerns centre around the proprietary swab used in the test, but that the Health Canada report out Friday did not raise concerns about the accuracy of the test reagents and portable analyzer device. The company said it would recall the 5,500 test shipped nationally and work on additional clinical studies to assess the sampling method and swab. "Spartan will be working as quickly as possible to address the concerns and bring its test to market," the company said in a statement. Spartan declined an interview request. Chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said Sunday at a news conference that real-world trials of the test so far haven't delivered necessary outcomes. "While the Spartan system, or the device, performed very well in a laboratory setting, and along the specifications the manufacturer had provided, it was in the real-life setting, in the clinical setting, where it didn't perform well." Tam said the recall won't affect the national testing goal of 60,000 people a day, since that figure is based on systems already in use, but that it could affect the speed of further test increases and especially affect rural communities where local in-clinic tests would be especially useful. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said the federal government has moved to accelerate approvals for testing and other potentially life-saving measures, but also needs to be ready to respond quickly to new information. "That is why we are being as nimble as we possibly can to respond to what's working, to what perhaps isn't working as well as we hoped that it would, and we will always need to adjust every step of the way as new information comes in on a daily basis through this pandemic, through this crisis." Health Canada says the product is restricted to research use only until adequate evidence of clinical performance can be provided. The federal government announced it had approved the hand-held DNA analyzer on April 13. The need for greater testing is widely acknowledged as key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada, and how best to deploy suppression strategies. Canada was hoping to send the devices to remote and Indigenous communities where access and timely results have been hindered by distance and limited resources. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 15:51 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/rapid-test-for-covid-19-recalled-after-health-canada-expresses-concerns-1.4922786Rating: 2.87
Rapid test for coronavirus recalled after Health Canada expresses concerns
OTTAWA– A rapid test developed for COVID-19 has experienced a setback. Ottawa’s Spartan Bioscience says it is voluntarily recalling its COVID-19 product and performing additional studies after Health Canada expressed some concerns Friday. Spartan says Health Canada was concerned about the “efficacy of the proprietary swab” for the testing product. The company says Health Canada had no concerns about the accuracy and analytical performance of the product. Health Canada says the product is restricted to research use only until adequate evidence of clinical performance can be provided. The federal government announced it had approved the hand-held DNA analyzer on April 13. The need for greater testing is widely acknowledged as key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada, and how best to deploy suppression strategies. Canada was trying to send the devices to remote and Indigenous communities where access and timely results have been hindered by distance and limited resources.
3 May 16:37 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/rapid-test-for-coronavirus-recalled-after-health-canada-expresses-concerns/Rating: 0.61
Rapid test for COVID-19 recalled after Health Canada expresses concerns
OTTAWA — A rapid test developed for COVID-19 has experienced a setback. Ottawa’s Spartan Bioscience says it is voluntarily recalling its COVID-19 product and performing additional studies after Health Canada expressed some concerns Friday. Spartan says Health Canada was concerned about the “efficacy of the proprietary swab” for the testing product. The company says Health Canada had no concerns about the accuracy and analytical performance of the product. Health Canada says the product is restricted to research use only until adequate evidence of clinical performance can be provided. The federal government announced it had approved the hand-held DNA analyzer on April 13. The need for greater testing is widely acknowledged as key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada, and how best to deploy suppression strategies. Canada was trying to send the devices to remote and Indigenous communities where access and timely results have been hindered by distance and limited resources. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 15:38 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/rapid-test-for-covid-19-recalled-after-health-canada-expresses-concerns/Rating: 0.61
Rapid virus test recalled
OTTAWA - A rapid test developed for COVID-19 has experienced a setback. Ottawa's Spartan Bioscience says it is voluntarily recalling its COVID-19 product and performing additional studies after Health Canada expressed some concerns Friday. Spartan says Health Canada was concerned about the "efficacy of the proprietary swab" for the testing product. The company says Health Canada had no concerns about the accuracy and analytical performance of the product. Health Canada says the product is restricted to research use only until adequate evidence of clinical performance can be provided. The federal government announced it had approved the hand-held DNA analyzer on April 13. The need for greater testing is widely acknowledged as key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada, and how best to deploy suppression strategies. Canada was trying to send the devices to remote and Indigenous communities where access and timely results have been hindered by distance and limited resources.
3 May 08:49 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/Canada/298974/Rapid-test-for-COVID-19-recalled-after-Health-Canada-expresses-concernsRating: 1.34
Non-essential shops in Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Pune to open today
3 May 23:27
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Age penalty: 0.92
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Average US: 0.8611111111111109
Weighted average US: 2.7183360142981847
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Weighted average IN: 55.799758578771446
Non-essential shops in Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Pune to open today
From Monday, liquor shops, electronic stores, mobile phone stores and stationary shops will be allowed to reopen in Mumbai and Pune, the Maharashtra government announced on Sunday. The state, however, capped the total number of “non-essential” and “standalone” shops that can reopen on any lane, street or road to a maximum of five, and that too only outside containment zones in these metropolitan areas. The new order released by the state government on Sunday stated: “All standalone (single) shops, neighbourhood (colony) shops and shops in residential complexes, without any distinction of essential and non-essential, are permitted to remain open in urban areas excluding containment zones.” Meanwhile, in line with the guidelines issued by the government, the state excise department issued a notification allowing retail liquor shops to remain open from 10 am to 6 pm in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and municipal corporations areas of Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Malegaon. However, wholesale liquor shops will remain open only till 5 pm. Prohibiting the drinking of alcohol in liquor shops, the notification added that no more than five consumers should queue up in front of the shops at a time. “The shopowners must conduct thermal scanning of all workers and consumers. If anyone has any symptoms of cold, cough and fever, then the person should not be given entry into the shop,” it said. “The shop and surrounding area has to be sanitised after every two hours,” it added. However, later in the day, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) declared 69 “micro containment zones” – reporting maximum number of cases – which would be completely sealed from midnight till May 17. In areas outside the micro containment zones, the amended directives issued by the state government on Sunday would be applicable. In an order, Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Gaikwad said, “The entire PMC area was declared a containment zone and restrictions were put on public movement across the city. Now, it has been noticed that most cases are concentrated in certain pockets. So, it is necessary to identify micro containment zones and enforce restrictions of containment zones only in these areas.” Shops of essential commodities will operate in these zones from 10 am to 2 pm. Last Friday, the Union Home Ministry had announced that all standalone shops, neighbouring shops and shops in residential complexes would be be permitted to remain open in areas outside containment zones in red zones or hotspot districts on certain conditions. But a state government notification, issued on Saturday, had stated that this exemption would not be extended to any shop located in municipal corporations areas within the MMR, Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Malegaon, which collectively account for 91 per cent of cases in the state. With Sunday’s notification, the government seems to have had a change of heart to loosen the restrictions a little. Chief Secretary Ajoy Mehta, in his order on Sunday, said: “…in areas under Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and Malegaon Municipal Corporation, if there are more than five shops in a lane/road, then besides all shops selling essential goods, up to a maximum five shops selling non-essential goods in that lane/road, will be permitted to remain open.” Bhushan Gagrani, principal secretary in the government’s Corona Control Room, emphasised that only standalone shops outside containment zones of these areas can stay open. As of Saturday, there were 1,459 containment zones in areas falling under Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s jurisdiction. “The non-essential shops include liquor, electronic goods, mobile and stationary among others. Liquor shops can be opened if they are standalone and are not part of malls, restaurants and hotels,” said Gagrani. He added that while no more than five non-essential shops will be allowed in a lane to avoid crowding, there is no such cap on the numbers of essential shops. “The local administration will take a call which five standalone non-essential shops will stay open,” said Gagrani. He further said that social distancing measures have to be followed strictly at shops in these areas. While construction projects have also been allowed in these regions if the industries have made accommodation arrangements for the workers on site, private offices will not be allowed to open in these areas, said Gagarani. All shops will, however, remain open in orange and green zones. Sources in the government said that it is a part of a graded exit strategy from the lockdown. “Except MMR and municipal corporations areas of Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Malegaon, we have allowed activities in rest of the state. Some activities have not been permitted in these areas, as a large number of cases have been reported from these places,” said an official, adding that allowing liquor shops to operate will help the state generate revenue.
3 May 23:27 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/non-essential-shops-in-mumbai-metropolitan-region-pune-to-open-today-6392539/Rating: 0.30
Non-essential shops to reopen in red zones in Maharashtra
The Maharashtra government on Sunday allowed standalone shops of non-essential commodities, including liquor vendors, to open in red zones such as Mumbai, Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Malegaon. The move comes barely 24 hours after the government announced guidelines for the third phase of the lockdown. No shops will be opened in containment areas in red and orange zones, the fresh guidelines on Sunday said. “All standalone shops, colony shops and shops in residential complexes, without any distinction of essential and non-essential, are permitted to remain open in urban areas excluding containment zones,” said the new notification. It said, however only up to five shops selling non-essential commodities will be allowed to open in a single lane in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and areas under the Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and Malegaon municipal corporations. These will be besides essential goods shops, to which the restriction does not apply. Principal Secretary Bhushan Gagrani said that along with non-essential shops, liquor shops too can remain open. “All shops in rural areas, except in malls, are permitted to remain open, without any distinction of essential and non-essential,” the notification said. As per the guidelines announced on Saturday, liquor shops will have to ensure a six feet distance between customers and that only up to five people are present at one time in the shop. Mr. Gagarani also said private construction sites can be opened in the red zone if the required labour is in situ. The State Excise Department late on Sunday said retail liquor shops can only remain open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and drinking within or near the shop is prohibited. Reopening liquor shops is expected to boost the State exchequer dented by the halt in economic activity over the past two months. In 2018-19, the State earned ₹15,323 crore as excise from liquor, while in 2019-20 the figure was ₹17, 977 crore. The State government said the non-essential category includes shops such as electrical goods, mobile shops, stationery and liquor. E-commerce companies can deliver goods to all zones, excluding containment zones. The Federation of Retail Traders Welfare Association (FRTWA) said it is awaiting clarity on the opening of shops in red zone areas like Mumbai and Pune. FRTWA president Viren Shah said the association is yet to confirm that this order applies to standalone stores in Mumbai. “If yes, then there is a need for definition of standalone stores and a lot of questions unanswered. None of the ward officers are aware of this news in Mumbai,” Mr. Shah said. In a statement, Mr. Shah asked who will sanitise the shops and decide which five shops in a lane would operate. “There is more confusion. How will staff commute without public transport? What will the timings of standalone stores be like? Only an order issued on Twitter without any guidelines won’t help. We will wait for proper clarification,” Mr. Shah said. (With inputs from Aditya Anand)
3 May 20:23 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/non-essential-shops-to-reopen-in-red-zones/article31496616.eceRating: 0.30
Pune: Liquor shops to open outside containment zones
Over six weeks after they were ordered to close, liquor shops in Pune district will reopen from Monday, barring those located in containment zones in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad cities, officials said. As per the revised guidelines issued for the extended lockdown of two weeks, the state government had kept out Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, Mumbai and Malegaon cities — which are among the worst affected cities by COVID-19 — out of the relaxation given to other cities classified under red, orange and green zones to open non-essential commodities’ shops. On Sunday, however, the guidelines were revised to grant relaxation to these cities as well as keeping out only ‘demarcated containment zones’ in these cities out of the relaxations. Pune district Collector Naval Kishore Ram confirmed that standalone liquor shops will open in Pune district but only outside ‘containment areas’. “Standalone liquor shops outside containment areas will be allowed to open. Operators will have to ensure that not more than five persons gather at the counter at a time and social distancing is maintained,” said Ram. Click here for more There are about 2,500 small and big liquor shops in Pune apart from about 300 countryliquor shops. All of these were ordered to shut shop on March 20 until March 31. Later, the closure order was extended until April 14 and further until April 30. On April 30, it was amended to say that the shops will remain closed until further orders. Bars and clubs will continue to remain shut.
3 May 22:45 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/pune/pune-liquor-shops-to-open-outside-containment-zones-6392507/Rating: 0.30
It will be business as usual for grocery shops, says Collector
A day after the State Government announced Visakhapatnam district as an orange zone, Collector V. Vinay Chand said that all the standalone small-scale shops in the residential/neighbourhood colonies (except in containment zones) can be opened in the district. He also said that revised timings for the sale of essential commodities is 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Addressing a press conference on Sunday, Mr Vinay Chand said that it is the responsibility of all the shopkeepers to ensure that customers follow social distancing at their stores without fail. However shops in commercial areas, market areas and malls are not allowed to open until further instructions, he clarified. He also mentioned that street vendors will not be allowed to open their stalls. “It is also the responsibility of the shopkeepers that there should not be any crowds outside their shops. Most importantly, the shopkeeper should wear a mask,” he said. The Collector also made it clear that there will be no inter-district and intra-district movement of APSRTC buses. He also said that cabs, taxis, auto-rickshaws can ply only in case of an emergency, and there should not be more than two persons apart from the driver. Mr. Vinay Chand also put an end to the rumours that people can move from one place in the orange zone. He said that people are not allowed to move from one place to the other except in cases of emergency. He also said that as per the Central Government guidelines, there will be a complete ban on domestic and international air travel, train movement, educational institutions, coaching centres, hotels, bars, restaurants, malls, multiplexes and cinema theatres, apart from social, political, cultural and religious gatherings. “In case of funerals, not more than 20 people should gather. We also request the public to attend weddings only if it is unavoidable and make sure that there are not more than 50 persons in attendance. However, inform the police about the wedding beforehand,” said Mr. Vinay Chand. He also said that in the case of containment zones in the district, there will be no relaxations at all. The district administration will ensure that mobile rythu bazaars are available to the people in the restricted zones. When asked whether liquor shops will be allowed to open in the district, Mr. Vinay Chand said that they have not received any proper guidelines till afternoon. He said that they would follow whatever the State Government conveys to them. Meanwhile, staff of wine shops in the city were seen marking circles outside the stores.
3 May 17:30 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/it-will-be-business-as-usual-for-grocery-shops-says-collector/article31495835.eceRating: 0.30
Around 150 liquor shops likely to open in Delhi from Monday
Around 150 liquor shops located outside COVID-19 containment zones in the national capital are likely to open from Monday as the Delhi government has announced implementation of the latest lockdown relaxations. According to an official, four government-run agencies, which are responsible for sale of liquor in Delhi, have submitted the list of the liquor shops which can be allowed to open following coronavirus guidelines. “About 150 liquor shops are likely to open in Delhi from Monday,” the official said, adding that these are likely remain open till 7 in evening. On Saturday, the excise department directed these four agencies to identify liquor outlets which fulfil all conditions prescribed by the the Ministry of Home Affairs. However, liquor shops will not be allowed to open in COVID-19 containment zones. Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation, Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation, Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation Limited and Delhi Consumer’s Cooperative Wholesale Store have been given the permission to open liquor shops in public places, except malls and market complexes. The agencies will also have to give an undertaking stating that liquor shops being allowed to open will fulfil all conditions prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), according to the excise department.
3 May 19:40 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/around-150-liquor-shops-likely-to-open-in-delhi-from-monday/article31496458.eceRating: 0.30
Around 150 liquor shops likely to open in Delhi from Monday
Around 150 liquor shops located outside Covid-19 containment zones in the national capital are likely to open from Monday as the Delhi government has announced implementation of the latest lockdown relaxations. According to an official, four government-run agencies, which are responsible for sale of liquor in Delhi, have submitted the list of the liquor shops which can be allowed to open following coronavirus guidelines. "About 150 liquor shops are likely to open in Delhi from Monday," the official said, adding that these are likely remain open till 7 in evening. On Saturday, the excise department directed these four agencies to identify liquor outlets which fulfil all conditions prescribed by the the Ministry of Home Affairs. However, liquor shops will not be allowed to open in Covid-19 containment zones. Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation, Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation, Delhi State Civil Supplies Corporation Limited and Delhi Consumer's Cooperative Wholesale Store have been given the permission to open liquor shops in public places, except malls and market complexes. The agencies will also have to give an undertaking stating that liquor shops being allowed to open will fulfil all conditions prescribed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), according to the excise department.
3 May 18:51 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/around-150-liquor-shops-likely-to-open-in-delhi-from-monday-1674030-2020-05-04Rating: 0.30
Where will liquor shops open tomorrow? Here are the details
The Centre has allowed sale of liquor across the country, even as it extended the lockdown period for two more weeks beginning Monday. The sale of liquor is part of the overall opening of economic activity that the government is attempting in the third phase of the lockdown, and is expected to earn states much-needed revenue. But will liquor now be freely available, or will there still be some restrictions? Will all liquor stores now open?Will all cities, towns, and villages have liquor shops operating? We will try to answer these questions here: Barring containment zones,where there is strict perimeter control and almost total ban on public movement except for emergencies, liquor stores will open everywhere. In Green Zones, i.e., districts where no case of COVID-19 has been reported in the past 21 days, liquor stores will open everywhere barring those in shopping malls, as malls are shut. This will apply to both rural and urban areas. In Orange Zones, districts where COVID-19 case concentration is very low, liquor stores will open everywhere in the same way as they will open in Green Zones. This will apply to almost all villages, and a majority of towns, as they all fall in these two zones. In Red Zones too, liquor stores will open. The guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) do not mention any ban on opening of liquor stores in Red Zones. However, not all liquor stores in Red Zones will open. Sources in the MHA said that in the Red Zones, only standalone liquor stores, or liquor stores located in a colony, can open. Liquor stores that are situated in market complexes will remain shut. This means that in cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur, Indore, and Hyderabad, which are all Red Zones because of the high number of COVID cases, liquor stores will open — unless they are located in a market. This is because in the market complexes of Red Zones, only shops dealing in essentials are allowed to open. However, in rural areas of Red Zones, all shops (barring those in malls) are allowed to open, and so will liquor stores in markets. Guidelines are largely about prohibitions — and less about permissions. Therefore, all that is not prohibited is allowed. Among the commercial activities allowed in Red Zones, the guidelines say: “All standalone (single) shops, neighbourhood (colony) shops and shops in residential complexes are permitted to remain open in urban areas, without any distinction of essential and non-essential. All shops in rural areas, except in malls, are permitted to remain open, without any distinction of essential and non-essential.” The same clause in the last set of MHA guidelines, when liquor stores were banned, had said only shops registered “under the Shops and Establishment Act” would be allowed to operate in these areas. This meant that liquor stores, which are governed by the Excise Act, would remain shut. This condition has now been removed — and so, liquor stores will open if they are not in market complexes in urban areas. • What are human challenge trials, and why are they controversial? • In homemade masks, two fabrics better than one • Govt's guidelines for home isolation of mild and pre-symptomatic Covid-19 patientsClick here for more Well, no. Not yet. The MHA has issued national guidelines; states have to now issue their own, separate guidelines based on these national guidelines. And if they feel they do not want to open liquor stores, they can ignore the national guidelines in this matter. This is because, under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, states have the power to make COVID-19 containment measures stricter if they deem it necessary. They cannot dilute restrictions imposed by the Centre, but they can ignore relaxations. That said, however, the general understanding is that no state would want to keep liquor stores shut at this time. This is because liquor is one of the biggest sources of revenue for most states. In most states the revenue share of liquor is between 25-40%. And all states are badly cash-strapped. 📣 Express Explained is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@ieexplained) and stay updated with the latest No. You cannot — and given the grim battle against the pandemic, you must not. There are strict social distancing guidelines in place which have to be followed. There has to be six feet distance between two buyers. And not more than five people can be allowed around the liquor store. Everyone has to wear a mask and ensure personal hygiene. So if you do go to the liquor store, take all precautions — and expect long queues.
3 May 14:58 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/where-will-liquor-shops-open-on-may-4-india-lockdown-6390243/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus lockdown: Standalone liquor shops to open in Maharashtra
As per the guidelines, only five shops selling non-essential items will be allowed in each lane, while there is no restriction on numbers for essential shops Two days after the central government released revised guidelines for the third phase of coronavirus lockdown, Maharashtra, the worst-hit state in the country, has allowed standalone liquor shops in "Red zones" outside containment areas, news agency ANI reported. This will not apply to COVID-19 containment zones. The state government in its guidelines specified that liquor shops would be allowed to open in green, orange and red zones (except in containment) areas. However, the shops in market complexes and malls will remain closed. As per the guidelines, only five shops selling non-essential items will be allowed in each lane, while there is no restriction on numbers for essential shops. The shopkeepers must follow the social distancing rules enforced to contain the spread of the virus. The new norms will be effective from May 4. The timings for all shops will be decided by the local authorities, the government said. Also Read: Lockdown 3.0: Maharashtra sees no easing of restrictions in Mumbai, Pune The Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office also issued a document, which specified about what is allowed and not allowed in the state during the extended period of lockdown. The document, which carried details of zone-wise activity, said that liquor shops will be allowed to remain open. The central government on Friday allowed liquor shops to resume operations with certain restrictions during the third phase of the lockdown, beginning May 4. They will be allowed to open in green and orange zones, according to sources, even though the government has not clearly spelled it out in the new guidelines. Liquor shops will also be allowed outside containment areas or hotspots in red zones, India Today reported citing sources. Also Read: Coronavirus lockdown 3.0: Delhi govt to soon allow liquor sale as it battles revenue dip Maharashtra, which has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in India, has not allowed easing of any restrictions in the third phase of the two-week lockdown that starts on Monday. There are 14 districts in Maharashtra which are red zones, including Greater Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Nashik. 16 districts are orange zones, and six are in the safe green zone. Of the 14 red zone districts, five are in the MMR, Pune, and Malegaon, where curbs have been tightened over the next two weeks. Nine other districts have been allowed some activities, but with restrictions. Also Read: Coronavirus lockdown: Liquor shops to open from Monday but conditions apply By Chitranjan Kumar
3 May 13:12 • Business Today • https://www.businesstoday.in/current/economy-politics/coronavirus-lockdown-standalone-liquor-shops-to-open-in-maharashtra/story/402753.htmlRating: 2.10
Maharashtra: Shops selling non-essentials in non-containment zones allowed to open from Monday
The Maharashtra government on Sunday announced that shops selling non-essential commodities, including liquor, will be allowed to open from Monday in the Covid-19 non-containment zones across the state. Senior IAS officer from the Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Bhushan Gagrani, told this to reporters on Sunday. A similar decision had already been announced for the Covid-19 green and orange zones, and such shops in these two zones were scheduled to open from Monday. However, the state government on Sunday extended the easing of restrictions for shops in the red zones as well. "Even in the red zone districts, there are some areas where coronavirus infection has been not prevalent since over a month now. These areas are known as non-containment zones. "Such non-containment areas will have some relaxation, where shops selling non-essential commodities, like clothes, footwear, liquor, stationery, among others will be opened," Gagrani said. The decision has been taken after discussions with the Centre, he said. "Only five shops in one lane will be allowed to operate during the entire day. But this particular restriction is not applicable to the shops selling essential items such as medical and grocery. As of now, there are no restrictions on the timing of the shops to remain open," Gagrani said. Sale of liquor in standalone shops will be allowed, he said. However, social distancing norms have to be followed by all the shops. "To maintain social distancing, only a limited number of shops will be opened from Monday," he added. The timing of the shops will be finalised by the local authorities, such as municipal commissioners as well as district collectors, he said.
3 May 11:33 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/maharashtra-shops-selling-non-essentials-non-containment-zones-allowed-open-monday-1673930-2020-05-03?utm_source=rssRating: 0.30
Lockdown 3.0: Liquor shops in non-containment zones to open in Uttar Pradesh from tomorrow
Liquor shops in Uttar Pradesh will finally open from Monday as Lockdown 3.0 kicks in from tomorrow. As per new Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines, standalone liquor shops will be allowed to open in some areas from May 4 in light of relaxations given in the new phase of the lockdown. Sale of liquor will be allowed with certain conditions in all zones, barring containment areas, in standalone shops, not in markets or malls. UP excise department authorities have announced that standalone liquor shops will be allowed to open in all areas in the state except containment zones in red zones. The liquor shops will remain open from 10 am to 7 pm. Authorities also clarified that alcohol sale will not be permitted at hotels and restaurants. However, all necessary measures will be taken to ensure social distancing is followed. Only five people will be allowed to buy liquor from a shop at one time. The third phase of the countrywide lockdown begins Monday with "considerable relaxations", but curbs will continue in containment areas so that the gains achieved so far in the fight against COVID-19 are not "squandered away", officials said Sunday. The country has been divided into three zones -- Red, Orange and Green - based on coronavirus risk-profiling. The extended lockdown is slated to last till May 17. Uttar Pradesh currently has 19 Red Zone districts, 36 Orange Zone districts and 20 Green Zone districts. (You can find full list of red, orange and green zones in your state here.) This means that people in cities like Agra, Lucknow, Saharanpur, Kanpur, Moradabad, Noida, Greater Noida and Meerut, which all fall under red zone districts, will be able to buy alcohol from tomorrow if they live in non-containment zones. The number of coronavirus cases in Uttar Pradesh rose to 2,579 with 92 more people testing positive for the infection on Sunday, officials said. The virus has claimed 43 lives in the state so far.
3 May 11:13 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/lockdown-3-0-liquor-shops-in-non-containment-zones-to-open-in-uttar-pradesh-from-tomorrow-1673924-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
COVID-19 in Maharashtra: Liquor Stores to Open as State Allows Opening of Shops in Red Zones Too
New Delhi: Liquor shops are all set to re-open in Maharashtra, after the state government on Sunday gave permission for standalone shops, including liquor shops, to open even in red zones, except in containment zones. Also Read - Liquor Jugaad: Alcohol From Hand Sanitizer, Bottles Hidden Under Cucumber In its order, the state government further said that while five non-essential shops can be opened in each lane, there is no restriction on the number for essential shops. Notably, on Friday, when the Centre announced the extension of the lockdown for a further two weeks, till May 17, it had also announced certain relaxations, including opening of shops, in orange and green zones. However, a day later, among its many clarification on the relaxations, the central government also gave permission for opening liquor shops in allthree zones, except in containment zones. The Centre’s permission to open liquor shops, notably, came after requests from various states in this regard. A number of states have announced opening of liquor shops after getting the nod. The relaxations will come into effect from Monday, which will be the first day of ‘lockdown 3.0.’ With nearly 13,000 cases and over 500 casualties, Maharashtra is the worst COVID-19 affected state in the country. For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on India Latest News on India.com. Comments - Join the Discussion
3 May 11:04 • India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News | India.com • https://www.india.com/news/india/coronavirus-in-maharashtra-liquor-stores-to-open-as-state-allows-opening-of-standalone-shops-in-red-zones-too-4018451/Rating: 0.30
Karnataka Permits Opening Of Standalone Liquor Outlets Across The State Except In Containment Zones (Timing 9 am-7 pm)
Karnataka has permitted the sale of liquor in all standalone outlets except those located in containment zones, the state government announced on Saturday (May 2). As part of easing the lockdown restrictions, liquor shops would be allowed to reopen across Karnataka, including in red zones but not in the containment zones, state Excise Minister H. Nagesh announced on Saturday (May 2). "Liquor shops or their retail outlets are allowed to reopen from May 4 across the state, including in red zones like Bengaluru and Mysuru, except the hotspots listed by the state health care department," Nagesh told reporters here. "The licensed shops will remain open for business from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and should not allow more than five customers inside it at a time to maintain physical/social distancing," Nagesh asserted. "While liquor will not be sold in the hotspots, people are also banned from taking drinks or drinking them in the containment zones in the red zones," Nagesh pointed out. Liquor shops have already been allowed to reopen in the green zones across the state where no virus case was reported over the last 28 days. "Drunken driving and liquor induced brawls or violence are not allowed," the minster added. Though Bengaluru urban district is classified as a Red Zone under the methodology followed by Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare , the state government clarified that businesses outside containment zones will be allowed to reopen. There are 23 containment zones in Bengaluru and 123 in the state. The state government is losing around Rs 60 crore revenue every day due to closure of liquour shops due to the lockdown.
3 May 09:34 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/karnataka-permits-opening-of-standalone-liquor-outlets-across-the-state-except-in-containment-zones-timing-9-am-7-pmRating: 1.22
Lockdown: Collectors to decide on opening liquor shops in MP
Amid the extension of lockdown, collectors of districts in Madhya Pradesh have been asked to decide on opening liquor shops from Monday by following the physical distancing norms and adopting other measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus, an official said. The state excise department on Saturday issued a circular to district collectors, saying liquor and bhaang shops can be opened from 7 am to 7 pm only. For latest updates on coronavirus outbreak, click here A decision on opening these shops should be taken in accordance with guidelines issued by the Centre for green, orange and red zones, an official from the state public relations department said. Passes for operating these shops will be issued only to the licensees and their employees, he said.
3 May 09:30 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/lockdown-collectors-to-decide-on-opening-liquor-shops-in-mp-832936.htmlRating: 2.25
Covid-19: Centre says liquor, paan shops can open in all areas except containment zones from Monday
The Centre has clarified that liquor and paan shops will be allowed to reopen in red, orange and green zones from Monday amid the coronavirus pandemic, The News Minute reported on Saturday. But they will not be permitted in containment areas. The Centre had on Friday issued guidelines permitting all standalone shops to open in all three zones, except in containment areas. However, as the notification did not mention whether liquor shops could open in red zones, a clarification was issued. “Sale of liquor, paan, tobacco to be allowed after ensuring minimum six-feet social distancing; not more than five persons at one time at shop,” guidelines issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs said. All six metros – Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru – have been designated “hotspots” for the large number of coronavirus cases in these cities, and fall under red zones. The Delhi government has asked all liquor shops run by its departments to provide details about standalone shops that can reopen, NDTV reported. “I am directed to request you to provide lists of L-6 and L-8 shops immediately, which conform to the criteria prescribed by Ministry of Home Affairs,” Excise Commissioner Ashok Daryani said in a letter to the government corporations that are allowed to sell liquor. The Delhi government has made it mandatory for all liquor shops to observe social distancing. Karnataka Excise Minister H Nagesh told The News Minute that standalone liquor shops will be allowed to reopen in the state, provided that social distancing is maintained and only parcels are provided. The shops will be allowed to stay open between 9 am and 7 pm. International Spirits and Wines Association of India Chairperson Amrit Kiran Singh said the group, which represents several liquor brands, has committed to the Centre that social distancing will be observed. “As soon as the latest guidelines come into force, we will begin a programme called ‘Safe Shield’, under which signs will be put outside all shops about social distancing,” he said. “Sanitisers will be placed outside shops. There will be contactless sales through trays kept at the counter.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced a nationwide lockdown on March 25 to combat Covid-19, which has so far infected over 39,900 people. The lockdown was first extended to May 3, and on Friday, to May 17. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra government clarified in an order on Saturday night that shops selling non-essential commodities will not be allowed to reopen in four out of 14 “hotspot” districts in the state, The Indian Express reported. These districts are Mumbai, Mumbai (Suburban), Thane and Pune. Shops within the boundaries of the Malegaon municipal corporation will also remain shut. While liquor shops will be permitted to operate in 10 districts, they will not be allowed to reopen in the above mentioned areas, officials said. As of Sunday morning, Maharashtra had reported 12,296 cases of the coronavirus, including 521 deaths, making it the epicentre of the virus in the country, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
3 May 06:07 • Scroll.in • https://scroll.in/latest/960890/covid-19-centre-says-liquor-paan-shops-can-open-in-all-areas-except-containment-zones-from-mondayRating: 0.30
Lockdwon 3.0: What's allowed and what's not in Maharashtra
The Maharashtra government on Sunday announced that shops selling non-essential commodities, including liquor, will be allowed to open from Monday in the COVID-19 non-containment zones across the state. IMAGE: A worker arranges a pillow on a paper-box bed at an under construction quarantine facility for COVID-19 patients at Dharavi in Mumbai. Photograph: PTI Photo Senior IAS officer from the Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office, Bhushan Gagrani, told this to reporters on Sunday. A similar decision had already been announced for the COVID-19 green and orange zones, and such shops in these two zones were scheduled to open from Monday. However, the state government on Sunday extended the easing of restrictions for shops in the red zones as well. "Even in the red zone districts, there are some areas where coronavirus infection has been not prevalent since over a month now. These areas are known as non-containment zones. "Such non-containment areas will have some relaxation, where shops selling non-essential commodities, like clothes, footwear, liquor, stationery, among others will be opened," Gagrani said. The decision has been taken after discussions with the Centre, he said. "Only five shops in one lane will be allowed to operate during the entire day. But this particular restriction is not applicable to the shops selling essential items such as medical and grocery. As of now, there are no restrictions on the timing of the shops to remain open," Gagrani said. Sale of liquor in standalone shops will be allowed, he said. However, social distancing norms have to be followed by all the shops. "To maintain social distancing, only a limited number of shops will be opened from Monday," he added. The timing of the shops will be finalised by the local authorities, such as municipal commissioners as well as district collectors, he said. Here are the things that will be allowed and not in the state.
3 May 00:00 • Rediff • https://www.rediff.com/news/report/covid-19-whats-allowed-and-whats-not-allowed-in-maharashtra/20200503.htmRating: 0.30
UP permits standalone liquor shops to open in red zones
The Uttar Pradesh government, in a letter on May 3 said that standalone liquor shops can be opened in the green, orange and red zones from 10 am to 7 pm, though no such shop is allowed to remain open in containment zones. The state government has also said that malls, hotels, restaurants will remain closed but e-commerce activity has been allowed to resume in green and orange zones. The core industries in non-contaminated areas of red zone can function with not more than 50 percent workforce. Earlier, the Maharashtra government had allowed not more than five standalone shops to function in red zones which are not containment zones. The Maharashtra government had also said that if labour is available in-situ, private construction can be carried out in regions deemed red zones. However, all non-essential shops and construction will remain shut in containment zones. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on May 1 extended the national lockdown by two more weeks but with considerable easing of restrictions in areas classified as orange and green zones. The government had said that it will continue the strict measures it has enforced in places classified as red zones — such as New Delhi and Mumbai — and orange zones, which show no abatement in the number of people affected by the coronavirus. Coronavirus pandemic | Is your city a COVID-19 hotspot? Find out here ' Follow our full coverage of the coronavirus outbreak hereMoneycontrol Ready ReckonerNow that payment deadlines have been relaxed due to COVID-19, the Moneycontrol Ready Reckoner will help keep your date with insurance premiums, tax-saving investments and EMIs, among others.Download a copy
3 May 00:00 • Moneycontrol • https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/current-affairs-trends/up-permits-standalone-liquor-shops-to-open-in-red-zones-5216681.htmlRating: 0.30
Liquor sale to start tomorrow in State
The cash-strapped State government, which relies heavily on Excise revenue, has permitted the opening of all standalone liquor shops across the State, except in COVID-19 containment zones, from Monday between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. However, clubs, bars and restaurants will remained closed till May 17. Shops located in supermarkets and malls too will remain closed till May 17. An order issued by the Excise Commissioner said that ‘CL-2’ and ‘CL-11 C’ category shops will be allowed to open all over the State, except in containment zones in urban areas. Karnataka State Beverages Corporation Limited (KSBCL) depots will be opened to supply alcohol to standalone outlets. The Union government’s guidelines issued on Friday permitted State governments with taking decisions on the opening of liquor outlets from May 4. Buyers of alcohol have to maintain a social distance of six feet and only five persons will be allowed inside the shop at a time. Consumers have to mandatorily wear masks and shops should be fully sanitised. However, there will be no limit in the quantum of liquor to be bought. Excise Minister H. Nagesh said the police and Excise officials will keep tabs on the shops and impose fines for any violation of norms prescribed by the department. In tune with the Centre’s guidelines, the State government on Saturday instructed all Deputy Commissioners to grant permission to allow business and industrial activities in their districts, outside the containment zones of COVID-19, from Monday. Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa held a videoconference with DCs and discussed various issues related to the partial relaxation of lockdown norms.
2 May 16:56 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/liquor-sale-to-start-tomorrow-in-state/article31491055.eceRating: 0.30
UP Allows Reopening Of Some Shops Selling Non-essential Goods In Rural Areas
General News Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 02, 2020 13:02 IST The Uttar Pradesh government has allowed the reopening of certain shops selling non-essential commodities outside the COVID-19 hotspots in rural areas of the state during the lockdown period. Shops selling construction material, bricks, cement, sand, iron bars, hardware and mobile repairing shops located outside coronavirus hotspots in rural areas will be allowed to do business while strictly adhering to the norms of social distancing and other guidelines issued by the Centre, Chief Secretary R K Tiwari said. The chief secretary Friday evening issued directions to all the divisional commissioners, district magistrates, DIGs, senior superintendents of police, superintendents of police and the police commissioners of Lucknow and Gautam Buddh Nagar in this regard. The centre had announced on Friday that a "limited" lockdown which includes suspension of air, train and inter-state road travel will continue to remain in force for two more weeks from May 4 across the country, but some activities would be allowed after classifications of districts into 'Red', 'Orange' and 'Green' zones based on COVID-19 risk profiling. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown from March 25, which was later extended by two more weeks till March 3 to contain the virus spread.
2 May 13:02 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/up-allows-reopening-of-some-shops-selling-non-essential-goods-in-rural-areas.htmlRating: 2.30
Dancer Kodak’s Death: Police arrest, interrogate Clarence Peters
3 May 20:19
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Dancer Kodak’s Death: Police arrest, interrogate Clarence Peters
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested popular music director, Clarence Peters, over the death of Nigerian dancer and video vixen, Love Divine, popularly known as Kodak. The dancer was alleged to have died of electrocution while charging her phone at Peters’ house on Wednesday. Bala Elkana, the Lagos State police spokesperson, told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday evening that the music video director is in police custody and is currently being interrogated. He also said enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death are “ongoing”. “We are still investigating the case, we will ascertain the cause of her death when we conclude investigation, but police has taken up the matter,” he said. When the police spokesperson was asked if the energetic dancer died from electrocution, Mr Elkana said “the report is unconfirmed at the moment”. “We have expert investigators on the case, that is their work. It is after they conclude their investigation that we can reach a conclusion on the cause of her death.” “An autopsy will also be carried out to further unravel the circumstances surrounding her death,” Mr Elkana said. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported how Nigerian music stars including Olamide and Dremo grieved over the death of the dancer. The deceased was popular in the industry for working with Clarence Peters in music videos for acts like Burna Boy, Tekno, Davido, Olamide, and more. One of the last videos she posted on her Instagram page was one of her with a popular dancer, Poco Lee. The death of the dancer, who is well-known within the music industry, has continued to draw reaction from her colleagues and friends.
3 May 20:19 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/music/391233-dancer-kodaks-death-police-arrest-interrogate-clarence-peters.htmlRating: 0.30
Kodak death: Clarence Peters arrested and detained by the Police
Popular Nigerian music video director, Clarence Peters has been arrested over the death of dancer, Love Divines popularly known as Picture Kodak. According to reports, Picture Kodak was electrocuted in the house of Clarence Peters who has now been arrested and detained by the Lagos state Police command. Picture Kodak who died on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 was said to have been electrocuted while charging her phone. Reports also claims she was barefooted and sat near the door while operating her phone which was plugged in. Kodak is said to have suffered chest burns after the phone fell on her and she died before she could be rushed to an hospital. Clarence is said to be detained at the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Yaba where he is being questioned as investigation is being carried out. Follow us on Facebook – @Lailasnews; Twitter – @LailaIjeoma for updates
3 May 16:15 • LailasNews.com • https://lailasnews.com/kodak-death-clarence-peters-arrested-and-detained-by-the-police/Rating: 1.27
Clarence Peters in police custody over video vixen’s death
Deji Lambo The Lagos State Police Command said it has arrested popular video director, Clarence Peters, in connection to the death of a video vixen, simply identified as Kodak. This development followed the public outcry against the circumstances surrounding the death of Kodak. The PUNCH had reported that Kodak allegedly got electrocuted while using her phone which was plugged to a socket in Peters’ house in Omole Phase 1, Lagos State. It was learnt that after Kodak was electrocuted, she was rushed to a nearby hospital where she was confirmed dead. However, when the news of the vixen’s death became public knowledge, Nigerians while commiserating with the victim’s family, demanded an investigation to unravel the true circumstances surrounding Kodak’s death. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana, told our correspondent on Sunday that Peters has been arrested and was being questioned at the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence, Panti, Yaba. “We have him in our custody, he is currently being questioned as a suspect. We are investigating the matter, ” Elkana said.
3 May 19:03 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/clarence-peters-in-police-custody-over-video-vixens-death/Rating: 0.30
Police detain music director, Clarence Peters, over Kodak’s death
Kindly Share This Story: Music director and producer Clarence Peters is currently being detained by the Lagos State Police Command over the death of popular dancer, Love Divines known as Kodak. This happened after reports emerged that the popular dancer died at Peters’ house on Wednesday while charging her iPhone. It was reported that the dancer was barefooted and sat near the door of the residence while operating the plugged phone when the incident happened. According to reports, she suffered chest burns when the phone fell on her body and died before they got to the hospital. However, it was gathered that Peters is now being detained and questioned at the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Yaba. Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 15:05 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/police-detain-music-director-clarence-peters-over-kodaks-death/Rating: 2.43
Police detain Clarence Peters over Picture Kodak’s death
The police in Lagos state have detained Clarence Peters, a Nigerian music video director, over the death of Picture Kodak, a dancer and video vixen. Bala Elkana, the command’s spokesman, who confirmed Peters’ arrest and detention to TheCable Lifestyle, said he is currently undergoing interrogation over Kodak’s death. “Yes (Peters) is in our custody. He is invited for questioning and investigation is ongoing,” Elkana said. The police spokesman, however, said claims that she died from electrocution has not been independently ascertained, adding that an autopsy would be conducted to discover the actual cause of Kodak’s death. TheCable Lifestyle had earlier reported how the gifted choreographer died on Wednesday while reportedly trying to receive a call on her mobile phone while it was charging. She was said to have died at the house of Clarence, son of Shina Peters, legendary Afro Juju legend. He was reportedly invited by the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID), Panti, Yaba for questioning on Saturday night before being detained afterwards for further interrogation. Before her death, Kodak, whose real name is Love Divine, worked with top musicians including the likes of Olamide, Burna Boy and Wizkid. Tributes had poured in for Kodak with many Nigerians describing her death as shocking. Zlatan Ibile had also released ‘Picture Kodak (Gbemiro Cover)’, a tribute song for the late dancer. Copyright 2020 TheCable. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from TheCable.Follow us on twitter @Thecablestyle
3 May 20:14 • TheCable Lifestyle • https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/police-detain-clarence-peters-over-picture-kodaks-death/Rating: 0.30
Clarence Peters detained over dancer Picture Kodak’s death
- The Nigerian police have reportedly detained video director, Clarence Peters, over the death of video vixen, Picture Kodak - The young dancer is said to have died at the director’s residence after being electrocuted while charging her phone - Clarence has now reportedly been detained by the police for questioning as they investigate the case Energetic and talented young dancer, Love Divine also known as Picture Kodak, recently died after she was reportedly electrocuted while charging her phone at popular video director, Clarence Peter’s house. According to new reports, Clarence Peters has now been arrested by the police alongside others for questioning in relation to the death. It was gathered that the spokesperson of the Lagos state police command, Bala Elakana, spoke with LIB and revealed that they are investigating a murder charge as he admitted that the video producer has been detained. He reportedly said: “They are detained. It is a full-fledged investigation. It is a murder charge. We are probably looking at murder. We are not concluding at this stage. If she died of electrocution according to reports, it is left for us to find out. Was she actually electrocuted? What went wrong? An autopsy will also show”. Check out last video filmed by late dancer Picture Kodak a few days before her sad passing Legit.ng had earlier reported that Kodak is said to have died after being electrocuted while charging her phone at the video director’s house. She was reportedly rushed to a hospital within Omole estate where the incident happened and she was pronounced dead. After the news of Kodak's death went viral, a number of celebrities, especially those she had worked with took to social media to pay their last respects. In other news, Legit.ng reported that veteran Nigerian singer, Daddy Showkey, recounted how he was abandoned by friends after suffering a ghastly car crash in 2007. PAY ATTENTION: Do you have news to share? Contact Legit.ng instantly HELLO! NAIJ.com (naija.ng) upgrades to Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better XXXTentacion is dead: What Really Happened To The Young Rapper | Legit TV
3 May 17:23 • Legit • https://www.legit.ng/1326409-clarence-peters-detained-dancer-picture-kodaks-death.htmlRating: 0.30
BREAKING: Police question Clarence Peters over dancer's death
The police in Lagos are questioning music director and producer Clarence Peters over the death of dancer Love Divines alias Kodak at his Omole Phase One residence, The Nation has learnt. Peters is being detained at the State Criminal investigation and Intelligence Department (SCIID), Yaba. The Nation reports that Kodak was said to have been electrocuted at Peters’ house on Wedneaday while she was charging her iPhone. It was gathered that the dancer, who was bare footed and sat near the door of the residence, was operating the plugged phone when the incident happened. According to reports, she suffered chest burns when the phone fell on her body and died before they got to the hospital. Details shortly…
3 May 14:00 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/breaking-police-question-clarence-peters-over-dancers-death/Rating: 0.30
Police arrest Clarence Peters over dancer's death - The Nation News
Music director and cinematographer Clarence Peters has been arrested by the police in Lagos over the death of dancer Love Divines alias Kodak. Kodak was said to have been electrocuted while charging and using her iphone on Wednesday at Peters’ Omole Phase One residence. She was alleged to have operated the plugged phone while sitting almost naked on the door railings with no foot wear on. She was also said to have sustained burns on her chest where her phone allegedly fell when she flung it as a result of the shock. Although initial reports claimed she died on the set of a music video, it was however debunked as the planned video was alleged to have been botched following her death. The Nation learnt that Peters was invited at the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID), Panti, Yaba for questioning on Saturday night and has been detained since then. Meanwhile, the dancer’s mother has taken to social media to denounce those impersonating her and sending account numbers for donations. The woman, in a video shared on social media, said she neither authorised anyone nor was aware of such moves, describing those behind the fundraiser as fraudsters. She said: “It’s a pity that she’s (Kodak’s) gone and it is painful. I just got information that a lady is posing herself to be me. I am Lasatanatu Ike, her mother. “I have also been told that an account number is online. I have not posted my account number online. “The girl seated next to me is her elder sister by the name Shekinah Glory Ike. Please I want you all to stand up and help me fight as you can see I cannot fight.” Contacted, Police spokesman Bala Elkana confirmed the arrest of Clarence Peters, adding that the command was investigating the circumstances that led to the dancer’s death. Elkana said Peters and all those who were at his residence when the incident occurred have been invited for questioning, adding that he would not be able to give further details at the moment. On the allegation by the dancer’s mother, Elkana said no formal complaint of impersonation has been made, adding that the video would be forwarded to the SCIID for further action.
3 May 15:19 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/police-arrest-clarence-peters-over-dancers-death/Rating: 0.30
Police Detain Clarence Peters Over The Death Of Video Vixen, Kodak
Popular Nigerian music video director, Clarence Peters has been detained by the Lagos State Police Command for questioning over the sudden death of video vixen and choreographer Love Divine, popularly known as Kodak. It is being speculated that Kodak who passed away on Wednesday, April 29 died from electrocution at Peters’ residence. Read More: Nigerians Mourn The Sudden Death Of Video Vixen And Choreographer Kodak The spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command, Bala Elkana while speaking with The Guardian, confirmed that Peters is still in police custody and is “being questioned, along with a few others”. He further stated that the police are “investigating the circumstances around her [Kodak] death”. “It is a full investigation. We are probably looking at murder. We are not concluding at this stage. If she died of electrocution according to reports, it is left for us to find out. Was she actually electrocuted? What went wrong? An autopsy will also show”, Bala said. Peters was said to have been working on an isolated shot with Kodak shortly before her death and others present at his house that day have all been detained by the police.
3 May 18:04 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/life/police-detain-clarence-peters-over-the-death-of-video-vixen-kodak/Rating: 0.30
Clarence Peters Arrest: “We are probably looking at murder” – Lagos police investigates Kodak’s death
Lagos Police reveals Picture Kodak’s death might be a murder and Clarence Peters who has been arrested is being investigated, The spokesperson of the state police command, Bala Elkana, confirmed that the director has indeed being detained and is being questioned as the police is investigating for murder, LIB reports. Elkana said said since the incident happened in Clarence’s apartment, himself and others who were present at the time of the unfortunate incident, have been invited for questioning to aid the investigation on Kodak’s death. When asked if they will be detained beyond today, he responded Follow us on Facebook – @Lailasnews; Twitter – @LailaIjeoma for updates
3 May 16:35 • LailasNews.com • https://lailasnews.com/clarence-peters-arrest-we-are-probably-looking-at-murder-lagos-police-investigates-kodaks-death/Rating: 1.27
23 Nasarawa Assembly members quarantined as member dies
3 May 23:21
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23 Nasarawa Assembly members quarantined as member dies
Umar Muhammed, Lafia Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi has said the state House of Assembly would be shut down following the death of a lawmaker as a result of COVID-19 pandemic in the state. The state governor, who revealed this on Sunday at a media briefing, stated that the closure of the House of Assembly became imperative, adding that this would enable the state government trace all the contacts the dead lawmaker had in recent times. He added that, “The Speaker and all the 22 state lawmakers have agreed to be quarantined and their samples have been taken for COVID-19 test.” The victim, who was the first casualty of the novel virus in the state, died on Thursday in Keffi. According to the governor, the victim took ill and was hospitalised at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, where his sample was collected, having shown symptoms of COVID-19. But before the result of test could be released, the lawmaker gave up the ghost. He said, “The lawmaker’s blood sample was taken to Abuja, but before the result could be released, the member had given up the ghost and his remains were buried according to Islamic injunction in the Nasarawa Local Government Area of the state. “When his result was released on Saturday, it showed positive. It is very unfortunate that all those in attendance during the burial never knew the deceased’s status,” he added. “The member took part in all the Assembly sittings, a development which has complicated our situation,” the governor lamented. Copyright PUNCH.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH. Contact: theeditor@punchng.com
3 May 23:21 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/23-nasarawa-assembly-members-quarantined-as-member-dies/Rating: 0.30
Confirmed: Late Nasarawa lawmaker died of COVID-19, Assembly shut down
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State on Sunday in Lafia announced the closure of the state’s House of Assembly following the death of a lawmaker, Alhaji Suleiman Adamu, as a result of COVID-19. Sule, while briefing newsmen, said the closure would enable the State Government trace all the contacts the dead lawmaker had in recent times. “The Speaker and all members of the Assembly have agreed to be isolated and their samples have been taken for COVID-19 test,” the governor said. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Adamu, who was the first casualty from the novel virus in the state, died on Thursday in Keffi. Sule explained that the victim, the representative of Nasarawa Central Constituency, took ill and was admitted at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, where his sample was collected, having shown symptoms of COVID-19. He said: “Before the result could return, the member had died and his remains buried according to Islamic rights in Nasarawa Local Government Area. “But when his result came out on Saturday, it was positive. “Unfortunately, all those who attended the burial did so not knowing his status. “The member participated in all the Assembly sittings, a development which has complicated our situation.” The governor said the state currently has recorded eight active COVID-19 cases and one death from the virus. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name * Email * Website Yes, add me to your mailing list
3 May 14:26 • The Eagle Online • https://theeagleonline.com.ng/confirmed-late-nasarawa-lawmaker-died-of-covid-19-assembly-shut-down/Rating: 0.39
COVID-19: Nasarawa govt evacuates 788 Almajiris to states of origin
Kindly Share This Story: The Nasarawa State Government on Sunday evacuated 788 Quranic education pupils (Almajiri) to their states of origin to guard against further spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Speaking at the flag-off of the exercise in Lafia, Gov. Abdullahi Sule said the evacuation was a decision reached by governors of the 19 northern states. Sule noted that the move was to ensure that the parents of the children took proper care them, adding that the government did it in good faith. He said that the evacuation would be in phases, with the first phase to states currently not considered high risks of the pandemic. The governor said that before now, the Almajiri system had posed a serious problem, adding that the coronavirus pandemic had further made it more dangerous. “Most of them engage in street begging and are vulnerable to contracting the virus when they receive alms from persons whose status is positive. “Their teachers cannot keep them at home during this lockdown as they lack the capacity to feed the pupils under them,” Sule said. The governor explained that all the children were given some stipends to buy some food while on transit. He said that they were being conveyed in very comfortable civilian buses under the supervision of state officials, who would hand them over to the officials of their respective states on arrival. Also, Halima Jabiru, the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, said that the first batch of the children would be transported to Plateau, Kaduna, Gombe, Taraba and Jigawa states. She said that consultation was ongoing to work out modalities for the next phase of evacuation. NAN Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 15:33 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-nasarawa-govt-evacuates-788-almajiris-to-states-of-origin/Rating: 2.43
Nasarawa State House of Assembly shut down as lawmaker dies of COVID-19
Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State on Sunday in Lafia announced the closure of the state’s House of Assembly following the death of a lawmaker as a result of COVID-19. Sule, while briefing newsmen, said the closure would enable the state government trace all the contacts the dead lawmaker had in recent times. “The Speaker and all members of the Assembly have agreed to be isolated and their samples have been taken for COVID-19 test,’’ the governor said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the victim, who was the first casualty from the novel virus in the state, died on Thursday in Keffi. Sule explained that the victim took ill and was admitted at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, where his sample was collected, having shown symptoms of COVID-19. “Before the result could return, the member had died and his remains buried according to Islamic rights in Nasarawa Local Government Area. “But when his result came out on Saturday, it was positive. Unfortunately, all those who attended the burial did so not knowing his status. “The member participated in all the Assembly sittings, a development which has complicated our situation,” he said. The governor said the state currently has recorded eight active COVID-19 cases and one death from the virus.
3 May 13:29 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/nasarawa-state-house-of-assembly-shut-down-as-lawmaker-dies-of-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
Nasarawa lawmaker dies of COVID-19 as members agree to self-quarantine
- Sule Adamu has died of coronavirus - Adamu was a member representing Nasarawa central in the Nasarawa House of Assembly - As a result of this, members of the Assembly have agreed to be isolated - PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Legit.ng News on your Facebook News Feed! Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state on Sunday, May 3, in Lafia announced the closure of the state’s House of Assembly following the death of a lawmaker as a result of COVID-19. Sule, while briefing newsmen, said the closure would enable the state government trace all the contacts the dead lawmaker had in recent times. “The speaker and all members of the Assembly have agreed to be isolated and their samples have been taken for COVID-19 test,’’ the governor said. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the victim, who was the first casualty from the novel virus in the state, died on Thursday in Keffi. Just in: Tragedy strikes in Kano again as two more prominent people die Sule explained that the victim took ill and was admitted at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, where his sample was collected, having shown symptoms of COVID-19. “Before the result could return, the member had died and his remains buried according to Islamic rights in Nasarawa local government area. “But when his result came out on Saturday, it was positive. Unfortunately, all those who attended the burial did so not knowing his status. “The member participated in all the Assembly sittings, a development which has complicated our situation,” he said. The governor said the state currently has recorded eight active COVID-19 cases and one death from the virus. Meanwhile, Legit.ng had reported that a total of 69 persons have tested positive for coronavirus in Borno state. The state government has confirmed that sixteen health workers are among those who tested positive. The state has also recorded 11 deaths. Lockdown: House of Rep member donates palliatives to constituents worth N80million This was disclosed on Saturday, May 2, by Usman Umar Kadafur, deputy governor and chairman of the response team for the prevention and control of the spread of coronavirus in Borno state during a press briefing. Speaking to newsmen, Kadafur said the committee has been working really hard to ensure the disease does not spread. According to him, the situation has been contained and brought under control by medical and surveillance teams, which also informed the need to increase the number of isolation centres in the state. The deputy governor urged members of the public to be wary of the dangers posed by the coronavirus. Also speaking, the state commissioner for health, and secretary of the response committee on coronavirus, Aliyu Salisu Kwaya Bura, gave reasons for the increase in the number of deaths. Bura explained that some who had underlying ailments like diabetes, typhoid, asthma, pneumonia, high fever and kidney disease are prone to complications as a result of COVID-19 infection. You can't impeach my deputy - Akeredolu rejects plot by APC chieftains The commissioner called on the media to help spread the word on the need for the public to maintain proper personal hygiene, wear face masks, maintain social distancing even at burials and continue to obey the standing rules. He also appealed to the media to cooperate and show understanding in the coverage of the COVID-19 situation in the state and activities of response committee in order not to create panic and mislead the public. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app NAN reports that he said about 2,000 Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), had been ordered by the state. “At the moment, none of our patients is at a critical state. They are at the isolation centres receiving medical attention; though the kind of attention varies for those with mild symptoms and those with moderate symptoms,” Kwaya-Bura added. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. BREAKING: President Buhari loses in-law to fire outbreak How I go sitdon for house when I no get husband? - Market woman - Legit TV
3 May 13:35 • Legit • https://www.legit.ng/1326371-nasarawa-lawmaker-dies-covid-19-members-agree-quarantine.htmlRating: 0.30
Nasarawa assembly member dies of COVID-19
Suleiman Adamu, a lawmaker representing Nasarawa central at the state house of assembly, has died of complications from COVID-19. Suleiman is the first patient to die of the disease in the state. Speaking with journalists on Sunday at Lafia, the state capital, Abdullahi Sule, governor of the state, confirmed the demise of the lawmaker. He said Suleiman died before the result of his test came back positive. The governor said the house of assembly complex would be closed and all lawmakers quarantined to curb a further spread of the virus. Sule also said the state has returned about 788 almajiri children to their home states. On Tuesday, the governor confirmed the state’s first COVID-19 case. He said the patient is a 25-year-old lady who recently travelled from Kano state to Kokona local government area in Nasarawa. Currently, Nasarawa has nine confirmed cases of the disease.
3 May 13:07 • TheCable • https://www.thecable.ng/nasarawa-assembly-member-dies-of-covid-19Rating: 0.30
Nasarawa Assembly member died of COVID-19 ― Gov Sule
Kindly Share This Story: Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, on Sunday said that the state’s Assembly member, Suleiman Adamu, has died of the COVID-19 disease, becoming the first casualty in the state. Suleiman’s death was earlier reported by Vanguard on Friday. Prior to his death, he was representing Nasarawa Central at the State House of Assembly. Announcing his demise to journalists Friday morning in Lafia, Alhaji Mohammed Okpoku, representing Udege/Loko constituency said Suleiman died in the late hours of Thursday, April 30th, following a brief illness at Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Keffi. He said that the remains of the lawmaker would be buried Friday in Nasarawa local government area according to Islamic right. “It is very sad news to announce the death of my colleague, Hon Suleiman Adamu, who is from the same local government with me. ”His death is a painful loss to us and we will continue to pray for the reposed of his soul,” he said. The Nasarawa State governor while confirming Suleiman’s death and his health status said he died before the result of his COVID-19 test came back positive. He also stated that the late Assembly member’s family and those living in the house had gone into isolation while their samples have been collected for testing by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). It would be recalled that the deceased left behind one wife and five children. Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 12:46 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/nasarawa-assembly-member-died-of-covid-19-%e2%80%95-gov-sule/Rating: 2.43
BREAKING: Nasarawa lawmaker dies of COVID-19
Member representing Nasarawa central in the Nasarawa House of Assembly, Mr. Sule Adamu, has died of coronavirus. Governor Abdullahi Sule state disclosed this on Sunday while in a chat with newsmen. He said the House of Assembly would be shut down and all the lawmakers be quarantined to contain the spread of the virus in the state. Details shortly…
3 May 12:38 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/breaking-nasarawa-lawmaker-dies-of-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
Nasarawa Assembly member dies of COVID-19
Umar Muhammed, Lafia A member of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, representing Nasarawa central, Mr. Sule Adamu, has died of coronavirus, The PUNCH reports. Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state confirmed this on Sunday while briefing newsmen on the update of COVID-19 pandemic in the state. He said the state’s House of Assembly would also be shut down and all the state lawmakers be quarantined to contain the spread of the virus in the state. Details later.
3 May 12:19 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/breaking-nasarawa-assembly-member-dies-of-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: Nasarawa repatriates 788 Almajirai to different states
Kindly Share This Story: NASARAWA State Government Sunday repatriated over 788 Almajiri to their states of origin to stem further spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Flagging off the evacuation exercise in Lafia, Governor Abdullahi Sule said the exercise was in compliance with the decision reached by governors of the 19th Northern states adding that the evacuation was to ensure that the parents of the children took proper care of their children as the government was adverse to Almajiri. Governor Sule who noted that the evacuation exercise would be in phases explained that the first phase is to states not considered as high risks of the pandemic which include Plateau, Kaduna, Gombe, Taraba and Jigawa States. According to the governor, before now, the almajiri system had posed a serious problem, adding that the coronavirus pandemic has further made it more dangerous. “Most of the Almajirai engaged in street begging and are vulnerable to contracting the virus when they walk about for alms from persons whose status is positive.Their teachers cannot keep them at home during this lockdown as they lack the capacity to feed the almajirai under them,” the governor stated The governor explained that all the almajirai were given stipends to enable them to buy things the way while they will be conveyed in civilian buses under the supervision of state’s officials who would hand them over to the officials of their respective states on arrival. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 12:28 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-nasarawa-repatriates-788-almajirai-to-different-states/Rating: 2.43
Handwara encounter: ‘Haven’t told our parents, can’t even cry before them’
3 May 19:33
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Handwara encounter: ‘Haven’t told our parents, can’t even cry before them’
SAGEER Ahmad Pathan, the J&K Police Sub-Inspector killed in the encounter at Handwara in Kupwara district on Saturday, had been part of several successful anti-militancy operations in the Valley, earning him three out-of-turn promotions in the force’s Special Operations Group (SOG) and several gallantry medals. A resident of Karnah in Kupwara, the 42-year-old was leading the SOG team under the command of District SP, Handwara, that was part of the operation, along with the Army’s 21 Rashtriya Rifles Battalion. Pathan had joined police in 1999 in its Armed Wing, and had been with the counter-insurgency unit SOG since 2006. “In recognition of his immense contribution, Pathan was granted three out-of-turn promotions and rose from the rank of a Constable to Sub-Inspector,” a police spokesperson said. Among the bravery awards Pathan— who leaves behind his parents, wife and four children — won was Sher-i-Kashmir Police Medal for Gallantry in 2009 and Police Medal for Gallantry by the President of India in 2011. Calling him a courageous officer, the J&K Police said Pathan “attained martyrdom protecting integrity and sovereignty of our nation and safeguarding the interests of people till last breath”. Naik Rajesh Kumar, who also died in the encounter, was one of five siblings. The family is based in Rajrana village of Punjab’s Mansa district. Brother Subash Kumar said they were yet to tell their parents of the 29-year-old’s death and were waiting for the body, expected to arrive on Monday morning. “They will not be able to bear the shock. We are not even crying in front of them.” Rajesh joined the Army 10 years ago and last visited home in February. Owning less than one acre of land, the family makes by doing contract farming at times and depended on the money Rajesh sent home, villagers said. While the two sisters are married, neither of the brothers is. Family friend Sandeep Jayani said Rajesh had only last year got the family’s small house renovated. Subhash said they were proud of their brother’s sacrifice. “Mera bhai desh ke liye shaheed hua hai.Voh kabhi jang se nahin dara (My brother laid down his life for the country. He never feared a battle).” Mourning the loss of the five security personnel in the Kashmir encounter, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh announced a job for a member of Rajesh’s family plus Rs 10 lakh, in addition to the compensation the family will receive as part of an existing policy of the state government. Lance Naik Dinesh Singh, also among those killed, was the son of a retired Army Subedar. The family, including father Godhan Singh, Dinesh’s mother and two elder sisters, belongs to Mirgaon village in Almora district of Uttarakhand. His brother-in-law Laxman Singh Dasila said the 24-year-old last visited his family in November, but would talk to his mother daily. The family hoped to get the Lance Naik married this year and were looking for a girl for him. Dinesh’s body is expected to reach Mirgaon village on Monday. The last rites of the dead personnel will be carried out bearing coronavirus protocols in mind.
3 May 19:33 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/handwara-encounter-havent-told-our-parents-cant-even-cry-before-them-6392387/Rating: 0.30
Martyred in Handwara, Col Ashutosh Sharma was decorated twice for gallantry
NEW DELHI: Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, the commanding officer of the 21 Rashtriya Rifles unit, who lost his life in operation in Handwara, had been twice awarded gallantry medals for exemplary bravery in counter-terrorist missions. He is also the first Commanding Officer or a Colonel-rank Army person in the last five years to have lost his life in an encounter with terrorists. Colonel MN Rai lost his life in operation over five years ago in January 2015 in an operation in the Kashmir valley while Colonel Santosh Mahadik lost his life in November same year. Army officials said Colonel Ashutosh Sharma belonging to the Guards Regiment had been serving in the Kashmir valley for a long time and was twice awarded the Sena Medal for gallantry including one for his bravery as commanding officer. He had received his gallantry award as a commanding officer when a terrorist was rushing towards his men on a road with a grenade hidden in his clothes. Sharma shot him at a close range which helped in saving the lives of many of his troops along with Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel. Army persons who lost their lives in the Handwara operation include Major Anuj Sood, Naik Rajesh and Lance Naik Dinesh. Two terrorists were also killed in the operation by the security forces in the remote location of Handwara.
3 May 12:00 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/may/03/martyred-in-handwara-col-ashutosh-sharma-was-decorated-twice-for-gallantry-2138593.htmlRating: 2.04
Col Sharma, martyred in the Handwara encounter, was awarded medals twice for his gallantry
Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, the commanding officer (CO) of 21-Rashtriya Rifles, who was martyred along with Major Anuj, two soldiers and a J&K police inspector while fighting militants in Kashmir’s Handwara, had been decorated twice for bravery. Read: Colonel, Major, two soldiers and police officer killed in terrorist encounter in Kashmir’s Handwara Col Sharma had been part of several successful counter-insurgency operations in Kashmir in the past. Army officials said he served in Kashmir for a long time and was twice awarded Sena Medal for gallantry, including one for his bravery as CO. He received the gallantry award as a CO when he shot a militant-- who was rushing towards his men on a road with a grenade hidden in his clothes-- at close range. On Saturday night as well Col Sharma didn’t care for his own life and entered the house to evacuate the trapped civilians after the firing had stopped for an hour. Col Sharma is the first CO or a colonel rank officer in the last five years to have lost life in an encounter with militants. On 27 January 2005, Col MN Rai lost his life while fighting with militants in Kashmir’s Pulwama district just a day after being awarded Yudh Seva Medal. Same year in November, Colonel Santosh Mahadik – the CO of 41 Rashtriya Rifles - laid down his life battling militants near Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir's Kupwara district.
3 May 11:04 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/col-sharma-martyred-in-the-handwara-encounter-was-awarded-medals-twice-for-his-gallantry-832946.htmlRating: 2.25
UPDATE: Two children killed in ATV accident in Chilliwack River Valley Sunday
3 May 23:15
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8 articles
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UPDATE: Two children killed in ATV accident in Chilliwack River Valley Sunday
Two children are dead after an ATV accident in the Chilliwack River Valley Sunday afternoon. “It is with deep sorrow, that we report that the bodies of two children have been recovered from this tragic accident,” Chilliwack RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Krista Vrolyk said Sunday night, adding that the B.C. Coroners Service is now investigating. “The Chilliwack RCMP would like to extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of those involved in this unthinkable tragedy.” Earlier in the day, an RCMP dive team was deployed to Foley Lake near Chilliwack Sunday (May 3) to search for two youths lost after an ATV accident. A small army of emergency responders answered a call just before 1 p.m. after a side-by-side off-road vehicle carrying a family of five ended up in water said to be 4.5 metres deep. Sgt. Vrolyk said officers, firefighters, paramedics and search and rescue responded. “Two adults and one child were able to escape.” At that time, Vrolyk said the B.C. Coroner’s Service had already been deployed to investigate “the potential deaths of two children.” No further information will be released at this time. • RELATED: Teenager rescued from vehicle in water-filled ditch in Chilliwack has died
3 May 23:15 • North Delta Reporter • https://www.northdeltareporter.com/news/two-youths-missing-at-lake-near-chilliwack-after-off-road-vehicle-accident/Rating: 0.30
Body of missing Amish child found after Kentucky horse-and-buggy storm accident
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. The body of the fifth Amish child who perished after a family's horse and buggy was swept away in a Kentucky storm last week was recovered Saturday following a four-day search, authorities said. “As of this time, the fifth missing Amish child has been recovered,” Bath County Judge-Executive Bobby C. Rogers said in a Facebook post on Saturday. “All Search and Rescue crews are safe, and will be leaving the area now that their mission is done. Please continue to pray for the family. I for one appreciate all efforts made, along with those volunteering to recover this child.” An Amish mother and her five children were attempting to cross a low-water bridge around 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday in Bath County in the town of Owingsville, about 50 miles east of Lexington, the Lexington Herald-Leader reported. CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE Their horse and buggy “was swept away by floodwaters this evening after the heavy rain," Rogers said on Facebook Wednesday. The mother managed to make it to the bank of the stream, Kentucky State Police said. Four children were found and pronounced dead at the scene by the Bath County Coroner by 1 a.m. Thursday, the Herald-Leader reported. They all died from drowning. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The fifth child's body was found at 11:22 a.m. Saturday. At least 50 members of the National Guard had joined the search, Rogers said. A private funeral for the children -- ages 1 to 12 years old -- will be held by the Hochstetler family, the coroner's office said. Fox News' Travis Fedschun contributed to this report.
3 May 15:41 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/us/kentucky-amish-horse-buggy-flood-fifth-child-foundRating: 3.32
Crash claims two lives
UPDATE: 9:45 p.m. Chilliwack RCMP has confirmed the deaths of two youths after a vehicle went off the road Sunday afternoon. “It is with deep sorrow, that we report that the bodies of two children have been recovered from this tragic accident,” says Sgt. Krista Vrolyk, media spokesperson for the Chilliwack RCMP. “The Chilliwack RCMP would like to extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of those involved in this unthinkable tragedy.” BC Coroner's Service is now investigating and no further information will be released at this time. ORIGINAL: 6:40 p.m. An RCMP dive team has been called to search for two missing youths in a rural part of Chilliwack, B.C. Sgt. Krista Vrolyk says police were called Sunday afternoon after a side-by-side vehicle went off the road on Foley Creek Forest Service Road, east of downtown. She says the vehicle became submerged in a body of water that is about 4.5 metres deep. Five people were in the car and she says they are all believed to be related. Two adults and one child escaped from the vehicle, but two youths have not been found. Vrolyk described it as a "tragic situation" and says more information will be released as the investigation continues.
3 May 21:46 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/299005/RCMP-dive-team-find-two-youth-bodies-after-car-runs-off-roadRating: 1.34
Two children die after 'tragic accident' near Chilliwack Lake
Summary Two children died in what RCMP call a 'tragic accident' Sunday afternoon' An off-road vehicle carrying a family of five lost control and went into the water, two adults and one child escaped CHILLIWACK (NEWS 1130) — Two children have died after the offroad vehicle they were in with their family plunged into the water Sunday. “It is with deep sorrow, that we report that the bodies of two children have been recovered from this tragic accident,” said Sgt. Krista Vrolyk on Sunday evening. “The Chilliwack RCMP would like to extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of those involved in this unthinkable tragedy.” The BC Coroners Service is now investigating, and no further details about the children are being released. The RCMP dive team was called in to search for the children on Sunday afternoon. “Investigation has determined that a ‘side by side’ style off-road vehicle carrying a family of five, lost control and became submerged in approximately 15 feet of water. Two adults and one child were able to escape but the two remaining youth passengers are unaccounted for,” Volryk explained Sunday afternoon. Chilliwack RCMP, Chilliwack Search and Rescue, BC Ambulance and Air Ambulance and Chilliwack River Valley Fire Department all initially responded to a report of an accident on the Foley Creek Forest Service Road just after 1 p.m.
3 May 12:26 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/rcmp-dive-team-searching-for-two-young-people-missing-after-tragic-accident-in-chilliwack/Rating: 0.77
Body of fifth Amish child found days after buggy accident
OWINGSVILLE, Ky. — Search crews on Saturday recovered the body of the last of five Amish children who died when their buggy was swept away in a swollen Kentucky creek while trying to cross a low-water bridge. Six people were in the horse and buggy that overturned Wednesday in Bath County in eastern Kentucky. The adult in the buggy made it to the stream bank and called for help. Four of the children were found dead Wednesday. The fifth child’s body was found Saturday, Kentucky State Police said. In a Facebook post, Bath County Judge-Executive Bobby C. Rogers said: “All search and rescue crews are safe and will be leaving the area now that their mission is done. Please continue to pray for the family.” Kentucky National Guard troops helped in search efforts in the remote area, where people were searching on foot, on ATVs and in kayaks, state police had said. The Associated Press
2 May 19:49 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/02/body-of-fifth-amish-child-found-days-after-buggy-accident/Rating: 0.77
Fifth child in Amish buggy swept away in Ky. found dead
PEASTICKS, Ky. (WKYT) - The tragic story of an Amish family has grown even more heartbreaking after the last of the five children swept away in a buggy earlier this week has been found dead. The child was found at about 11:20 a.m. on Saturday. In a Facebook post, Bath County Judge-Executive Bobby Rogers wrote, "All Search and Rescue crews are safe, and will be leaving the area now that their mission is done. Please continue to pray for the family. I for one appreciate all efforts made, along with those volunteering to recover this child." Search crews had already located the four other children, none of whom survived. The five children and an adult were crossing a low water bridge along Adams Road on Wednesday when the carriage was swept away in the water. The adult was able to get to the banks and went to get help. First responders rushed to the scene and began searching the area for the children. They were able to find four of them who were pronounced dead, and have since continued searching for the fifth child. Copyright WYKT via Gray Media, Inc. All rights reserved
2 May 18:07 • Hawaii News Now • https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2020/05/02/fifth-child-amish-buggy-swept-away-ky-found-dead/Rating: 0.30
Fifth child in Amish buggy swept away in Ky. found dead
PEASTICKS, Ky. (WKYT) - The tragic story of an Amish family has grown even more heartbreaking after the last of the five children swept away in a buggy earlier this week has been found dead. The child was found at about 11:20 a.m. on Saturday. In a Facebook post, Bath County Judge-Executive Bobby Rogers wrote, "All Search and Rescue crews are safe, and will be leaving the area now that their mission is done. Please continue to pray for the family. I for one appreciate all efforts made, along with those volunteering to recover this child." Search crews had already located the four other children, none of whom survived. The five children and an adult were crossing a low water bridge along Adams Road on Wednesday when the carriage was swept away in the water. The adult was able to get to the banks and went to get help. First responders rushed to the scene and began searching the area for the children. They were able to find four of them who were pronounced dead, and have since continued searching for the fifth child.
2 May 18:07 • NewsChannel 10 • https://www.newschannel10.com/2020/05/02/fifth-child-amish-buggy-swept-away-ky-found-dead/Rating: 0.30
Fifth child in Amish buggy swept away in Ky. found dead
PEASTICKS, Ky. (WKYT) - The tragic story of an Amish family has grown even more heartbreaking after the last of the five children swept away in a buggy earlier this week has been found dead. The child was found at about 11:20 a.m. on Saturday. In a Facebook post, Bath County Judge-Executive Bobby Rogers wrote, "All Search and Rescue crews are safe, and will be leaving the area now that their mission is done. Please continue to pray for the family. I for one appreciate all efforts made, along with those volunteering to recover this child." Search crews had already located the four other children, none of whom survived. The five children and an adult were crossing a low water bridge along Adams Road on Wednesday when the carriage was swept away in the water. The adult was able to get to the banks and went to get help. First responders rushed to the scene and began searching the area for the children. They were able to find four of them who were pronounced dead and have since continued searching for the fifth child. Copyright WYKT via Gray Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Read the original version of this article at wkyt.com.
2 May 13:07 • KNOE 8 News • https://www.knoe.com/content/news/Fifth-child-in-Amish-buggy-swept-away-in-KY-found-deceased-570144511.htmlRating: 0.30
Heavy rains wreak havoc across Kenya - VIDEO
3 May 11:31
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Weighted average IN: 0.7348986554698242
Heavy rains wreak havoc across Kenya - VIDEO
As heavy rains flowed into the month of May, floods have continued to spell disaster as they displaced hundreds from their homes and destroyed infrastructure such as road and bridges. KISII In Kisii County, massive landslides have hit part of the region leaving about 50 households displaced from their homes. Magenche and Bosoti-Sengera Wards in Bomachoge Borabu and Bomachoge Chache constituencies have been greatly affected. The landslides started on Friday and have continued to cause damage. Kenyenya Deputy County Commissioner David Mbevi confirmed 31 families have been affected, though locals claim the number could be over 50. “Some houses were covered by soil while others are uninhabitable because water is seeping from underground. Trees and crops in farms have also been destroyed,” said Mr Mbevi, adding that they have already submitted reports to necessary authorities. “We are asking the government and well-wishers to intervene and offer humanitarian help,” said Zachariah Bichanga, one of those displaced. Gladys Moguche said though no deaths have been reported in the area, the destruction caused by the landslides is massive. “We were lucky that we were not in our homes when the landslide struck,” said Ms Moguche. Mr Joel Omagwa, former Bomachoge Borabu Constituency Development Fund Chairman, said more households in the area may be affected if the heavy rains continue. “There is a big fault line here. Authorities need to take action to avoid deaths,” said Mr Omagwa. BUSIA In Busia County, two deaths have been reported after River Nzoia burst its banks and displaced over 40,000 people. Hundreds others are marooned by the raging waters that have submerged villages in Budalangi Sub-county, spreading to neighbouring Alego Usonga in Siaya County. A joint operation effort led by the Kenya Coast Guard Service and disaster management humanitarian organisations navigated the expansive area in a search and rescue mission for people trapped in their homes after flash floods hit the region on Friday night. The bodies of a two-year-old girl and a boy who died at Busagwa area are yet to be retrieved while the situation has been made worse by the buildup of waters whose levels continue to rise by the day. "We are only relying on one boat after other vessels were moved to Mageta Island to rescue people after a water bus capsized in Lake Victoria on Saturday evening," said Mr Thomas Mango of Busia Community Development (Bucodev). Due to the shallow waters, the rescue boats could not access some areas. "We are overwhelmed by calls from desperate people who have been trapped in their houses," said Mr Mango who is in charge of the operation. The places affected include Bunyala Central, Khajula, Bunyala South, Bunyala West, Bunyala East and Bunyala North. The flood victims are being are being evacuated to 15 designated rescue centres including primary schools in Bukhoma, Bunyofu, Bumadeya, Starlet Academy, Port Mixed, Bubango, Bulemia, Nandekere, Mundere, Namalo, Budalangi, Sifugwe, Bukhoma Secondary, Bunyala Cultural Centre and Mundere Campus. Due to the government directive to avoid overcrowding at camps as a way of curbing the spread Covid-19, the locals are being encouraged to stay with their friends and relatives. KILIFI In Kilifi County, hundreds of families in Malindi and Magarini constituencies have lost their homes and property after River Sabaki broke its banks following heavy rains upstream. Those affected are Miwani, Goshi, Kisiwani complex, Magongoloni, Bate, Langobaya, Chakama and Madunguni residents who have been forced to move to safe grounds while others went to their relatives' homes as the river continued to cause disaster since last Friday. "We broke our houses and moved to our neighbourhood to set camp. Some items were swept away during the time we were moving to safe ground," he said. Jacqueline Mweni, a Nyumba Kumi elder in Magongoloni, said residents are having sleepless nights over fears that the damage could be more severe and cause more disaster. "The households affected are over 40 and we fear the numbers could rise," she said. Those worst affected are the ones who had farms along the river as all the crops that were about to be harvested were washed away. The Kenya Red Cross coordinator in Kilifi County, Cornel Ndombi, said they are currently conducting assessments in collaboration with the county and national government to assess damage and begin action on the areas affected. TWO DEAD, TWO MISSING IN TURKANA Two people have been confirmed dead and two others missing after they were swept away by flash floods along the Lodwar-Lokichoggio Highway in Turkana County. Turkana West Sub-county Police Commander Suiyanka Cunningham said that the two who lost their lives were among eight occupants of a Toyota Hilux that was swept away at 6.30 pm on Saturday by Lomunyenakirienok River between Kakuma and Lokichoggio towns. Mr Cunningham said that the eight, China Railway No. 5 Engineering Group Co. Ltd employees working on Kalobeyei River-Nadapal road, were heading back to their campsite in Lokichoggio town when the driver tried to cross the river. "The vehicle was swept away by violent flash floods. Six managed to swim to safety while bodies of two others who had been reported missing were retrieved early Sunday morning," The police boss said. He noted that despite a distress call from the six who had saved themselves, a team comprising of police officers, the Chinese construction company and Lotus Kenya Action for Development Organization could not access them due to other flooded rivers along the way. In a separate incident, a Toyota Landcruiser Hardtop was also swept at around 6 am on Sunday. The driver and his passenger who were heading to Kakwanyang from Lodwar are still missing and the vehicle not yet located. Kawalase River has been flooded since yesterday with hundreds of motorists and villagers spending cold nights on both sides of the 100-metre wide seasonal river. Turkana County Police Commander Samwel Ndanyi said that with support from local divers, they have launched an operation to retrieve the vehicle and trace the two. Turkana West MP Daniel Epuyo said careless driving and poor judgement by some drivers was to blame for the deaths. "You can't fight nature by misjudging the depth and speed of flash floods. Save your lives and that of your passengers by being patient until the water levels completely subside," Mr Epuyo said. In Nakuru County, residents woke up to a collapsed road on Sunday morning. Read more here. While in Meru and Kirinyaga Counties, families have been displaced by rains and a boy drowned in the swollen Thiba River. READ: Nakuru residents wake up to collapsed road ALSO READ: Agony as Meru families displaced by heavy rains Report by Ruth Mbula, Charles Lwanga, Victor Raballa and Sammy Lutta
3 May 11:31 • Daily Nation • https://www.nation.co.ke/counties/Heavy-rains-wreak-havoc-across-Kenya/1107872-5541386-os9ohhz/index.htmlRating: 1.96
Agony as Meru families displaced by heavy rains
Nine families have been displaced in Nkubu and several roads cut off in various parts of Meru County following heavy rains that are pounding the area. According to Kenya Red Cross regional manager Gitonga Mugambi, about 35 homes flooded in Thagara, Jerusalem, Kiigene and Muguru villages in Imenti South after a nearby stream burst its banks on Friday. “Nine of the 35 families were displaced due to the floods. Kenyans should be on the high alert because the weather forecast indicates the heavy rains will continue,” Mr Mugambi said. A spot check by the Nation established that several bridges have been destroyed in Imenti Central as rivers swelled. Kionyo-Chogoria road in South Imenti was also cut off on Friday after flood waters partially destroyed a bridge along Iraru River. Abothuguchi West MCA Patrick Muthuri said about seven roads have been cut off in his Ward, threatening major economic activities in the area. He said one of the roads linking Kathiranga and Kiruanyi villages has been cut off by a landslide following heavy rains on Friday night. “About seven bridges have been swept away while others are hanging precariously posing a risk to road users. In some areas, dairy and tea farmers have been cut off from their buying centres. If the heavy rains continue, we are likely to lose more roads,” Mr Muthuri said. Mr Muthuri called on the County Government to allocate emergency funds for road repair once the rains subside. Peter Koome, a resident of Marathi village in Imenti Central, said several dairy farmers cannot deliver their milk to the local plant after a bridge on Mariara River was swept away. At Muri village, tea farmers were still using a damaged bridge that was suspended precariously to access Kamwonyone tea buying centre. “We urge people to exercise caution when using the bridges because the rivers are swollen. I also call on the county government public works department to assess the damage on time so that resources are allocated for repairs,” the MCA said. BOY DROWNS In Kirinyaga County, a secondary school student drowned Sunday as he swam in the swollen Thiba River. The Form One student, identified as James Wanjohi, dived into the river at Kombuini village and started swimming when he was hit by strong water currents and swept downstream. However his three colleagues escaped death narrowly to tell the shocking story. Following the incident, villagers combed the river banks in search of the learner but gave up when they failed to trace him. "We have looked for the boy everywhere but we couldn't get him," one of the villagers, John Kamau, said. And in a separate incident, 200 families of Karumandi village in Gichugu Constituency were cut off from the rest of the world after a bridge they use to cross Kiringa River was swept away by floods following heavy rains that pounded the area. Area nominated MCA Caroline Muriithi noted that they could not even go to nearby markets to buy food and appealed to the government to assist them. "The government should should step in fast and replace the bridge before the families starve to death," she said. Another MCA, Antony Munene, observed that the situation was serious adding something urgent should be done to save the lives of the victims. "The families woke up in the morning only to find that the bridge had been destroyed and carried away by floods," he said.
3 May 09:32 • Daily Nation • https://www.nation.co.ke/counties/Agony-as-Meru-families-displaced-by-heavy-rains/1107872-5541194-do2pd0/index.htmlRating: 1.96
Kenya flooding, landslides leaves more than 100 dead, over 1,800 homeless
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. At least 100 are dead and nearly 2,000 are homeless after heavy rains and thunderstorms led to severe flooding and landslides across Kenya in recent days. Eugene Wamalwa, cabinet secretary of the Ministry of Devolution, said Thursday that at least 116 people had died in the country due to the flooding, which spans across 29 counties. Massive landslides were also reported starting on Friday, leaving dozens displaced in the Kisii County region. 'GARGANTUAN' HAIL FROM THUNDERSTORM IN ARGENTINA MAY HAVE SHATTERED WORLD RECORD “Some houses were covered by soil, while others are uninhabitable because water is seeping from underground" Kenyenya Deputy County Commissioner David Mbevi told Kenya's Daily Nation. "Trees and crops in farms have also been destroyed." Flooding along the River Nzoia also left many homes submerged, with more than 1,800 now homeless across western Kenya. Images showed residents setting up makeshift shelters on the raised ground near floodwaters. "It has been flooding for three days now; I think the government is not even aware but now we are telling them," said one resident, Vincent Ochieng, according to Sky News. "We are asking if there are any plans to assist us, only two boats are here for evacuating people." CLICK HERE FOR MORE WEATHER COVERAGE FROM FOX NEWS The Kenya Red Cross has also asked county governments for additional shelters, due to concerns that coronavirus could spread due to overcrowding. The relief agency's secretary-general, Asha Mohammed, told the Daily Nation much more needed to be done for the people affected. "We will be doing mobile outreaches with the county department of health to provide medicines and treat minor illnesses," she said. CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP Additional heavy rain upstream may cause additional flooding in already besieged communities over the next week.
3 May 16:16 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/world/kenya-flooding-landslides-heavy-rain-east-africa-severe-weatherRating: 3.32
Floods destroy crop gardens in Busia district
Busia, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Floods have destroyed homes and crop gardens in some parts of Busia district. The floods have been triggered by high water levels on River Malaba. River Malaba burst its banks on Thursday evening and water has kept sweeping into gardens of rice, maize, yams among others. The floods have mainly affected two sub counties of Busitema and Buteba in Busia district. Uncontrollable volumes of water have also cut off the major bridge that connects Busia to Tororo district leaving means of transport paralyzed and also entered into people’s homes. Steven Okunyuku, the LC3 chairman for Buteba sub county says that the high level of water has destroyed crops that were about to be harvested. He says the problem is beyond their level as a sub county and now the district should take up the matter and inform the government for possible interventions so that residents can be helped. Fidelis Okwara, a resident of Manakor village says that too much water is coming from the Kenyan side pouring in the bridge that can’t hold. He says that water has swept away his one acre of rice that was meant to be harvested next week. Hadija Kalim, another resident says that the floods swept through all her garden of beans and cassava. She is now worried about food shortage especially during this period of the Coronavirus pandemic. Godffrey Ojim, the district councilor for Buteba has appealed to government to speed up plans of tarmacking the 24 kilometer road from Busia to Totoro and expand on the bridges along the road so that they can accommodate large volumes of water. Jimmy Ngolobe, the Busia district environmental officer says that residents have encroached on the river banks to illegally practice farming. ***** URN Share on: WhatsApp
2 May 15:00 • The Independent Uganda: • https://www.independent.co.ug/floods-destroy-crop-gardens-in-busia-district/Rating: 0.30
Rome seagulls hunt rats, pigeons as coronavirus lockdown deprives them of human scraps
3 May 16:56
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3 articles
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Best date: 3 May 16:56
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Weighted average GB: 8.68440045049932
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Rome seagulls hunt rats, pigeons as coronavirus lockdown deprives them of human scraps
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here. The coronavirus lockdowns in Italy have forced seagulls to “return” to hunting live animals for food, according to reports. Once described as “the size of pterodactyls” by former deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, seagulls in Rome mainly survive off the scraps left behind by tourists, restaurants and bars. Italy’s lockdown has kept people off the streets and businesses closed for two months, depriving seagulls of their main food source. To survive, seagulls have started to hunt rats, pigeons and other small birds. “They are going back to being predators,” Bruno Cignini, a zoologist from the University Tor Vergata, told the Corriere della Sera. “They are catching mostly pigeons but also swallows and blackbirds. They’re also going after fish in the Tiber. Luckily, they are also eating rats. Animals are changing their habits as we change ours.” CLICK HERE FOR FULL CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE Hunting and killing is not a particularly new trend for seagulls. On occasion, they have taken food straight out of people’s hands when they have the chance, as Neil Fraser in Aberdeen attested to last year. “The seagull flew in from behind me,” Fraser, a manager at the Old Schoolhouse pub, told the New York Times. A seagull had swooped down and snatched his bacon-and-chicken sandwich from his hand. “The sandwich and the seagull were both gone.” Just a few weeks ago, a camera on the island of Skomer, in Wales, captured footage of a great black-backed gull eating an entire rabbit whole. Rome has a notorious trash problem, occasionally accumulating so much garbage that the city cannot clear it out fast enough. The trash sometimes even rots. CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP While the situation is unbearable for people, it is a haven for wildlife. In addition to the incredible seagull population, Rome sees wild boars and coypu, a South American rodent, roaming their streets and sewers.
3 May 16:56 • Fox News • https://www.foxnews.com/science/rome-seagulls-hunt-rats-pigeonsRating: 3.32
Seagulls are eating rats and preying on pigeons in Rome during lockdown
Seagulls in Rome are going “back to being predators” after the closure of cafes, restaurants and shops have left them without any scraps to feed on. The streets of Rome, usually buzzing with tourists, have been empty for the last two months since Italy went into lockdown on March 9. This has meant seagulls have had to change their routine and feed on rats, pigeons and other smaller birds “Animals are changing their habits as we change ours”, said zoologist Bruno Cignini. Mr Cignini, who works at Rome University Tor Vergata, told local newspaper Corriere della Sera: “They are catching mostly pigeons but also swallows and black birds. “They’re also going after fish in the Tiber. Luckily, they are also eating rats.” The seagull population in Rome has grown in recent years to the tens of thousands, according to some experts. Many locals consider them a nuisance and think they give the town a bad image. Former deputy prime minister and head of centre-Right League party said the birds were “the size of pterodactyls”. He made the comments in a Twitter row with Rome’s mayor Virginia Raggi last year, after she accused him of not providing the capital with additional police. From Monday Italy will be lifting some lockdown measures as it moves into ‘phase two’. Last week Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced that manufacturing and construction companies would be able to resume business from Monday, with retail trade reopening a fortnight later on 18 May. People will be allowed to visit close relatives as long as they respect social distancing guidelines and wear a mask. Travel will remain limited to within specific regions and only for work and health reasons.
3 May 05:50 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/seagulls-eating-rats-preying-pigeons-21964486Rating: 2.39
Rome’s seagulls hunt rats and pigeons as lockdown starves them of scraps
Seagulls in Rome are “returning” to their natural status as predators, hunting down rats, pigeons, and other smaller birds as the lack of humans on the streets mean no food scraps are to be found. Italy has been in lockdown for nearly two months to slow the spread of coronavirus, since 9 March. All restaurants and cafes have closed and the capital’s streets have been devoid of the humans the gulls usually pick scraps of food up from. Bruno Cignini, a zoologist from the Rome University Tor Vergata, told local newspaper Corriere della Sera the gulls “are going back to being predators”. “They are catching mostly pigeons but also swallows and black birds. They’re also going after the fish in the Tiber,” he said. “Luckily, they are also eating rats. Animals are changing their habits as we change ours.” Eating pigeons and rats are not a new dietary choice for the seagulls, but they usually peck at the prey in the form of road kill. Now, the species known as Yellow-Legged Gulls are honing their killer instincts for survival. The seagull population in Rome has grown to the tens of thousands and they are largely considered aggressive pests who dive bomb unsuspecting tourists and snatch food straight out of the hands of pedestrians. The city’s rubbish problem – branded a “crisis” by Rome’s doctors last year – attracts the gulls and other unwelcome animals such as wild boar, coypu – a South America rodent originally introduced to Italy to be farmed for their fur – and parakeets, making it a health hazard. Last year, Matteo Salvini, former deputy prime minister and head of centre-Right League party, said the gulls were “the size of pterodactyls”. He made the comments in a Twitter row with Rome’s mayor Virginia Raggi, who is from the anti-establishment Five Star Movement, after she accused him of not providing the capital with additional police.
2 May 17:33 • The Independent • https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/coronavirus-lockdown-rome-sea-gulls-hunting-rats-pigeons-scraps-a9495826.htmlRating: 2.71
Provinces set to ease restrictions Monday as death toll increases
3 May 20:41
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6 articles
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Provinces set to ease restrictions Monday as death toll increases
Provinces across the country are set to begin easing COVID-19 restrictions on Monday following a weekend in which thousands more cases of the respiratory illness were identified, hundreds more were reported dead and a much-ballyhooed made-in-Canada testing kit was recalled. Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan are among those set to take another step out of lockdown by allowing the resumption of some economic and social activities that have been halted for than a month due to the pandemic. Manitoba is poised to go the farthest by allowing museums, libraries and retail businesses – including restaurant patios – to re-open, albeit at half capacity. Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta are also letting non-essential medical activities, such as dentistry and physiotherapy, resume. Ontario and Quebec aren’t going as far. Ontario is allowing a small number of mostly seasonal businesses to re-open while Quebec is easing the lockdown on most retail stores outside the Montreal area, which has been hit hard by COVID-19 over the past month and a half. Yet unlike the other provinces, Quebec’s plan to begin re-opening comes as the province has shown little progress in curbing the illness’s spread, with another 1,800 positive cases and 183 deaths from the disease reported over the weekend. Quebec Premier Francois Legault has previously defended plans to start re-opening, noting most of the province’s deaths have been in long-term care homes and arguing the fight against COVID-19 is entirely different in those facilities. Quebec officials also added more than 1,300 cases to April’s count, saying those numbers weren’t originally included because of a technical problem. The province accounts for more than half of the Canadian cases of COVID-19, which includes more than 3,680 deaths. Quebec Premier Francois Legault did not hold a briefing on Sunday, but Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other federal government officials sidestepped questions in Ottawa about the province’s plan to begin re-opening even as more cases continue to be reported. Those plans also include unlocking elementary schools and daycares across Quebec on May 11. “Different regions will have different measures to bring in at different times and our job is to make sure we’re supporting them as best we can as we go through this carefully and step by step,” Trudeau said during his daily COVID-19 update. That federal support includes obtaining enough protective equipment for workers as provinces open more segments of their economies, helping increase testing capacity and supporting research into COVID-19. It was in that vein that Trudeau announced $175 million in federal funding to a Vancouver biotech company, AbCellera Biologics Inc., which the prime minister says has identified antibodies that could be used to create treatments or a vaccine. The prime minister also announced $240 million to boost online access to health services, including mental-health treatment and virtual access to family doctors for primary care, and the creation of a special council tasked with ensuring Canada can obtain more protective equipment. Public Procurement Minister Anita Anand said the council will include members from business and civil society, including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Red Cross, and will be charged with buying equipment from abroad and developing it at home. Anand went on to outline some of the initiatives that the federal government has pursued to obtain more protective equipment for frontline workers, including hiring the U.S. shipping firm UPS to ferry equipment from Shanghai. Agreements have also been reached with New Brunswick-based biotech firm LuminUltra to produce 500,000 COVID-19 tests per week until next year after Ottawa was able to facilitate the delivery of important chemicals for the tests from China last week. Yet even as Anand was hailing one made-in-Canada solution to the country’s need for more tests, federal officials were playing down the recall of another test that was being hailed by some last month as a major advance in the fight against COVID-19. Ottawa-based Spartan Bioscience’s announcement Sunday that it was voluntarily recalling its rapid test for COVID-19 after Health Canada expressed concern about its effectiveness nonetheless represented a setback for expanded testing in the country. Health Canada first approved the tests on April 13 and they were set to be rolled out by three provinces. Canada’s chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said during a COVID-19 briefing in Ottawa that the recall of 5,500 testing kits won’t affect the national testing goal of 60,000 people a day, since that figure is based on systems already in use. But she acknowledged that it could affect the speed of further test increases and especially affect rural communities where local in-clinic tests would be especially useful. At the moment, such samples are often transported to laboratories and other testing sites elsewhere for analysis. The need for more testing is widely considered to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada and devising ways to limit its spread before the economy can be fully restored to pre-pandemic levels. Trudeau, meanwhile, sidestepped questions about unsubstantiated reports from the United States that some intelligence officials believe the novel coronavirus leaked from a Chinese lab in the city of Wuhan – an allegation repeated by U.S. President Donald Trump. “We will continue to work with intelligence agencies around the world, not just the Five Eyes (Canada, Australia, Britain, New Zealand and the U.S.) but friends and partners as well and look to find answers to the many questions people are asking,” Trudeau said. “But it is still early to draw firm conclusions and indeed our focus remains on how we are working to protect Canadians, how we are ensuring that Canadians have our entire focus right now and our entire ability to support them through this time.”
3 May 20:41 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/provinces-set-to-ease-restrictions-monday-as-death-toll-increases/Rating: 0.61
Provinces set to ease restrictions Monday as death toll increases
OTTAWA -- Provinces across the country are set to begin easing COVID-19 restrictions on Monday following a weekend in which thousands more cases of the respiratory illness were identified, hundreds more were reported dead and a much-ballyhooed made-in-Canada testing kit was recalled. Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan are among those set to take another step out of lockdown by allowing the resumption of some economic and social activities that have been halted for more than a month due to the pandemic. Manitoba is poised to go the farthest by allowing museums, libraries and retail businesses -- including restaurant patios -- to re-open, albeit at half capacity. Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta are also letting non-essential medical activities, such as dentistry and physiotherapy, resume. Ontario and Quebec aren't going as far. Ontario is allowing a small number of mostly seasonal businesses to re-open while Quebec is easing the lockdown on most retail stores outside the Montreal area, which has been hit hard by COVID-19 over the past month and a half. Yet unlike the other provinces, Quebec's plan to begin re-opening comes as the province has shown little progress in curbing the illness's spread, with another 1,800 positive cases and 183 deaths from the disease reported over the weekend. Quebec Premier Francois Legault has previously defended plans to start re-opening, noting most of the province's deaths have been in long-term care homes and arguing the fight against COVID-19 is entirely different in those facilities. Quebec officials also added more than 1,300 cases to April's count, saying those numbers weren't originally included because of a technical problem. The province accounts for more than half of the Canadian cases of COVID-19, which includes more than 3,680 deaths. Quebec Premier Francois Legault did not hold a briefing on Sunday, but Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other federal government officials sidestepped questions in Ottawa about the province's plan to begin re-opening even as more cases continue to be reported. Those plans also include unlocking elementary schools and daycares across Quebec on May 11. "Different regions will have different measures to bring in at different times and our job is to make sure we're supporting them as best we can as we go through this carefully and step by step," Trudeau said during his daily COVID-19 update. That federal support includes obtaining enough protective equipment for workers as provinces open more segments of their economies, helping increase testing capacity and supporting research into COVID-19. It was in that vein that Trudeau announced $175 million in federal funding to a Vancouver biotech company, AbCellera Biologics Inc., which the prime minister says has identified antibodies that could be used to create treatments or a vaccine. The prime minister also announced $240 million to boost online access to health services, including mental-health treatment and virtual access to family doctors for primary care, and the creation of a special council tasked with ensuring Canada can obtain more protective equipment. Public Procurement Minister Anita Anand said the council will include members from business and civil society, including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Red Cross, and will be charged with buying equipment from abroad and developing it at home. Anand went on to outline some of the initiatives that the federal government has pursued to obtain more protective equipment for frontline workers, including hiring the U.S. shipping firm UPS to ferry equipment from Shanghai. Agreements have also been reached with New Brunswick-based biotech firm LuminUltra to produce 500,000 COVID-19 tests per week until next year after Ottawa was able to facilitate the delivery of important chemicals for the tests from China last week. Yet even as Anand was hailing one made-in-Canada solution to the country's need for more tests, federal officials were playing down the recall of another test that was being hailed by some last month as a major advance in the fight against COVID-19. Ottawa-based Spartan Bioscience's announcement Sunday that it was voluntarily recalling its rapid test for COVID-19 after Health Canada expressed concern about its effectiveness nonetheless represented a setback for expanded testing in the country. Health Canada first approved the tests on April 13 and they were set to be rolled out by three provinces. Canada's chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said during a COVID-19 briefing in Ottawa that the recall of 5,500 testing kits won't affect the national testing goal of 60,000 people a day, since that figure is based on systems already in use. But she acknowledged that it could affect the speed of further test increases and especially affect rural communities where local in-clinic tests would be especially useful. At the moment, such samples are often transported to laboratories and other testing sites elsewhere for analysis. The need for more testing is widely considered key to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada and devising ways to limit its spread before the economy can be fully restored to pre-pandemic levels. Trudeau, meanwhile, sidestepped questions about unsubstantiated reports from the United States that some intelligence officials believe the novel coronavirus leaked from a Chinese lab in the city of Wuhan -- an allegation repeated by U.S. President Donald Trump. "We will continue to work with intelligence agencies around the world, not just the Five Eyes (Canada, Australia, Britain, New Zealand and the U.S.) but friends and partners as well and look to find answers to the many questions people are asking," Trudeau said. "But it is still early to draw firm conclusions and indeed our focus remains on how we are working to protect Canadians, how we are ensuring that Canadians have our entire focus right now and our entire ability to support them through this time." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. --with files from Morgan Lowrie in Montreal and Ian Bickis in Toronto.
3 May 11:28 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/provinces-set-to-ease-restrictions-monday-as-death-toll-increases-1.4922672Rating: 2.87
Provinces set to ease restrictions Monday as death toll increases
OTTAWA - Provinces across the country are set to begin easing COVID-19 restrictions on Monday following a weekend in which thousands more cases of the respiratory illness were identified, hundreds more were reported dead and a much-ballyhooed made-in-Canada testing kit was recalled. Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan are among those set to take another step out of lockdown by allowing the resumption of some economic and social activities that have been halted for than a month due to the pandemic. Manitoba is poised to go the farthest by allowing museums, libraries and retail businesses - including restaurant patios - to re-open, albeit at half capacity. Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta are also letting non-essential medical activities, such as dentistry and physiotherapy, resume. Ontario and Quebec aren't going as far. Ontario is allowing a small number of mostly seasonal businesses to re-open while Quebec is easing the lockdown on most retail stores outside the Montreal area, which has been hit hard by COVID-19 over the past month and a half. Yet unlike the other provinces, Quebec's plan to begin re-opening comes as the province has shown little progress in curbing the illness's spread, with another 1,800 positive cases and 183 deaths from the disease reported over the weekend. Quebec Premier Francois Legault has previously defended plans to start re-opening, noting most of the province's deaths have been in long-term care homes and arguing the fight against COVID-19 is entirely different in those facilities. Quebec officials also added more than 1,300 cases to April's count, saying those numbers weren't originally included because of a technical problem. The province accounts for more than half of the Canadian cases of COVID-19, which includes more than 3,680 deaths. Quebec Premier Francois Legault did not hold a briefing on Sunday, but Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other federal government officials sidestepped questions in Ottawa about the province's plan to begin re-opening even as more cases continue to be reported. Those plans also include unlocking elementary schools and daycares across Quebec on May 11. “Different regions will have different measures to bring in at different times and our job is to make sure we're supporting them as best we can as we go through this carefully and step by step,” Trudeau said during his daily COVID-19 update. That federal support includes obtaining enough protective equipment for workers as provinces open more segments of their economies, helping increase testing capacity and supporting research into COVID-19. It was in that vein that Trudeau announced $175 million in federal funding to a Vancouver biotech company, AbCellera Biologics Inc., which the prime minister says has identified antibodies that could be used to create treatments or a vaccine. The prime minister also announced $240 million to boost online access to health services, including mental-health treatment and virtual access to family doctors for primary care, and the creation of a special council tasked with ensuring Canada can obtain more protective equipment. Public Procurement Minister Anita Anand said the council will include members from business and civil society, including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Red Cross, and will be charged with buying equipment from abroad and developing it at home. Anand went on to outline some of the initiatives that the federal government has pursued to obtain more protective equipment for frontline workers, including hiring the U.S. shipping firm UPS to ferry equipment from Shanghai. Agreements have also been reached with New Brunswick-based biotech firm LuminUltra to produce 500,000 COVID-19 tests per week until next year after Ottawa was able to facilitate the delivery of important chemicals for the tests from China last week. Yet even as Anand was hailing one made-in-Canada solution to the country's need for more tests, federal officials were playing down the recall of another test that was being hailed by some last month as a major advance in the fight against COVID-19. Ottawa-based Spartan Bioscience's announcement Sunday that it was voluntarily recalling its rapid test for COVID-19 after Health Canada expressed concern about its effectiveness nonetheless represented a setback for expanded testing in the country. Health Canada first approved the tests on April 13 and they were set to be rolled out by three provinces. Canada's chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said during a COVID-19 briefing in Ottawa that the recall of 5,500 testing kits won't affect the national testing goal of 60,000 people a day, since that figure is based on systems already in use. But she acknowledged that it could affect the speed of further test increases and especially affect rural communities where local in-clinic tests would be especially useful. At the moment, such samples are often transported to laboratories and other testing sites elsewhere for analysis. The need for more testing is widely considered to understanding the true scope of COVID-19 infection in Canada and devising ways to limit its spread before the economy can be fully restored to pre-pandemic levels. Trudeau, meanwhile, sidestepped questions about unsubstantiated reports from the United States that some intelligence officials believe the novel coronavirus leaked from a Chinese lab in the city of Wuhan - an allegation repeated by U.S. President Donald Trump. “We will continue to work with intelligence agencies around the world, not just the Five Eyes (Canada, Australia, Britain, New Zealand and the U.S.) but friends and partners as well and look to find answers to the many questions people are asking,” Trudeau said. “But it is still early to draw firm conclusions and indeed our focus remains on how we are working to protect Canadians, how we are ensuring that Canadians have our entire focus right now and our entire ability to support them through this time.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. -with files from Morgan Lowrie in Montreal and Ian Bickis in Toronto.
3 May 10:37 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/provinces-set-to-ease-restrictions-monday-as-death-toll-increases-1.4922655Rating: 1.66
A look at how provinces plan to emerge from COVID-19 shutdown
Provinces have been releasing plans for easing restrictions that were put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. Here is what some of the provinces have announced so far: Newfoundland and Labrador Newfoundland and Labrador plans to loosen some public health restrictions in a series of “alert levels” descending from five. The move to Level 4 on May 11 is to allow some medical procedures to resume as well as low-risk activities, such as golf, hunting and fishing. Low-risk businesses, including garden centres, and professional services such as law firms are to reopen at this level. Alert Level 4 is to remain in place for at least 28 days. At Level 3, private health clinics, such as optometrists and dentists, are to be permitted to open, as well as medium-risk businesses such as clothing stores and hair salons. At Level 2, some small gatherings will be allowed, and businesses with performance spaces and gyms are to reopen. Level 1 would represent “the new normal.” — Nova Scotia Nova Scotia is easing some public health restrictions, however, directives around physical distancing and social gatherings will remain in place. Trails and provincial and municipal parks can now reopen, but playground equipment will continue to be off limits. Garden centres, nurseries and similar businesses can open, and while golf driving ranges can open, courses will remain closed. Sportfishing is permitted and people can attend boating, yacht or sailing clubs for the purpose of preparing boats for use. Drive-in religious services will be allowed, as long as people stay in their cars, they are parked two metres apart and there are no interactions between people. — Prince Edward Island Priority non-urgent surgeries and select health-service providers, including physiotherapists, optometrists and chiropractors, resumed on May 1 under The Renew P.E.I. Together plan. The plan also allows outdoor gatherings and non-contact outdoor recreational activities of no more than five individuals from different households. But screening is to continue at points of entry into the province and all people coming into P.E.I. are required to isolate for 14 days. — New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs put the first phase of his four-phase reopening plan into action on April 24. It allows limited play on golf courses as well as fishing and hunting. Two families are allowed to interact as part of a so-called “two-family bubble.” Post-secondary students can return if it’s deemed safe by the school, and outdoor church services can be held, if people remain in their vehicles and are two metres apart. The second phase is to see resumption of elective surgeries and reopening of daycares, offices, restaurants, ATV trails and seasonal campgrounds. The third phase would allow regular church services, dentistry work and reopened fitness centres. The final phase, which would probably come only after a vaccine is available, would include large gatherings. — Quebec Premier Francois Legault has set May 11 as reopening day for schools and daycares outside greater Montreal. The city is to follow suit on May 19, but attendance won’t be mandatory. High schools, junior colleges and universities are to stay closed until September. Quebec aims to open retail stores outside Montreal by May 4 while those in the greater Montreal region are to reopen May 11. Lottery terminals are to begin reopening on May 4 after being shut down On March 20 with sales moving to online only. The construction industry is to completely start up May 11, while manufacturing companies are to resume operations the same day with initial limits on the total number of employees who can work per shift. — Ontario Premier Doug Ford says Ontario will allow a small list of mostly seasonal businesses to reopen on May 4. They include garden centres with curbside pick-ups, lawn care and landscaping companies, and automatic car washes. All will have to follow physical distancing measures. Last month Ford released a three-step plan for slowly reopening Ontario’s economy, but it did not include a timeline. It said Stage 1 could include opening select workplaces and parks, allow more people at certain events such as funerals, and hospitals to resume some non-urgent surgeries. Stage 2 could include opening more businesses and outdoor spaces, while Stage 3 would include opening all work places and further relaxing rules on public gatherings — though large ones such as sporting events and concerts would still be restricted. — Saskatchewan The Saskatchewan government’s five-phase plan to reopen parts of its economy is to start May 4 when dentists, optometrists and other health professionals are to be allowed to resume services. Phase 1 also includes reopened golf courses and campgrounds. Phase 2 would give the green light to retail businesses and salons. Restaurants and gyms could open in Phase 3 but with limited capacity. Phase 4 could see arenas, swimming pools and playgrounds opening. In Phase 5, the province would consider lifting restrictions on the size of public gatherings. — Manitoba May 4 is the day Manitoba plans to allow reopening of health offices, including dentists, chiropractors and physiotherapists. Retail businesses are to reopen at half occupancy as long as they can ensure physical spacing. Restaurants are to reopen patios and walk-up service. Museums and libraries are to open doors, but occupancy is to be limited to 50 per cent. Playgrounds, golf courses and tennis courts are to reopen along with parks and campgrounds. A second phase is to begin no earlier than June 1. That’s when restaurants would be allowed to open indoor dining areas and non-contact children’s sports would resume. Mass gatherings such as concerts and major sporting events will not be considered before September. — Alberta Alberta plans to allow some scheduled, non-urgent surgeries to start May 4. Service provided by dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals are also to be permitted. Golf courses reopened May 2, though pro shops and clubhouses remain shuttered. On May 14, retail businesses, such as clothing, furniture and bookstores, are to be allowed to reopen gradually. Cafes and restaurants with no bar service will also be allowed to run at half capacity. The second phase includes potential kindergarten to Grade 12 classes — with restrictions — and reopening of movie theatres and theatres, again, with restrictions. The third phase would see nightclubs, gyms, pools, recreation centres and arenas reopen, all with restrictions. There is no timeline for the final two phases. — British Columbia The province hasn’t released its reopening plan. Premier John Horgan is promising details this week. — This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020 The Canadian Press
3 May 09:00 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/a-look-at-how-provinces-plan-to-emerge-from-covid-19-shutdown-6/Rating: 0.77
A look at how provinces plan to emerge from COVID-19 shutdown
Provinces have been releasing plans for easing restrictions that were put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. Here is what some of the provinces have announced so far: Newfoundland and Labrador Newfoundland and Labrador plans to loosen some public health restrictions in a series of "alert levels" descending from five. The move to Level 4 on May 11 is to allow some medical procedures to resume as well as low-risk activities, such as golf, hunting and fishing. Low-risk businesses, including garden centres, and professional services such as law firms are to reopen at this level. Alert Level 4 is to remain in place for at least 28 days. At Level 3, private health clinics, such as optometrists and dentists, are to be permitted to open, as well as medium-risk businesses such as clothing stores and hair salons. At Level 2, some small gatherings will be allowed, and businesses with performance spaces and gyms are to reopen. Level 1 would represent "the new normal." --- Nova Scotia Nova Scotia is easing some public health restrictions, however, directives around physical distancing and social gatherings will remain in place. Trails and provincial and municipal parks can now reopen, but playground equipment will continue to be off limits. Garden centres, nurseries and similar businesses can open, and while golf driving ranges can open, courses will remain closed. Sportfishing is permitted and people can attend boating, yacht or sailing clubs for the purpose of preparing boats for use. Drive-in religious services will be allowed, as long as people stay in their cars, they are parked two metres apart and there are no interactions between people. --- Prince Edward Island Priority non-urgent surgeries and select health-service providers, including physiotherapists, optometrists and chiropractors, resumed on May 1 under The Renew P.E.I. Together plan. The plan also allows outdoor gatherings and non-contact outdoor recreational activities of no more than five individuals from different households. But screening is to continue at points of entry into the province and all people coming into P.E.I. are required to isolate for 14 days. --- New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs put the first phase of his four-phase reopening plan into action on April 24. It allows limited play on golf courses as well as fishing and hunting. Two families are allowed to interact as part of a so-called "two-family bubble." Post-secondary students can return if it's deemed safe by the school, and outdoor church services can be held, if people remain in their vehicles and are two metres apart. The second phase is to see resumption of elective surgeries and reopening of daycares, offices, restaurants, ATV trails and seasonal campgrounds. The third phase would allow regular church services, dentistry work and reopened fitness centres. The final phase, which would probably come only after a vaccine is available, would include large gatherings. --- Quebec Premier Francois Legault has set May 11 as reopening day for schools and daycares outside greater Montreal. The city is to follow suit on May 19, but attendance won't be mandatory. High schools, junior colleges and universities are to stay closed until September. Quebec aims to open retail stores outside Montreal by May 4 while those in the greater Montreal region are to reopen May 11. Lottery terminals are to begin reopening on May 4 after being shut down On March 20 with sales moving to online only. The construction industry is to completely start up May 11, while manufacturing companies are to resume operations the same day with initial limits on the total number of employees who can work per shift. --- Ontario Premier Doug Ford says Ontario will allow a small list of mostly seasonal businesses to reopen on May 4. They include garden centres with curbside pick-ups, lawn care and landscaping companies, and automatic car washes. All will have to follow physical distancing measures. Last month Ford released a three-step plan for slowly reopening Ontario's economy, but it did not include a timeline. It said Stage 1 could include opening select workplaces and parks, allow more people at certain events such as funerals, and hospitals to resume some non-urgent surgeries. Stage 2 could include opening more businesses and outdoor spaces, while Stage 3 would include opening all work places and further relaxing rules on public gatherings — though large ones such as sporting events and concerts would still be restricted. --- Saskatchewan The Saskatchewan government's five-phase plan to reopen parts of its economy is to start May 4 when dentists, optometrists and other health professionals are to be allowed to resume services. Phase 1 also includes reopened golf courses and campgrounds. Phase 2 would give the green light to retail businesses and salons. Restaurants and gyms could open in Phase 3 but with limited capacity. Phase 4 could see arenas, swimming pools and playgrounds opening. In Phase 5, the province would consider lifting restrictions on the size of public gatherings. --- Manitoba May 4 is the day Manitoba plans to allow reopening of health offices, including dentists, chiropractors and physiotherapists. Retail businesses are to reopen at half occupancy as long as they can ensure physical spacing. Restaurants are to reopen patios and walk-up service. Museums and libraries are to open doors, but occupancy is to be limited to 50 per cent. Playgrounds, golf courses and tennis courts are to reopen along with parks and campgrounds. A second phase is to begin no earlier than June 1. That's when restaurants would be allowed to open indoor dining areas and non-contact children's sports would resume. Mass gatherings such as concerts and major sporting events will not be considered before September. --- Alberta Alberta plans to allow some scheduled, non-urgent surgeries to start May 4. Service provided by dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals are also to be permitted. Golf courses reopened May 2, though pro shops and clubhouses remain shuttered. On May 14, retail businesses, such as clothing, furniture and bookstores, are to be allowed to reopen gradually. Cafes and restaurants with no bar service will also be allowed to run at half capacity. The second phase includes potential kindergarten to Grade 12 classes — with restrictions — and reopening of movie theatres and theatres, again, with restrictions. The third phase would see nightclubs, gyms, pools, recreation centres and arenas reopen, all with restrictions. There is no timeline for the final two phases. --- British Columbia The province hasn't released its reopening plan. Premier John Horgan is promising details this week. --- This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020
3 May 08:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/provinces-reopen-quicklist/cp375489338Rating: 0.30
A look at how provinces plan to emerge from COVID-19 shutdown
Provinces have been releasing plans for easing restrictions that were put in place to limit the spread of COVID-19. Here is what some of the provinces have announced so far: Newfoundland and Labrador Newfoundland and Labrador plans to loosen some public health restrictions in a series of "alert levels" descending from five. The move to Level 4 on May 11 is to allow some medical procedures to resume as well as low-risk activities, such as golf, hunting and fishing. Low-risk businesses, including garden centres, and professional services such as law firms are to reopen at this level. Alert Level 4 is to remain in place for at least 28 days. At Level 3, private health clinics, such as optometrists and dentists, are to be permitted to open, as well as medium-risk businesses such as clothing stores and hair salons. At Level 2, some small gatherings will be allowed, and businesses with performance spaces and gyms are to reopen. Level 1 would represent "the new normal." --- Nova Scotia Nova Scotia is easing some public health restrictions, however, directives around physical distancing and social gatherings will remain in place. Trails and provincial and municipal parks can now reopen, but playground equipment will continue to be off limits. Garden centres, nurseries and similar businesses can open, and while golf driving ranges can open, courses will remain closed. Sportfishing is permitted and people can attend boating, yacht or sailing clubs for the purpose of preparing boats for use. Drive-in religious services will be allowed, as long as people stay in their cars, they are parked two metres apart and there are no interactions between people. --- Prince Edward Island Priority non-urgent surgeries and select health-service providers, including physiotherapists, optometrists and chiropractors, resumed on May 1 under The Renew P.E.I. Together plan. The plan also allows outdoor gatherings and non-contact outdoor recreational activities of no more than five individuals from different households. But screening is to continue at points of entry into the province and all people coming into P.E.I. are required to isolate for 14 days. --- New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs put the first phase of his four-phase reopening plan into action on April 24. It allows limited play on golf courses as well as fishing and hunting. Two families are allowed to interact as part of a so-called "two-family bubble." Post-secondary students can return if it's deemed safe by the school, and outdoor church services can be held, if people remain in their vehicles and are two metres apart. The second phase is to see resumption of elective surgeries and reopening of daycares, offices, restaurants, ATV trails and seasonal campgrounds. The third phase would allow regular church services, dentistry work and reopened fitness centres. The final phase, which would probably come only after a vaccine is available, would include large gatherings. --- Quebec Premier Francois Legault has set May 11 as reopening day for schools and daycares outside greater Montreal. The city is to follow suit on May 19, but attendance won't be mandatory. High schools, junior colleges and universities are to stay closed until September. Quebec aims to open retail stores outside Montreal by May 4 while those in the greater Montreal region are to reopen May 11. Lottery terminals are to begin reopening on May 4 after being shut down On March 20 with sales moving to online only. The construction industry is to completely start up May 11, while manufacturing companies are to resume operations the same day with initial limits on the total number of employees who can work per shift. --- Ontario Premier Doug Ford says Ontario will allow a small list of mostly seasonal businesses to reopen on May 4. They include garden centres with curbside pick-ups, lawn care and landscaping companies, and automatic car washes. All will have to follow physical distancing measures. Last month Ford released a three-step plan for slowly reopening Ontario's economy, but it did not include a timeline. It said Stage 1 could include opening select workplaces and parks, allow more people at certain events such as funerals, and hospitals to resume some non-urgent surgeries. Stage 2 could include opening more businesses and outdoor spaces, while Stage 3 would include opening all work places and further relaxing rules on public gatherings — though large ones such as sporting events and concerts would still be restricted. --- Saskatchewan The Saskatchewan government's five-phase plan to reopen parts of its economy is to start May 4 when dentists, optometrists and other health professionals are to be allowed to resume services. Phase 1 also includes reopened golf courses and campgrounds. Phase 2 would give the green light to retail businesses and salons. Restaurants and gyms could open in Phase 3 but with limited capacity. Phase 4 could see arenas, swimming pools and playgrounds opening. In Phase 5, the province would consider lifting restrictions on the size of public gatherings. --- Manitoba May 4 is the day Manitoba plans to allow reopening of health offices, including dentists, chiropractors and physiotherapists. Retail businesses are to reopen at half occupancy as long as they can ensure physical spacing. Restaurants are to reopen patios and walk-up service. Museums and libraries are to open doors, but occupancy is to be limited to 50 per cent. Playgrounds, golf courses and tennis courts are to reopen along with parks and campgrounds. A second phase is to begin no earlier than June 1. That's when restaurants would be allowed to open indoor dining areas and non-contact children's sports would resume. Mass gatherings such as concerts and major sporting events will not be considered before September. --- Alberta Alberta plans to allow some scheduled, non-urgent surgeries to start May 4. Service provided by dentists, physiotherapists and other medical professionals are also to be permitted. Golf courses reopened May 2, though pro shops and clubhouses remain shuttered. On May 14, retail businesses, such as clothing, furniture and bookstores, are to be allowed to reopen gradually. Cafes and restaurants with no bar service will also be allowed to run at half capacity. The second phase includes potential kindergarten to Grade 12 classes — with restrictions — and reopening of movie theatres and theatres, again, with restrictions. The third phase would see nightclubs, gyms, pools, recreation centres and arenas reopen, all with restrictions. There is no timeline for the final two phases. --- British Columbia The province hasn't released its reopening plan. Premier John Horgan is promising details this week. --- This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020 The Canadian Press
3 May 08:00 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/a-look-at-how-provinces-plan-to-emerge-from-covid-19-shutdown-2320291Rating: 0.30
Time has come to re-open Delhi, will have to be ready to live with coronavirus: Arvind Kejriwal
3 May 18:50
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Average US: 0.5306666666666666
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Time has come to re-open Delhi, will have to be ready to live with coronavirus: Arvind Kejriwal
NEW DELHI: On a day Delhi saw the biggest single-day spike in COVID-19 cases, with 427 new infections reported, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal asked residents to get used to living with coronavirus.In a video briefing, Kejriwal announced that all the relaxations allowed by the Central government for the next phase of lockdown would be implemented. However, he added that it’s time to lift the lockdown and the Delhi government would urge the Centre that only containment areas in the city be declared as red zones and not the entire district. “Time has come to re-open Delhi…We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus,” he said. Monday onwards, all government offices will be open while private offices can function with 33 per cent staff strength. Offices that provide essential services will function with 100 per cent staff. People travelling to the offices will not require any passes. Delhi residents will now be able to organise wedding functions and attend last rites.CLICK HERE FOR COVID-19 LIVE UPDATES Activities in industrial areas, IT firms, hardware manufacturing and services will also be opened. Movement of people for non-essential activities will be permitted only from 7 am to 7 pm. Malls and market complexes are not allowed to function but all other shops will be opened. “With more than one-and-a- half months’ lockdown, economic activity has come to a halt and Delhi government’s revenues have dropped significantly. “Every year in April, the estimated revenue generation is Rs 3,500 crore and this year, it’s just Rs 300 crore. It is very important that we slowly allow economic activity so that revenue generation commences, otherwise our government will not be able to pay even the salaries of staff. Delhi is ready to lift the lockdown,” the CM declared.
3 May 18:50 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2020/may/03/time-has-come-to-re-open-delhi-will-have-to-be-ready-to-live-with-coronavirus-arvind-kejriwal-2138683.htmlRating: 2.04
Delhi lockdown 3.0: 29 activities allowed, restricted and exempted. Read here
Extending lockdown for the third time in the national capital, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come to re-open Delhi as people will have to be ready to live with the coronavirus, and said it is impossible that Covid-19 infection cases will be zero. The third lockdown for Delhi will come into play on Monday. In a video briefing, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will suggest to the Centre that only containment areas in the city be declared as red zones and not the entire district. At present, all 11 districts in the city have been declared as red zones. “Time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We will have to get used to it,” he said. Here are the list of activities which remain prohibited in Delhi 1. Air travel 2. Rail travel 3. Delhi metro will remain closed 4. Inter-state buses and within Delhi 5. Schools, college, educational institutions, coaching institutes, training institutes, 6. Hospitality sector including hotels, restaurants 7. Places where public gathering takes place like movie halls, malls, gymnasium, sports complex 8. Social, political, cultural or any other gathering 9. Religious places. 10. Cycle-rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, taxi, cab aggregators, salon, barbershops and parlours 11. Malls, market complex and markets 12. From 7 pm to 7 am people can not come out of their houses unless for essential services like medical. However, people aged 65 and above, people with co-morbidity, pregnant women and kids below 10 years need to remain in their homes unless medical emergency. Here are some activities allowed in Delhi: 1. Essential shops and stationery shops. 2. Standalone shops, neighbourhood colony shops and shops in residential complexes, both essential and non-essential. 3. Print and electronic media 4. IT-related services shops, call centres, data centres, warehousing services, cold storage, private security and facility management services. 5. All industrial estates will open wherever access control is there. 6. Essential goods manufacturing units and supply chain, IT hardware manufacturing units. 7. Packaging material manufacturing units will be open 8. Agricultural activities 9. Financial sector activities 10. Goods carrier-related services Here are some activities allowed in Delhi but with exceptions: 1. E-commerce activities can only deliver essential goods 2. In cars, besides the driver, only two people will be allowed but only for permitted activities 3. In two-wheelers, only one person will be allowed 4. Construction activities but only those whose workers live nearby 5. Not more than 50 people are allowed at wedding functions 6. Not more than 20 at last rites of a deceased person 7. Spitting at public places is strictly not allowed (With inputs from ANI)
3 May 17:36 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/delhi-news/lockdown-extended-in-delhi-what-s-restricted-allowed-and-exempted-explained-in-3-lists/story-UrgR1eKyUH5uTFV7PIax3M.htmlRating: 0.30
Lockdown 3.0 begins tomorrow; people should be ready to live with COVID-19: Kejriwal
"Corona(virus) has come. It is impossible that there will be no cases of coronavirus because it has not happened across the country. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We will have to get used to it," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said India prepared for the third phase of the national lockdown from Monday with "considerable relaxations" in several districts but curbs will continue in containment areas even as Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said people will have to be ready to live with coronavirus and that time has come to re-open the city. As coronavirus cases jumped by 2,487 in the highest ever 24-hour spike and the fatalities rose by a record 83, officials cautioned against any violation of the lockdown curbs so that the gains achieved so far in the battle against COVID-19 are not "squandered away. The lockdown was imposed on March 25 and is slated to last till May 17 after two extensions putting the total period of restrictions at 54 days. Retailers and traders expect to re-open more shops under the new relaxed guidelines although they are still seeking clarity from local authorities. As he announced the implementation of all lockdown relaxations prescribed by the Centre for the 'Red Zone' in the national capital, Kejriwal said coronavirus is going nowhere and it is impossible that the positive cases in the country will be zero. "Corona(virus) has come. It is impossible that there will be no cases of coronavirus because it has not happened across the country. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We will have to get used to it," he told an online media briefing. "Time has come to re-open Delhi, the AAP leader noted, as he said the Delhi government will suggest to the Centre that only containment areas in the city be declared as red zones and not the entire district. At present, all 11 districts in the city have been declared as red zones. According to the Union Health Ministry on Sunday, the death toll stood at 1,306 while the total cases climbed to 40,263 on Sunday. The recovery rate was nearly 25 per cent. Health Minister Harsh Vardhan urged people to observe the extended two-week period of lockdown in letter and spirit and treat it as an effective intervention to cut down the chain of transmission of COVID-19. We are on the path of success and we will win this war against COVID-19, he asserted. According to the health ministry, as on Friday, there were 130 'Red' zones, maximum of 19 in UP, followed by 14 in Maharashtra. The number of 'Orange' Zones was 284 and 'Green' was 319. Vardhan said the rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases has been steadying for a while and the recovery rate improving, adding that India is on the path of success and will win the war against the pandemic. According to the data received on Sunday, for the past three days, the doubling rate of the virus is 12.0, for seven days it is 11.7 and for 14 days it is 10.4, the minister was quoted as saying in a statement. We have crossed over 10 lakh tests till date and are performing over 74,000 tests in a day presently. He said India is on a "better footing" as compared to other nations, adding the country is capable to pull off any eventuality with more than 2.5 lakh beds in dedicated COVID-19 hospitals and health centres. Echoing Vardhan's views, Niti Aayog member V K Paul said the continuous rise in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus is expected to stabilise anytime soon, He also said the rationale behind the government's decision to extend the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3 is to consolidate the gains of the first and second phase of restrictions. In an interview to PTI, Paul said a sudden spurt in the number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to a containment strategy. "The rationale (behind extending the lockdown till May 17) is that the gains of lockdown need to be consolidated in the country...Real goal of lockdown was to suppress the chain of transmission of the virus. So, we will lose that, if we abruptly end it," said Paul, who is heading an Empowered Group on medical equipment. Retailers Association of India (RAI) said it will have to be seen how the third phase of lockdown works out at the ground as there is confusion, and many states are yet to come up with guidelines to follow the Centre's decision. Similarly, Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) also claimed they will be in a "dilemma" as there is confusion over "what constitutes a neighbourhood shop and a standalone shop", while organised retailers such as Future Group and V-Mart Retail said they are also seeking permissions from local authorities. "Some parts of the businesses will reopen. What we see is that there is the possibility of opening of some standalone stores...We will open wherever we can and we will talk to the local authorities to open. We will have to see how it works out. Expressing similar concerns, CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said, "The traders will be in a dilemma". National General Secretary of the Federation of All India Vyapar Mandal, V K Bansal said, "The biggest problem with the guidelines is that it all depends on the states. The states frame their own policies and do not want to take any responsibility. The Centre wants relaxation but states are restrictive". Fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns while military choppers showered petals on leading hospitals across the country as part of a mega exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the mega exercise, calling It a great gesture. "Saluting those who are at the forefront, bravely fighting COVID-19. Great gesture by our armed forces," Modi tweeted. Concerned over scores of frontline security personnel catching the COVID-19 disease, the Centre has suggested to states to prepare an effective second line of defence by deploying home guards, civil defence and NCC cadets among others wherever feasible to contain the spread of the deadly virus. In a communication to all states and UTs, the Ministry of Home Affairs(MHA) said the police chiefs may consider the option of 'work from home' for personnel not deployed on the frontline, and wherever possible. In another communication. The MHA also made it clear that the relaxations given for the inter-state movement of people during the lockdown was available only to distressed migrant workers. Railways also pressed more Shramik Special' trains for the third day to ferry stranded migrants back to their native places in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Odisha among other states.
3 May 17:27 • Business Today • https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/lockdown-30-begins-tomorrow-people-should-be-ready-to-live-with-covid-19-kejriwal/story/402761.htmlRating: 2.10
Relaxations in Delhi from today: Arvind Kejriwal
New Delhi: The Delhi government will allow all the red zone relaxations in the city from Monday while the lockdown will be continued, Chief Minister Ar... New Delhi: The Delhi government will allow all the red zone relaxations in the city from Monday while the lockdown will be continued, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday. Speaking to the media, Kejirwal said the Centre has announced extension of lockdown for two weeks from Monday. "Entire Delhi is a red zone. The Central government has given some relaxations to the red zones and we will be allowing all that," Kejriwal said. He said all the government offices with essential services will have 100 per cent staff while those in non-essential services will run with 33 per cent attendance. "All inter-state buses, metros and air travel will be suspended. Autos will be suspended too. The movement of the goods will be allowed," he said. Malls, market complexes and all the market areas will be shut. But the shops of essential itemes inside these markets will be allowed. Stationery shops will be allowed. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 21:19 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/relaxations-in-delhi-from-today-arvind-kejriwal-620647Rating: 1.10
Time to reopen Delhi, be ready to live with coronavirus: Arvind Kejriwal
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said the time has come to re-open Delhi as people will have to be ready to live with the coronavirus. Addressing an online media briefing, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will suggest to the Centre that only containment areas in the city be declared as red zones and not the entire district. At present, all 11 districts in the city have been declared as red zones. “Time has come to reopen Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We will have to get used to it,” he said. He said the novel coronavirus is going nowhere and it is impossible that cases of coronavirus will be zero. “It is impossible that there will be no cases of coronavirus because it has not happened across the world. ALSO READ: Coronavirus LIVE: Italy reports lowest deaths since first day of lockdown We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We will have to get used to it,” he said.He also announced a number of relief measures that will come into force from Monday, but said the lockdown will continue for another two weeks. The country saw a record jump of 83 deaths and 2,487 cases in 24 hours on Sunday, with the number of Covid-19 deaths rising to 1,306 and total cases climbing to 40,263. Maharashtra reported 790 new cases as the total climbed to 12,296, making up nearly 31 per cent of confirmed patients in the country. The state has the highest number of deaths with 521. Gujarat had the second highest number of cases at 5,054, and Delhi was a close third with 4,122 cases. Meanwhile, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) headquarters were sealed after two positive cases were found in the campus. A personal staff of a senior CRPF officer and a bus driver of the paramilitary force tested positive for coronavirus, officials said. The force has been witnessing multiple cases of the virus, with at least 135 personnel of its 31st battalion based in Delhi being infected and a 55-year-old sub-inspector of the unit succumbing to the disease last week. ALSO READ: Covid-19 outbreak: India Inc plays safe, despite lockdown norms being eased The Border Security Force (BSF) also saw 25 more positive cases on Sunday, taking the tally in the force to 42, an official said. The new cases were reported from a unit of the 126th battalion of the force, deployed in the Jama Masjid and Chandni Mahal areas of Delhi. Concerned over scores of front-line security personnel catching the Covid-19 disease, the Centre suggested to states to prepare an effective second line of defence by deploying home guards, civil defence and NCC cadets among others wherever feasible to contain the spread of the deadly virus.
3 May 20:45 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/time-to-reopen-delhi-live-with-virus-120050400054_1.htmlRating: 0.30
Lockdown was necessary, but Delhi prepared to ease restrictions: Kejriwal
New Delhi: Announcing an ease in the lockdown restrictions, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that it was time to re-open Delhi. He said that Delhi will implement relaxations that have been allowed by the union home ministry. This comes as the third phase of lockdown is set to be implemented from Monday across the country. Delhi has one of the highest number of cases of Covid-19 in the country with over 4,000 positive cases. The government has sealed off 97 areas as containment zones while five zones have been de-contained. “The central government list has listed all districts in Delhi as red. When the lockdown was imposed, it was necessary to prepare our healthcare facilities to tackle the challenge of the disease. Delhi is ready to relax the lockdown restrictions. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus," Kejriwal said while addressing a digital press conference. He said that while the lockdown was necessary, the time has come to open up as the economy was suffering due to the extended period of shutdown. He said that a large number of people will be forced to move out of Delhi If the lockdown continues. “We have made a suggestion to the central government that all containment zones should remain sealed. Rest can be green zones and shops can be opened there on an odd-even basis. There will be an increase in the number of cases but with the lockdown, we are prepared to handle that," Kejriwal added. Delhi, along with the rest of the country has been under a lockdown since 25 March. There are approximately 40,000 positive cases of the disease in the country. Announcing the relaxations, Kejriwal said that the relaxations will be on the basis of what had been allowed by the central home ministry. All government offices will open on Monday with those providing emergency services functioning at 100% capacity and those in non-essential work functioning at 50% capacity. Private offices can also open but at 33% of the workforce. Self-employed people like electricians, plumbers and household help can begin work but barbers and salons will continue to remain closed. Markets excepts shops providing essential services will also remain closed. There will be no movement of people for non-essential work from 7pm to 7am. Public transport vehicles will not be allowed to ply in red zones. Private four-wheelers can have two people in the backseat along with the driver while only driver is allowed on two wheelers. Even as religious places remain shut, 50 people were allowed at weddings and 20 at funerals. E-commerce deliveries will be allowed for all essential goods.
3 May 14:24 • Livemint • https://www.livemint.com/news/india/lockdown-was-necessary-but-delhi-prepared-to-ease-restrictions-kejriwal-11588515537531.htmlRating: 0.30
Coronavirus: ‘Time to re-open Delhi,’ says Arvind Kejriwal, announces new rules and relaxations
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday announced that the government will implement the Centre’s latest guidelines regarding relaxing the lockdown. The lockdown, imposed first on March 24 in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, was to end on May 3. However, it has been extended by another two weeks till May 17. Delhi has been classified a Covid-19 red zone or a hotspot. “Lockdown was a necessity as the country was not properly prepared,” he said in his virtual press conference. “Now, people of Delhi are ready to deal with social distancing and other steps to prevent spread.” Kejriwal said economic activity has to be started to generate revenue and to pay salaries. “Entire Delhi is in a red zone,” he added. “We will not be able to sustain the lockdown for long as the economy is in peril. The revenue has fallen from Rs 3,500 crores in April month of previous years to Rs 300 crores this year. How will the government function?” Delhi has recorded 4,122 coronavirus cases and 64 fatalities so far, according to the figures from the health ministry. There are 96 containment zones in the national Capital. “The time has come to re-open Delhi,” the chief minister said. “We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We are now prepared to deal with the crisis. We have told the central government to seal only containment zones and make the rest of Delhi a green zone.” Kejriwal also assured the people that the Delhi government has made full use of the lockdown to prepare for the crisis. Follow today’s live updates on the pandemic here. Here is a list of activities that have been permitted, and those that remain banned in the Capital:
3 May 14:37 • Scroll.in • https://scroll.in/latest/960935/coronavirus-time-to-re-open-delhi-says-arvind-kejriwal-announces-new-rules-and-relaxationsRating: 0.30
Lockdown 3.0: Curfew imposed in Assam from 6 pm to 6 am
The Assam government announced a curfew from 6 pm to 6 am in the state starting Monday, mounting stricter restrictions on the Centre’s guidelines for the third phase of country-wide lockdown. “This is not a lockdown, but a curfew. Everything except pharmacies will be open,” said Assam health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma about the 12-hour curfew, while addressing a press conference in Guwahati. Out of 33 districts in Assam, all but four are in ‘orange’ zones — the rest are in ‘green’ zones. There would be no relaxation in lockdown in the areas falling under orange zones, authorities said, whereas the green zones will have additional restrictions, in comparison to the guidelines by the Centre. While all standalone shops would be allowed to open in green zones, locations which have shops contiguously adjacent to each other, will have restrictions. “In areas where there are adjacent shops it shall be ensured that there are at least two closed shops in between two open shops except for pharmacies, grocery stores and book shops. Deputy Commissioners shall in consultation with market associations, identify the shops and allow them to operate only after this is finalised. Market complexes and shopping malls shall remain closed,” a government order, signed by chief secretary Kumar Sanjay Krishna, on Sunday said. The ‘one-third’ rule does not apply to book shops, groceries, pharmacies. Haats and bazars — including weekly markets — shall remain closed through the state. Government and private offices in the green zones can function from Monday with 50 per cent employees. However, women employees in both private and public sectors, with children below five years of age are not to attend office till May 17. The order also said that tea shops, restaurants and ice cream parlours can open for delivery or take away. E-commerce is allowed, too. The government has allowed auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws and taxis to operate with one driver and two passengers while private four-wheelers are allowed with a driver and two others. “For two wheelers, pillion riding is allowed either with one female or one child up to the age of 12 years,” the order noted. City buses, inter-district buses and intra-district buses can ply with 50 per cent capacity. All construction activities to resume with 50 per cent workforce. The order added: “Barber shops, saloons and parlours shall continue to remain closed, however, home visits of barber would be allowed after following hygiene and sanitisation norms.” Sarma added that wearing masks and adhering social distancing norms were of utmost importance. He reiterated that persons above 65 and children under 12 will not be allowed to step out of their homes unless for medical-related emergencies. Assam has reported 42 COVID-19 cases so far. Currently, there are nine active cases, with 32 discharged, and one death
3 May 16:51 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/assam/lockdown-3-0-curfew-imposed-in-assam-from-6-pm-to-6-am-6392170/Rating: 0.30
Covid-19 lockdown: Key services to resume in Delhi today
Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that his government was allowing self-employed people including domestic help, those involved in laundry services, technicians, electricians and plumbers to operate in the national capital from Monday, when the third phase of the national lockdown over the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) kicks in with considerable relaxations. The Delhi government released its implementation strategy over the guidelines released by the Union home ministry, with Kejriwal saying that the Capital will follow the lockdown restrictions enforced by the Centre. He, however, urged the central government to lift restrictions in the Capital’s areas that have largely remained unaffected by the disease. The Union government announced on Friday that the lockdown, necessitated by the infectious outbreak, was being extended by two weeks till May 17. Detailing the Delhi government’s plan at a news briefing on Sunday, Kejriwal said: “Self-employed people – technicians, plumbers, electricians, mechanics, sanitation staff, people working as domestic help, laundry, dhobis – people like these the permission to work.” The Delhi CM also said print and electronic media, IT-related services, call centres, data centres, warehousing services, cold storages, private security firms and industrial estates with access control will also be allowed to remain open. Elevator technicians, AC mechanics, vehicle mechanics, generator mechanics and TV mechanics will also be allowed to work from Monday. The Delhi chief minister on March 23 announced a complete lockdown in the Capital to contain Covid-19, which has severely hit metropolises across the world, days before the central government announced similar restrictions across the nation. While public health experts say the lockdown was needed to control the disease from spiralling out of control, there have been concerns over stalling economic activity. Kejriwal said on Sunday Delhi was reporting heavy revenue losses and it was important to reopen areas largely outside the spectre of the pathogen to ensure people don’t travel back to their hometowns because of the lack of employment. Currently, there are 94containment zones in the national capital. The Delhi CM said that people were losing jobs and traders were suffering because there was no business. He, however, reiterated the Centre’s rule on people not being allowed to step out of their homes for non-essential activities from 7pm to 7am. Kejriwal said government offices and private facilities with 33% staff will open from Monday but the suspension of travel by air, metro and bus will continue. Delivery of essential goods through e-commerce portals will continue in the national capital, he said. “Malls, cinemas, salons, market complexes and Delhi Metro will remain shut while shops selling essentials will continue will be open,” he said, adding that 50 people will be allowed in marriage function. Movement of individuals and vehicles is allowed only for permitted activities, with a maximum of two persons (besides the driver) in four-wheeler vehicles, and with no pillion rider in the case of two-wheelers. Shortly after Kejriwal’s announcement, residents’ welfare associations (RWAs) in Delhi said they were open to letting electricians and plumbers enter the residential complexes, but expressed concern over domestic help resuming work. Rajiv Kakria, convener, Save Our City campaign, said the Delhi government’s decision came just a day after the city reported the highest number of Covid-19 cases in a single day. “If the government ensures that the situation is conducive and there are zero movements from containment zones, then it can be eased. But it is better to wait and see how the situation pans out,” he said. “Domestic help work in at least 5-6 households… It is risky, especially now when the cases are spiralling up,” he added. Madhur Srivastava, RWA president, Sector-4 DDA colony of Dwarka, said: “We have a designated electrician, plumber and a person who irons clothes. We used to allow residents to use services from outside but that will strictly be banned now.” The Delhi government, RWAs say, has allowed self-employed people to work but without making any provision for their commute. “Public transport is not allowed, then how will they come?” said Atul Goyal, president URJA, a united front of a group RWAs in Delhi. Reacting to the latest relaxations, Dr Lalit Kant, former head of epidemiology and communicable diseases at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), said: “When these people come for one, they should ensure to wear a mask while working and wash their hands before starting the work. If there are elderly people or children at home, then they should be kept away as chances of them contracting the infection are high in case the domestic help is infected but asymptomatic.” Dr Jugal Kishore, head of community medicine at Safdarjung Hospital, welcomed the government’s decision to allow self-employed people working as domestic help. “This decision will help both, as there are people, especially the elderly, who are finding it difficult to manage the household without any help. It will also provide financial stability to domestic help. People should teach them how to protect themselves from the disease.”
3 May 23:16 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/key-services-to-resume-in-delhi-today/story-r1nVyt0m9QjiiGeTNe3m0M.htmlRating: 0.30
“Time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to live with coronavirus: Arvind Kejriwal announces lifting of restrictions
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said that it was time to re-open Delhi, adding that ‘we will have to be ready to live with coronavirus.’ Addressing a press briefing, Arvind Kejriwal said, “The time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. Governments and citizens will have to get used to (living with the virus). Delhi is ready for this.” He, however, said that certain restrictions will continue to be in force. The Delhi chief minister said, “All private offices will open from tomorrow. But these private offices will function with 33 percent staff strength. Air travel, rail travel and Metro will remain closed. Inter-state buses too will remain shut. Buses will also not run within Delhi. All educational institutions, coaching centres and hospitality industries, malls, cinema hall, gymnasium will remain closed.” Kejriwal also said that social, cultural, political and religious functions including places of worships will not open, adding that the ban will be in force on barber shops and saloons. He said big markets such as Connaught Place and Khan Market will not open but shops selling essential items and books within these market complexes can open. IT services and call centres, warehouses and private security services too can start their operations from tomorrow. E-commerce platforms will be allowed to sell essential items, while the ban on the sale of non-essential items will remain. Not more than 50 people will be allowed to attend a wedding party while only 20 people can attend the last rites in the event of death. People attending must maintain social distancing. Kejriwal said that the lockdown announced by the central government in March was necessary to contain the spread of the virus and also to prepare our readiness to fight the pandemic. But, time was ripe now to end the lockdown since this was having an adverse impact on the economy and the government’s revenue collection.
3 May 14:32 • Janta Ka Reporter • http://www.jantakareporter.com/india/time-has-come-to-re-open-delhi-we-will-have-to-live-with-coronavirus-arvind-kejriwal-announces-lifting-of-restrictions/289495/Rating: 0.38
'Ready to live with Coronavirus': Kejriwal announces lockdown relaxations with conditions
New Delhi, May 03: The Delhi government has decided to implement all lockdown relaxations that have been prescribed by the Union home ministry, despite the national capital being completely in the red zone with a high concentration of COVID-19 cases. At a press conference, Chief Minister Kejriwal said "the time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. The lockdown was necessary to contain COVID-19, but Delhi is fully ready to relax lockdown restrictions." The Chief Minister listed what will open and what all are likely to remain shut in the national capital. "All standalone shops in residential colonies, neighbourhood shops not only those selling essential items will all be allowed to operate," he said. The CM said while public transport will remain shut, private vehicles - four-wheelers and two-wheelers can ply. Four-wheelers can carry two people and a driver and only one person on two wheelers. Private offices can open but only 33 per cent of the work force will be allowed. These would include IT hardware manufacturing and e-commerce activities for essential goods. Malls, cinemas, salons, market complexes and any such place where crowds can gather will remain shut, the Delhi CM said. The Delhi Metro will remain shut during the lockdown and shops selling essential items will continue to be open. E-commerce companies will only be allowed to deliver essentials. Wedding functions are allowed with strength not exceeding 50 people. Funerals with 20 people are allowed. Social distancing norms have to be followed strictly during such functions.
3 May 13:25 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/ready-to-live-with-coronavirus-kejriwal-announces-lockdown-relations-with-coronaviru-3082231.html?utm_source=/rss/news-india-fb.xml&utm_medium=23.217.99.92&utm_campaign=client-rssRating: 0.30
Time has come to re-open Delhi: Arvind Kejriwal announces new rules, relaxations for Delhi in Lockdown 3.0
The Delhi government on Sunday announced that it will be implementing all lockdown relaxations proposed by the Ministry of Home Affairs from Monday. Holding a press conference, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "The Delhi government will implement all lockdown relaxations prescribed by the home ministry." Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said the Delhi government will implement the centre's latest guidelines on lockdown relaxation and allow government and private offices to open from Monday but the suspension of travel by flight, metro and bus will continue. The third phase of the countrywide lockdown begins Monday with "considerable relaxations", but curbs will continue in containment areas so that the gains achieved so far in the fight against Covid-19 are not "squandered away". The country has been divided into three zones -- Red, Orange and Green - based on coronavirus risk-profiling. The extended lockdown is slated to last till May 17. Arvind Kejriwal said, "Time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus." The list of relaxations and rules for Lockdown 3.0 announced by Delhi government include: "Today one-and-a-half month has passed since the lockdown was first imposed. Delhi is now ready to open. The public is agitated by the classification of the entire city as a red zone. People are losing jobs, the economy has gone haywire and the government has no source of revenue. We cannot pay our employees with the existing revenue," he said. "We have made full use of the lockdown but now the time has come to reopen the city. We will have to learn to live with coronavirus. We have made all preparations," Kejriwal added. The chief minister also said that he will suggest the Centre declare only containment areas in the city as red zones and not the entire district. There are 96 containment zones in the national capital. In a zone-wise classification of districts in the country, the Union Health Ministry has designated all 11 districts of Delhi as the red zone. However, the Delhi government is planning to categorise the city wards on the basis of coronavirus cases, allowing more relaxation in lockdown curbs in areas where the infection has not been reported, according to sources. The city has 272 wards. The national capital recorded 384 fresh cases of the novel coronavirus, the highest spike in a day, taking the tally to 4,122 on Saturday. The death toll mounted to 64 with three more fatalities, according to Delhi government.
3 May 13:14 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/delhi-coronanvirus-lockdown-extension-relaxations-arvind-kejriwal-red-zone-1673958-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
Lockdown 3.0: Here's what is allowed in Delhi
Outlining the list of activities that will be allowed in Delhi during the third phase of government-mandated lockdown, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, call centres and IT services can remain open and weddings with 50 guests will be allowed in the national capital. Urging citizens to adopt a changed approach towards the coronavirus, Arvind Kejriwal said "Time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus." Talking about the lockdown, he said it was necessary to contain COVID-19 and the city is now fully ready to relax lockdown restrictions. Assuring the citizens, the chief minister emphasised that Delhi government will implement all lockdown relaxations prescribed by home ministry. Suggesting a phased removal of the lockdown, Kejriwal said Delhi is prepared to ease restrictions "in places other than containment zones". The reason, he said, is that Delhi is "prepared in terms of hospitals and kits". Delhi during Lockdown 3.01. Suspension of travel by flight, Delhi Metro and bus will continue in the national capital. 2. Delivery of essential goods through e-commerce portals will continue. 3. Malls, cinemas, salons, market complexes, Delhi Metro will remain shut; shops selling essentials will continue to be open. 4. Delhi govt offices engaged in essential services to function with full strength; private office to open with 33 per cent strength. 5. Call centres and IT services can remain open. 6.Weddings will be allowed with 50 people in attendance, funerals with 20 people. 7. Public transport will remain shut, private vehicles - four-wheelers and two-wheelers can ply. Four-wheelers can carry two people and a driver and only one person on two wheelers. 8. Religious places will remain closed and the ban on religious gatherings will remain. 9. People above the age of 65 and below 10, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension should not go out of doors. 10. Self-employed people, like technicians, plumbers, electricians and household helps, will be allowed to begin work. The national capital has so far seen 4,549 cases of COVID-19, of whom 1,362 patients have recovered, 64 have died. In Video: Lockdown extension 3.0: What's allowed and what's not in Delhi
3 May 13:14 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/lockdown-3-0-heres-what-is-allowed-in-delhi/articleshow/75519621.cmsRating: 0.30
Time to re-open Delhi, have to be ready to live with coronavirus: Kejriwal
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said the time has come to re-open Delhi and people will have to be ready to live with the novel coronavirus as he announced the implementation of all lockdown relaxations prescribed by the Centre for the 'Red Zone' in the national capital. Addressing an online media briefing, Kejriwal said the Delhi government will suggest to the Centre that only containment areas in the city be declared as red zones and not the entire district. At present, all 11 districts in the city have been declared as red zones. The chief minister said the novel coronavirus is going nowhere and it is impossible that cases of coronavirus will be zero. "It is impossible that there will be no cases of coronavirus because it has not happened across the country. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. We will have to get used to it," he said. Delhi has been under lockdown since March 23. He said the government's earnings and economy have been badly affected due to the coronavirus-induced lockdown, adding that Delhi is ready to lift the lowdown. He cited figures saying in April 2019, the government earned Rs 3,500 crore while in April this year, it only received Rs 300 crore. "The centre has put the entire Delhi under red zone due to which markets, malls cannot open. We have suggested the Centre to seal those areas where cases of coronavirus have been reported and rest of areas can be allowed for the operation of all activities," he said. Kejriwal said the Delhi government will also take strict action against those who spit in public. He added that the movement of people from 7 pm to 7 am will not be allowed, as suggested by the Centre. Kejriwal said the government and private offices will open from Monday but the suspension of travel by flight, metro and bus will continue. Delivery of essential goods through e-commerce portals will continue in the national capital, he said. Delhi government offices engaged in essential services will function with full strength while offices of non-essential services and private offices can operate with 33 per cent strength. "Malls, cinemas, salons, market complexes and Delhi Metro will remain shut while shops selling essentials will continue will be open," he said, adding that 50 people will be allowed in marriage function.
3 May 13:12 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/time-to-re-open-delhi-have-to-be-ready-to-live-with-coronavirus-kejriwal-120050300731_1.htmlRating: 0.30
‘Time to reopen’: Kejriwal asks Centre to treat Delhi as green, not red zone
The Delhi government will implement all lockdown relaxations that have been prescribed by the Union home ministry, despite the national capital being completely in the red zone with a high concentration of Covid-19 cases, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday. All Delhi government offices engaged in essential services will function with full strength and private offices will be allowed to function with 33 per cent strength, Kejriwal announced via a video conference. “The time has come to re-open Delhi. We will have to be ready to live with coronavirus. The lockdown was necessary to contain Covid-19, but Delhi is fully ready to relax lockdown restrictions,” the Delhi chief minister said. ALSO READ | Covid-19 lockdown 3.0: India’s national lockdown extended again. All you need to know “I have been getting multiple calls and queries on what will open and what all are likely to remain shut. All standalone shops in residential colonies, neighbourhood shops not only those selling essential items will be allowed to operate. If you have a four-wheeler apart from the driver only two more people will be allowed. No pillion riders will be allowed on two-wheelers,” he said. Clarity on the relaxations came barely two days after the Centre extended the nationwide lockdown for another two weeks on Friday. The lockdown will now continue till May 17. The lockdown was earlier scheduled to be lifted today on May 3. The Delhi Metro will remain shut during the lockdown and shops selling essential items will continue to be open. “I will suggest to the Centre to declare only containment areas in the city as red zones and not the entire district. Suspension of travel by flight, Delhi Metro and bus services will continue in the national capital,” Kejriwal said. The Delhi government will take strict action against those found spitting in public places. Delivery of essential goods through e-commerce portals will continue but the e-retailers will not be allowed to sell non essential items online nor deliver any such goods to consumers. Malls, cinemas, salons, market complexes and any such place where crowds can gather will remain shut, the Delhi CM said.
3 May 12:52 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-to-implement-all-lockdown-relaxations-with-conditions-kejriwal/story-QXXhHfowBsVgEf0t6XMNYK.htmlRating: 0.30
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease COVID-19 lockdown
3 May 19:59
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7 articles
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Confusion as Italy prepares to ease COVID-19 lockdown
ROME: Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown on Sunday (May 3), but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the seaside, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre. In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to the re-opened parks with their children and going cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. "We've been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. "EXTREMELY WORRIED" Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection". Many asked did that mean lovers, friends and fiances were included? The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives - including, for example, the children of their cousins - but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all". The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. "I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. "We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said. "It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown." Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 19:59 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/italy-covid-19-lockdown-ease-confusion-12698072Rating: 3.25
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown
Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. “I’m hoping this morning’s paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the seaside, can I?” asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital’s historic centre. In this first stage, Italy’s 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to re-opened parks with their children and cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy’s 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. “We’ve been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it’s finally arrived it’s a letdown. Until they tell me I’m really free, I’ll feel paranoid, like I’m breaking the rules in some way,” 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with “congiunti” were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had “relationships of steady affection”. The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives — including, for example, the children of their cousins — but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used “as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all”. The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. There were further encouraging signs Sunday that the pandemic had been brought under control. Italy reported 174 new coronavirus deaths, its lowest toll since the stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. “I’m extremely worried about the reopening, I don’t trust people to act responsibly,” said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. “We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus,” he said. “It’s going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown.” AFP
3 May 19:42 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/confusion-as-italy-prepares-to-ease-lockdown/Rating: 0.30
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown
Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. “I’m hoping this morning’s paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the seaside, can I?” asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital’s historic centre. In this first stage, Italy’s 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to re-opened parks with their children and cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy’s 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. “We’ve been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it’s finally arrived it’s a letdown. Until they tell me I’m really free, I’ll feel paranoid, like I’m breaking the rules in some way,” 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. ‘Extremely worried’ Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with “congiunti” were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had “relationships of steady affection”. The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives including, for example, the children of their cousins but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used “as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all”. The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. There were further encouraging signs Sunday that the pandemic had been brought under control. Italy reported 174 new coronavirus deaths, its lowest toll since the stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. “I’m extremely worried about the reopening, I don’t trust people to act responsibly,” said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. “We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus,” he said. “It’s going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown.”
3 May 19:33 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/world/confusion-as-italy-prepares-to-ease-lockdown/Rating: 0.30
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown
ROME, Italy – Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, May 3, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre. In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to the re-opened parks with their children and going cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. "We've been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. 'Extremely worried' Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection." Many asked did that mean lovers, friends and fiances were included? The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives – including, for example, the children of their cousins – but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all." The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. "I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. "We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said. "It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown." – Rappler.com
3 May 12:48 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/europe/259794-italy-prepares-ease-lockdown-coronavirusRating: 1.64
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown
Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre. In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to the re-opened parks with their children and going cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. "We've been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection". Many asked did that mean lovers, friends and fiances were included? The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A; that specified people could see extended relatives -- including, for example, the children of their cousins -- but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all". The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. "I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. "We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said. "It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown." ide/pma https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 10:48 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/confusion-as-italy-prepares-to-ease-lockdown/ne86szxRating: 0.51
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown
Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the seaside, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre. In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to re-opened parks with their children and cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. "We've been waiting with longing for May 4, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. - 'Extremely worried' - Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection". The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives -- including, for example, the children of their cousins -- but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free- for-all". The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. There were further encouraging signs Sunday that the pandemic had been brought under control. Italy reported 174 new coronavirus deaths, its lowest toll since the stay-at-home orders were imposed on March 10. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. "I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year old would re-adjust. "We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said. "It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown."
3 May 10:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/confusion-as-italy-prepares-to-ease-lockdown/article/571127Rating: 0.78
Confusion as Italy prepares to ease lockdown
ROME – Italy was spending its last day in total lockdown Sunday, but the partial easing of strict coronavirus measures after a two-month shutdown was causing anxiety and confusion rather than elation. Across the country, attempts to make plans for the first day of freedom were hampered by uncertainty over the rules. The government has a list of permitted activities, but regions are also making up their own regulations. "I'm hoping this morning's paper will clear it up. I want to take my old mum to the sea-side, can I?" asked 53-year old cleaner Pietro Garlanti as he queued patiently in the sun at a kiosk in the capital's historic centre. In this first stage, Italy's 60 million inhabitants will be able to move more freely within their own regions, visiting relatives, going to the re-opened parks with their children and going cycling or running further from home. None of that can be done in groups, however, so big family lunches are forbidden. Going to holiday homes is not allowed. And people cannot leave their own regions, except for emergencies or for health reasons. Italy's 20 regions, however, have put their own spin on the rules. Two of them, Veneto and Calabria, even lifted their lockdowns early, opening to bars and restaurants with outdoor tables this week. Liguria is thinking about letting people go sailing in small groups, and is reopening its beaches. So is the Marghe region, but for walks not sunbathing. Emilia-Romagna is keeping them closed, even to those who live by the sea. "We've been waiting with longing for 4 May, but now it's finally arrived it's a letdown. Until they tell me I'm really free, I'll feel paranoid, like I'm breaking the rules in some way," 37-year old Michele Magna told AFP. EXTREMELY WORRIED Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte further puzzled many by telling Italians visits with "congiunti" were allowed. The Italian word can mean either relatives or kinsmen. He then attempted to clarify by saying that extended to people who had "relationships of steady affection". Many asked did that mean lovers, friends and fiances were included? The government was forced Saturday to publish a Q&A that specified people could see extended relatives -- including, for example, the children of their cousins -- but friends, however dear, were out of bounds. Teacher Alessandra Coletti thought the confusion would be used "as an excuse by many for a sort of free-for-all". The government hopes easing the coronavirus lockdown, the longest in the world, will reboot a crippled economy. But Conte has warned he will be watching closely to see if the virus flares up again, and is ready to enforce localised lockdowns if necessary to stop the return of a pandemic which has claimed nearly 29,000 lives. "I'm extremely worried about the reopening, I don't trust people to act responsibly," said salesman Tiziano Mazzoli. Father Duilio Diligente, 38, said he was concerned about how children such as his eight-year-old would re-adjust. "We were out on our bikes last night in an empty square, when he suddenly swerved massively to avoid a man and his dog, and fell off. He said he was afraid of going near them in case they had the virus," he said. "It's going to take time for us to be really, psychologically ready for the end of the lockdown."
3 May 00:00 • ewn.co.za • https://ewn.co.za/2020/05/03/confusion-as-italy-prepares-to-ease-lockdownRating: 1.68
PM Modi pays tributes to security personnel killed in Handwara encounter
3 May 15:25
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12 articles
Weight: 1.62
Importance: 1.62
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 15:25
Average US: 0.7166666666666666
Weighted average US: 2.0511552545756175
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
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PM Modi pays tributes to security personnel killed in Handwara encounter
NEW DELHI: Condoling the death of security personnel in an encounter with terrorists in Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. "Tributes to our courageous soldiers and security personnel martyred in Handwara. Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. They served the nation with utmost dedication and worked tirelessly to protect our citizens. Condolences to their families and friends," Modi said in a tweet. An Army Colonel and a Major were among five security personnel killed in the encounter at a village in north Kashmir's Handwara area, Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh said on Sunday. Two terrorists were eliminated by security forces.
3 May 15:25 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/may/03/pm-modi-pays-tributes-to-security-personnel-killed-in-handwara-encounter-2138631.htmlRating: 2.04
Sacrifices of Handwara bravehearts won't go to waste: Jammu and Kashmir LG Murmu
Sacrifices of Handwara bravehearts won't go to waste: J-K LG Murmu Jammu, May 3 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor G C Murmu on Sunday paid rich tributes to five security personnel killed in an encounter with terrorists in Handwara area of Kupwara district. "We salute the valour of the Army, police and other security forces for playing a crucial role in combating terrorism and ensuring safe and secure environment for the people", Murmu said. Four army personnel, including a colonel and a major, and a police officer were killed in an encounter with terrorists in Handwara. Two terrorists, including a Pakistani national, were also killed in the gunfight. "The supreme sacrifice made by security personnel who attained martyrdom during an encounter in the Handwara area of Kashmir will always be remembered," the Lt Governor said. He also expressed solidarity with the families of the martyrs and said the sacrifices of the bravehearts will not go waste. PTI TAS CK
3 May 21:34 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/sacrifices-of-handwara-bravehearts-wont-go-to-waste-jammu-and-kashmir-lg-murmu-833143.htmlRating: 2.25
‘Will Never Forget’: Rajnath Singh On The Martyrdom Of Five Security Personnel In Kashmir
Lauding the five security personnel from the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Police for displaying exemplary courage in fighting the terrorists in Handwara of North Kashmir, Union Minister for Defence Rajnath Singh on Sunday (3 May) described the news of their martyrdom as 'deeply disturbing and painful', reports Economic Times. He said, "The loss of our soldiers and security personnel in Handwara (J&K) is deeply disturbing and painful. They showed exemplary courage in their fight against the terrorists and made supreme sacrifice while serving the country. We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice." The minister said that he offers his tributes to the soldiers and security personnel who fell in action. "My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones today. India stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of these brave martyrs," the minister tweeted. Saluting these personnel, the Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat said that operations in Handwara highlight the determination of the security forces to safeguard the lives of the people. "Commanding Officer leading from the front along with other personnel of the unit and J&K Police have laid down their lives, living upto the motto; Service Before Self," General Rawat said He also said that the Armed Forces are proud of their courage as they have successfully eliminated the terrorists. "We salute these brave personnel and express our deep felt condolences for the bereaved families," he said. In a statement, Indian Army said that based on the intelligence input that terrorists were taking the civilian inmates of a house in Changimulla at Handwara of Kupwara district hostage, a joint operation was launch by Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police."A team comprising of five Army and J&K Police personnel entered the target area occupied by the terrorists to evacuate the civilians. The team of Army and JK Police entered the target area and successfully extricated the civilian," Indian Army said. The force stated that during the process, the team was subjected to heavy volume of fire by the terrorists. "In the ensuing fire fight two terrorists were eliminated and the team of five army and J&K personnel comprising of two Army officers, two Army soldiers and one J&K Police Sub Inspector attained martyrdom," Indian Army said. With IANS Inputs
3 May 15:28 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/will-never-forget-rajnath-singh-on-the-martyrdom-of-five-security-personnel-in-kashmirRating: 1.22
Handwara encounter: Modi says sacrifice of security personnel killed in J&K will not be forgotten
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the “valour and sacrifice” of the five security personnel killed in an encounter with militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Handwara town will never be forgotten. “Tributes to our courageous soldiers and security personnel martyred in Handwara,” he tweeted. “Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. They served the nation with utmost dedication and worked tirelessly to protect our citizens. Condolences to their families and friends.” Five security personnel – an Army colonel, a major, two Army officers and a police sub inspector – were killed during an 18-hour anti-militancy operation. The Army said that the operation was launched after the intelligence inputs were received that terrorists were taking civilian inmates of a house in Changimul village hostage. Two terrorists were also killed during the operation. The Jammu and Kashmir Police identified the deceased jawans as Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, Major Anuj, Sub Inspector Sageer Ahmad Qazi, Lance Naik Dinesh and Naik Rajesh. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat said the operations in Handwara highlight the determination of the forces to protect the lives of people of India. Earlier in the day, several political leaders also offered their condolences after the deaths of the security personnel. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the deaths of the soldiers was “deeply disturbing and painful”. “They showed exemplary courage in their fight against the terrorists and made supreme sacrifice while serving the country,” he tweeted. “We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice.” Bharatiya Janata Party President JP Nadda also condoled the death of security personnel. “Received the sad news of our soldiers making the supreme sacrifice in an encounter with terrorists in Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir,” he tweeted. “I bow to the martyrs and pray for peace to their souls. May God give their grieving families the strength to bear the loss.” The Congress party issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the deaths of the jawans. “The incident in Handwara is a stark reminder of the incredible sacrifice our defence forces make in order to keep our Nation safe,” it tweeted. “Jai Hind.” Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh announced a government job and Rs 10 lakh compensation for family of the soldier from his state – Naik Rajesh – who was a part of the Handwara operation. “My deep condolences to the family of NK Rajesh Kumar, 21 RR, from village Rajrana, district Mansa, who laid down his life for the nation while fighting militants in Handwara,” he tweeted. “A government job and Rs 10 lakh as ex-gratia will be given as a mark of respect to the next of kin.” Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted: “Sorry to hear about the army and police officers and the jawan who laid down their lives in the line of duty in Handwara this morning. May their souls rest in peace and may their families and colleagues find strength at this difficult time.” Meanwhile, BJP General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said that government will give a befitting response to this “cowardly incident”.
3 May 10:19 • Scroll.in • https://scroll.in/latest/960915/handwara-encounter-modi-says-sacrifice-of-security-personnel-killed-in-j-k-will-not-be-forgottenRating: 0.30
PM Modi pays tributes to security personnel killed in Handwara encounter
New Delhi, May 03: Condoling the death of security personnel in an encounter with terrorists in Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. "Tributes to our courageous soldiers and security personnel martyred in Handwara. Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. They served the nation with utmost dedication and worked tirelessly to protect our citizens. Condolences to their families and friends," Modi said in a tweet. An Army Colonel and a Major were among five security personnel killed in the encounter at a village in north Kashmir's Handwara area, Director General of Police Dilbagh Singh said on Sunday. Two terrorists were eliminated by security forces.
3 May 09:55 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/pm-modi-pays-tributes-to-security-personnel-killed-in-handwara-encounter-3082122.htmlRating: 0.30
‘Tributes to courageous security personnel martyred in Handwara’, tweets PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the five security personnel killed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Handwara district during an operation to rescue civilians held hostage by terrorists served the country with “utmost dedication”. The Prime Minister was paying his tributes to Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, Major Anuj Sood, Naik Rajesh Kumar and Lance Naik Dinesh Singh and sub-inspector of Jammu-Kashmir police Shakeel Qazi who fell in the line of duty during an operation in Changimulla of Handwara. “Tributes to our courageous soldiers and security personnel martyred in Handwara. Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. They served the nation with utmost dedication and worked tirelessly to protect our citizens,” the Prime Minister tweeted. “Condolences to their families and friends,” he said. Before him, defence minister Rajnath Singh and the army also offered tributes to the security personnel who sacrificed their lives in the Handwara encounter. “The loss of our soldiers and security personnel in Handwara (J-K) is deeply disturbing and painful. They showed exemplary courage in their fight against the terrorists and made supreme sacrifice while serving the country. We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice,” Singh tweeted. “This operation exemplified true tradition and strong determination of the #SecurityForces to safeguard the lives of own citizens,” the army also posted on Twitter. Two terrorists, including a top commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba, were also killed in the encounter that began around 3:30pm on Saturday after they took hostages inside a house in Handwara district.
3 May 09:53 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/valour-sacrifice-will-never-be-forgotten-pm-modi-s-tribute-to-personnel-killed-in-handwara/story-0xKxEgFC27wULtOHCfdmCL.htmlRating: 0.30
Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten: PM on Handwara operation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter on Sunday and expressed his condolences for the five security personnel killed in Handwara in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district. "Tributes to our courageous soldiers and security personnel martyred in Handwara," tweeted the Prime Minister. He further added, "Their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. They served the nation with utmost dedication and worked tirelessly to protect our citizens. Condolences to their families and friends." The prime minister is referring to the operation in Handwara that resulted in the deaths of four Indian Army personnel and a Jammu and Kashmir police sub-inspector. Officials have identified the security personnel killed in the line of duty as Major Anuj Sood, Naik Rajesh, Lance Naik Dinesh and sub-inspector Shakeel Qazi along with Commanding Officer of the Rashtriya Rifles, Colonel Ashutosh Sharma. Security forces gunned down two militants during the operation, one of whom has been identified as Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Haider. Initial inputs suggest that a team comprising Indian Army and J&K police personnel received Intel about militants holding some locals hostage in Handwara's Changimulla area. While the brave security personnel managed to rescue and extricate the locals who had been held hostage, they were pinned down by gunfire followed by a fierce exchange of fire that lasted for nearly eight hours. The operation came to an end in the early hours of Sunday morning when reinforcements arrived at the spot and gunned down the militants.
3 May 09:50 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/their-valour-and-sacrifice-will-never-be-forgotten-pm-on-handwara-operation-1673904-2020-05-03?utm_source=rssRating: 0.30
Deeply disturbing and painful: Rajnath Singh on killing of 5 security personnel in Kashmir
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday described as "deeply disturbing and painful" the killing of five security personnel including a decorated colonel and a major in an anti-terror operation in Handwara area of north Kashmir. Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, paying rich tributes to the deceased personnel, said the operation in Handwara highlighted the determination of the security forces to safeguard the lives of the people of Kashmir. Col Ashutosh Sharma, the commanding officer of the 21 Rashtriya Rifles battalion, was among those killed in the encounter which began on Saturday and continued till late last night. Col Sharma, a gallantry awardee, was part of a number of successful counter-terror operations in Kashmir. The other personnel killed in the encounter are Major Anuj Sood, Naik Rakesh Kumar, Lance Naik Dinesh Singh and Sub-Inspector of Jammu and Kashmir Police Shakeel Qazi, according to officials. The operation was launched following inputs that a number of civilians were being held hostage in a house in Changimulla locality of Handwara. Two terrorists were killed in the operation, according to Army officials. "The loss of our soldiers and security personnel in Handwara (J&K) is deeply disturbing and painful. They showed exemplary courage in their fight against the terrorists and made supreme sacrifice while serving the country. We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice," the defence minister tweeted. "I offer my tributes to the soldiers and security personnel who fell in action. My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones today. India stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of these brave martyrs," Singh said. Hailing Col Sharma, Gen Rawat said the Commanding Officer of the unit led from the front along with other personnel living up to the motto of "Service Before Self". "The armed forces are proud of their courage as they have successfully eliminated the terrorists. We salute these brave personnel and express our deep felt condolences for the bereaved families," Gen. Rawat said, according to the Army. The Army, in a tweet, said Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane and all ranks of the force paid tributes to the "valiant braves of our Army and J&K Police for their supreme sacrifice while fighting and eliminating terrorists in Handwara."
3 May 08:25 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/deeply-disturbing-and-painful-rajnath-singh-on-killing-of-5-security-personnel-in-kashmir-1673889-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
Will Never Forget Their Bravery And Sacrifice: Rajnath Singh on Handwara Encounter
New Delhi: Offering condolences on martyrdom of five security personnel, including a decorated colonel of the Indian Army, in an encounter with terrorists Jammu and Kashmir’s in Handwara, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday that their sacrifice and bravery will never be never forgotten. Also Read - Handwara Encounter: Colonel, Major Among Five Martyred, Rajnath Says 'Will Never Forget Their Sacrifice' He said, “The loss of our soldiers and security personnel in Handwara (J&K) is deeply disturbing and painful. They showed exemplary courage in their fight against the terrorists and made supreme sacrifice while serving the country. We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice.” Also Read - J&K: Two Soldiers injured in Pak Ceasefire Violation Succumb; Encounter Underway Between Security Forces And Militants in Pulwama The minister said that he offers his tributes to the soldiers and security personnel who fell in action. “My heart goes out to the families who lost their loved ones today. India stands shoulder to shoulder with the families of these brave martyrs,” the minister tweeted. Also Read - Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan Violates Ceasefire in Poonch District, Encounter Underway Saluting these personnel, the Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat said that operations in Handwara highlight the determination of the security forces to safeguard the lives of the people. “Commanding Officer leading from the front along with other personnel of the unit and J&K Police have laid down their lives, living upto the motto; Service Before Self,” General Rawat said He also said that the Armed Forces are proud of their courage as they have successfully eliminated the terrorists. “We salute these brave personnel and express our deep felt condolences for the bereaved families,” he said. In a statement, Indian Army said that based on the intelligence input that terrorists were taking the civilian inmates of a house in Changimulla at Handwara of Kupwara district hostage, a joint operation was launch by Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police. “A team comprising of five Army and J&K Police personnel entered the target area occupied by the terrorists to evacuate the civilians. The team of Army and JK Police entered the target area and successfully extricated the civilian,” Indian Army said. The force stated that during the process, the team was subjected to heavy volume of fire by the terrorists. “In the ensuing fire fight two terrorists were eliminated and the team of five army and J&K personnel comprising of two Army officers, two Army soldiers and one J&K Police Sub Inspector attained martyrdom,” Indian Army said. For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on India Latest News on India.com. Comments - Join the Discussion
3 May 08:19 • India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News | India.com • https://www.india.com/news/india/will-never-forget-their-bravery-and-sacrifice-rajnath-singh-on-handwara-encounter-4018280/Rating: 0.30
‘Service before Self’: Army praises 5 security personnel killed in Handwara encounter
The five security force personnel killed during an operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Handwara displayed supreme sacrifice while fighting and eliminating terrorists, the Indian Army said on Sunday as it paid its tribute and condoled their deaths. Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, the commanding officer of the army’s 21 Rashtriya Rifles battalion, Major Anuj Sood, Naik Rajesh Kumar and Lance Naik Dinesh Singh and sub-inspector Shakeel Qazi of the Jammu and Kashmir police were killed after the more than 12-hours of a firefight with terrorists in Handwara district. In a series of tweets, with messages from the Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and the army chief Gen MM Naravane, the force said Handwara operation highlighted the “determination of the security forces to safeguard the lives of the people”. “This operation exemplified true tradition and strong determination of the #SecurityForces to safeguard the lives of own citizens,” it said. The army had a special mention for Col Sharma, who was in charge of his men and had been locked in a gunfight with the terrorists holed up inside a house in Rajwar forests in Changimulla area of Handwara. Col Sharma, who is survived by his wife and a 12-year-old daughter, had served in the Kashmir valley for a long time and twice awarded the Sena Medal for gallantry. “Commanding Officer leading from the front along with other personnel of the unit and J&K Police have laid down their lives, living upto the motto; Service Before Self (soc),” the army said in a tweet. “The #ArmedForces are proud of their courage as they have successfully eliminated the terrorists. We salute these brave personnel and express our deep felt condolences for the bereaved families (sic),” it added. Two terrorists were also killed in the encounter that began around 3:30pm on Saturday after they took hostages inside the house.
3 May 07:46 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/service-before-self-army-praises-5-security-personnel-killed-in-handwara-encounter/story-s5VrTvDRkaa75wtzUSjuLL.htmlRating: 0.30
‘Will never forget’: Rajnath Singh condoles death of army men in Handwara encounter
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday offered condolences on the passing away of five security personnel, including a highly-decorated colonel of the Indian Army, in an encounter between security forces and terrorists in Handwara, Jammu and Kashmir. “I offer my tributes to the soldiers and security personnel who fell in action,” Singh tweeted. The defence minister said that India stands “shoulder to shoulder” with the families of these “brave martyrs”. He said the country will never forget their bravery and sacrifice. “The loss of our soldiers and security personnel in Handwara (J&K) is deeply disturbing and painful. They showed exemplary courage in their fight against the terrorists and made supreme sacrifice while serving the country. We will never forget their bravery and sacrifice,” his tweet read. A highly-decorated colonel of the Indian Army was among five security personnel killed during an operation to flush out terrorists from a house in Handwara in north Kashmir, officials said on Sunday. The operation lasted for over 12 hours. Two terrorists were also killed in the encounter that began around 3:30 pm on Saturday after they took hostages inside a house in Chanjmulla area of Handwara. Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, the commanding officer of the army’s 21 Rashtriya Rifles battalion, Major Anuj, a Lance Naik and a rifleman and sub-inspector Shakeel Qazi of the Jammu and Kashmir police were killed in the firefight with terrorists who were holed up in the house. Officials said their bodies have been recovered from the encounter site. The civilians have been rescued, they added.
3 May 05:46 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-stands-shoulder-to-shoulder-with-families-of-these-brave-martyrs-rajnath-singh-on-handwara-encounter/story-4d5k1DRWAxm6WIcWsaFhtO.htmlRating: 0.30
J&K: Five jawans, top LeT commander killed during 16-hour gunfight with militants in Handwara
Five Indian security forces personnel were killed in a gunfight with militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Handwara, PTI reported on Sunday. Those killed were an Army colonel, a major, two Army jawans and a police sub inspector. A top commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist group from Pakistan was also killed, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) Vijay Kumar said. Handwara is in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. Several political leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered their condolences after the deaths of the security personnel. Modi said that “their valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten”. Security forces and militants were locked in the gunfight for more than 16 hours, according to Hindustan Times. The militants were hiding in the house. The Jammu and Kashmir Police identified the deceased jawans as Colonel Ashutosh Sharma, Major Anuj, Sub Inspector Sageer Ahmad Qazi, Lance Naik Dinesh and Naik Rajesh. “Based on the intelligence input that terrorists were taking the civilian inmates of a house in Changimulla, Handwara of Kupwara district hostage, a joint operation was launched by Army and J&K Police,” an official Army statement said, according to News18. “The team was subjected to heavy volume of fire by the terrorists. In the ensuing fire fight, two terrorists were eliminated and the team of five army and J&K personnel, comprising two Army officers, two Army soldiers and one JK Police Sub Inspector, attained martyrdom.” The Army said the civilians had been rescued. It also issued another statement praising the jawans. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat said the operations in Handwara highlight the determination of the forces to protect the lives of people of India. “Commanding Officer leading from the front along with other personnel of the unit and J&K Police have laid down their lives, living upto the motto, service before self,” the Army said. “The Armed Forces are proud of their courage as they have successfully eliminated the terrorists. We salute these brave personnel and express our deep felt condolences for the bereaved families.” The Army said its chief General MM Naravane paid tributes to the deceased jawans. Unidentified police officers had earlier said that four militants were trapped at the site of the encounter. Two senior Army officers, a police officer and a security officer were also believed to have been trapped, The Indian Express reported. “We have lost touch with the team,” a senior police officer had told the newspaper. It is not known whether any of the trapped jawans are among the deceased. The gunfight started around 3.30 pm on Saturday in Chanjumullah area of Handwara. The police alleged that the militants were found hiding in a cowshed in the house. Teams of the Special Operations Group of police surrounded the house, and erected lights around the area of the encounter. However, the security forces killed two militants in Dangarpora area of Pulwama district earlier on Saturday, according to the Kashmir Zone Police. The incident led to stone-pelting by residents of the area. Officers of the Central Reserve Police Force said that as the troops were leaving, a grenade was lobbed at them. On April 29, three militants were killed in a gun battle with security forces in Melhora village in Shopian district. On April 22, four militants were killed in a gunfight in the village. On April 27, three militants were killed after an encounter broke out in Lower Munda in Qazigund area of Kulgam district. The encounter began when militants fired upon a police patrol party in Lower Munda. The previous day, the security forces killed four militants in an encounter in Kulgam district. On April 24, the police had rescued constable Sartaj Ahmad Itoo, who was abducted, and killed two militants in a brief shootout in Shirpora Frisal area of the district. On April 23, militants had abducted constable Javaid Jabbar in Shopian district. However, they set him free within hours.
3 May 03:17 • Scroll.in • https://scroll.in/latest/960883/j-k-five-security-forces-personnel-killed-during-gunfight-with-militants-in-handwaraRating: 0.30
MP conveys plight of stranded Indians to Minister
3 May 15:13
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MP conveys plight of stranded Indians to Minister
TIRUCHI Su. Thirunavukkarasar, Member of Parliament, Tiruchi Constituency, on Sunday called up External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and requested the latter to arrange for safe return of citizens, particularly Tamils employed in United Arab Emirates, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Singapore, Malaysia and the Maldives who have been stuck up due to COVID 19 pandemic. The Minister had reportedly told the MP that the initiative will be carried out for their return within 10 days coinciding with the last phase of the nationwide lockdown. To a request by the MP that Indians living abroad must be facilitated by the Indian Embassy and the organisations they work for to have access to food and medicines, the Minister had replied that more help will be extended. In a statement, Mr. Thirunavukkarasar thanked the Minister for attending to his request in a polite and humane manner.
3 May 15:13 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/mp-conveys-plight-of-stranded-indians-to-minister/article31495280.eceRating: 0.30
COVID-19: UAE has maximum number of stranded Pakistanis in the world
Dubai: Maximum number of stranded Pakistanis are currently living the UAE, according to the data compiled by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis. Out of around 100,000 stranded Pakistanis who have so fare registered with the country’s diplomatic missions around the world, maximum number of 69,695 Pakistanis are stranded in the UAE. During a media briefing, Dr Moaeed Yousuf, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on National Security Division, revealed that there were over 100,000 stranded Pakistanis in 88 countries and efforts were being made to bring them back at the earliest. He, however, said that 90 per cent of stranded Pakistanis are in Gulf states including 69,695 in the UAE, 15,594 in Saudi Arabia and 5,500 in Qatar and others are in different countries. He also advised all overseas Pakistanis who want to come back home to register with the diplomatic missions so that appropriate travel arrangements could be made. “Those who have not registered themselves with Pakistani embassies, I suggest them to get themselves registered as embassies have been preparing priority list of those who should be sent at the earliest,” he said. Dr Yusuf said that all overseas Pakistanis who are being brought back, would have to stay in quarantine for at least 48-hour after which they would be tested for Covid-19. As result of the test can take up to 30 hours, it will be decided only after that if they [passengers] have to stay at quarantine centre more or can join their families, reported Dawn news. “Another concern is that the positive cases among passengers who were repatriated since April 10, were more than our expectations so passengers are being kept at quarantine centres for more time,” he said. Currently, he added, it is not possible to bring more than 7,500 passengers per week due to limited quarantine facilities. However, he said the capacity would be increased to 15,000 passengers every week as more quarantine facilities are being set up. Dr Yusuf said the government has allowed the PIA to operate special flights because the foreign airlines were asking for much higher fares. He also advised overseas Pakistanis to visit the government website www.covid.gov.pk for the flight information and follow the instructions given by the Pakistani diplomatic missions in the respective countries. Special flights operation to repatriate stranded Pakistanis from the UAE had started on April 18 and so far more than 4,000 passengers have flown back home. At least 21 flights are scheduled to operate from May 1 to May 10 to repatriate more than 4600 Pakistanis from the UAE. More than 1200 flew back home on May 1 on seven special flights including five PIA flights and two flights operated by the UAE airlines.
3 May 12:36 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-uae-has-maximum-number-of-stranded-pakistanis-in-the-world-1.71302328Rating: 3.21
COVID-19: Maximum number of stranded Pakistanis have registered in the UAE, says a top official
Dubai: Maximum number of stranded Pakistanis are currently living the UAE, according to the data compiled by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis. Out of around 100,000 stranded Pakistanis who have so far registered with the country’s diplomatic missions around the world, maximum number of 69,695 Pakistanis are stranded in the UAE. During a media briefing, Dr Moaeed Yousuf, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on National Security Division, revealed that there were over 100,000 stranded Pakistanis in 88 countries and efforts were being made to bring them back at the earliest. He, however, said that 90 per cent of stranded Pakistanis are in Gulf states including 69,695 in the UAE, 15,594 in Saudi Arabia and 5,500 in Qatar and others are in different countries. He also advised all overseas Pakistanis who want to come back home to register with the diplomatic missions so that appropriate travel arrangements could be made. “Those who have not registered themselves with Pakistani embassies, I suggest them to get themselves registered as embassies have been preparing priority list of those who should be sent at the earliest,” he said. Dr Yusuf said that all overseas Pakistanis who are being brought back, would have to stay in quarantine for at least 48-hour after which they would be tested for Covid-19. As result of the test can take up to 30 hours, it will be decided only after that if they [passengers] have to stay at quarantine centre more or can join their families, reported Dawn news. “Another concern is that the positive cases among passengers who were repatriated since April 10, were more than our expectations so passengers are being kept at quarantine centres for more time,” he said. Currently, he added, it is not possible to bring more than 7,500 passengers per week due to limited quarantine facilities. However, he said the capacity would be increased to 15,000 passengers every week as more quarantine facilities are being set up. Dr Yusuf said the government has allowed the PIA to operate special flights because the foreign airlines were asking for much higher fares. He also advised overseas Pakistanis to visit the government website www.covid.gov.pk for the flight information and follow the instructions given by the Pakistani diplomatic missions in the respective countries. Special flights operation to repatriate stranded Pakistanis from the UAE had started on April 18 and so far more than 4,000 passengers have flown back home. At least 21 flights are scheduled to operate from May 1 to May 10 to repatriate more than 4600 Pakistanis from the UAE. More than 1200 flew back home on May 1 on seven special flights including five PIA flights and two flights operated by the UAE airlines.
3 May 12:36 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-maximum-number-of-stranded-pakistanis-have-registered-in-the-uae--says-a-top-official-1.71302328Rating: 3.21
Congress MP Su.Thirunavukkarasar seeks support for NRIs
Congress MP Su. Thirunavukkarasar on Sunday called S. Jaishankar, Union Minister of External Affairs and requested him to make arrangements to bring back Indians, especially Tamils, living abroad in countries like UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Singapore, among others. “The Minister informed me that steps are being taken in this regard and once the lockdown is lifted and in another 10 days a favourable decision would be taken,” he said in a statement. Mr. Thirunavukkarasar also urged the Minister to provide all assistance to Indians through respective embassies as well their employers, trade federations and said that he was assured of all possible steps.
3 May 16:16 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/congress-mp-suthirunavukkarasar-seeks-support-for-nris/article31495495.eceRating: 0.30
More than 100,000 overseas willing to come to Pakistan, claims Moeed
Islamabad (Dunya News) - Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Security, Dr. Moeed Yusuf has said the government s target is to bring back all the stranded Pakistanis from abroad at the earliest in a safe manner. Addressing a news conference along with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services, Dr. Zafar Mirza, he said fifteen thousand stranded Pakistanis have so far been brought back from thirty-eight countries. Read more: PM Imran launches support program for unemployed persons He said it has been decided to operate thirty flights in the next ten days and the focus of these flights will be United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar as ninety percent of one hundred thousand stranded Pakistanis are in these gulf countries. He said flights will be operated in other regions also including Africa to facilitate the return of stranded Pakistanis. The Special Assistant said the flights are being operated keeping in view our capacity of testing and quarantine. Moeed Yusuf said the process of bringing back Pakistanis will be further accelerated in the days ahead with improvement in testing and quarantine capacity. The Special Assistant on National Health Services once again appealed the people to follow precautionary measures and the SOPs to avoid the spread of the Covid-19. Dr Zafar Mirza said the testing capacity is being enhanced. So far, one hundred and ninety four thousand tests have been carried out. Of these nine thousand and one hundred and sixty four were carried out during the last twenty-four hours which are the highest in a single day. He expressed the commitment to further enhance the testing capacity in the days ahead. Dr Zafar Mirza said the coronavirus cases have witnessed an increase in the country but these are still less than the projections.
2 May 23:32 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/543767-More-than-100000-overseas-willing-to-come-to-Pakistan-claims-Moeed-YusRating: 1.71
15,000 stranded Pakistanis repatriated from 38 Countries
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The Prime Minister’s Special Assistant on National Security Dr. Moeed Yusuf has said that 15,000 stranded Pakistanis have so far been repatriated from 38 Countries as the government aims at to bring back all the stranded nationals from abroad at the earliest in a safe manner. While addressing a News Conference along with the Special Assistant on National Health Services Dr. Zafar Mirza, he said that it has been decided to operate 30 flights in the next 10 days and the focus of these flights will be United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia and Qatar as 90 percent of 100,000 stranded Pakistanis are in these Gulf Countries. Dr. Moeed Yusuf said that the flights will be operated in other regions including Africa as well to facilitate the return of stranded Pakistanis. The Special Assistant said that the flights are being operated keeping in view our capacity of testing and quarantine. He said that the process of bringing back Pakistanis will be further accelerated in the days ahead with improvement in testing and quarantine capacity. In his remarks, Dr. Zafar Mirza once again appealed the people to follow precautionary measures and the SOPs to avoid the spread of the COVID-19. The Special Assistant on National Health Services said that the testing capacity is being enhanced. He said that 194,000 tests have so far been carried out, and of these, 9,164 were carried out during the last 24 hours which are the highest in a single day. Dr. Zafar Mirza expressed the commitment to further enhance the testing capacity in the days ahead. The Special Assistant said that Coronavirus cases have witnessed an increase in the Country but these are still less than the projections. Separately in a tweet, the Special Assistant on National Security Dr. Moeed Yusuf said that 227 Pakistanis stranded in India have been repatriated despite the lockdown. Dr. Moeed Yusuf further said that preparations are being made to have them cross over from Wagah border this week. He said that 46 Pakistanis were brought back earlier.
2 May 10:56 • Dispatch News Desk • https://dnd.com.pk/15000-stranded-pakistanis-repatriated-from-38-countries/188021Rating: 0.30
At least 15,000 overseas Pakistanis repatriated from 38 countries since March 21: SAPM Dr Moeed
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Security Dr Moeed Yusuf on Saturday said around 15,000 overseas Pakistanis stranded, in almost 38 different countries, have been repatriated since March 21. Addressing a press conference, he briefed on the issues of Pakistanis stranded abroad, policy criterion for repatriation, selection of locations, specific population and others. Moeed said there were over 100,000 overseas Pakistanis who wanted to return to the country and the government’s priority was to bring people on an emergency basis, especially labourers laid off from their services, zaireens or religious devotees, prisoners freed in different countries and Pakistanis with expired visas. He added that special flights have reached all the regions of the world including from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, UAE, Oman and Indonesia. “There are 88 countries where Pakistanis are stuck and wanted to come back whereas 90 per cent of the 100,000 overseas Pakistanis left abroad are mostly in gulf countries including 70,000 in UAE, over 15,000 in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and around 6,000 in Qatar.” He added that this was the main reason for the maximum number of flights operated to gulf countries. The SAPM added that the overseas Pakistanis should register themselves with their respective embassies as it was decided by the relevant embassy to put the names of Pakistanis on priority to send them back to the country. The SAPM mentioned that the Prime Minister was also insisting to bring back overseas Pakistanis and the main reason for the slow down in repatriation was the prevailing health crisis. Dr Moeed said health advisers and experts are keeping in view the risk of the pandemic’s spread had suggested testing every single individual as the coronavirus was transmitted to Pakistan from abroad. The 48 hours quarantine period for passengers was notified under the standard protocol and after that period the test will be conducted. “If an individual’s test comes negative then he or she has to go under self-isolation at home for 14 days whereas the test report after two days does not mean that one is free to go back home,” he added. He informed that international airports were shut down due to the contagion and the government had to negotiate with the countries to open specific airports to get the passengers back which was also the reason for slow repatriation of overseas Pakistanis. Dr Moeed mentioned that during the past week there was a surge in positive COVID-19 cases in passengers reaching through international flights and consequently the number of passengers being repatriated was reduced. He said there were countries where PIA did not have access. The US recently allowed PIA to conduct direct flights. “Five to seven private airlines have been allowed to carry out operations to bring back overseas Pakistanis. People who are not able to afford the expenses are also being assisted by the government.” As per the prime minister’s directions, provinces would be consulted to increase the number of passengers to 12,000 and it would take weeks to bring back the 100,000 stranded Pakistanis, he added. He went on to mention that www.covid.gov.pk was the only reliable source of information to confirm flight schedule and people should abstain from buying tickets from different airlines and travel agents. They should confirm the flight schedule from this website, he added.Moreover, he said no Pakistani was barred from going abroad as airlines were not operating whereas people could go abroad on Qatar Airways and PIA. He highlighted that the premier had directed the embassies to provide all possible assistance to overseas Pakistanis whereas in case of any difficulty people could submit there queries on the PM’s Citizen Portal.
2 May 11:18 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2212321/1-thousands-pakistanis-repatriated-despite-lockdown/Rating: 1.80
Pakistan condemns India's campaign of 'harassment and intimidation' of media in occupied Kashmir: FO
3 May 19:42
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Pakistan condemns India's campaign of 'harassment and intimidation' of media in occupied Kashmir: FO
The Foreign Office (FO) on Sunday condemned India's repression of the media in occupied Kashmir and called for an end to the "campaign of harassment and intimidation". In a statement issued on World Press Freedom Day, FO spokesperson Aisha Farooqui said: "We express solidarity with the journalist fraternity in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which continues to face a relentless campaign of harassment and intimidation. "While saluting their exceptional courage, we also honour the sacrifice of those Kashmiri journalists who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. The latest among those martyrs was Shujaat Bukhari in June 2018." Journalists unable to report in occupied Kashmir amid communications blackout: CPJ The FO spokesperson also expressed appreciation for the work journalists in the occupied valley are doing. "It is commendable that Kashmiri journalists continue to work with conviction and professionalism, despite the heavy handedness of Indian occupation forces acting with impunity under the draconian Public Safety Act, the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. "Global media watchdogs, Indian and international human rights groups, and civil society organisations have expressed deep concerns over unprecedented restrictions imposed on the media, the widespread intimidation of Kashmiri journalists, and the precarious state of their work environment," she said. The statement added: "It is clear that the RSS-inspired Bharatiya Janata Party government is motivated by the sole objective of hiding its blatant human rights violations in occupied Kashmir and is bent on muzzling independent voices of the media and journalists." According to the spokesperson, the situation has become increasingly alarming since India's "illegal and unilateral" actions on August 5, 2019, when it revoked the region's special autonomy through a presidential decree. The FO called upon India to lift all communication restrictions in occupied Kashmir, withdraw "frivolous cases" against Kashmiri journalists and restore the fundamental freedom of the people of the occupied valley. In June 2018, Bukhari — a veteran Kashmiri journalist — was shot dead in Srinagar. He was attacked when he had stepped out of his office and was hit by multiple bullets at close range. A security guard on his protection detail was also shot dead while another was injured. On April 20, police in occupied Kashmir said they were investigating two journalists for allegedly spreading “fake news". Kashmir police chief Vijay Kumar had said freelance photojournalist Masrat Zehra, a contributor to various international publications, had been booked under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for her “anti-national” posts on Facebook and other social media. Kumar had also said Pirzada Ashiq, a journalist working with the Hindu, had been summoned for publicising fake news in the newspaper about a gun battle in which two Kashmiris were killed.
3 May 19:42 • DAWN.COM • https://www.dawn.com/news/1554240Rating: 2.87
Pakistan condemns media harassment in Occupied Kashmir on Press Freedom Day
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has strongly condemned repression of the media in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&K) and called for an end to the “campaign of harassment and intimidation” by the Modi administration on World Press Freedom Day. “Today, on World Press Freedom Day, we express solidarity with the journalist fraternity in IOJ&K, which continues to face a relentless campaign of harassment and intimidation,” Aisha Farooqui, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement on Sunday. “While saluting their exceptional courage, we also honour the sacrifice of those Kashmiri journalists who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. The latest among those martyrs was Shujaat Bukhari in June 2018,” she said. The Foreign Office also commended Kashmiri journalists for continuing to work with conviction and professionalism, despite the heavy handedness of Indian occupation forces acting with impunity under the draconian Public Safety Act (PSA), Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Global media watchdogs, Indian and international human rights groups, and civil society organisations have expressed deep concerns over unprecedented restrictions imposed on the media, the widespread intimidation of Kashmiri journalists, and the precarious state of their work environment. “It is clear that the RSS-inspired BJP Government is motivated by the sole objective of hiding its blatant human rights violations in IOJ&K and is bent on muzzling independent voices of the media and journalists. The situation has become more alarming after India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019,” read the statement. “Pakistan condemns this Indian campaign of harassment and intimidation and calls upon India to immediately lift all communication restrictions in IOJ&K; withdraw frivolous cases filed against Kashmiri journalists; and restore all fundamental freedoms of the Kashmiri people.”
3 May 16:26 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213262/1-pakistan-condemns-media-harassment-occupied-kashmir-press-freedom-day/Rating: 1.80
Pakistan condemns India over repression of media in IOJ&K
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan on Sunday said that the RSS-inspired BJP government in India is motivated by the sole objective of hiding its blatant human rights violations in Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and is bent on muzzling independent voices of the media and journalists. In a statement on World Press Freedom Day on Sunday, Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui said the situation has become more alarming in Occupied Kashmir after India s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August last year. The statement condemned Indian campaign of harassment and intimidation and called upon India to immediately lift all communication restrictions in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, withdraw frivolous cases against Kashmiri journalists and restore all fundamental freedoms of the Kashmiri people. The spokesperson expressed solidarity with the journalist fraternity in Occupied Kashmir, which continues to face a relentless campaign of harassment and intimidation. While saluting their exceptional courage, Aisha Farooqui said Pakistan also honours the sacrifices of those Kashmiri journalists, who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. The statement further said Kashmiri journalists continue to work with conviction and professionalism, despite the heavy handedness of Indian occupation forces acting with impunity under the draconian Public Safety Act, Armed Forces Special Powers Act, and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. The spokesperson said global media watchdogs, Indian and international human rights groups, and civil society organizations are deeply concerned over unprecedented restrictions imposed on the media, the widespread intimidation of Kashmiri journalists, and the precarious state of their work environment in Occupied Kashmir.
3 May 21:54 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/543891-Pakistan-condemns-India-over-repression-of-media-in-IOJ&KRating: 1.71
World Press Freedom Day: Pakistan condemns India's repression, harassment of journalists in occupied Kashmir
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, on World Press Freedom Day, expressed solidarity with journalists in India-occupied Kashmir where a media blackout has continued for months, harassment of reporters is on the rise, and those who speak up face intimidation. In a statement issued Sunday, the foreign ministry said it condemns the Indian government-sanctioned repression in occupied Kashmir, noting that "while saluting their exceptional courage, we also honour the sacrifice of those Kashmiri journalists who have laid down their lives in the line of duty". "The latest among those martyrs was Shujaat Bukhari in June 2018," the statement added. "It is commendable that Kashmiri journalists continue to work with conviction and professionalism, despite the heavy handedness of Indian occupation forces acting with impunity under the draconian Public Safety Act (PSA), Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Also read: Amnesty International slams India for arresting pregnant activist "Global media watchdogs, Indian and international human rights groups, and civil society organizations have expressed deep concerns over unprecedented restrictions imposed on the media, the widespread intimidation of Kashmiri journalists, and the precarious state of their work environment," it noted further. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government — led by the right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and inspired by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) — is bent on "hiding its blatant human rights violations" in India-occupied Kashmir and is "bent on muzzling independent voices of the media and journalists", the foreign ministry said. "The situation has become more alarming after India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019" said the statement, referring to when it scrapped occupied Kashmir's special status under the Indian constitution and imposed a curfew. Read more: India committing war crimes in occupied Kashmir under cover of virus pandemic "Pakistan condemns this Indian campaign of harassment and intimidation and calls upon India to immediately lift all communication restrictions [in occupied Kashmir]; withdraw frivolous cases filed against Kashmiri journalists; and restore all fundamental freedoms of the Kashmiri people," the statement added further. Late last month, Prime Minister Imran Khan had said Modi's government was committing war crimes in occupied Kashmir under the cover of the virus pandemic and that New Delhi was violating the Fourth Geneva Convention by continuing the genocide of Kashmiris. "Under cover of COVID19 global pandemic, the Modi Govt with its fascist Hindutva Supremacist RSS-driven ideology continues its war crimes in IOJK," PM Imran had said on Twitter. The premier had added that the United Nations recognised occupied Kashmir as a disputed territory and that the international community had a responsibility to take note of India's war crimes there. In an April report, the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) had said it had become "virtually impossible” for journalists to report from occupied Kashmir, pushing India two spots down from last year to 142. The RSF report had also noted that India’s score was heavily affected by the situation in occupied Kashmir. The group called the region a “vast open prison” due to shutting down of fixed line and mobile Internet connections by the Modi-led government. Related: RSF says 'virtually impossible' for journalists to report from occupied Kashmir The RSF had also stated that there were constant press freedom violations in the country, including police violence against journalists, ambushes by political activists, and reprisals instigated by criminal groups or corrupt local officials. “Ever since the general elections in the spring of 2019, won overwhelmingly by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party, pressure on the media to toe the Hindu nationalist government’s line has increased,” said the report. The coordinated hate campaigns launched on social media against journalists who speak or write about subjects that earn the ire of Hindutva followers were alarming, it added, noting that the campaigns also called for the concerned journalists to be murdered. “The campaigns are particularly virulent when the targets are women," the report had noted. "Criminal prosecutions are meanwhile often used to gag journalists critical of the authorities, with some prosecutors invoking Section 124a of the penal code, under which 'sedition' is punishable by life imprisonment."
3 May 00:00 • www.geo.tv • https://www.geo.tv/latest/286219-wpfd2020-pakistan-condemns-indias-repression-harassment-of-journalists-in-occupied-kashmirRating: 2.72
81% expatriates in 1,552 new Saudi corona cases; 8 more die
3 May 16:33
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3 articles
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81% expatriates in 1,552 new Saudi corona cases; 8 more die
Saudi Gazette reportRIYADH — Saudi Arabia reported 1,552 new coronavirus cases and eight deaths, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 27,011 and the virus-related death toll to 184, the Ministry of Health announced on Sunday.Out of the newly detected cases, 19 percent are Saudi nationals and 81 percent are foreigners, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) quoted the ministry spokesman Dr. Muhammad Al-Abdel Ali as saying.Sixteen 16 percent of the new cases are female and 84 percent are male, he added.The elderly make up only 2 percent of the new cases, children make up 5 percent, and adults make up 93 percent.Eight people died in the last 24 hours, including two Saudi citizens in Dammam and Jeddah, and six non-Saudis in Makkah, Riyadh, and Madinah. They were between the ages of 32 to 84 years, Al-Abdel Ali said. Most of them suffered from chronic illnesses.Out of Sunday's reported cases, 245 were detected in Jeddah, 221 in Makkah, 156 in Jubail, 150 in Dammam, 139 in Madinah, 111 in Basih and 109 each in Riyadh and Safwa. There were 68 in Taif, 66 in Al-Khobar, 55 in Hufof, 32 in Dhahran, 17 in Al-Majaridah, 12 in al-Zulfi and 10 each in Al-Kharj and Al-Baha.Additionlly, there were seven cases in Quryat Al-Ulya; six in Nairyah; five each in Qatif and Bisha; four in Yanbu; three each in Buraidah and Diriyah; two in Al-Mandaq; and one each in Adhum, Salwa, Al-Bukhayriyah, Al-Majma'h, Rabigh, Ar Ras and Baljurashi.
3 May 16:33 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592639/SAUDI-ARABIA/81-expatriates-in-1552-new-Saudi-corona-cases-8-more-dieRating: 0.30
COVID-19: Saudi Arabia reports 1,552 new cases, 5 deaths
Dubai: Saudi Arabia reported 1,552 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 27,011, the Ministry of Health announced on Sunday (May 3). Meanwhile, the ministry reported 369 recoveries today, with total recoveries in the kingdom at 4,134. There are 139 cases in intensive care. The ministry also confirmed 8 deaths, bringing the total number of deaths in the kingdom to 184. Lifting a ban on congregation prayers in mosques depends on ensuring full safety of the faithful, Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs Abdul Latif Al Sheikh has said. Saudi authorities have closed mosques as part of strict measures to curb the spread of the new coronavirus. “Temporary halting of the Friday and obligatory group prayers in mosques came out of care for people’s lives against the background of the global coronavirus pandemic and to protect them from any harm that they may be exposed to due to congregation,” the official added, according to the Saudi news agency SPA.
3 May 12:27 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/saudi/covid-19-saudi-arabia-reports-1552-new-cases-5-deaths-1.1588510187758Rating: 3.21
Steady increase of 1,362 in Saudi corona cases; 7 die
Saudi Gazette reportRIYADH — Saudi Arabia confirmed a steady increase of 1,362 new coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, raising the total to 25,459, a health ministry spokesman said on Saturday.He also confirmed seven additional deaths, raising the relatively low death toll to 176. Meanwhile, 210 people have recently recovered from the virus in the Kingdom taking the total to 3,765, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) quoted the ministry spokesman Dr. Muhammad Al-Abdel Ali as saying.Madinah topped the list on Saturday with 249 cases, followed closely by Jeddah with 245 and Makkah with 244 cases. Riyadh recorded 161 new infections, there were 126 cases in Dammam, 81 in Al-Khobar, 80 in Jubail, 64 in Hufof, 21 in Khamis Mushayt, 19 in Diriyah, 16 in Buraidah and 13 in Taif.Additionally, there were nine cases in Ras Tanura, six in Kharj, five in Baish, four in Baqeeq, three each in Nairyah snd Baljuraishi; two each in Bisha, Dhahran, Al-Mjaridah and Qunfudah; and one ech in Arar, Al-Darb, Mahayel, Trubah and Al-Mitnab.As the number of confirmed cases in the Kingdom continues to rise, an increasing number of patients are also recovering, and the death toll remains relatively low. Less than one percent of those who contracted the virus in Saudi Arabia have passed away, while 3,765, about 15 percent of the country’s coronavirus patients, have recovered so far.Saudi Arabia began field testing in recent weeks in order to expand its testing capacity. Medical teams have so far made 1,800 visits to various neighborhoods throughout the Kingdom to test people in their homes, with a focus on densely populated labor residential areas. A spokesman said on Friday that 170,000 labor workers have been tested so far.Most confirmed coronavirus cases in Saudi Arabia are of people living in densely populated residential areas, especially neighborhoods that house laborers, according to the health ministry.A committee for organizing labor housing in the Kingdom has taken several measures to reduce the spread of the virus in these densely populated areas. The Kingdom has provided 2,000 alternative residential sites that consist of 170,000 rooms which can house 350,000 workers.
2 May 16:27 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592603/SAUDI-ARABIA/Steady-increase-of-1362-in-Saudi-corona-cases-7-dieRating: 0.30
Kuwait's COVID-19 fatalities rise to 38 with new 5 deaths
3 May 11:52
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Kuwait's COVID-19 fatalities rise to 38 with new 5 deaths
Cairo: Kuwait on Sunday recorded five more fatalities from the COVID-19, raising to 38 the total such deaths in the country, the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA said. The five were two residents from India, one each from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Jordan, spokesman for the Health Ministry Dr Abdullah Al Sanad said. The ministry also reported 364 new coronavirus cases, bringing to 4,983 the country's infection tally. The newly diagnosed cases include 348 who were in touch with previously infected people and 14 others all linked to travel to the UK, the official said. Two other cases are being investigated for sources of infection, Dr Al Sanad added. Kuwaiti Health Minister Sheikh Basil Al Sabah earlier said that 73 more patients have recovered from COVID-19, bringing the total recoveries in the country to 1,776.
3 May 11:52 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/kuwait/kuwaits-covid-19-fatalities-rise-to-38-with-new-5-deaths-1.1588507004987Rating: 3.21
Kuwait records highest number of daily infections; five more die
By Tamara AbueishDUBAI -- Kuwait detected 364 new coronavirus cases in 24 hours, the highest reported daily toll, the Ministry of Health announced on Sunday.This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 4,983.Five people died of the virus in the past 24 hours, the ministry added. They include a 61-year-old Pakistani, a 63-year-old Indian, a 46-year-old Bangladeshi, a 54-year-old Jordanian, and a 43-year-old Indian.Out of the 364 new cases, 14 involve Kuwaitis who had returned from the United Kingdom.Meanwhile, 348 cases involve people who came into contact with other infected individuals.Two other cases involve Kuwaiti nationals, but the health ministry did not specify how they were infected with the coronavirus.Kuwait imposed a 16-hour curfew from the hours of 5 p.m. to 6 a.m., halted all international flights until further notice, and suspended schools and universities until August. -- Al Arabiya English
3 May 15:23 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592629/World/Mena/Kuwait-records-highest-numberof-daily-infections-five-more-dieRating: 0.30
UAE announces 561 new coronavirus cases, 8 deaths
Abu Dhabi: The UAE has confirmed another 561 new coronavirus cases, pushing the total number of COVID-19 infections to 13,599, and the active cases to 10,816, the Ministry of Health and Prevention announced on Saturday. Speaking during the ministry’s media briefing, Dr. Amna Al Dahhak Al Shamsi, Official Spokesperson for the UAE government, announced that 22 people of determination have been found to be infected with the virus following the launch of the National Home Testing Program for People of Determination by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. The latest coronavirus patients, all of whom are in a stable condition and receiving the necessary care, were identified after conducting more than 36,000 additional COVID-19 tests among UAE citizens and residents over the past few days, Al Shami added. Eight more deaths have been also confirmed, taking the country’s death toll to 119. The deceased, who are of various nationalities, suffered from pre-existing chronic illnesses coinciding with the coronavirus, which resulted in complications that led to their death. The ministry also announced the full recovery of 121 new cases after receiving the necessary treatment, taking that number up to 2,664 of total recovered patients. Al Shamsi expressed the ministry’s sincere condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to all patients, calling on the public to cooperate with health authorities and comply with all precautionary measures, particularly social distancing protocols, to ensure the safety and protection of the public. New cases: 561 Deaths: 8 Recoveries: 121
2 May 17:31 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/uae/uae-announces-561-new-coronavirus-cases-8-deaths-1.1588417543803Rating: 3.21
COVID-19: Kuwait records 3 more deaths
Cairo: Kuwait on Saturday reported three more fatalities from the COVID-19, raising to 33 the total such deaths in the country, the Kuwaiti news agency KUNA said. The three fatalities were residents from Bangladesh, India and Jordan who were intense care patients, spokesman for the Health Ministry Dr Abdullah Al Sanad said. The ministry also reported 242 new coronavirus cases, raising to 4,619 the country's infection tally. The newly diagnosed cases include 232 who were in touch with previously infected people and three others linked to travel to the UK and the UAE, the official said. The seven other cases are being investigated for sources of infection, Dr Al Sanad added. Kuwaiti Health Minister Sheikh Basil Al Sabah earlier Saturday said that 101 more patients have recovered from COVID-19, bringing the total recoveries in the country to 1,703.
2 May 13:46 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/kuwait/covid-19-kuwait-records-3-more-deaths-1.1588427320461Rating: 3.21
FIFA requests Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
3 May 12:45
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FIFA requests Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
Geneva: FIFA has asked Switzerland's Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football's global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the disgraced 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for "suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust". "We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation be continued," FIFA said. "Indeed, FIFA will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account," it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal "were well-founded" despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner. for $600,000 (536,000 euros), an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. "Blatter acted more in Warner's interests than those of FIFA," said one of the documents. "By failing to assert a claim by FIFA against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of FIFA," added the investigators. As a result of "the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, FIFA suffered damages amounting to $3.78 million." Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs (1.89 million euros) to Michel Platini, the former president of UEFA, in February 2011.
3 May 12:45 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/sport/football/fifa-requests-switzerland-to-continue-blatter-probe-1.1588509978355Rating: 3.21
FIFA requests Switzerland to continue Sepp Blatter probe
GENEVA: FIFA has asked Switzerland's Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football's global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the disgraced 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for "suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust". "We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation be continued," FIFA said. Explore Briefs "Indeed, FIFA will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account," it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal "were well-founded" despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner. for $600,000 (536,000 euros), an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. "Blatter acted more in Warner's interests than those of FIFA," said one of the documents. "By failing to assert a claim by FIFA against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of FIFA," added the investigators. As a result of "the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, FIFA suffered damages amounting to $3.78 million." Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs (1.89 million euros) to Michel Platini, the former president of UEFA, in February 2011.
3 May 02:38 • The Times of India • https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/football/top-stories/fifa-requests-switzerland-to-continue-sepp-blatter-probe/articleshow/75513533.cmsRating: 0.30
Fifa requests Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
GENEVA, May 3 — Fifa has asked Switzerland’s Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football’s global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the disgraced 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for “suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust”. “We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation be continued,” Fifa said. “Indeed, Fifa will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account,” it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal “were well-founded” despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner, for US$600,000 (RM2.5 million), an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. “Blatter acted more in Warner’s interests than those of Fifa,” said one of the documents. “By failing to assert a claim by Fifa against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of Fifa,” added the investigators. As a result of “the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, Fifa suffered damages amounting to US$3.78 million.” Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs to Michel Platini, the former president of Uefa, in February 2011. — AFP
2 May 22:30 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/sports/2020/05/03/fifa-requests-switzerland-to-continue-blatter-probe/1862507Rating: 1.42
FIFA requests Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
FIFA has asked Switzerland's Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football's global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the disgraced 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for "suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust". "We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation be continued," FIFA said. "Indeed, FIFA will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account," it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal "were well-founded" despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner for $600 000, an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. "Blatter acted more in Warner's interests than those of FIFA," said one of the documents. "By failing to assert a claim by FIFA against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of FIFA," added the investigators. As a result of "the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, FIFA suffered damages amounting to $3.78 million." Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs to Michel Platini, the former president of UEFA, in February 2011.
2 May 21:01 • Sport • https://www.sport24.co.za/Soccer/International/fifa-requests-switzerland-to-continue-blatter-probe-20200502Rating: 0.63
FIFA asks Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
FIFA has asked Switzerland’s Office of the Attorney General to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football’s global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union. That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for “suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust”. “We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation be continued,” FIFA said. “Indeed, FIFA will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account,” it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal “were well-founded” despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner. for $600,000 (536,000 euros), an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. “Blatter acted more in Warner’s interests than those of FIFA,” said one of the documents. “By failing to assert a claim by FIFA against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of FIFA,” added the investigators. As a result of “the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, FIFA suffered damages amounting to $3.78 million.” Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs (1.89 million euros) to Michel Platini, the former president of UEFA, in February 2011. (AFP)
2 May 18:33 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/fifa-asks-switzerland-to-continue-blatter-probe/Rating: 0.30
FIFA requests Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
FIFA has asked Switzerland’s Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football’s global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the disgraced 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for “suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust”. “We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation is continued,” FIFA said. “Indeed, FIFA will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account,” it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal “were well-founded” despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner. for $600,000 (536,000 euros), an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. “Blatter acted more in Warner’s interests than those of FIFA,” said one of the documents. “By failing to assert a claim by FIFA against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of FIFA,” added the investigators. As a result of “the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, FIFA suffered damages amounting to $3.78 million.” Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs (1.89 million euros) to Michel Platini, the former president of UEFA, in February 2011.
2 May 18:25 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/sport/fifa-requests-switzerland-to-continue-blatter-probe/Rating: 0.30
Fifa wants Switzerland to continue Blatter probe
GENEVA Fifa has asked Switzerland's Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to maintain its investigation into former president Sepp Blatter, football's global governing body said on Saturday. French newspaper Le Monde and German daily Suddeutsche Zeitung claimed earlier this month the disgraced 84-year-old will not be prosecuted over a charge relating to TV rights sold to the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). That was one of two criminal cases opened against Blatter in 2015 for "suspicion of unfair management and breach of trust". "We have filed official submissions with the OAG arguing strongly that the investigation be continued," Fifa said."Indeed, Fifa will consider all legal options to ensure that the relevant people are held to account," it added, confirming the media reports. On Wednesday, AFP obtained a police report showing suspicions of impropriety against Blatter over a controversial deal "were well-founded" despite Swiss prosecutors dropping the case. The deal had granted television rights for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups to the CFU, presided over at the time by Jack Warner. for $600,000 (536,000 euros), an amount deemed to be significantly below market price. "Blatter acted more in Warner's interests than those of Fifa," said one of the documents. "By failing to assert a claim by Fifa against the CFU when he found out about it, Blatter accepted that Warner would therefore illegally enrich himself at the expense of Fifa," added the investigators. As a result of "the inaction of Blatter against the CFU or Warner, Fifa suffered damages amounting to $3.78 million." Blatter, however, still faces a second criminal investigation over the controversial payment of two million Swiss francs (1.89 million euros) to Michel Platini, the former president of Uefa, in February 2011.
2 May 18:11 • Daily Nation • https://www.nation.co.ke/sports/football/Fifa-wants-Switzerland-to-continue-Sepp-Blatter-probe/1102-5540844-rj51iq/index.htmlRating: 1.96
Easing lockdown completely would overburden healthcare system: Asad Umar
3 May 15:37
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Easing lockdown completely would overburden healthcare system: Asad Umar
Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar on Sunday said that a decision on the lockdown will be taken close to May 9. However, he added that the government could not "open everything and ease the lockdown completely" because it would overburden the healthcare system. Addressing the media at the National Command and Operation Centre in Islamabad, Umar said: "We will discuss with the prime minister within 2-3 days and then take a decision in the National Coordination Committee meeting about restrictions after May 9 [when the lockdown is due to end]. "The two most important factors to consider here are the number of beds in intensive care units (ICUs) and the number of ventilators." Umar said that there were nearly 5,000 beds in ICUs across the country, of which 1,500 were dedicated for virus patients. He added that the country also has 5,000 ventilators and the National Disaster Management Authority was trying to import even more. Talking about the impact of coronavirus on poverty and hunger, Umar cited a research by Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (Pide) which showed that between 20 million to 70m people could fall below the poverty line. He added that according to Pide's calculations, 18 million jobs could be lost due to Covid-19. He added that a recent Gallup survey found that one in four Pakistanis saw a reduction in their diets because of the virus. Umar underscored the economic devastation caused by the virus, saying that while the virus was not as fatal in Pakistan as in other countries, its economic impact was worse. "We have seen revenues decrease by Rs119bn in just one month. A research by Sustainable Development Policy Institute has shown that some 1m small organisations might shut down permanently." He added that a research by a renowned university revealed that "the cost imposed by economic and social distancing may be large in terms of immediate deprivation and hunger". Quoting another Gallup survey, he said that citizens in Pakistan more than any other country said that their livelihoods were affected by the virus. He added that the coronavirus had "not been as fatal in Pakistan" as it has been in other countries, especially in the West. Umar compared Pakistan's death rates to the fatality rates of other countries. "The coronavirus has caused 58 per cent more deaths in the United States, 207pc more in Spain and 124pc more in the United Kingdom as compared to Pakistan in the same period." Referring to the foreign media's focus on the concept of "flattening the curve", Umar explained that countries worldwide were "not focusing on eliminating the virus but on controlling it". He added that even they realised that the actions needed to eliminate the virus would be "too strict for the people to bear". Coming to Pakistan's situation, Umar said that the country was reporting 24 deaths daily on average for the past few weeks and if this was extended to a month, it amounted to nearly 720 deaths per month. "Comparatively some 4,000 people die in traffic accidents across the country each month. But we still allow traffic because it's necessary. "If we focus on bringing deaths due to coronavirus to zero, we have to realise that we cannot bear the measures it would take [to do that]." Umar said that what the government has to do is to "continue increasing the health capacity. Our health capacity has increased a lot from a few months ago and we will continue working to increase that." Adding that the government received a "splendid response" from public and private manufacturers, he said that the country was producing personal protective equipment locally. "We have also received some great, workable designs for ventilators," he said. The minister added that the government also needed to increase the testing capacity. "We have 55 laboratories that can conduct virus tests. If they work in single shifts, we can conduct some 14,700 tests every day which is close to our target of 20,000. If we do double shifts, we can also double the number the tests that can be conducted daily." Umar added that even countries in Europe where thousands of deaths occurred such as Spain, Italy and France have started easing lockdowns to keep the "wheel of the economy turning. "What is important is that we do not burden our healthcare system while also preventing hunger and poverty," Umar concluded.
3 May 15:37 • DAWN.COM • https://www.dawn.com/news/1554219Rating: 2.87
Govt to take decision about relaxation in lockdown after May 9: Asad
ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Minister for Planning and Development, Asad Umar has assured to take all the decisions regarding relaxation in lockdown after 9th of this month in consensus with all the provinces.Briefing the media persons in Islamabad on Sunday, he said the National Coordination Committee on Coronavirus will take the decision about the future course of action.Asad Umar said the decisions will be taken in such a manner that they do not paralyze our healthcare system. He said the restrictions will be eased gradually in order to provide livelihoods to the people.He said we have significantly enhanced the capacity of our healthcare system. We currently have 1,400 ventilators for Coronavirus patients and 900 more will be added in two months. He said at present there are 35 Coronavirus patients on ventilators.He said the country has now the capacity to develop medical equipment and soon the domestic production of ventilators will start.The Minister said the country has fifty five functional labs and we have the capacity to carry out over 14000 corona tests on daily basis.The Minister for Planning said the testing, tracking and quarantine system has been made functional and one saw its manifestation recently in two sectors of the federal capital.Asad Umar expressed satisfaction that the coronavirus has not proved to be as contagious for Pakistan when compared with Europe and the United States.He said the fatality rate in Pakistan is far less compared to the United States, the UK and Spain. He, however stressed that we have to adopt the precautionary measures in order to avoid it getting contagious.Asad Umar said that the economic impact of the lockdown on Pakistan is serious than the western countries.
3 May 17:51 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/543840-Govt-take-decision-relaxation-in-lockdown-May-9-AsadRating: 1.71
Penang latest to decline reopening of economy tomorrow
GEORGE TOWN, May 3 — The movement control order (MCO) in Penang will still be in force tomorrow while the Conditional movement control order (CMCO) will be enforced from May 8 onwards, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced today. The Penang lawmaker said Penang will not enforce CMCO tomorrow as announced by the federal government but had decided to do it gradually. “Only companies that are allowed to operate during the first, second and third phase of MCO are allowed to continue operations for the next four days from tomorrow,” he said in his Facebook live message today. He said the state will only allow several other sectors to re-open from May 8 onwards under the CMCO and finally, other sectors on May 13. “Therefore, the MCO is still strictly in force in Penang tomorrow,” he said. He said this means everything will be as per the MCO regulations without any changes including public transport companies. Chow said the state decided to implement a Penang Gradual Recovery Strategy based on the appropriate steps and measures that should be taken to ensure the safety and health of Penangites. “As for companies that were not allowed to operate during the MCO, they will be allowed to re-open in stages from May 8 onwards,” he said. He said the state decided to shift the CMCO to May 8 to allow the state administration to prepare an overall guideline in terms of enforcement in these four days. “These four days will also allow companies, employers and parents to plan their respective re-opening and movements including preparation of hand sanitisers, social distancing rules, face mask and others to ensure the safety of each premises,” he said. He then listed out the three different stages under the Penang Gradual Recovery Strategy that Penang will undertake in slowly re-opening its economy and businesses for the next two weeks. The first phase is between May 4 and 7, which Chow termed as the preparatory phase where all sectors are encouraged to use this phase to plan, prepare and implement standard operating procedures (SOP) for implementation in their respective premises. “All other activities are not allowed except as listed clearly under the multi-stage recovery strategy schedule which will be announced soon,” he said. The second phase, between May 8 and 12, is the adaptation phase where certain sectors are allowed to implement the SOP strictly. The final phase, from May 13 onwards, is the re-opening phase where all sectors are allowed to operate but will still need to strictly adhere to the SOP. “The three main aims of the strategy are to prevent crowding, to acclimatise with the SOP introduced by the National Security Council and re-opening and recovery of the economic sectors in phases,” he said. The general rule for all Penangites during the next nine days were that the MCO is still strictly in force until May 12 so all outdoor activities, except for those going to work, are still prohibited, he stressed. He said all sectors, except those already allowed to operate during the MCO, are only allowed to conduct preparatory works in accordance with the SOP under phase one of the Penang Gradual Recovery Strategy. Certain sectors are only allowed to operate in full in accordance with the SOP from May 8 while all sectors are allowed to re-open from May 13 onwards. The operation hours for all sectors in Penang remained the same between May 4 and 8 as per during the MCO. He said the operation hours for different categories of businesses along with the safety measures to follow will be announced by the local councils soon. He called on employers to continue with the work from home method and to continue to work using virtual platforms throughout the Penang Gradual Recovery Strategy period. “The Penang Gradual Recovery Strategy will be updated and improved from time to time and these will be announced,” he said. Chow said MCO could not be lifted suddenly without proper planning so the state special security committee meeting this morning decided to implement the Penang Gradual Recovery Strategy instead of following the federal government’s CMCO. He referred to Heath Deputy-General Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah’s statement on May 2 that the first week of CMCO starting from May 4 should be used to plan, strategise and implement new SOPs by the NSC and does not necessarily mean all sectors are to start operations in full. “During the NSC special meeting on the management of Covid-19 chaired by the Prime Minister on April 28, we were informed that the federal government will get feedback from each state on the SOP which will be distributed soon but this did not happen and the challenge is now that the CMCO starts tomorrow,” he said. He said the state special security committee agreed on the implementation of its own strategy based on instructions from the NSC and the Health Ministry. All districts in Penang have remained as green zones for 14 days from April 19 until May 2 except for two cases in Northern Seberang Perai, he said. He said the state has also asked the federal government to increase the number of Covid-19 screening in Penang, to ensure border control and to implement the Covid-19 Environmental, Health and Safety protocol. “With the introduction of the SOP by the NSC and border control, the state government is applying to the federal government, through the health ministry, to further increase the number of Covid-19 screenings in Penang,” he said. Chow then announced the list of sectors allowed to operate from May 8 and May 13 onwards. The list of sectors allowed to operate from May 8 onwards are: Transportation (air and land) Food (for takeaway only) Professional services Manufacturing Finance Gas Mines and quarry Electric Agriculture Fisheries Livestock farming Communications Information Technology e-trading Environment Water supply and sewerage system Construction Legal service Security Cleaning Strata management Finance (credit community and pawnbrokers) Hotel Trading All state agencies, local councils, registered bodies and government-linked companies The list of sectors allowed to operate from May 13 onwards are: Sports Unity Rukun Tetangga Cooperatives Agri-commodity Forest research Debt management Creative industry Arts and culture “Only two sectors are still under consideration and still not allowed, education and daycare or nurseries, we will announce any further decisions on these two sectors in future,” he said. All announcements Chow made will be available on the Penang Kawan Covid-19 website.
3 May 07:14 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/03/penang-says-no-to-reopening-economy-tomorrow/1862581Rating: 1.42
Govt to decide whether to ease lockdown after May 9: Asad Umar
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar has said that a decision regarding a relaxation in the lockdown will be taken with all the provinces' consensus after May 9. “The government will decide its post-May 9 strategies after a meeting of the National Coordination Committee,” Umar told media in Islamabad on Sunday. The federal minister said the decision to ease the lockdown will be taken in such a manner that it does not paralyse the country’s healthcare system. “Restrictions in the country will be eased gradually in order to provide livelihood to the people.” He added, “We have significantly enhanced the capacity of our healthcare system. We currently have 1,400 ventilators for coronavirus patients and 900 more will be added in two months. At present, there are 35 coronavirus patients on ventilators.” Umar added that the country now had the capacity to develop medical equipment and soon the domestic production of ventilators would start. “The country has 55 functional labs and we have the capacity to carry out over 14,000 coronavirus tests daily,” he said, adding that the testing, tracking and quarantine system had been made functional. Speaking about the spike in the country’s death toll over the last few days, Umar said that at the beginning of the pandemic, the country was registering a death or two daily whereas now that had significantly gone up. “There has been an average of 24 deaths in the country over the last six days,” he noted. “This is not good news and it goes to show how important it is to practice precaution,” Umar remarked. He continued, “This number is likely to increase in May but will not get out of hand. The government has been increasing its testing capacity. Today our testing capacity is significantly better than what it was two months ago. Right now we have the capacity to perform 20,000 tests each day.” The minister once again reiterated that the pandemic situation was not as fatal as it was in Europe and the United States. “The fatality rate in Pakistan is far less compared to the United States, the UK and Spain,” he said, stressing that the citizens needed to adopt precautionary measures in order to stem the spread of the virus. He added that the economic impact of the lockdown was far more serious on Pakistan’s economy than the western countries. “In Europe, there have been thousands of deaths and even those countries are now easing restrictions carefully because even those countries know they cannot shut down everything forever,” he added.
3 May 00:00 • www.geo.tv • https://www.geo.tv/latest/286190-govt-to-take-decision-about-relaxation-in-lockdown-after-may-9-asad-umarRating: 2.72
Bucking Putrajaya, Sarawak won’t reopen for business on Monday
KUCHING, May 2 — Sarawak has decided not to allow the reopening of businesses on May 4 under the conditional movement control order (CMCO) Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced yesterday, the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) said today. SDMC chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said the state government has opted to maintain all the directives under the three phases of the movement control order (MCO) to remain in force for now. “However, Sarawak will announce in stages the re-opening of economic activities and other sectors. “This will be done after every minute detail of the standard operating procedures and guidelines are studied on the re-opening of the economic sectors,” Uggah said in a statement. He said the Sarawak government fully respected the prime minister’s announcement on the need to relax the MCO in order to re-open the economy on Monday. “However the state government has decided to study the implications of the re-opening of such economic activities, such as which sectors are allowed to re-open, when and to what extent they will be allowed to re-open. “For this purpose, the SDMC intends to make a decision after it has studied the changes to the regulations in Act 342 pursuant to the announcement by the prime minister,” he said, referring to the latest gazette notification on the enforcement of CMCO issued under the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases 1988. Uggah, who is also the deputy chief minister, said the SDMC must ensure that the re-opening of the economic activities and sectors suits Sarawak’s circumstances. “Taking into account Sarawak’s local situation in terms of the Covid-19 cases, logistic capability, the capacity of the Health Department and its geographical circumstances, the SDMC has found that many of the standards of compliance of the re-opening of the economic activities will not be conducive in the state,” he said. Uggah reminded that any economic sectors that have received approval from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti) during the fourth phase of MCO, are required to get the state government’s approval through the SDMC for their applications to be reviewed before they are allowed to operate.
2 May 08:55 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/02/bucking-putrajaya-sarawak-wont-reopen-for-business-on-monday/1862392Rating: 1.42
Kedah defers implementation of conditional MCO, MB says
ALOR SETAR, May 2 — Kedah has decided to defer the implementation of the conditional movement control order (CMCO) announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir. He said Kedah would not implement the CMCO until the State Security Working Committee Meeting on Covid-19 had decided on it on Tuesday. “This stand was taken to ensure that Kedah remains a Green Zone and the people will not be endangered by the Covid-19 infection. “The safety and welfare of the people will not be compromised. For the time being, continue to stay at home and practise social distancing,” he said in a statement here tonight. Mukhriz said the state government will study the conditions and guidelines of the CMCO to make sure that the easing of the movement control order (MCO) restrictions was suitable for the situation in the state. He said the state government was determined to keep Kedah a Green Zone after all the districts in the state had been declared free of active Covid-19 cases. In a special address in conjunction with Workers’ Day, Muhyiddin said the CMCO would be implemented on Monday to allow most economic activities to resume.Malaysia has been placed under the MCO from March 18 to May 12 to curb the spread of the deadly coronavirus. — Bernama
2 May 14:44 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2020/05/02/kedah-defers-implementation-of-conditional-mco-mb-says/1862487Rating: 1.42
MCO: Sarawak will not reopen businesses on 4 May
Yesterday, Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced that most businesses including restaurants will be allowed to open starting 4th May under the conditional movement control order (CMCO). However, the Sarawak State Government has just announced that they will not reopen businesses on Monday. According to the State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) Chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, Sarawak has opted to maintain all directives under the three phases of the MCO to remain in force for now. He added that Sarawak will announce in stages the reopening of economic activities and other sectors. According to the statement, the state government respects the decision by the Prime Minister but they have decided to study the various implications if economic activities are to re-open, and this includes which sectors will be permitted and to what extent those companies can operate. The SDMC will make a decision after it has studied the changes to the regulations in Act 342 in accordance to the announcement made by the Prime Minister. The deputy chief minister said that SDMC must ensure that the re-opening of economic activities and sectors suits Sarawak’s situation. This includes the state’s logistics capability and the capacity of the health department and geographical circumstances. He also reminded all businesses that have received Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) approval during the 4th phase of the MCO to get state government approval through the SDMC before they are allowed to operate. According to the Sarawak Public Communications Unit, there are a total of 518 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Sarawak with 17 deaths so far (3.28%). The state currently has 271 recoveries (52.32%) while 227 cases are still receiving treatment. 3 cases are in ICU and 3 require respiratory support. At the moment, both Kuching and Samarahan are still categorised as red zones with 137 and 47 active cases respectively. The Ministry of Health has reported 105 new cases nationwide today, which is the highest since 16th April 2020. Prior to this, Malaysia has been recording double-digit daily numbers for 15 days straight. Among the 105 new cases, 60 are from EMCO areas while 11 are imported cases. [ SOURCE2, IMAGE SOURCE ]
2 May 11:51 • SoyaCincau.com • https://www.soyacincau.com/2020/05/02/mco-sarawak-will-not-reopen-businesses-on-4-may-xrs/Rating: 0.59
Sarawak Will Not Implement Conditional MCO On 4 May
The Sarawak government has announced that the state will not implement the Conditional Movement Control Order (MCO) that was issued by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin yesterday on 1 May 2020. The state government explained it must conduct further studies of its implications to the state before proceeding with the new ruling. “The Sarawak government fully respects the announcement made by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on the need to reopen the economy, hence relaxing the MCO effective this Monday, May 4, 2020,” said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah in a statement issued earlier today. “However, the state government has decided to study the implications of the reopening of such economic activities, which sectors to open, when and to what extent they will be allowed to open.” As a result, the east state will still uphold all existing MCO restrictions for the time being. Therefore, businesses and various economic sectors will not be allowed to open, and public movement and activities will remain restricted until the study is complete. “Taking into account Sarawak’s local situation in terms of the Covid-19 cases, logistic capability, the capacity of the Health Department and its geographical circumstances, the SDMC has found that many of the standard of compliance of the reopening of the economic activities will not be conducive in the state,” stated Uggah. Datuk Amar Douglas explained that the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) must ensure that the reopening of the economic activities and sectors suited the state’s circumstances. The Sarawak government will announce the reopening of economic activities and other sectors in stages once the decision is made, he added. Additionally, the Deputy Chief Minister is also urging those who had received approval from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) during Phase 4 of the MCO 4 are required to get the state government’s approval via the SDMC. (Source: SDMC press release / Borneo Post | Header image: Wikimedia)
2 May 12:46 • Lowyat.NET • https://www.lowyat.net/2020/212327/sarawak-will-not-implement-conditional-mco-on-4-may/Rating: 1.98
False bomb threat temporarily closes Anchorage airport to arrivals
3 May 10:59
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False bomb threat temporarily closes Anchorage airport to arrivals
ANCHORAGE: The Anchorage airport, Alaska's largest, temporarily shut on Saturday (May 2) to inbound traffic because of a bomb threat against a China Airlines cargo flight bound for Taiwan. The cargo plane diverted to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport early in the morning after leaving Seattle, airport officials said. No bomb was found and the airport was reopened shortly before noon, officials said. The plane was searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, the airport said in a statement, with the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Anchorage Police Department. "After extensive investigation, no explosive device was located," the airport's police and fire department said in a statement. "Investigation at the airport has been completed, however, the investigation into the source of the threat continues. The FBI does not believe there is any continuing threat to our community as a result of this incident." The Anchorage Daily News said the plane was headed to Taipei, Taiwan and the threat had been called into the Port of Seattle, quoting an FBI spokesman who said investigators were still trying to determine the source of the threat. China Airlines, Taiwan's largest carrier, said in a statement the flight had already taken off for Taipei when it was informed of the threat by Seattle airport. The plane was then diverted to Anchorage. The crew were taken to a hotel to rest while police searched the aircraft and determined nothing unusual, it added. The aircraft is expected to land in Taipei late Sunday evening, China Airlines said. Anchorage Airport is one of the world's top five air-cargo hubs. It ranks second in the nation for weight of landed cargo. It ranks 58th in passenger travel among US airports. While passenger flights have been sharply curtailed during the coronavirus pandemic, air cargo operations are considered by the state to be essential and have continued. Flights that could not land in Anchorage on Saturday morning were advised to consider diverting to the airport in Fairbanks, another cargo hub.
3 May 10:59 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/false-bomb-threat-temporarily-closes-anchorage-airport-to-arrivals-12697556Rating: 3.25
False bomb threat temporarily closes Anchorage airport to arrivals
ANCHORAGE — The Anchorage airport, Alaska’s largest, temporarily shut Saturday to inbound traffic because of a bomb threat against a China Airlines cargo flight bound for Taiwan. The cargo plane diverted to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport early in the morning after leaving Seattle, airport officials said. No bomb was found and the airport was reopened shortly before noon, officials said. The plane was searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, the airport said in a statement, with the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Anchorage Police Department. “After extensive investigation, no explosive device was located,” the airport’s police and fire department said in a statement. “Investigation at the airport has been completed, however, the investigation into the source of the threat continues. The FBI does not believe there is any continuing threat to our community as a result of this incident.” The Anchorage Daily News said the plane was headed to Taipei, Taiwan and the threat had been called into the Port of Seattle, quoting an FBI spokesman who said investigators were still trying to determine the source of the threat. China Airlines, Taiwan’s largest carrier, said in a statement the flight had already taken off for Taipei when it was informed of the threat by Seattle airport. The plane was then diverted to Anchorage. The crew were taken to a hotel to rest while police searched the aircraft and determined nothing unusual, it added. The aircraft is expected to land in Taipei late Sunday evening, China Airlines said. Anchorage Airport is one of the world’s top five air-cargo hubs. It ranks second in the nation for weight of landed cargo. It ranks 58th in passenger travel among U.S. airports. While passenger flights have been sharply curtailed during the coronavirus pandemic, air cargo operations are considered by the state to be essential and have continued. Flights that could not land in Anchorage on Saturday morning were advised to consider diverting to the airport in Fairbanks, another cargo hub. (Reporting by Yereth Rosen; Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
3 May 02:31 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/false-bomb-threat-temporarily-closes-anchorage-airport-to-arrivals-2Rating: 1.59
Bomb threat against China Airlines flight closes Anchorage airport
The Anchorage airport, Alaska's largest, temporarily shut on Saturday to inbound traffic because of a bomb threat against a China Airlines cargo flight bound for Asia. The cargo plane diverted to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport early in the morning after leaving Seattle, airport officials said. No bomb was found and the airport was reopened shortly before noon, officials said. The plane was searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, the airport said in a statement, with the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Anchorage Police Department. "After extensive investigation, no explosive device was located," the airport’s police and fire department said in a statement. "Investigation at the airport has been completed, however, the investigation into the source of the threat continues. The FBI does not believe there is any continuing threat to our community as a result of this incident.” The Anchorage Daily News said the plane was headed to Taipei, Taiwan and the threat had been called into the Port of Seattle, quoting an FBI spokesman who said investigators were still trying to determine the source of the threat. China Airlines, Taiwan's largest carrier, said in a statement the flight had already taken off for Taipei when it was informed of the threat by Seattle airport. The plane was then diverted to Anchorage. The crew were taken to a hotel to rest while police searched the aircraft and determined nothing unusual, it added. The aircraft is expected to land in Taipei late Sunday evening, China Airlines said. Anchorage Airport is one of the world’s top five air-cargo hubs. It ranks second in the nation for weight of landed cargo. It ranks 58th in passenger travel among US airports. While passenger flights have been sharply curtailed during the coronavirus pandemic, air cargo operations are considered by the state to be essential and have continued. Flights that could not land in Anchorage on Saturday morning were advised to consider diverting to the airport in Fairbanks, another cargo hub.
3 May 01:22 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/bomb-threat-against-china-airlines-012258373.htmlRating: 0.30
False bomb threat temporarily closes Anchorage airport to arrivals
ANCHORAGE — The Anchorage airport, Alaska’s largest, temporarily shut Saturday to inbound traffic because of a bomb threat against a China Airlines cargo flight bound for Asia. The cargo plane diverted to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport early in the morning after leaving Seattle, airport officials said. No bomb was found and the airport was reopened shortly before noon, officials said. The plane was searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, the airport said in a statement, with the Federal Bureau of Investigations and Anchorage Police Department. “After extensive investigation, no explosive device was located,” the airport’s police and fire department said in a statement. “Investigation at the airport has been completed, however, the investigation into the source of the threat continues. The FBI does not believe there is any continuing threat to our community as a result of this incident.” The Anchorage Daily News said the plane was headed to Taipei, Taiwan and the threat had been called into the Port of Seattle, quoting an FBI spokesman who said investigators were still trying to determine the source of the threat. Anchorage Airport is one of the world’s top five air-cargo hubs. It ranks second in the nation for weight of landed cargo. It ranks 58th in passenger travel among U.S. airports. While passenger flights have been sharply curtailed during the coronavirus pandemic, air cargo operations are considered by the state to be essential and have continued. Flights that could not land in Anchorage on Saturday morning were advised to consider diverting to the airport in Fairbanks, another cargo hub. (Reporting by Yereth Rosen; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
3 May 00:59 • National Post • https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/false-bomb-threat-temporarily-closes-anchorage-airport-to-arrivalsRating: 1.59
Alaska airport closes after bomb threat diverts cargo plane
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — An airport in Alaska has reopened after a bomb threat regarding a cargo plane from the United States heading to Asia forced the aircraft to divert to Anchorage and officials closed the air space. Inbound flights to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport were temporarily halted Saturday morning, KTUU reported. The plane was being searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, said Anchorage Airport spokesman Eland Conway. The FBI and Anchorage Police were on scene and leading the investigation. Flights bound for Anchorage were told to divert to Fairbanks International Airport. No other information was immediately released.
2 May 21:00 • WSVN 7News • https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/alaska-airport-closes-after-bomb-threat-diverts-cargo-plane/Rating: 0.30
Alaska airport closes after bomb threat diverts cargo plane
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — An airport in Alaska is closed after a bomb threat was made regarding a cargo plane from the United States heading to Asia and the plane had to be diverted to Anchorage to be searched. Inbound flights to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport are closed Saturday morning, KTUU reported. The plane is being searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, said Anchorage Airport spokesman Eland Conway. The FBI and Anchorage Police are on scene and leading the investigation. Flights bound for Anchorage may divert to Fairbanks International Airport until ANC reopens, which is expected to happen later Saturday. The Associated Press
2 May 19:32 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/02/alaska-airport-closes-after-bomb-threat-diverts-cargo-plane/Rating: 0.77
Alaska airport closes after bomb threat diverts cargo plane
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — An airport in Alaska is closed after a bomb threat was made regarding a cargo plane from the United States heading to Asia and the plane had to be diverted to Anchorage to be searched. Inbound flights to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport are closed Saturday morning, KTUU reported. The plane is being searched in a secure, remote section of the airport, said Anchorage Airport spokesman Eland Conway. The FBI and Anchorage Police are on scene and leading the investigation. Flights bound for Anchorage may divert to Fairbanks International Airport until ANC reopens, which is expected to happen later Saturday. The Associated Press
2 May 11:31 • The Seattle Times • https://www.seattletimes.com/business/alaska-airport-closes-after-bomb-threat-diverts-cargo-plane/Rating: 0.74
After Dubai, malls in UAE reopen as lockdown eases
3 May 20:47
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6 articles
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After Dubai, malls in UAE reopen as lockdown eases
Dubai: Malls in the United Arab Emirates' capital Abu Dhabi began reopening to a restricted number of customers this weekend as the UAE eases lockdown ... Dubai: Malls in the United Arab Emirates' capital Abu Dhabi began reopening to a restricted number of customers this weekend as the UAE eases lockdown measures imposed more than a month ago to combat the novel coronavirus. Three Abu Dhabi malls reopened on Saturday at 30% customer capacity after adopting safety measures, including installing thermal inspection devices, the government media office tweeted and Sharjah emirate said it would reopen malls on Sunday. Malls, dine-in restaurants and cafes in Dubai, the UAE's business and tourism hub, had earlier resumed operations with limited capacity. Shoppers must wear face masks and gloves and keep their distance. Sharjah emirate's media office said malls, salons and dine-in restaurants could resume operations on Sunday. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 20:47 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/international/after-dubai-malls-in-uae-reopen-as-lockdown-eases-620634Rating: 1.10
Abu Dhabi disinfects 41 malls, calls for compliance as shops reopen
Social media users share picture showing packed crowds, saying it was taken in Abu Dhabi mall on April 29. -- Courtesy TwitterBy Tommy HiltonDUBAI -- Abu Dhabi has disinfected 41 malls and called for the shops that have reopened to comply with regulations aimed at protecting people from coronavirus, according to reports from the official Emirates News Agency (WAM) on Saturday.The United Arab Emirates has implemented various measures aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus in the country, which has now infected over 13,000 people in the country. Although Abu Dhabi never implemented a 24-hour curfew like Dubai, it did close shops and malls, reopening some malls for the beginning of Ramadan under strict new guidelines.On Sunday, Abu Dhabi Municipality disinfected a further 41 shopping centers – 30 on Abu Dhabi Island and 11 on the mainland – in a campaign aimed at preventing further spread of the coronavirus among shoppers.The campaign was carried out by 25 engineers and inspectors, 391 workers and 55 supervisors.According to ADDED Undersecretary Rashed Abdul Karim Al Balooshi, five permits have been given to shopping centers to reopen in Abu Dhabi so far. He said that ADDED was working with the rest to disinfect them and ensure they were complying with regulations for gradual reopening.ADDED also issued a statement, carried by WAM, calling on shopping centers and malls to continue to comply with the new guidelines facilitating the reopening of shops. These include customers limiting their shops to two hours, wearing gloves and face masks at all times, and being screened by thermal scanners on entry.Social media users had previously reported scenes of packed crowds in Abdu Dhabi mall, suggesting regulations were not being followed.Al Balooshi also highlighted the importance of maintaining social distancing and avoiding congestion as central to shops reopening safely. -- Al Arabiya English
3 May 12:49 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592621/World/Mena/Abu-Dhabi-disinfects-41-malls-callsfor-compliance-as-shops-reopenRating: 0.30
Following Dubai, More UAE Malls, Restaurants Reopen
Malls in the United Arab Emirates' capital Abu Dhabi began reopening to a restricted number of customers this weekend as the UAE eases lockdown measures imposed more than a month ago to combat the novel coronavirus. Three Abu Dhabi malls reopened on Saturday at 30% customer capacity after adopting safety measures, including installing thermal inspection devices, the government media office tweeted and Sharjah emirate said it would reopen malls on Sunday. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories Malls, dine-in restaurants and cafes in Dubai, the UAE's business and tourism hub, had earlier resumed operations with limited capacity. Shoppers must wear face masks and gloves and keep their distance. Sharjah emirate's media office said malls, salons and dine-in restaurants could resume operations on Sunday. Other public venues such as schools, mosques and cinemas remain closed in the UAE, which has so far reported nearly 13,600 infections and 119 deaths from the virus. It does not give a breakdown for each of its seven emirates. The UAE had also relaxed a nationwide curfew, first announced on March 26, with the start of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan on April 24.
3 May 09:20 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/following-dubai-more-uae-malls-restaurants-reopen-1.8816359Rating: 1.13
Following Dubai, more UAE malls, restaurants reopen
Malls in the United Arab Emirates’ capital Abu Dhabi began reopening to a restricted number of customers this weekend as the UAE eases lockdown measures imposed more than a month ago to combat the novel coronavirus. Three Abu Dhabi malls reopened on Saturday at 30% customer capacity after adopting safety measures, including installing thermal inspection devices, the government media office tweeted and Sharjah emirate said it would reopen malls on Sunday. Malls, dine-in restaurants and cafes in Dubai, the UAE’s business and tourism hub, had earlier resumed operations with limited capacity. Shoppers must wear face masks and gloves and keep their distance. Sharjah emirate’s media office said malls, salons and dine-in restaurants could resume operations on Sunday. Other public venues such as schools, mosques and cinemas remain closed in the UAE, which has so far reported nearly 13,600 infections and 119 deaths from the virus. It does not give a breakdown for each of its seven emirates. The UAE had also relaxed a nationwide curfew, first announced on March 26, with the start of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan on April 24.
3 May 08:35 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213090/3-following-dubai-uae-malls-restaurants-reopen/Rating: 1.80
Following Dubai, more UAE malls, restaurants reopen
DUBAI (Reuters) - Malls in the United Arab Emirates’ capital Abu Dhabi began reopening to a restricted number of customers this weekend as the UAE eases lockdown measures imposed more than a month ago to combat the novel coronavirus. Three Abu Dhabi malls reopened on Saturday at 30% customer capacity after adopting safety measures, including installing thermal inspection devices, the government media office tweeted and Sharjah emirate said it would reopen malls on Sunday. Malls, dine-in restaurants and cafes in Dubai, the UAE’s business and tourism hub, had earlier resumed operations with limited capacity. Shoppers must wear face masks and gloves and keep their distance. Sharjah emirate’s media office said malls, salons and dine-in restaurants could resume operations on Sunday. Other public venues such as schools, mosques and cinemas remain closed in the UAE, which has so far reported nearly 13,600 infections and 119 deaths from the virus. It does not give a breakdown for each of its seven emirates. The UAE had also relaxed a nationwide curfew, first announced on March 26, with the start of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan on April 24.
3 May 07:26 • Reuters • https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-emirates-idUSKBN22F06ZRating: 4.04
Following Dubai, more UAE malls, restaurants reopen
DUBAI (Reuters) - Malls in the United Arab Emirates' capital Abu Dhabi began reopening to a restricted number of customers this weekend as the UAE eases lockdown measures imposed more than a month ago to combat the novel coronavirus. Three Abu Dhabi malls reopened on Saturday at 30% customer capacity after adopting safety measures, including installing thermal inspection devices, the government media office tweeted and Sharjah emirate said it would reopen malls on Sunday. Malls, dine-in restaurants and cafes in Dubai, the UAE's business and tourism hub, had earlier resumed operations with limited capacity. Shoppers must wear face masks and gloves and keep their distance. Sharjah emirate's media office said malls, salons and dine-in restaurants could resume operations on Sunday. Other public venues such as schools, mosques and cinemas remain closed in the UAE, which has so far reported nearly 13,600 infections and 119 deaths from the virus. It does not give a breakdown for each of its seven emirates. The UAE had also relaxed a nationwide curfew, first announced on March 26, with the start of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan on April 24. (Writing by Ghaida Ghantous; Editing by Elaine Hardcastle)
3 May 07:26 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/following-dubai-more-uae-malls-072604582.htmlRating: 0.30
Web portal launched for emergency cash applications: Dr Sania
3 May 17:06
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4 articles
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Weighted average IN: 10.665723897743396
Web portal launched for emergency cash applications: Dr Sania
ISLAMABAD: Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Protection and Poverty Alleviation Dr Sania Nishtar on Sunday said that Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched a web-portal to solicit Ehsaas Emergency Cash Programme applications from COVID-19 affectees. In a tweet, she said the Category-4 beneficiaries who qualify for PM’s COVID-19 fund assistance will get emergency cash of Rs12,000. She said that the COVID-19 fund would continue to be realised for those in need of assistance and for each rupee donated by donors, four rupees will be committed by the government. Dr Sania said the existing transparency principles, rule-based controls, and deployment of data analytics that have been applied to emergency cash transfers will be fully upheld for the selection of Category-4 beneficiaries who qualify for PM’s COVID-19 fund. She said PM’s COVID-19 fund payments will be fully biometric and tehsil-level data of number of beneficiaries paid and real time bank disbursement and withdrawal information will be made public. [whatsapp]
3 May 17:06 • Pakistan Today • https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/05/03/web-portal-launched-for-emergency-cash-applications-dr-sania/Rating: 0.87
Livelihood-loss-affectees can apply for Ehsaas Emergency Cash aid: Dr. Sania
ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - Special Assistant on Social Protection and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Sania Nishtar said that Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched a web-portal to solicit Ehsaas Emergency Cash aid applications from COVID-19 livelihood-loss-affectees (category-4).In a tweet, she said the Category-4 beneficiaries who qualify for PM’s COVID-19 fund assistance will get Ehsaas Emergency Cash of 12,000 rupees.Dr Sania Nishtar said the COVID-19 fund would continue to be realized for those in need of assistance and for each rupee donated by donors, four rupees will be committed by the Government.She said the existing transparency principles, rule-based controls, and deployment of data analytics that have been applied to Ehsaas Emergency Cash transfers will be fully upheld for the selection of category-4 beneficiaries who qualify for PM’s COVID-19 fund.She said PM’s COVID19 fund payments will be fully biometric and tehsil-level data of number of beneficiaries paid and real time bank disbursement and withdrawal information will be made public.
3 May 22:09 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/543823-Livelihood-loss-affectees-apply-Ehsaas-Emergency-Cash-aid-Dr-SaniaRating: 1.71
COVID-19: Prime Minister Imran Khan launches cash assistance programme for jobless Pakistanis
Dubai: Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched a unique project of providing cash assistance to workers especially daily wagers who lost jobs due to prolonged lockdown in the country. He launched a dedicated online portal for individuals who were rendered jobless due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and vowed that every registered jobless person would get the assistance. As everyone cannot register online due to illiteracy, a registration desk at Union councils will be allotted to volunteers of Tigers Force to enroll these daily wagers who need help. Every individual who lost job will get Rs12,000 cas assistance under Ehasas (care) programme. They need to register on https://ehsaas.nadra.gov.pk/. During the launching ceremony of the portal, Prime Minister Imran reiterated that the country could not sustain a prolonged lockdown as labourers and the daily wagers were suffering. “The entire world is trying to restart its economy. Places like New York where thousands are dying have also decided to reopen their industries,” he noted. He further said that even the rich governments are reopening and easing lockdowns because they realise they cannot keep the country under lockdown for long. The prime minister said the main aim of his government was to make sure the people of the country were not burdened. “This is why we brought down petrol prices by Rs30. Earlier we brought the price of diesel down by Rs27. Even India does not have these low prices,” he said. He added that since the price of petrol was slashed, prices of everything should fall as well. He said he had directed the chief secretaries of all provinces to ensure reduction in the prices of all the commodities associated with oil prices to provide maximum relief to the masses, Geo Tv reported He also thanked everyone who had donated to the Corona Relief Fund, saying that he himself was monitoring the Fund and its resources. At the same time, the prime minister urged the nation to observe discipline to face the challenge and stressed upon observance of social distancing and other precautionary measures. He said nobody could predict how long the coronavirus crisis would last, but it seemed they would have to live with it at least for next six months or a year. “The public needs to work with the government to combat the virus. They [public] need to take precautionary measures. If I had tested positive, it would have been my responsibility to make sure I self-isolated and quarantined.” “we can’t depend on speculation about duration of COVID-19. It is crucial that people act smartly by following precautionary measures laid out by the government. So as to secure themselves accordingly by social distancing & self quarantine respectively,” tweeted Prime Minister’s office. Confirmed coronavirus cases in the country have risen to 19103 with 440 deaths and 4817 recoveries. “The public needs to play its part in this fight against coronavirus,” PM Imran said. “The more discipline we are the more easily we would be able to defeat it. The public needs to practice social distancing on their own. We cannot force them to do anything.” He also ensured the people of transprancy in spending the relief fund. Prime Minister Imran said the government had made every effort to give major incentives to the construction industry because it provided jobs to a large number of people, including daily wagers. He also requested the people who had been diagnosed with Covid-19 to go into quarantine in their houses as all infected patients did not require to be taken to hospitals. Dr Sania Nishtar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Protection and Poverty Alleviation, explained the registration process for the jobless people. She said that applications would be accepted only through the web portal. She said under the Ehsaas Programme, the government had already disbursed Rs81 billion among 6.8 families in just 23 days.
3 May 11:05 • Gulf News • https://gulfnews.com/world/asia/pakistan/covid-19-prime-minister-imran-khan-launches-cash-assistance-programme-for-jobless-pakistanis-1.71302337Rating: 3.21
Apply for Prime Minister’s COVID-19 Relief Fund
Prime Minister’s COVID-19 Relief Fund ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday launched the Ehsaas Emergency Cash Web Portal, an exclusive initiative to support those who have lost their jobs due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In the Web Portal, those how have lost their jobs of Corona Crises can apply for the COVID Crises Assistance Online worth Rs 12,000 each. The affectees will require to enroll themselves in the Web Portal by entering their name, mobile number, name of their Telecom Operator, and the Code inscribed in the image before they click on the confirm button. In his address at the Launching Ceremony, Prime Minister Imran Khan assured the donations in PM’s Relief Fund for COVID-19 will be transparently disbursed amongst the deserving families affected by the breakout of Coronavirus. The prime minister said that he is personally monitoring the relief fund and its details will be shared with the public after the audit. Imran Khan said that the government will contribute Rs 4 for each rupee donated to the relief fund. He said that our aim is to reach out the maximum number of people during these testing times. Explaining the process of registration with the web portal under Ehsaas Emergency Cash Programme, the Prime Minister’s Special Assistant to on Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection Dr. Sania Nishtar said that the second phase of the program is focused on providing relief to labour class, who have lost their jobs due to ongoing lockdown amid Coronavirus pandemic. Tags: Prime Minister’s COVID-19 Relief Fund, COVID-19,
2 May 13:06 • Dispatch News Desk • https://dnd.com.pk/apply-for-prime-ministers-covid-19-relief-fund/188041Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population
3 May 07:34
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9 articles
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Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world’s largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for Covid-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options – they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. ‘Time bomb’ Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. Covid-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. “I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb,” he said in a resignation letter. Low priority The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management – federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies – testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don’t even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times’ compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. They also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. ‘No option to close prisons’ Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. “We don’t have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody,” he said on Wednesday. ‘It’s hell’ The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country’s inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, “Only six inmates have been released. Six,” said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller – struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout – told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours – “less than Starbucks,” he noted. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” he said. “Right now it’s hell.”
3 May 07:34 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213046/3-coronavirus-sweeping-massive-us-prison-population/Rating: 1.80
COVID-19 sweeping through massive US prison population
WASHINGTON: A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 per cent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff members on top of that, testing positive for COVID-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options - they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. "TIME BOMB" Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. "I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb," he said in a resignation letter. LOW PRIORITY The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management - federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies - testing and reporting have been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don't even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times' compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: Prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. "NO OPTION TO CLOSE PRISONS" Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff members testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low-security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where 60 per cent of the roughly 1,050 inmates have registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. "We don't have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody," he said on Wednesday. "IT'S HELL" The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country's inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff members positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, "Only six inmates have been released. Six," said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller - struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout - told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra US$1.85 an hour - "less than Starbucks", he noted. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," he said. "Right now it's hell." Download our app or subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak: https://cna.asia/telegram
3 May 10:28 • CNA • https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/coronavirus-covid-19-us-prisons-infections-12697642Rating: 3.25
Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population
Washington, United States | AFP | A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world’s largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for COVID-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options — they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. – ‘Time bomb’ – Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. “I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb,” he said in a resignation letter. – Low priority – The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management — federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies — testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don’t even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times’ compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. – ‘No option to close prisons’ – Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. “We don’t have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody,” he said on Wednesday. – ‘It’s hell’ – The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country’s inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, “Only six inmates have been released. Six,” said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller — struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout — told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours — “less than Starbucks,” he noted. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” he said. “Right now it’s hell.” Share on: WhatsApp
3 May 07:00 • The Independent Uganda: • https://www.independent.co.ug/coronavirus-sweeping-through-massive-us-prison-population/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus sweeping through US prisons
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for Covid-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options -- they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. TIME BOMB Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. "I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb," he said in a resignation letter. LOW PRIORITY The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management -- federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies -- testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don't even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times' compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. NO OPTION TO CLOSE PRISONS Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. "We don't have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody," he said on Wednesday. IT'S HELL The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country's inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, "Only six inmates have been released. Six," said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller -- struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout -- told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours -- "less than Starbucks," he noted. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," he said. "Right now it's hell." Tracking coronavirus
3 May 03:28 • Daily Nation • https://www.nation.co.ke/news/world/Coronavirus-sweeping-through-massive-US-prison-population/1068-5540974-61khbyz/index.htmlRating: 1.96
175 staff test positive for COVID-19 in US prison
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world’s largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for COVID-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options – they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. – ‘Time bomb’ – Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. “I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb,” he said in a resignation letter. – Low priority – The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management — federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies — testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don’t even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times’ compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. They also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. – ‘No option to close prisons’ – Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. “We don’t have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody,” he said on Wednesday. – ‘It’s hell’ – The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country’s inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, “Only six inmates have been released. Six,” said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller – struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout – told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours – “less than Starbucks,” he noted. “Things are beyond breaking point at this facility,” he said. “Right now it’s hell.” (AFP)
3 May 05:29 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/175-staff-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-us-prison/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for COVID-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options -- they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. "I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb," he said in a resignation letter. The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management -- federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies -- testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don't even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times' compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. "We don't have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody," he said on Wednesday. The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country's inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, "Only six inmates have been released. Six," said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller -- struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout -- told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours -- "less than Starbucks," he noted. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," he said. "Right now it's hell." pmh/dw https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 02:13 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/coronavirus-sweeping-through-massive-us-prison-population/jlzsfjtRating: 0.51
Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for COVID-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options -- they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. - 'Time bomb' - Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. "I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb," he said in a resignation letter. - Low priority - The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management -- federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies -- testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don't even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times' compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. - 'No option to close prisons' - Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. "We don't have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody," he said on Wednesday. - 'It's hell' - The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country's inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, "Only six inmates have been released. Six," said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller -- struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout -- told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours -- "less than Starbucks," he noted. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," he said. "Right now it's hell."
3 May 02:10 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/coronavirus-sweeping-through-massive-us-prison-population/article/571120Rating: 0.78
More than 80pc of inmates test positive for coronavirus in US prison
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for Covid-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options - they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management - federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies - testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don't even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times' compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic.
3 May 02:39 • Yahoo • https://news.yahoo.com/more-80pc-inmates-test-positive-023959508.htmlRating: 0.30
Coronavirus sweeping through massive US prison population
A massive wave of coronavirus infections is blasting through the world's largest prison population in the United States even as officials begin opening up their economies, saying the disease has plateaued. One prison in Marion, Ohio has become the most intensely infected institution across the country, with more than 80 percent of its nearly 2,500 inmates, and 175 staff on top of that, testing positive for Covid-19. Coronavirus deaths are on the increase in jails and penitentiaries across the country, with officials having few options -- they are unable to force adequate distancing in crowded cells and facing shortages of medical personnel and personal protective gear everywhere. The threat to the 2.3 million-strong US prison population was seen last week in the death of Andrea Circle Bear, a 30-year-old native American woman from South Dakota. Pregnant when she was placed in a Texas federal prison in March on drug charges, she soon became sick with the disease and was placed on a ventilator, and gave birth by C-section. She remained on the ventilator and died weeks later. Advertisement TIME BOMB Riots over inadequate protection and slow responses by prison authorities have already taken place in prisons in Washington state and Kansas. COVID-19 outbreaks among prison officers meanwhile have made the institutions even harder to manage. At the understaffed, undersupplied Lansing Correctional Facility in Kansas on Thursday, 15-year prison guard David Carter resigned, saying it was better to go without pay than risk his health and that of his family. "I can no longer be associated with a facility that is a ticking time bomb," he said in a resignation letter. LOW PRIORITY The Marion prison outbreak is believed only the tip of the iceberg. Because of the hodge-podge of prison management -- federal, state, and local authorities have their own, and many are run by for-profit private companies -- testing and reporting has been haphazard. Covid Prison Data, a group of university criminal justice and data experts, says that based on public reports, 13,436 inmates and 5,312 corrections staff nationwide have tested positive for coronavirus. But many states, and the federal penitentiary system, have done only a small amount of testing. Five of the 50 states don't even report data. Prisons occupied eight spaces on The New York Times' compilation of the top 10 infected institutions, with the Marion Correctional Institution at the top. The reasons are clear: prison populations are more dense and harder to separate than nursing homes and cruise ships, two institutions hit hardest by the disease. Thay also operate at lower levels of hygiene, and a large number of inmates have preexisting conditions. And, until now, they have been low priority for officials battling the pandemic. NO OPTION TO CLOSE PRISONS Numbers released this past week show the depth of the problem. The federal Bureau of Prisons, which has 152,000 inmates and 36,000 staff, found outbreaks in more than half of its 122 facilities. Less than 3,000 tests have been administered, however, with 1,842 prisoners and 343 staff testing positive, and 36 inmate deaths. On Thursday alone the bureau reported three deaths at the low security Terminal Island prison near Los Angeles, where some 60 percent of the roughly 1,050 inmate population has registered positive. Bureau of Prisons Director Michael Carvajal complained of a shortage of testing supplies, and said that quarantining remains difficult. "We don't have the option to close our doors, or pick who or when someone is sent to our custody," he said on Wednesday. IT'S HELL The situation is even less clear in state prisons, which have the bulk of the country's inmate population. Some states like Ohio are now moving quickly with testing and are releasing data. Others are doing little. One indicator of the potential extent: CoreCivic, a private company which operates dozens of prisons nationwide, tested all the 2,725 inmates and staff at its Trousdale Turner facility in Tennessee, and found 1,299 inmates and 50 staff positive, nearly all without symptoms. Prison advocacy groups say that little has been done at the state and federal level to release prisoners who are non-violent or whose terms were near completion, which could lessen their danger of infection and create more space in the facilities. Out of more than 10,000 in Kansas prisons, "Only six inmates have been released. Six," said public defender Heather Cessna. Brian Miller, an officer at the Marion prison, warned this week that the situation would only worsen. Miller -- struggling to speak as he recovers from his own coronavirus bout -- told a conference call that, with so many out sick, they do not have enough staff to clean the facility and manage the inmates. The prisons are only offering hazard pay of an extra $1.85 an hours -- "less than Starbucks," he noted. "Things are beyond breaking point at this facility," he said. "Right now it's hell."
3 May 00:00 • The East African • https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/scienceandhealth/Coronavirus-sweeping-through-massive-US-prison-population/3073694-5541124-11nrfdn/index.htmlRating: 0.41
'King of Bollywood', Will Smith in star-studded India virus benefit
3 May 19:15
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'King of Bollywood', Will Smith in star-studded India virus benefit
NEW DELHI — India's "King of Bollywood" superstar Shah Rukh Khan told jokes and sang for his adoring fans on Sunday during an almost five-hour online benefit to raise funds for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Tens of thousands of viewers watched more than 70 of the country's biggest celebrities -- including cricket captain Virat Kohli and actor Khan -- as well as international names such as actor Will Smith and rock legend Mick Jagger in the "I for India" show broadcast on Facebook. "I can, I will, and I must help," Khan told fans after singing a cheerful, humorous ditty about how "everything will be alright" following the deadly crisis. Jagger and Smith spoke about the struggles of rural migrant workers, many of whom have lost their jobs and gone hungry during an ongoing nationwide lockdown imposed from late March. "They may have lost their jobs, they may have lost their homes. They and their families may be going hungry. So I would like to ask you to donate. Please give what you can," Jagger said. Bollywood's biggest names -- including Indian actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas and hearthrob Hrithik Roshan -- along with local choirs and children sang or spoke passionately in English and Hindi about raising money for those in need. Other celebrities interviewed doctors and experts about the virus and how health workers were coping on the frontlines of the pandemic. Organised by Bollywood directors Karan Johar and Zoya Akhtar, the event has so far raised 37.5 million rupees (U.S.$499,326) out of a target of 60 million rupees. The donations would be matched rupee-for-rupee by major philanthropic groups including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the organizers said Sunday. The funds will be donated to more than 100 groups providing food and other essential services during the crisis. Concert organizers said the money was needed "for those who have no work and no home and do not know where their next meal is coming from". India, the world's second-most populous nation with 1.3 billion people, late Sunday reported just over 40,000 cases of the infectious disease and 1,306 deaths. The government has hailed the weeks-long lockdown aimed at limiting the virus's spread, but the number of new daily cases has continued to gradually rise with experts calling for more virus testing. The lockdown was extended for two weeks on Friday, but some restrictions are set to be eased from Monday in areas with fewer virus cases. Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of New Delhi, which has the third-highest number of virus cases among India's states and territories, said Sunday that the economic impact of the lockdown was severe in the national capital and the city needed to be reopened in non-virus "containment zones". "People are facing a lot of hardships. Jobs are going. The economic infrastructure has been hit hard," he said in an online briefing, adding that he would speak to the national government about the possibilities of opening up Delhi. "We have to start preparations so that we can learn to live with corona. Corona has now come in our country It's not going to go anywhere." © 2020 AFP
3 May 19:15 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/entertainment/%27king-of-bollywood%27-will-smith-in-star-studded-india-virus-benefitRating: 2.09
'King of Bollywood' and Will Smith in star-studded India virus benefit
NEW DELHI, May 4 — India's “King of Bollywood” superstar Shah Rukh Khan told jokes and sang for his adoring fans yesterday during an almost five-hour online benefit to raise funds for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Tens of thousands of viewers watched more than 70 of the country's biggest celebrities — including cricket captain Virat Kohli and actor Khan — as well as international names such as actor Will Smith and rock legend Mick Jagger in the I for India show broadcast on Facebook. “I can, I will, and I must help,” Khan told fans after singing a cheerful, humourous ditty about how “everything will be alright” following the deadly crisis. Jagger and Smith spoke about the struggles of rural migrant workers, many of whom have lost their jobs and gone hungry during an ongoing nationwide lockdown imposed from late March. “They may have lost their jobs, they may have lost their homes. They and their families may be going hungry. So I would like to ask you to donate. Please give what you can,” Jagger said. Bollywood's biggest names — including Indian actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas and hearthrob Hrithik Roshan — along with local choirs and children sang or spoke passionately in English and Hindi about raising money for those in need. Other celebrities interviewed doctors and experts about the virus and how health workers were coping on the frontlines of the pandemic. Organised by Bollywood directors Karan Johar and Zoya Akhtar, the event has so far raised 37.5 million rupees (RM2.14 million) out of a target of 60 million rupees. The donations would be matched rupee-for-rupee by major philanthropic groups including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the organisers said yesterday. 'No work, no home' The funds will be donated to more than 100 groups providing food and other essential services during the crisis. Concert organisers said the money was needed “for those who have no work and no home and do not know where their next meal is coming from.” India, the world's second-most populous nation with 1.3 billion people, late yesterday reported just over 40,000 cases of the infectious disease and 1,306 deaths. The government has hailed the weeks-long lockdown aimed at limiting the virus's spread, but the number of new daily cases has continued to gradually rise with experts calling for more virus testing. The lockdown was extended for two weeks on Friday, but some restrictions are set to be eased from Monday in areas with fewer virus cases. Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of New Delhi, which has the third-highest number of virus cases among India's states and territories, said Sunday that the economic impact of the lockdown was severe in the national capital and the city needed to be reopened in non-virus “containment zones.”. “People are facing a lot of hardships. Jobs are going. The economic infrastructure has been hit hard,” he said in an online briefing, adding that he would speak to the national government about the possibilities of opening up Delhi. “We have to start preparations so that we can learn to live with corona. Corona has now come in our country It's not going to go anywhere.” — AFP
3 May 23:29 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/showbiz/2020/05/04/king-of-bollywood-and-will-smith-in-star-studded-india-virus-benefit/1862730Rating: 1.42
India gears up for mega virus concert fundraiser with Jagger, Smith
New Delhi - Indians geared up Sunday for a massive online concert with top local and global stars, including rock legend Mick Jagger, to raise funds for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. More than 70 of the country's biggest celebrities -- including cricket captain Virat Kohli and actor Shah Rukh Khan -- as well as international names such as Will Smith and Bryan Adams are set to join the show to be live-streamed by Facebook. "Today we come together to do our best for our world," Bollywood hearthrob Hrithik Roshan tweeted on Sunday. "See the concert and remember everything is going to be fine," added mega-star Khan on Instagram. Many celebrities posted pictures of themselves holding placards with the words "I for India", the concert's slogan. Organised by Bollywood directors Karan Johar and Zoya Akhtar, the event has so far raised 4.6 million rupees (US$61,000) out of a target of 60 million rupees, according to an online tally. The donations would be matched rupee-for-rupee by major philanthropic groups including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the organisers said Sunday. The funds will be donated to more than 100 groups providing food and other essential services during the crisis. Concert organisers said the money was needed "for those who have no work and no home and do not know where their next meal is coming from". India, the world's second-most populous nation with 1.3 billion people, has reported almost 40,000 cases of the infectious disease with 1,301 deaths. The government has hailed a weeks-long lockdown imposed from late March to limit the spread of the virus, but the number of new daily cases has continued to gradually rise. Read MoreAamir, Kiran, dress up for niece Zayn's debut film, Ira posts pic Superstar Aamir Khan, his wife Kiran Rao and daughter Ira Khan were all dressed up for a virtual premiere of the digital film, "Mrs Serial Killer", which marks the debut of the actor's niece Zayn Marie. Read MoreRishi Kapoor no more, confirms Amitabh Bachchan Veteran actor Rishi Kapoor has passed away, confirmed Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan on social media. Read MoreGlobally acclaimed Indian actor Irrfan Khan, of 'Slumdog Millionaire,' 'Life of Pi,' dies Khan's last Bollywood movie, "Angrezi Medium,” a sequel to one of his biggest hits, "Hindi Medium” (2017), was released before India went into a lockdown in March because of the coronavirus pandemic.
3 May 13:14 • The Peninsula • https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/05/2020/India-gears-up-for-mega-virus-concert-fundraiser-with-Jagger,-SmithRating: 3.14
India gears up for mega coronavirus concert fundraiser with Mick Jagger, Will Smith
NEW DELHI, India – Indians geared up Sunday, May 3 for a massive online concert with top local and global stars, including rock legend Mick Jagger, to raise funds for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. More than 70 of the country's biggest celebrities – including cricket captain Virat Kohli and actor Shah Rukh Khan – as well as international names such as Will Smith and Bryan Adams are set to join the show to be live-streamed by Facebook. "Today we come together to do our best for our world," Bollywood hearthrob Hrithik Roshan tweeted on Sunday. "See the concert and remember everything is going to be fine," added mega-star Khan on Instagram. Many celebrities posted pictures of themselves holding placards with the words "I for India", the concert's slogan. Organized by Bollywood directors Karan Johar and Zoya Akhtar, the event has so far raised 4.6 million rupees (US$61,000) out of a target of 60 million rupees, according to an online tally. The donations would be matched rupee-for-rupee by major philanthropic groups including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the organizers said Sunday. The funds will be donated to more than 100 groups providing food and other essential services during the crisis. Concert organizers said the money was needed "for those who have no work and no home and do not know where their next meal is coming from". India, the world's second-most populous nation with 1.3 billion people, has reported almost 40,000 cases of the infectious disease with 1,301 deaths. The government has hailed a weeks-long lockdown imposed from late March to limit the spread of the virus, but the number of new daily cases has continued to gradually rise. – Rappler.com
3 May 12:01 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/news/259789-india-gears-up-concert-will-smithRating: 1.64
I for India- Stars from around the world unite for the nation’s Covid cause
In the best and worst of times, art has united the world. This time, Facebook has mustered the global best of the entertainment industry for a home-to-home mega concert exclusively on its platform, in what is being called the biggest fundraiser concert for those affected by the coronavirus pandemic in India. With names like A.R. Rahman, Shah Rukh Khan, and Madhuri Dixit along with international stars like Mick Jagger, Will Smith and Nick Jonas, the May 3rd ‘I for India’ concert that kicks off at 7.30pm IST is a grand finale of the #SocialForGoodLiveathon week, where over 150 partners went Live on Facebook to raise funds for charities across the nation. Apart from the cream of the film and music industry, famous industrialists will also be part of the concert along with sportspersons like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Here is the full list of participants: Despite the loss of Irrfan Khan and Rishi Kapoor, two shining Bollywood stars, whose passing shook the country last week, the entertainment industry has decided to show strength and solidarity by joining hands and coming together for this mega concert- to entertain and rekindle hope. The event is aimed at those at home in social isolation, as well as to gather funds for the millions who are hit by the lockdown financially. The Guardian reported the concert organisers as saying the money was needed “for those who have no work and no home and do not know where their next meal is coming from”. The concert also seeks to pay tribute to the workers on the frontlines of the pandemic who are risking their lives to battle the viral pandemic. All the proceeds of the concert will go to GiveIndia the charity of choice, to manage this colossal challenge. The charity is associated with over 100 NGOs and is working on-ground to help those whose lives have been hit by the pandemic and are in need. Aside from offline donations, people may also donate using the Facebook Fundraisers tool. Tune into Facebook live this evening, and witness the concert of our times!
3 May 08:10 • The Telegraph • https://www.telegraphindia.com/entertainment/coronavirus-facebook-live-i-for-india-concert-stars-from-around-the-world-unite-for-the-nations-covid-cause/cid/1770018Rating: 1.42
Fresh dates for JEE, NEET to be announced on May 5: HRD Ministry
3 May 11:36
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6 articles
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Fresh dates for JEE, NEET to be announced on May 5: HRD Ministry
In a relief for engineering and medical aspirants, the HRD Ministry will announce fresh dates for competitive exams --JEE and NEET -- on May 5. The exams were postponed due to the nationwide lockdown announced to contain the Covid-19 spread. “The fresh dates will be announced by HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ on May 5. This will put an end to uncertainty for the aspirants. The minister will also interact with students online the same day,” a senior ministry official said. While Joint Entrance Exam-Mains (JEE-MAINS) is conducted for admission to engineering colleges across the country, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is held for medical colleges. Also read: Lockdown 3.0 begins tomorrow with ‘considerable relaxations’; some curbs to continue More than 15 lakh students across the country have registered for NEET this year, which is the gateway to medical colleges in India, whereas more than 9 lakh have registered for JEE Mains, the entrance exam for all other engineering colleges except IITs. The JEE-Mains is considered as a qualifying exam for JEE-Advanced. The HRD Ministry’s National Testing Agency (NTA) had also given students an option to change their opted centres for the two tests as students have moved to different places since the lockdown. Universities and schools across the country have been closed since March 16 when the Centre announced a countrywide classroom shutdown as one of the measures to contain the Covid-19 outbreak. Later, a nationwide lockdown was announced from March 25, which was extended till May 17. There is however, no clarity yet on when the pending board exams for class 10 and 12 will be conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The board had announced that it will conduct pending exams in 29 subjects crucial for promotion and admission to higher education institutions. The death toll due to Covid-19 rose to 1,301 and the number of cases climbed to 39,980 in the country on Sunday, according to the Health Ministry. The number of active Covid-19 cases stood at 28,046, while 10,632 people have recovered and one patient has migrated, the Ministry said. The total number of cases include 111 foreign nationals.
3 May 11:36 • BusinessLine • https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/fresh-dates-for-jee-neet-to-be-announced-on-may-5-hrd-ministry/article31494525.eceRating: 1.98
Fresh dates for JEE, NEET to be announced on May 5: HRD ministry
In a relief for engineering and medical aspirants, the HRD ministry on Sunday said fresh dates for competitive exams – JEE and NEET – will be announced on May 5. The exams were postponed due to nationwide lockdown announced to contain the COVID-19 spread. “The fresh dates will be announced by HRD Minsiter Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ on May 5. This will put an end to uncertainty for the aspirants. The minister will also interact with students online the same day,” a senior ministry official said. While Joint Entrance Exam-Mains (JEE-MAINS) is conducted for admission to engineering colleges across the country, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is conducted for medical colleges.
3 May 12:04 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/education/colleges/fresh-dates-for-jee-neet-to-be-announced-on-may-5-hrd-ministry/article31494645.eceRating: 0.30
Fresh dates for JEE, NEET to be announced on May 5 due to coronavirus lockdown, says HRD ministry
In a relief for engineering and medical aspirants, the HRD ministry on Sunday said fresh dates for competitive exams --JEE and NEET-- will be announced on May 5. The exams were postponed due to nationwide lockdown announced to contain the COVID-19 spread. "The fresh dates will be announced by HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' on May 5. This will put an end to uncertainty for the aspirants. The minister will also interact with students online the same day," a senior ministry official said. While Joint Entrance Exam-Mains (JEE-MAINS) is conducted for admission to engineering colleges across the country, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is conducted for medical colleges.
3 May 17:12 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/fresh-dates-for-jee-neet-to-be-announced-on-may-5-due-to-coronavirus-lockdown-says-hrd-ministry-833044.htmlRating: 2.25
Fresh dates for JEE, NEET to be announced on May 5 due to cornavirus lockdown, says HRD ministry
In a relief for engineering and medical aspirants, the HRD ministry on Sunday said fresh dates for competitive exams --JEE and NEET-- will be announced on May 5. The exams were postponed due to nationwide lockdown announced to contain the COVID-19 spread. "The fresh dates will be announced by HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' on May 5. This will put an end to uncertainty for the aspirants. The minister will also interact with students online the same day," a senior ministry official said. While Joint Entrance Exam-Mains (JEE-MAINS) is conducted for admission to engineering colleges across the country, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is conducted for medical colleges.
3 May 17:12 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/fresh-dates-for-jee-neet-to-be-announced-on-may-5-due-to-cornavirus-lockdown-says-hrd-ministry-833044.htmlRating: 2.25
Fresh dates for JEE, NEET to be announced on May 5: HRD ministry
In a relief for engineering and medical aspirants, the HRD ministry said on Sunday that fresh dates for competitive exams --JEE and NEET-- will be announced on May 5. The exams were postponed due to the nationwide lockdown announced to contain the Covid-19 spread.ALSO READ: LIVE: Forces boost morale of corona warriors, PM Modi says great gesture "The fresh dates will be announced by HRD Minsiter Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' on May 5. This will put an end to uncertainty for the aspirants. The minister will also interact with students online the same day," a senior ministry official said. While Joint Entrance Exam-Mains (JEE-MAINS) is conducted for admission to engineering colleges across the country, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is conducted for medical colleges.
3 May 12:28 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/fresh-dates-for-jee-neet-to-be-announced-on-may-5-hrd-ministry-120050300684_1.htmlRating: 0.30
Date for JEE Mains and NEET expected to be announced on 5 May
New Delhi: Students preparing for the Joint Engineering Entrance (JEE) exam and National Eligibility and Entrance Test (NEET) this year can expect some clarity on the exam dates by this week. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, the Human Resource Development Minister, is likely to announce dates for both the entrance exams Tuesday during his live interaction with students, Umakant Tripathi, the minister’s media advisor told ThePrint. The dates had to be postponed due to the Covid-19 lockdown. Pokhriyal is scheduled to address students through a live session, during which he is expected to field their questions on the college session and entrance examinations. A source in the ministry said, the JEE and NEET exams are likely to take place towards the end of June. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which is the nodal agency for conducting entrance exams, had earlier considered conducting the exam towards the end of May. However, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending the nationwide lockdown to 17 May, the idea was scrapped. More than 15 lakh students across the country have registered for NEET this year, which is the gateway to medical colleges in India, whereas more than 9 lakh have registered for JEE Mains, the entrance exam for all other engineering colleges except IITs. Students needs to clear the JEE Advanced exam for admission to IITs, which takes place after JEE Mains. With the delay in JEE Mains, exam date for Advanced has also been postponed. The HRD minister’s live interaction with students is aimed at addressing some of the fear among students given the circumstance. This will be the second live interaction that the minister will hold after his earlier one with parents of students. During the interaction, most parents were concerned about dates of pending board exams and entrance exams. However, the minister did not give a definite answer and asked them to wait for the lockdown to be lifted. ThePrint is now on Telegram. For the best reports & opinion on politics, governance and more, subscribe to ThePrint on Telegram. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
3 May 10:35 • ThePrint • https://theprint.in/india/education/date-for-jee-mains-and-neet-expected-to-be-announced-on-5-may/413561/Rating: 1.95
Italy's lockdown easing spells hope, worry and confusion
3 May 15:56
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Italy's lockdown easing spells hope, worry and confusion
ROME: Weary of Europe’s longest coronavirus lockdown, Italians have had Monday circled in their diaries for a month since Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte first suggested it could be the date life returned to something nearing normal. Now their excitement is muted by the knowledge that in the end many of the restrictions of the past eight weeks will remain in place, while confusion reigns over those that will be lifted. With almost 29,000 deaths from Covid-19 since its outbreak emerged on Feb. 21, Italy has the world’s second highest toll after the United States. Moreover, the daily tally of fatalities and new infections have slowed more gradually than the government hoped, prompting Conte to adopt a slowly-slowly approach to ending the lockdown, which will be constantly adjusted depending on contagion trends. “We are still in the full throes of the pandemic,” he said in an interview with La Stampa newspaper on Sunday, stressing the so-called “phase 2” of the lockdown “must not be seen as a signal that we’re all free” and things can return to normal. People will be able to leave their homes more freely and more workplaces will be allowed to reopen provided they can meet social distancing rules, but most shops will stay shut until May 18 and restaurants and bars can only offer take-aways. Schools, cinemas, theatres, museums and hairdressers remain shut, to be reopened at staggered future dates. Parks will reopen on Monday and Italians can run and do other outdoor activities so long as they stay two metres apart. Masks will be obligatory in all closed spaces, to be bought at pharmacies at a subsidised price of 0.5 euros ($0.55) each. The easing of the lockdown has been blighted by a lack of clarity over exactly what activities will be allowed from Monday, and even whose houses people will be able to visit. Confusion The confusion was only worsened by guidelines issued by the government over the weekend, which quickly became the butt of widespread criticism and mockery on social media. These spelled out that visits to even distant relatives will be allowed, including the children of cousins, or the cousins of spouses, as well as visits to anyone with whom one has “a stable bond of affection”. However, they did not say whether friendship counted as a stable bond of affection, until an off-the-record message to media outlets from the prime minister’s office explained that visits to friends are still not permitted. A sense of confusion has also stemmed from Italy’s devolved power structure in which some regional authorities, led by the centre-right opposition, have threatened to flout the rules and go it alone in reopening activities. Conte said that “phase 2” would include more testing to see who has the virus, with 5 million kits sent to the regions in the next two months. In addition, from this week some 150,000 blood tests will be carried out to get an idea of how many Italians have already developed antibodies. He also set out some of the contents of a 55-billion euro stimulus package to be adopted in the next few days, including more cash for workers temporarily sent home, special pay-outs for grounded seasonal and domestic workers, and vouchers for families to pay for babysitters. ($1 = 0.9105 euros)
3 May 15:56 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213244/3-italys-lockdown-easing-spells-hope-worry-confusion/Rating: 1.80
Italy's lockdown easing spells hope, worry and confusion
ROME (Reuters) - Weary of Europe s longest coronavirus lockdown, Italians have had Monday circled in their diaries for a month since Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte first suggested it could be the date life returned to something nearing normal. Now their excitement is muted by the knowledge that in the end many of the restrictions of the past eight weeks will remain in place, while confusion reigns over those that will be lifted. With almost 29,000 deaths from COVID-19 since its outbreak emerged on Feb. 21, Italy has the world s second highest toll after the United States. Moreover, the daily tally of fatalities and new infections have slowed more gradually than the government hoped, prompting Conte to adopt a slowly-slowly approach to ending the lockdown, which will be constantly adjusted depending on contagion trends. "We are still in the full throes of the pandemic," he said in an interview with La Stampa newspaper on Sunday, stressing the so-called "phase 2" of the lockdown "must not be seen as a signal that we re all free" and things can return to normal. People will be able to leave their homes more freely and more workplaces will be allowed to reopen provided they can meet social distancing rules, but most shops will stay shut until May 18 and restaurants and bars can only offer take-aways. Schools, cinemas, theatres, museums and hairdressers remain shut, to be reopened at staggered future dates. Parks will reopen on Monday and Italians can run and do other outdoor activities so long as they stay two metres apart. Masks will be obligatory in all closed spaces, to be bought at pharmacies at a subsidised price of 0.5 euros ($0.55) each. The easing of the lockdown has been blighted by a lack of clarity over exactly what activities will be allowed from Monday, and even whose houses people will be able to visit. CONFUSION The confusion was only worsened by guidelines issued by the government over the weekend, which quickly became the butt of widespread criticism and mockery on social media. These spelled out that visits to even distant relatives will be allowed, including the children of cousins, or the cousins of spouses, as well as visits to anyone with whom one has "a stable bond of affection". However they did not say whether friendship counted as a stable bond of affection, until an off-the-record message to media outlets from the prime minister s office explained that visits to friends are still not permitted. A sense of confusion has also stemmed from Italy s devolved power structure in which some regional authorities, led by the centre-right opposition, have threatened to flout the rules and go it alone in reopening activities. Conte said that "phase 2" would include more testing to see who has the virus, with 5 million kits sent to the regions in the next two months. In addition, from this week some 150,000 blood tests will be carried out to get an idea of how many Italians have already developed antibodies. He also set out some of the contents of a 55-billion euro stimulus package to be adopted in the next few days, including more cash for workers temporarily sent home, special pay-outs for grounded seasonal and domestic workers, and vouchers for families to pay for babysitters.
3 May 18:33 • Dunya News • https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/543870-Italy-lockdown-easing-spells-hope-worry-and-confusionRating: 1.71
Italy's lockdown easing spells hope, worry and confusion
ROME — Weary of Europe’s longest coronavirus lockdown, Italians have had Monday circled in their diaries for a month since Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte first suggested it could be the date life returned to something nearing normal. Now their excitement is muted by the knowledge that in the end many of the restrictions of the past eight weeks will remain in place, while confusion reigns over those that will be lifted. With almost 29,000 deaths from COVID-19 since its outbreak emerged on Feb. 21, Italy has the world’s second highest toll after the United States. Moreover, the daily tally of fatalities and new infections have slowed more gradually than the government hoped, prompting Conte to adopt a slowly-slowly approach to ending the lockdown, which will be constantly adjusted depending on contagion trends. “We are still in the full throes of the pandemic,” he said in an interview with La Stampa newspaper on Sunday, stressing the so-called “phase 2” of the lockdown “must not be seen as a signal that we’re all free” and things can return to normal. People will be able to leave their homes more freely and more workplaces will be allowed to reopen provided they can meet social distancing rules, but most shops will stay shut until May 18 and restaurants and bars can only offer take-aways. Schools, cinemas, theaters, museums and hairdressers remain shut, to be reopened at staggered future dates. Parks will reopen on Monday and Italians can run and do other outdoor activities so long as they stay two meters apart. Masks will be obligatory in all closed spaces, to be bought at pharmacies at a subsidized price of 0.5 euros ($0.55) each. The easing of the lockdown has been blighted by a lack of clarity over exactly what activities will be allowed from Monday, and even whose houses people will be able to visit. CONFUSION The confusion was only worsened by guidelines issued by the government over the weekend, which quickly became the butt of widespread criticism and mockery on social media. These spelled out that visits to even distant relatives will be allowed, including the children of cousins, or the cousins of spouses, as well as visits to anyone with whom one has “a stable bond of affection.” However they did not say whether friendship counted as a stable bond of affection, until an off-the-record message to media outlets from the prime minister’s office explained that visits to friends are still not permitted. A sense of confusion has also stemmed from Italy’s devolved power structure in which some regional authorities, led by the center-right opposition, have threatened to flout the rules and go it alone in reopening activities. Conte said that “phase 2” would include more testing to see who has the virus, with 5 million kits sent to the regions in the next two months. In addition, from this week some 150,000 blood tests will be carried out to get an idea of how many Italians have already developed antibodies. He also set out some of the contents of a 55-billion euro stimulus package to be adopted in the next few days, including more cash for workers temporarily sent home, special pay-outs for grounded seasonal and domestic workers, and vouchers for families to pay for babysitters. ($1 = 0.9105 euros) (Editing by Alexander Smith)
3 May 13:31 • Financial Post • https://business.financialpost.com/pmn/business-pmn/italys-lockdown-easing-spells-hope-worry-and-confusionRating: 0.94
Hope, worry and confusion surround easing of Italy’s coronavirus lockdown
Weary of Europe’s longest coronavirus lockdown, Italians have had Monday circled in their diaries for a month since Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte first suggested it could be the date life returned to something nearing normal. Now their excitement is muted by the knowledge that in the end many of the restrictions of the past eight weeks will remain in place, while confusion reigns over those that will be lifted. With almost 29,000 deaths from COVID-19 since its outbreak emerged on Feb. 21, Italy has the world’s second highest toll after the United States. Moreover, the daily tally of fatalities and new infections have slowed more gradually than the government hoped, prompting Mr. Conte to adopt a slowly-slowly approach to ending the lockdown, which will be constantly adjusted depending on contagion trends. “We are still in the full throes of the pandemic,” the Prime Minister said in an interview with La Stampa newspaper on Sunday, stressing the so-called “Phase 2” of the lockdown “must not be seen as a signal that we’re all free” and things can return to normal. People will be able to leave their homes more freely and more workplaces will be allowed to reopen provided they can meet social distancing rules, but most shops will stay shut until May 18 and restaurants and bars can only offer take-out. Schools, cinemas, theatres, museums and hairdressers remain shut, to be reopened at staggered future dates. Parks will reopen on Monday and Italians can run and do other outdoor activities so long as they stay two metres apart. Masks will be obligatory in all closed spaces, to be bought at pharmacies at a subsidized price of half a euro (75 cents) each. The easing of the lockdown has been blighted by a lack of clarity over exactly what activities will be allowed from Monday, and even whose houses people will be able to visit. The confusion was only worsened by guidelines issued by the government over the weekend, which quickly became the butt of widespread criticism and mockery on social media. These spelled out that visits to even distant relatives will be allowed, including the children of cousins, or the cousins of spouses, as well as visits to anyone with whom one has “a stable bond of affection.” However they did not say whether friendship counted as a stable bond of affection, until an off-the-record message to media outlets from the Prime Minister’s office explained that visits to friends are still not permitted. A sense of confusion has also stemmed from Italy’s devolved power structure in which some regional authorities, led by the centre-right opposition, have threatened to flout the rules and go it alone in reopening activities. Mr. Conte said that “Phase 2” would include more testing to see who has the virus, with five million kits sent to the regions in the next two months. In addition, from this week some 150,000 blood tests will be carried out to get an idea of how many Italians have already developed antibodies. He also set out some of the contents of a 55-billion-euro stimulus package to be adopted in the next few days, including more cash for workers temporarily sent home, special payouts for grounded seasonal and domestic workers, and vouchers for families to pay for babysitters. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 13:50 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-italys-coronavirus-lockdown-easing-spells-hope-worry-and-confusion/Rating: 2.18
100,000 residents evacuated after Uzbek dam burst
3 May 22:01
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100,000 residents evacuated after Uzbek dam burst
euronews_icons_loading Tens of thousands of people were forced to move from their homes after a dam burst in Uzbekistan close to neighbouring Kazakhstan. The newly-constructed Sardoba reservoir breached its wall on May 1. Around 70,000 people were evacuated from 22 villages in Uzbekistan and 50 residents were taken to hospital. In a tweet, the Kazakh president, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, said more than 22,000 residents in the country's Turkestan region had to be evacuated. He added that negotiations were underway with the Uzbek government. The seven-year project to build the Sardoba reservoir was completed in 2017. Kazakh officials have criticised Uzbekistan for not providing enough information on the status of flood control quickly enough. The Uzbek state prosecutor said an inquiry had been launched into official negligence and construction rule violations.
3 May 22:01 • euronews • https://www.euronews.com/2020/05/03/100-000-residents-evacuated-after-uzbek-dam-burstRating: 3.04
Tens of thousands evacuated after Uzbekistan dam bursts
Uzbek authorities on Sunday launched a criminal probe after a major dam burst, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from flooded homes there and in Kazakhstan. The wall of the Sardoba reservoir dam in eastern Uzbekistan burst early on Friday and at least 70,000 people have been evacuated. More than 50 people were hospitalised. Over 600 homes in southern Kazakhstan have also been flooded. Uzbekistan’s state prosecutor said on Sunday that a criminal case had been opened into “official negligence” and construction violations. Construction of the Sardoba dam began in 2010 under the supervision of current President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who was prime minister at the time. It was completed in 2017. Mirziyoyev on Friday flew to the region, which saw strong winds and rains prior to the collapse of the dam, in order to oversee the evacuation and cleanup operation. Officials in Kazakhstan’s southern Turkestan region, where more than 5,000 people have been evacuated so far, criticised Uzbekistan for not providing timely information on the status of flood control Saturday. “We have a copy of our correspondence with the Uzbek side, that as of (8 pm on Friday) the situation was stable and there were no problems,” said Saken Kalkamanov, deputy governor of the Turkestan region. “They said that not a drop of water would reach Maktaraal district,” he said, referring to the area where the flood hit. “Nevertheless, what happened has happened.” The administration of the Turkestan region estimated that the floods caused crop damage worth more than $400,000 -- mostly to the cotton, which is grown throughout the Central Asian region. sk-cr/as/wdb
3 May 14:08 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/tens-of-thousands-evacuated-after-uzbekistan-dam-bursts/story-CKcV9EGD2nqGo9xguUsDMP.htmlRating: 0.30
Nearly 100,000 evacuated after Uzbekistan dam bursts
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan – Nearly 100,000 people have been displaced in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan after an Uzbek dam burst, flooding thousands of homes and destroying agricultural fields. The wall of the Sardoba reservoir dam in eastern Uzbekistan burst early on Friday triggering a government operation that saw 70,000 people evacuated. More than 50 people were hospitalised during the flooding in Uzbekistan. Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev tweeted on Sunday that 10 Kazakh villages close to the Uzbek border had suffered "strong flooding" forcing authorities to evacuate 22,000 people. Tokayev also said the two governments were in talks after Kazakh officials complained of significant damages and not receiving timely information from Uzbekistan about flooding. Uzbekistan said earlier Sunday that a criminal probe had been opened into "official negligence" and construction violations. Construction of the Sardoba dam began in 2010 under the supervision of current President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who was prime minister at the time. It was completed in 2017. Mirziyoyev on Friday flew to the region, which saw strong winds and rains prior to the collapse of the dam, in order to oversee the evacuation and cleanup operation. Officials in Kazakhstan's southern Turkestan region criticised Uzbekistan for not providing timely information on the status of flood control on Saturday. "We have a copy of our correspondence with the Uzbek side, that as of (8 pm on Friday) the situation was stable and there were no problems," said Saken Kalkamanov, deputy governor of the Turkestan region. "They said that not a drop of water would reach Maktaraal district," he said, referring to the area where the flood hit. "Nevertheless, what happened has happened." The administration of the Turkestan region estimated the floods caused crop damage worth more than $400,000 -- mostly to cotton, which is grown throughout the Central Asian region. – Rappler.com
3 May 14:01 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/south-central-asia/259799-thousands-evacuated-uzbekistan-dam-burstsRating: 1.64
Uzbek Authorities Launch Probe Into Burst Dam That Prompted Mass Evacuation
Uzbek authorities on May 3 launched a criminal probe after a newly constructed dam burst, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from both Uzbekistan and neighboring Kazakhstan. The dam of the Sardoba Reservoir in the eastern Uzbek region of Sirdaryo burst early on May 1 and at least 70,000 people have been evacuated, while more than 50 people were hospitalized. SEE ALSO: Uzbek Dam Bursts, Forcing Evacuation Of Thousands Of Villagers Over 600 homes in southern Kazakhstan have also been flooded. Uzbekistan's State Prosecutor said on May 3 that a criminal probe had been opened into "official negligence" and construction rules violations. The Sardoba Reservoir was completed in 2017 after seven years of construction work that began under the supervision of current President Shavkat Mirziyoev, who was prime minister at the time. Mirziyoev on May 1 flew to the region to oversee the evacuation and cleanup operation. The region had experienced strong winds and heavy rains prior to the collapse of the dam. Officials in Kazakhstan's southern Turkistan region, where more than 5,000 people have been evacuated so far, have criticized Uzbekistan for not providing timely information on the status of flood control. "We have a copy of our correspondence with the Uzbek side, that as of (8 p.m. on May 1) the situation was stable and there were no problems," said Saken Kalkamanov, deputy governor of the Turkistan region, on May 2. "They said that not a drop of water would reach Maktaraal district," he said, referring to the area where the flood hit. "Nevertheless, what happened has happened." Kazakh officials say the floods caused crop damage worth more than $400,000 -- mostly to cotton. Uzbekistan also has signed a $23 million contract with China for the construction of a hydroelectric power station at the site of the dam. The Chinese hydroelectric project had been scheduled for completion in 2022.
3 May 13:01 • Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty • https://www.rferl.org/a/uzbek-authorities-launch-probe-burst-dam-that-prompted-mass-evaucation/30590291.htmlRating: 0.57
Tens of thousands evacuated after Uzbekistan dam bursts
Uzbek authorities on Sunday launched a criminal probe after a major dam burst, prompting the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from flooded homes there and in Kazakhstan. The wall of the Sardoba reservoir dam in eastern Uzbekistan burst early on Friday and at least 70,000 people have been evacuated. More than 50 people were hospitalised. Over 600 homes in southern Kazakhstan have also been flooded. Uzbekistan’s state prosecutor said on Sunday that a criminal case had been opened into “official negligence” and construction violations. Construction of the Sardoba dam began in 2010 under the supervision of current President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who was prime minister at the time. It was completed in 2017. Mirziyoyev on Friday flew to the region, which saw strong winds and rains prior to the collapse of the dam, in order to oversee the evacuation and cleanup operation. Officials in Kazakhstan’s southern Turkestan region, where more than 5,000 people have been evacuated so far, criticised Uzbekistan for not providing timely information on the status of flood control Saturday. “We have a copy of our correspondence with the Uzbek side, that as of (8 pm on Friday) the situation was stable and there were no problems,” said Saken Kalkamanov, deputy governor of the Turkestan region. “They said that not a drop of water would reach Maktaraal district,” he said, referring to the area where the flood hit. “Nevertheless, what happened has happened.” The administration of the Turkestan region estimated that the floods caused crop damage worth more than $400,000 — mostly to the cotton, which is grown throughout the Central Asian region.
3 May 11:02 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/tens-of-thousands-evacuated-after-uzbekistan-dam-bursts/Rating: 0.30
11 pvt buses ferry migrant labourers from Rajkot to MP
3 May 20:14
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11 pvt buses ferry migrant labourers from Rajkot to MP
More than 400 migrant workers set out by 11 private buses for their home state of Madhya Pradesh from various parts of Rajkot district over the past two days and the process will continue in coming days also, Rajkot district administration officials said on Sunday. Chaos reigned when several workers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar working with various MSMEs in Rajkot city assembled at Ahir Chowk, demanding they be allowed to return home. Police intervened and dispersed the crowd from the public square. “We issued permissions to eight private buses arranged by people privately to go to Madhya Pradesh yesterday (May 2). Around 350 people left for MP on board those buses. Today, permission was issued to three more buses,” Rajkot District Collector Remya Mohan told media persons on Sunday. Meanwhile, two buses with 69 agricultural labourers left for Madhya Pradesh from Moviya village of Gondal taluka while one mini bus from Jetpur left with 14 other labourers on Sunday. “Village sarpanches helped labourers arrange for these buses at the latter’s cost. All the workers were medically screened at Moviya and Jetpur before they were allowed to board buses,” Rajesh Aal, sub-divisional magistrate of Gondal told The Indian Express. The SMD said that local government officers are helping these labourers register themselves on http://www.digitalgujrarat.gov.in platform to facilitate their return. “The 69 labourers who left from Moviya are from Katani district of MP while the 14 who left from Jetpur are native of Bhind. The buses will drop them to district headquarters from where local district administrations would help them reach home,” Aal added. Mohan said that there were plans to run trains to facilitate the return of migrant workers from faraway states, while those hailing from neighbouring states like Madhya Pradesh would be allowed to return to their homes via road. “There are around 25,000 migrant labourers in 87 villages of Gondal taluka and around 12,000 in Jetpur taluka. Of them, 17,000 and 8,000 respectively have expressed their wish to go back to their homes. We are making arrangements for those who can afford to travel back to their homes,” Aal said, adding the fares are higher as the buses do not have permission to ferry passengers during the return journey. Leader of Opposition, Paresh Dhanani demanded that the government should bear the cost of return migration of labourers from Gujarat. “The government should arrange for free journey for the poor labourer families who have been battling unemployment and hunger in times of coronaviruspandemic,” Dhanani tweeted on Sunday.
3 May 20:14 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/11-pvt-buses-ferry-migrant-labourers-from-rajkot-to-mp-6392437/Rating: 0.30
Delhi: Students back from Kota, to remain in home isolation
On Sunday morning, 480 students from Delhi studying in coaching centres in Kota reached home. While the government had made arrangements to bring back over 800 students, it turned out only around half of them belonged to Delhi. Stuck in the city famous for engineering and medical entrance coaching centres, the Delhi government had sent 40 buses to bring them back once the Centre passed directions extending certain travel relaxations. The buses left for Kota on Friday and reached Delhi on Sunday. “At ISBT Kashmere Gate, 11 counters were made for each district of Delhi. Every student was screened by medical teams and social distancing was maintained. DTC buses then dropped them at their homes as parents were not allowed to go to ISBT,” said a government official. The students were divided into groups of 17 and assigned buses which dropped them off at bus stops closest to their homes. The students will now have to stay in home isolation for 14 days. “I finally reached my home in Mundka around 11 am. My parents had got permission from the local police to come pick me up from the bus stop… It’s a huge relief to be back home. The stress was taking a toll on my father’s health,” he said. The Delhi government, meanwhile, has drawn up a standard operating procedure to bring Delhi residents stranded in other states, back to the city. The government has appointed nodal officers who have to coordinate with different states. Once they have details of the people who are stranded, the government will send buses to designated spots in those states. Screening will be done and only those who are asymptomatic will be allowed to board. Once in Delhi, they will be screened again after which they have to remain in home quarantine for 14 days. The procedure also said that everyone should download the Aarogya Setu mobile phone application so that their “health status can be monitored and tracked”.
3 May 21:19 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhi-kota-students-home-isolation-6392463/Rating: 0.30
Karnataka Announces Free Intra-state Bus Travel For Migrant Labourers Wanting To Return To Their Native Districts
The Karnataka government today (May 3) announced that migrant labourers returning home could travel for free for the next three days on intra-state buses. Acoording to a official release by the Chief Minister's Office, the decision to permit free trips in the state buses would be applicable till Tuesday and KSRTC buses would not charge any fares to migrant labourers wanting to return to their native districts within the state. On Saurday, Karnataka government had announced that it will charge only one-way fare for ferrying migrant workers in buses to their native places across the state. "Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa has directed the state-run transport corporation to charge migrant workers only one-way fare for commuting to their native places," the official said in a statement on Saturday. The decision was taken after the migrant workers complained to the state government that the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) was charging them to and fro fare as the buses will return to the depots empty after dropping them at their respective places. In the last week of April, KSRTC faciliated the return of at least 15,000 stranded migrant labourers from the state to their home towns by plying 518 exclusive buses for them. The state has also limited the number of passengers. Each bus with a capacity of 55 passengers will run with 30 people. Though the idea is to maintain distance between individuals during the travel, the government has charged the migrants for the vacant seats
3 May 12:19 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/karnataka-announces-free-intra-state-bus-travel-for-migrant-labourers-wanting-to-return-to-their-native-districtsRating: 1.22
Coronavirus lockdown: Karnataka announces free bus travel for labourers
The Karnataka government on Sunday announced that migrant labourers returning home could travel for free for the next three days on state-run buses. Track live updates on coronavirus hereA release by the Chief Minister's Office said that the decision would be applicable till Tuesday and KSRTC buses would not charge any fares to migrant labourers wanting to return to their native districts within the state. Also Read: Coronavirus lockdown: After migrant workers' cries, Karnataka govt cancels costly bus fares The order came after widespread criticism against the government's decision to levy high ticket charges for labourers returning home, which was subsequently reduced on Saturday. A day later, however, the government decided to ensure free transport facilities for their benefit. Also Read: Coronavirus India update: State-wise total number of confirmed cases Karnataka CM B S Yediyurappa has urged the labourers to maintain social distancing at the bus station and assured adequate facilities would be provided for them..
3 May 11:37 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/state/top-karnataka-stories/coronavirus-lockdown-karnataka-announces-free-bus-travel-for-labourers-832952.htmlRating: 2.25
Free inter-district bus facility for stranded people to travel within Karnataka for 3 days
Bengaluru: In a bid to help people, including large number of labourers, from Karnataka stranded within the state due to the COVID-19 lockdown, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa said free bus services would be operated for three days from Sunday for them to reach their native places. The expenses will be borne by the government, he said appealing to the people to make use of the opportunity that will be available till Tuesday and not to create rush at bus stands. "Keeping in mind the situation of poor labourers, for three days from today, free KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) bus facilities will be made available for those travelling to their native places in Karnataka from various district headquarters and capital Bengaluru city," the Chief Minister said in a statement. The move came amid complaints that the fare charged by the state-run transport corporation was too high. The high fare, fixed since the buses were operated on a contract basis and not as regular services, also drew criticism from various quarters including opposition parties. State Congress President D K Shivakumar said the party was contributing Rs 1 crore to the transport corporation for ensuring 'free' travel to the workers and said if the government wanted more funds would be made available. Allowing one-time inter state and inter district movement of those stranded, the government had earlier said, those wanting to travel will have to bear the travel expenses, and buses will be made available if required. Thousands of labourers on Saturday expressed their inability to pay the higher fare that was fixed for commuting in KSRTC buses as the services were being arranged on a contract basis. However, following the intervention of the Chief Minister later it was decided to charge single fare tariff for workers travelling by KSRTC buses within the state. In further relief, Yediyurappa issued orders on Sunday making it free travel. Officials said buses will be available from 10 am to 6 pm at the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation's bus stand at Majestic here and requested the public to maintain social distancing while coming to board the buses. The passengers would also be subjected to screening to detect if they have any COVID-19 symptoms such as fever. There are adequate number of buses for travel, and required health check up will be made before boarding the bus, the officials said. "No one will be allowed to get down from the bus in between and all passengers will be dropped at designated bus stand, where once again health checkup will be done and home quarantine related information will be give," they added. Shivakumar tweeted: "Giving Rs 1 crore cheque to KSRTC from the KPCC for ensuring free transport to our working class & labour people who are suffering to reach home because of the rates being charged by the Karnataka Govt. Govt should let us know if they need more, the KPCC will fulfill that as well." "Bus facilities for those wanting to go home have been very inadequate. Thousands are suffering without food & water at bus stands. Karnataka Govt must wake up to their sufferings," he said in another tweet.
3 May 08:03 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/free-inter-district-bus-facility-for-stranded-people-to-travel-within-karnataka-for-3-days/articleshow/75516155.cmsRating: 0.30
Karnataka announces three-day free travel on buses for migrant workers within state
In a relief for thousands of migrant workers in Karnataka longing to travel back to their native places in the state amid the coronavirus lockdown, the BS Yediyurappa government Sunday announced free travel on state-run buses for the next three days. “Workers and poor wage laborers have been allowed to travel in KSRTC buses free of charge from district centers and capital city Bengaluru to their hometowns in Karnataka for three days from today (Sunday),” a statement from the Karnataka Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) read. To the delight of thousands of such workers waiting at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda Bus Stand (Majestic) on Sunday, the announcements were made through public announcement systems in the terminal. On Saturday, the government had announced that it would charge only one-way fare. “Only one-way fare will be collected and not two-way fare. Earlier, the bus transport facility was considered as a contract carriage since only 30 passengers were being allowed. It has now been decided to collect only one-way fare and the labour department will bear the remaining cost,” Karnataka Education Minister Suresh Kumar had said. The state government had drawn widespread criticism for demanding inflated fares from migrant workers for their travel back home to rural areas in the state from cities as 60-seat buses would carry 30 passengers for physical distancing and return vacant. For instance, labourers alleged that for a 500-km trip to Bagalkot district in north Karnataka, KSRTC demanded around Rs 1,300 from each passenger, over four times more than the regular fare of Rs 300. However, even after the CM’s repeated requests to maintain social distancing in public places, norms continued to be compromised at the bus stand on Sunday, with few people around to control the crowds.
3 May 07:45 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/karnataka-lockdown-free-travel-on-buses-for-migrant-workers-6391619/Rating: 0.30
Karnataka government directs KSRTC to arrange free travel for labourers for next 3 days
Under fire from all sections for charging double fare to migrant labourers on their return to their native places, the Karnataka government has decided to organise free travel facilities for the next three days, starting today. In a statement released on Sunday, Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa informed that he has directed the State run Karnataka State Road Transport Corporations (KSRTC) to provide free travel facility for all labourers who wish to return to their homes. Opposition parties and human rights organisations had slammed the government for charging double fare to distressed and jobless labourers stranded in Bengaluru following the lockdown. Mirror had, on May 2, reported that the KSRTC ferried about 1,000 people to districts such as Raichur and Yadgir on Friday. It charged anywhere between Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,400 per passenger. Also, the buses used for ferrying the workers will be sanitised and social distancing norms will be maintained. In the meantime, following demands of the state governments, the Indian Railways ran ‘Shramik Special’ trains to move the stranded labourers, pilgrims, tourists and students. The first special train from Karnataka with 1,190 migrant workers left Chikkabanavara station in Bengaluru east at 9:26 am today for Bhubaneswar. You may also like to watch:KSRTC buses ferry people to their destinations from Kempegowda Bus Station00:34
3 May 06:31 • Bangalore Mirror • https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/karnataka-government-directs-ksrtc-to-arrange-free-travel-for-labourers-for-next-3-days/articleshow/75515336.cmsRating: 0.30
Karnataka govt. announces free transportation for migrant workers after facing flak for high fares
After facing flak for charging exorbitant fares to transport stranded migrants, the State Government on Sunday morning announced that they will ferry migrants to their respective districts without any fare for three days starting from Sunday. The services will be available from Sunday till Tuesday from BMTC Bus Stand, Majestic. Also read:Shramik special trains | Migrant workers, other stranded people to pay ₹50 more to get home Meanwhile, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) on Sunday donated ₹1 crore to KSRTC to facilitate free ferrying of stranded labourers to their respective districts. In a letter to KSRTC MD, KPCC president-designate D.K.Shivakumar said that the amount be used to ferry stranded migrants. "If necessity arises, KPCC is ready to contribute more," the letter read. Also read:Hundreds throng Majestic to find a bus to take them home On Saturday, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operated 120 buses from Majestic in Bengaluru to various districts in which 3,600 people had travelled paying single charge. Earlier, KSRTC came under attack for charging exorbitant amounts after which Chief Minister B.S. YediyurappA intervened and directed KSRTC to charge only single fares. He directed the Labour Department to bear the other side’s fare. The first Shramik special train from the city left to Bhubaneswar on Sunday morning. The train, with 1190 people, left Chikbanawara Station in Bengaluru at 9.26 a.m. The State government had arranged BMTC buses to ferry people to the railway station.
3 May 06:31 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-govt-announces-free-transportation-for-stranded-migrant-workers-after-facing-flak-for-high-fares/article31493692.eceRating: 0.30
Coronavirus lockdown: 500 students stranded in Kota reach Delhi in 40 buses
Help desks were set up at Kashmere Gate ISBT where doctors, police personnel, transport, civil defence and other personnel were deployed to assist the students for medical tests and boarding DTC buses for their homes Nearly 500 Delhi students stranded at coaching hub Kota in Rajasthan during the lockdown reached Kashmere Gate ISBT here in 40 buses early Sunday morning. Delhi's Transport minister Kailash Gahlot said the students would be sent to their homes from Kashmere Gate ISBT after medical tests. Help desks were set up at Kashmere Gate inter state bus terminus (ISBT) where doctors, police personnel, transport, civil defence and other personnel were deployed to assist the students for medical tests and boarding DTC buses for their homes. Also read: Coronavirus India Live Updates: Lockdown 3.0! 2,644 new cases in 24 hours; biggest 1-day spike; tally-37,776 "A total of 480 students have been brought from Kota. All the students are reportedly fine," said Rajiv Singh,M (Central) nodal officer for the evacuation operation of the Delhi government. The students preparing for competitive medical and engineering exams were stranded in Kota for weeks during the coronavirus-induced lockdown and appeals were made by their parents to the Delhi government to bring them back. Also read:Coronavirus pandemic can't stop America or Berkshire Hathaway: Warren Buffett Also read: Lockdown 3.0: PM Modi discusses plan to spur growth in MSMEs as India heads for partial reopening
3 May 05:21 • Business Today • https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/coronavirus-lockdown-500-students-stranded-in-kota-reach-delhi-in-40-buses/story/402721.htmlRating: 2.10
500 students stranded in Kota reach Delhi in 40 buses
New Delhi, May 3: Nearly 500 Delhi students stranded at coaching hub Kota in Rajasthan during the lockdown reached Kashmere Gate ISBT here in 40 buses early Sunday morning. Delhi's Transport minister Kailash Gahlot said the students would be sent to their homes from Kashmere Gate ISBT after medical tests. Help desks were set up at Kashmere Gate inter state bus terminus (ISBT) where doctors, police personnel, transport, civil defence and other personnel were deployed to assist the students for medical tests and boarding DTC buses for their homes. "A total of 480 students have been brought from Kota. All the students are reportedly fine," said Rajiv Singh, ADM (Central) nodal officer for the evacuation operation of the Delhi government. The students preparing for competitive medical and engineering exams were stranded in Kota for weeks during the coronavirus-induced lockdown and appeals were made by their parents to the Delhi government to bring them back.
3 May 02:40 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/500-students-stranded-in-kota-reach-delhi-in-40-buses-3081995.htmlRating: 0.30
CM’s advice on ferrying labourers
Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa has asked the Transport Department to charge one-way fare to migrant labourers being ferried from Bengaluru to north Karnataka districts. At a video conferencing with leaders from Belagavi on Saturday, he told officials the Labour Department would reimburse the cost of transport to KSRTC and other STUs. Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Laxman Savadi refused to ferry migrant labourers from Bengaluru to their districts in north Karnataka free of cost. He defended the KSRTC charging three times the fare for ferrying the labourers. “KSRTC and other State transport undertakings are just recovering their cost. Due to social distancing, the buses are operating at half the capacity. And then, after dropping them at their places, the empty buses should return to Bengaluru. That means for every trip, we are spending three times the fare. That is why we are collecting triple fares,’’ he told journalists. However, at the CM’s video conference, he agreed to the suggestion to collect only one-way fare.
2 May 13:49 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/cms-advice-on-ferrying-labourers/article31489935.eceRating: 0.30
Covid-19: Migrant workers, students board special trains, buses to reach home amid lockdown
Hundreds of migrant workers and students, stranded amid the nationwide lockdown to control the rapidly-spreading Covid-19, on Saturday boarded special trains and buses to return home. The government had initially allowed inter-state travel only by road but arranged for the trains after requests from several states. The Opposition had also pointed out that road transport alone was not enough to carry lakhs of migrant workers home and had raised concerns about social distancing in crowded buses. The first special train for Uttar Pradesh, carrying over 800 migrant workers, started from Maharashtra’s Nashik on Saturday morning, ANI reported, quoting the state’s Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Awasthi. The workers are scheduled to reach Lucknow on Sunday morning. Another train carrying 1,200 migrant labourers arrived at Patna station. District Magistrate Kumar Ravi said that workers will be screened for Covid-19 before being sent to their native places. Around 1,100 migrant workers left for their home states from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram Police Commissioner Balramkumar Upadhyaya said that authorities were taking all necessary precautions and getting help from the police. Two trains will also run from Kochi, according to NDTV. Forty buses sent by the Delhi government reached Rajasthan’s Kota city on Saturday morning to bring back stranded students. Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said that each bus will carry not more than 20 students. “The students will be screened at the time of departure and arrival,” he added. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation said that it will run around 100 buses depending on the migrant labourers turning up at the bus station in Bengaluru. “Our bus passenger capacity is 55 but we operating with 30 passengers only after health checkups,” the state transporter’s central traffic manager said. The Ministry of Home Affairs had on Friday afternoon allowed movement of migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and “other persons” by special ‘Sharmik’ trains to be operated by the Railways amid the nationwide lockdown. The first special train carrying 1,200 migrants left from Telangana for Hatia in Jharkhand the same day. Struggling to make ends meet amid the lockdown, lakhs of migrant workers have demanded permission to go back to their hometowns. Many have attempted to travel home on foot, but have been stopped due to the closure of state borders. Some have died on the way. The Centre has extended the nationwide lockdown for two more weeks from May 4. Travel by air, rail, metro and inter-state movement by road – except for stranded workers and students – is still banned. The number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 37,336, according to the health ministry’s Saturday morning update. Covid-19 has killed 1,218 people in the country. Follow today’s live updates on the coronavirus pandemic
2 May 11:46 • Scroll.in • https://scroll.in/latest/960859/covid-19-migrant-workers-students-board-special-trains-buses-to-reach-home-amid-lockdownRating: 0.30
Delhi High Court registry official tests COVID-19 positive, admitted in LNJP Hospital
3 May 15:18
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4 articles
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Average US: 2.915
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Weighted average GB: 0.25794953375292407
Average IN: 65.1775
Weighted average IN: 81.25393054725059
Delhi High Court registry official tests COVID-19 positive, admitted in LNJP Hospital
NEW DELHI: A Delhi High Court registry official has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital, sources said. According to high court sources, the official has not been coming to the court complex since March 20. The official, posted in the Original side registry, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and his condition is stated to be stable, the sources said. The high court is keeping a close track of the employee's health and has offered any kind of help required to the family. Sources said the Registrar General, on behalf of the Chief Justice, has enquired about the well-being of the staff and one senior official has been deputed to check on his health on a regular basis. CLICK HERE FOR COVID-19 LIVE UPDATES "He is stated to be alright and stable. He is admitted in a ward and thankfully, recovering well. He has, so far, not been able to find out as to how he got infected, but fact remains that since March 20, he never came to the court complex even for a single day," one of the sources said.
3 May 15:18 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2020/may/03/delhi-high-court-registry-official-tests-covid-19-positive-admitted-in-lnjp-hospital-2138629.htmlRating: 2.04
Delhi HC Registry Official Tests COVID-19 Positive, Admitted In LNJP Hospital
General News Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 16:41 IST A Delhi High Court registry official has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital, sources said. According to high court sources, the official has not been coming to the court complex since March 20. The official, posted in the Original side registry, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and his condition is stated to be stable, the sources said. The high court is keeping a close track of the employee's health and has offered any kind of help required to the family. Sources said the Registrar General, on behalf of the Chief Justice, has enquired about the well-being of the staff and one senior official has been deputed to check on his health on a regular basis. "He is stated to be alright and stable. He is admitted in a ward and thankfully, recovering well. He has, so far, not been able to find out as to how he got infected, but fact remains that since March 20, he never came to the court complex even for a single day," one of the sources said.
3 May 16:41 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/delhi-hc-registry-official-tests-covid-19-positive-admitted-in-lnjp-hospital.htmlRating: 2.30
Delhi High Court registry official tests positive
New Delhi: A Delhi high court registry official has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital, sources s... New Delhi: A Delhi high court registry official has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to the Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital, sources said. According to high court sources, the official has not been coming to the court complex since March 20. The official, posted in the original side registry, was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and his condition is stated to be stable, the sources said. The high court is keeping a close track of the employee's health and has offered any kind of help required to the family. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 21:24 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/delhi-high-court-registry-official-tests-positive-620648Rating: 1.10
HC registry official tests COVID-19 positive
A Delhi High Court registry official has tested positive for COVID-19 and has been admitted to Lok Nayak Hospital here. The person is stated to be stable. The Registrar General, on behalf of the Chief Justice of Delhi High Court, has enquired about the well-being of the staff and one senior official has been deputed to check on his health on a regular basis. The official has also been requested to inform the Registrar General in case of need or assistance of any kind either for himself or his family members, a High Court source said. According to sources, the official has not been coming to the court complex since March 20. “He has, so far, not been able to find out as to how he got infected,” the source said. The official was admitted to the hospital on Saturday.
3 May 19:04 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/hc-registry-official-tests-covid-19-positive/article31496515.eceRating: 0.30
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley charged with stalking
3 May 23:05
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3 articles
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Average US: 3.333333333333333
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 2.133333333333333
Weighted average IN: 1.9028694829018549
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley charged with stalking
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley has been remanded in custody on stalking and other charges. Police said the 1996 AFL Premiership winner with the Kangaroos faced Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday and will remain in custody until May 11. He did not apply for bail. The 53-year-old father of three was arrested on Saturday night after an incident outside a home in St Kilda about 9pm, police said in a statement. The Moonee Ponds man was charged with one count of stalking and other matters. “As the matter is before the court it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,” a Victoria Police spokeswoman said in a statement. Laidley played 151 games for West Coast and North Melbourne, then coaching the Kangaroos for six-and-a-half seasons before leaving in 2009. He is the head coach of Maribyrnong Park in the Essendon District Football League.
3 May 23:05 • The New Daily • https://thenewdaily.com.au/sport/2020/05/03/afl-coach-dean-laidley-charged-stalking/Rating: 0.78
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley charged with stalking
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley has been arrested and charged with stalking. Mr Laidley made a brief appearance in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Sunday and was remanded in custody to face court again on May 11. He was arrested outside a St Kilda home about 9pm on Saturday. The 53-year-old was charged with stalking and other matters, police said. "As the matter is before the court it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time," a Victoria Police spokeswoman said in a statement. Mr Laidley coached the Kangaroos for seven years, playing 151 games for both North Melbourne and West Coast. The former premiership player is now the head coach of Maribyrnong Park in the Essendon District Football League. An unverified photograph, seen by The Age, that appeared to show Mr Laidley being interviewed by police was circulated online on Sunday night. The photo appeared to have been taken inside a police station. A police spokesman said the force's internal investigator, Professional Standards Command, has been notified. "At this stage it would be inappropriate to comment further," he said. Defence lawyer Dee Giannopoulos, from Doogue & George, said taking and leaking the photo was a gross breach of privacy. "Outraged that pictures of my client, taken by some police officer, on the sly, when in custody in interview have hit the media," she wrote on Twitter. Bill Doogue, from the same firm, said it was disgraceful and police needed to investigate.
3 May 10:30 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/former-north-melbourne-coach-dean-laidley-charged-with-stalking-20200503-p54pg2.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_national_victoriaRating: 2.20
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley charged with stalking
Former North Melbourne coach Dean Laidley has been arrested and charged with stalking. Mr Laidley made a brief appearance in the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Sunday and was remanded in custody to face court again on May 11. He was arrested outside a St Kilda home about 9pm on Saturday. The 53-year-old was charged with stalking and other matters, police said. "As the matter is before the court it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time," a Victoria Police spokeswoman said in a statement. Mr Laidley coached the Kangaroos for seven years, playing 151 games for both North Melbourne and West Coast. The former premiership player is now the head coach of Maribyrnong Park in the Essendon District Football League. An unverified photograph, seen by The Age, that appeared to show Mr Laidley being interviewed by police was circulated online on Sunday night. The photo appeared to have been taken inside a police station. A police spokesman said the force's internal investigator, Professional Standards Command, has been notified. "At this stage it would be inappropriate to comment further," he said.
3 May 10:30 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/victoria/former-north-melbourne-coach-dean-laidley-charged-with-stalking-20200503-p54pg2.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feedRating: 0.86
Delhi airport to resume flights from Terminal 3 post lockdown, ultraviolet tunnel to clean bags
3 May 17:12
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8 articles
Weight: 1.47
Importance: 1.48
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Best date: 3 May 12:04
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 33.6875
Weighted average IN: 72.07850794047361
Delhi airport to resume flights from Terminal 3 post lockdown, ultraviolet tunnel to clean bags
NEW DELHI: Commercial passenger flights at Delhi airport will initially operate from Terminal 3 after the lockdown ends, said a senior official of its operator DIAL on Sunday, adding that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays will be allocated to airlines to avoid overcrowding by air travellers. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use "ultraviolet disinfection tunnels" for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led Delhi International Airport Ltd. The plan said the passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them check-in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. All international airlines' passengers would be entering the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be sitting at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL's exit plan stated that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines to ensure smooth flow of passengers from forecourt into check-in hall and security thereafter. India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected around 40,000 people and killed more than 1,300 people in the country till now. All commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period. However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. "Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger fights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used," the DIAL official said. The DIAL would be preparing stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. Moreover, DIAL would encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues.
3 May 17:12 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/delhi/2020/may/03/delhi-airport-to-resume-flights-from-terminal-3-post-lockdown-ultraviolet-tunnel-to-clean-bags-2138661.htmlRating: 2.04
IGIA plan: Separate check-in bays, entry gates for airlines
To ensure social distancing at the Indira Gandhi International Airport once the lockdown is lifted, the Delhi Airport International Limited (DIAL) has decided that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays will be allocated to airlines to avoid overcrowding by air travellers, and commercial passengers flights will initially operate from Terminal-3. “The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use ‘ultraviolet disinfection tunnels’ for all incoming baggage,” states a plan prepared by DIAL, which they released Sunday. As per the plan, passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. “These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them,” an officer said. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and head to row H. All international airlines’ passengers would enter using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. While commercial passenger flights have been suspended during the lockdown, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. “Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger fights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used,” the DIAL official said. DIAL would also prepare stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. It will also encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues.
3 May 22:25 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhi-igi-airport-post-lockdown-plan-flights-6392501/Rating: 0.30
Delhi: Flight operations to begin from Terminal 3 after lockdown
All commercial passenger flights at Delhi airport will initially operate only from Terminal 3 once the lockdown ends, a Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) official said on Sunday. “Initially, once the lockdown is over, commercial passenger flights will be operate from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increases, other terminals will be used,” the DIAL official was quoted by PTI as saying. Airlines will be allocated specific entry gates, self-check-in counters and check-in bays to avoid overcrowding of passengers. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to prevent congestion, and use “ultraviolet disinfection tunnels” for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led DIAL. Click here for more The plan said Vistara and IndiGo fliers will enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would help them check in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers will enter through gate 5 towards rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. All international airlines’ passengers will enter the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines will sit at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL will prepare stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. The DIAL will also encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues. The Centre has extended the coronavirus lockdown a second time, till May 17, which means all domestic and passenger commercial flights remain banned. The indication from government officials, however, is that flights are expected to resume with 25-30 per cent capacity mid-May onwards. In a communication to airport managers across the country, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) asked all airports to be in preparedness to handle flight operations. Issuing a set of standard operating procedures, AAI’s directorate of operations said: “Once the lockdown period is declared to be over, airports shall be facilitating limited domestic/international scheduled flights in phases, to start with, may be at 30 per cent capacity to facilitate required social distancing.” It added initially, airline operations may be limited to Tier-l cities and major Tier-ll cities. (With inputs from PTI)
3 May 13:51 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/delhi-flight-operations-to-begin-from-terminal-3-after-lockdown-6392049/Rating: 0.30
Lockdown 3.0: Delhi airport to resume flights from Terminal 3
The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use "ultraviolet disinfection tunnels" for all incoming baggage Commercial passenger flights at Delhi airport will initially operate from Terminal 3 after the lockdown ends, said a senior official of its operator DIAL on Sunday, adding that entry gates, self-check-in machines and check-in bays will be allocated to airlines to avoid overcrowding by air travellers. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use "ultraviolet disinfection tunnels" for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led Delhi International Airport Ltd. The plan said the passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them check-in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. All international airlines' passengers would be entering the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be sitting at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL's exit plan stated that entry gates, self-check-in machines and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines to ensure smooth flow of passengers from the forecourt into check-in hall and security thereafter. India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected around 40,000 people and killed more than 1,300 people in the country till now. All commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period. However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. "Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger flights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used," the DIAL official said. The DIAL would be preparing stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. Moreover, DIAL would encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues.
3 May 13:50 • Business Today • https://www.businesstoday.in/sectors/aviation/lockdown-30-delhi-airport-to-resume-flights-from-terminal-3/story/402755.htmlRating: 2.10
Domestic flights to start operating at Delhi airport T3 after lockdown: Sources
Flight operations will be resuming at the Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 3 after the extended nationwide lockdown to contain the spread of Covid-19 ends, sources said on Sunday. Sources said that the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has decided to operationalise T3 first at the Delhi airport. Domestic flight services will be resuming to begin with, they said. However, the final guidelines and approval is awaited from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the sources said. In case the Aviation Ministry advises otherwise, the plans to open the airport could be amended. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use "ultraviolet disinfection tunnels" for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led Delhi International Airport Ltd. The plan said the passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them check-in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. All international airlines' passengers would be entering the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be sitting at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL's exit plan stated that entry gates, self-check-in machines and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines to ensure smooth flow of passengers from forecourt into check-in hall and security thereafter. India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected around 40,000 people and killed more than 1,300 people in the country till now. All commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period. However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. "Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger fights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used," the DIAL official said. The DIAL would be preparing stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. Moreover, DIAL would encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues. (With PTI inputs)
3 May 15:31 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/domestic-flights-to-start-operating-at-delhi-airport-t3-after-lockdown-sources-1673985-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
Delhi airport to resume flights from Terminal 3 after lockdown: Report
Commercial passenger flights at Delhi airport will initially operate from Terminal 3 after the lockdown ends, said a senior official of its operator DIAL on Sunday, adding that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays will be allocated to airlines to avoid overcrowding by air travellers. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use "ultraviolet disinfection tunnels" for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led Delhi International Airport Ltd. The plan said the passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. ALSO READ: Work relaxation amid lockdown fails to convince migrants to stay put These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them check-in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. ALSO READ: LIVE: Forces boost morale of corona warriors, PM Modi says great gesture All international airlines' passengers would be entering the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be sitting at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL's exit plan stated that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines to ensure smooth flow of passengers from forecourt into check-in hall and security thereafter. India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected around 40,000 people and killed more than 1,300 people in the country till now. All commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period. However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. ALSO READ: Covid-19: As trains roll in, states scurry to cope with migrant influx "Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger fights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used," the DIAL official said. The DIAL would be preparing stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. Moreover, DIAL would encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues.
3 May 12:20 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/delhi-airport-to-resume-flights-from-terminal-3-after-lockdown-official-120050300665_1.htmlRating: 0.30
Delhi airport to resume flights from Terminal 3 post lockdown
New Delhi: Commercial passenger flights at Delhi airport will initially operate from Terminal 3 after the lockdown ends, said a senior official of its operator DIAL on Sunday, adding that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays will be allocated to airlines to avoid overcrowding by air travellers. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use “ultraviolet disinfection tunnels” for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led Delhi International Airport Ltd. The plan said the passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them check-in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. All international airlines’ passengers would be entering the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be sitting at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL’s exit plan stated that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines to ensure smooth flow of passengers from forecourt into check-in hall and security thereafter. India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected around 40,000 people and killed more than 1,300 people in the country till now. All commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period. However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. “Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger fights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used,” the DIAL official said. The DIAL would be preparing stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. Moreover, DIAL would encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues. ThePrint is now on Telegram. For the best reports & opinion on politics, governance and more, subscribe to ThePrint on Telegram. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
3 May 12:04 • ThePrint • https://theprint.in/india/delhi-airport-to-resume-flights-from-terminal-3-post-lockdown/413624/Rating: 1.95
Delhi airport to resume flights from Terminal 3 post lockdown
NEW DELHI: Commercial passenger flights at Delhi airport will initially operate from Terminal 3 after the lockdown ends, said a senior official of its operator DIAL on Sunday, adding that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays will be allocated to airlines to avoid overcrowding by air travellers. The airport will keep all food, beverage and retail shops open to avoid overcrowding at one place and use "ultraviolet disinfection tunnels" for all incoming baggage, according to a plan prepared by the GMR group-led Delhi International Airport Limited The plan said the passengers of Vistara and IndiGo would enter the airport through gates 1 and 2 only. These two airlines will have check-in rows A, B and C among them, it said. AirAsia India and Air India passengers will use entry gates 3 and 4. These passengers will then go to rows D, E and F where the staff of these two airlines would assist them check-in, according to the plan. SpiceJet and GoAir passengers would enter through gate 5 towards the staff of these two airlines at rows G and H for check-in. Passengers of all other domestic airlines will enter through gate 5 and will head to row H, the plan said. All international airlines' passengers would be entering the airport using gates 6, 7 and 8. The staff of these airlines would be sitting at rows J, K, L and M for check-in at Terminal 3. The DIAL's exit plan stated that entry gates, self check-in machines and check-in bays would be allocated to airlines to ensure smooth flow of passengers from forecourt into check-in hall and security thereafter. India has been under a lockdown since March 25 to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has infected around 40,000 people and killed more than 1,300 people in the country till now. All commercial passenger flights have been suspended for the lockdown period. However, cargo flights, medical evacuation flights and special flights permitted by the aviation regulator DGCA are allowed to operate. "Initially, once the lockdown is over, the commercial passenger fights will be operating from Terminal 3 only. Later, once the number of flights increase, other terminals will be used," the DIAL official said. The DIAL would be preparing stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food, beverage and retail shops in order to ensure social distancing, the exit plan noted. The operator will promote digital payments and digital menus at various outlets to minimise human contact. Moreover, DIAL would encourage usage of self-ordering kiosks at the food court to reduce queues.
3 May 11:43 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/delhi-airport-to-resume-flights-from-terminal-3-post-lockdown/articleshow/75518469.cmsRating: 0.30
UK says virus lockdown to be lifted gradually
3 May 17:40
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UK says virus lockdown to be lifted gradually
The British government on Sunday said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was expected to unveil the government's plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus. According to the latest figures, 28,446 people have now died after testing positive for COVID-19, up 315 on Saturday, keeping it just below Europe's worst-affected country, Italy. The number of positive cases rose by 4,339 to 186,599. Johnson himself contracted COVID-19 and spent three nights in intensive care. He revealed in a newspaper interview that plans were even put in place in case he died. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he told The Sun on Sunday. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," he added. Senior minister Michael Gove said there would likely be "some degree of constraint" once restrictions were eased until a vaccine was found. And he told a daily briefing of the government's response to the global pandemic there would be no immediate return to the "old normal". Weekend newspaper reports said primary schools could reopen in early June while commuters taking public transport could face temperature checks. A quarantine period for people travelling to Britain has also been suggested. Transport minister Grant Shapps said it was a "serious point under consideration". - 'Phased approach' - Britain is banking on an enhanced testing regime and contact tracing, including via a smartphone app, to monitor transmission rates and prevent a second wave of infection. The app, developed by the digital arm of the state-run National Health Service (NHS), is to be trialled from next week on the Isle of Wight, off England's south coast. Gove said he hoped as many of the 80,000 households on the island as possible would download the app, which he said was "one arrow in the quiver" of measures to keep infection down. On lifting the lockdown, he added: "A phased approach is one which allows us to monitor the impact that those changes are having on public health and if necessary in a specific and localised way. "That means we can pause or even reintroduce those restrictions that might be required in order to deal with localised outbreaks of the disease." Britain ordered all non-essential shops and services to close on March 23, telling people to stay at home except to shop for groceries and medicines, and to exercise once a day. The Bank of England has warned the measures, which were extended on April 16, could lead to the worst recession in centuries. But an Opinium poll for the weekly Observer newspaper indicated widespread public support for continuing the restrictions. Fewer than one in five believed it was the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and sports stadiums. Concerns have been expressed about how to maintain social distancing guidelines by young children, and also over-crowding on public transport. Johnson has said the use of face masks could be "useful" as the country re-opens. Cross-Channel train operator Eurostar on Saturday said face masks covering the mouth and nose would be compulsory on services between London, Paris and Brussels from Monday.
3 May 17:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/uk-says-virus-lockdown-to-be-lifted-gradually/article/571140Rating: 0.78
UK says virus lockdown to be lifted gradually
The British government on Sunday said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll. Prime Minister Boris Johnson was expected to unveil the government's plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus. According to the latest figures, 28,446 people have now died after testing positive for COVID-19, up 315 on Saturday, keeping it just below Europe's worst-affected country, Italy. The number of positive cases rose by 4,339 to 186,599. Johnson himself contracted COVID-19 and spent three nights in intensive care. He revealed in a newspaper interview that plans were even put in place in case he died. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he told The Sun on Sunday. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," he added. Senior minister Michael Gove said there would likely be "some degree of constraint" once restrictions were eased until a vaccine was found. And he told a daily briefing of the government's response to the global pandemic there would be no immediate return to the "old normal". Weekend newspaper reports said primary schools could reopen in early June while commuters taking public transport could face temperature checks. A quarantine period for people travelling to Britain has also been suggested. Transport minister Grant Shapps said it was a "serious point under consideration". Britain is banking on an enhanced testing regime and contact tracing, including via a smartphone app, to monitor transmission rates and prevent a second wave of infection. The app, developed by the digital arm of the state-run National Health Service (NHS), is to be trialled from next week on the Isle of Wight, off England's south coast. Gove said he hoped as many of the 80,000 households on the island as possible would download the app, which he said was "one arrow in the quiver" of measures to keep infection down. On lifting the lockdown, he added: "A phased approach is one which allows us to monitor the impact that those changes are having on public health and if necessary in a specific and localised way. "That means we can pause or even reintroduce those restrictions that might be required in order to deal with localised outbreaks of the disease." Britain ordered all non-essential shops and services to close on March 23, telling people to stay at home except to shop for groceries and medicines, and to exercise once a day. The Bank of England has warned the measures, which were extended on April 16, could lead to the worst recession in centuries. But an Opinium poll for the weekly Observer newspaper indicated widespread public support for continuing the restrictions. Fewer than one in five believed it was the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and sports stadiums. Concerns have been expressed about how to maintain social distancing guidelines by young children, and also over-crowding on public transport. Johnson has said the use of face masks could be "useful" as the country re-opens. Cross-Channel train operator Eurostar on Saturday said face masks covering the mouth and nose would be compulsory on services between London, Paris and Brussels from Monday. phz/har https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 17:43 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/uk-says-virus-lockdown-to-be-lifted-gradually/e0j0l6qRating: 0.51
UK COVID-19 deaths near 30,000
Britain’s death toll in the coronavirus outbreak rose to 28,446 on Sunday, after the government reported 315 more fatalities in hospitals, care homes and the wider community. According to the latest figures, 28,446 people have now died after testing positive for COVID-19, up 315 on Saturday, keeping it just below Europe’s worst-affected country, Italy. The number of positive cases rose by 4,339 to 186,599. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to unveil the government’s plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus. Johnson himself contracted COVID-19 and spent three nights in intensive care. He revealed in a newspaper interview that plans were even put in place in case he died. “It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he told The Sun on Sunday. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” he added. Senior minister Michael Gove said there would likely be “some degree of constraint” once restrictions were eased until a vaccine was found. And he told a daily briefing of the government’s response to the global pandemic there would be no immediate return to the “old normal”. Weekend newspaper reports said primary schools could reopen in early June while commuters taking public transport could face temperature checks. A quarantine period for people travelling to Britain has also been suggested. Transport minister Grant Shapps said it was a “serious point under consideration”. (AFP)
3 May 18:47 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/uk-covid-19-deaths-near-30000/Rating: 0.30
UK govt set to reveal way out of coronavirus lockdown
The British government is expected to unveil plans to ease the country out of lockdown this week, amid indications of a phased approach to keep infection rates low. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the country was "past the peak" of the outbreak and will outline a "roadmap" for lifting stringent measures imposed in late March. According to the latest figures, 28,131 have died in Britain, just short of Europe's worst-hit country, Italy. But hospital admissions and infection rates are down. Johnson himself contracted COVID-19 and spent three nights in intensive care. He revealed in a Sunday newspaper interview plans were put in place in case he died. "It was a tough old moment, I won't deny it," he told the Sun on Sunday. "They had a strategy to deal with a 'death of Stalin'-type scenario," he added. Follow live updates on the coronavirus pandemic here Asked about the government's plan, as ministers review the lockdown on Thursday, transport minister Grant Shapps said: "It's definitely not going ot be business as usual." Weekend newspaper reports said primary schools could reopen in early June and that commuters taking public transport could face temperature checks. A quarantine period for people travelling to Britain by air has also been suggested. Shapps said it was a "serious point under consideration". "I'm actively looking at this issue right now, so when we have infection rates under control within the country we're not importing," he told BBC television. Britain ordered all non-essential shops and services to close on March 23, told people to stay at home except to shop for groceries and medicines and to exercise once a day. The measures, which were extended on April 16, have hit the economy, with the Bank of England warning it could lead to the worst recession in centuries. But an Opinium poll for the weekly Observer newspaper indicated widespread public support for continuing the restrictions. Fewer than one in five believed it was the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and sports stadiums. Concerns have been expressed about how to maintain social distancing guidelines by young children, and also over-crowding on public transport. Johnson has said the use of face masks could be "useful" as the country re-opens. Cross-Channel train operator Eurostar on Saturday said face masks covering the mouth and nose would be compulsory on services between London, Paris and Brussels from Monday. Britain is banking on an enhanced testing regime and contact tracing, including via a smartphone app, to monitor transmission rates and prevent a second wave of infection.
3 May 15:59 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/uk-govt-set-to-reveal-way-out-of-coronavirus-lockdown-833019.htmlRating: 2.25
Probe into claims Afghan migrants forced into river by Iran guards
LONDON: The British government on Sunday said the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures was likely to be gradual, as it announced a further rise in the overall death toll.Prime Minister Boris Johnson was expected to unveil the government’s plans in coming days, after announcing the country had passed the peak of the virus.According to the latest figures, 28,446 people have now died after testing positive for COVID-19, up 315 on Saturday, keeping it just below Europe’s worst-affected country, Italy.The number of positive cases rose by 4,339 to 186,599.Johnson himself contracted COVID-19 and spent three nights in intensive care. He revealed in a newspaper interview that plans were even put in place in case he died.“It was a tough old moment, I won’t deny it,” he told The Sun on Sunday. “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario,” he added.Senior minister Michael Gove said there would likely be “some degree of constraint” once restrictions were eased until a vaccine was found.And he told a daily briefing of the government’s response to the global pandemic there would be no immediate return to the “old normal.”Weekend newspaper reports said primary schools could reopen in early June while commuters taking public transport could face temperature checks.A quarantine period for people traveling to Britain has also been suggested. Transport minister Grant Shapps said it was a “serious point under consideration.”Britain is banking on an enhanced testing regime and contact tracing, including via a smartphone app, to monitor transmission rates and prevent a second wave of infection.The app, developed by the digital arm of the state-run National Health Service (NHS), is to be trialled from next week on the Isle of Wight, off England’s south coast.Gove said he hoped as many of the 80,000 households on the island as possible would download the app, which he said was “one arrow in the quiver” of measures to keep infection down.On lifting the lockdown, he added: “A phased approach is one which allows us to monitor the impact that those changes are having on public health and if necessary in a specific and localized way.“That means we can pause or even reintroduce those restrictions that might be required in order to deal with localized outbreaks of the disease.”Britain ordered all non-essential shops and services to close on March 23, telling people to stay at home except to shop for groceries and medicines, and to exercise once a day.The Bank of England has warned the measures, which were extended on April 16, could lead to the worst recession in centuries.But an Opinium poll for the weekly Observer newspaper indicated widespread public support for continuing the restrictions.Fewer than one in five believed it was the right time to consider reopening schools, restaurants, pubs and sports stadiums.Concerns have been expressed about how to maintain social distancing guidelines by young children, and also over-crowding on public transport.Johnson has said the use of face masks could be “useful” as the country re-opens.Cross-Channel train operator Eurostar on Saturday said face masks covering the mouth and nose would be compulsory on services between London, Paris and Brussels from Monday.
3 May 18:32 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1669061/worldRating: 1.72
UK virus tests surpass target, but Britain’s deaths may overtake Italy’s
For Britons looking to judge their government’s desperate response to the coronavirus pandemic, the verdict has increasingly come down to two numbers: 100,000, the number of tests that officials promised to conduct every day by the end of April; and 27,510, the latest death toll. On Friday, there was good news and bad news in the numbers: The government announced it had exceeded its testing target, carrying out 122,347 tests on the last day of the month. But with 739 more people dying from the virus that same day, Britain was also poised to soon overtake Italy in a few days as the hardest hit country in Europe. The fixation on numbers is understandable but misplaced, experts said. Just because Britain can carry out more than 100,000 tests a day does not mean it has built an effective testing and contact tracing programme, which experts say is needed to avert another spike in infections if the government eases the lockdown. And while there would be grim symbolism for Britain in passing Italy in the total deaths, drawing direct comparisons between any two countries is extremely difficult, given differences in population, demographics, population density, and how the authorities collect the statistics. Still, Britain’s health secretary, Matt Hancock, trumpeted the achievement of 122,000 tests, a tenfold increase from when he set the goal on April 2, a day after having emerged from isolation himself with symptoms of the virus. He said the achievement had set the stage for an equally ambitious programme of contact tracing — identifying people who have come into contact with an infected person so they can be also isolated, helping curtail the spread of the disease. Hancock said this program would eventually allow Britain to lift its lockdown and return to a semblance of normalcy. “I knew it was an audacious goal, but we needed an audacious goal,” said a visibly relieved Hancock, for whom the target had become a personal crucible. “The challenge we still face is vast, but we are making real progress.” There were some lingering questions over whether the government changed its policy for counting tests to make its target. While officials insisted they had not changed the rules, they acknowledged having counted more than 27,000 home test kits, and more than 12,000 tests sent to satellite testing centres, at the time they were mailed rather than when they were returned to labs, with results. Regardless of how many tests Britain has conducted, medical experts said the government had yet to build a contact-tracing operation to match its testing capacity. Drawing so much attention to the 100,000 number, critics said, was mostly a public-relations stunt. “The number of people tested is meaningless,” said Dr Bharat Pankhania, an expert in infectious diseases at the University of Exeter Medical School. “If you fail to deliver on contact tracing, then you are testing as a ceremony rather than as a way to contain and isolate the outbreak.” Other experts, however, said there was merit to setting a numerical goal for testing, given Britain’s slow start. In March, officials decided to abandon testing and tracing in the general population in favour of testing only those people with symptoms serious enough to hospitalise them. “When there is a political priority to do something, then it can happen,” said professor Devi Sridhar, director of the global health governance programme at the University of Edinburgh. “Now we need the same effort and priority given to tracing and isolation, as it goes in a package: test, trace, isolate.” To some extent, the government is a victim of its penchant for using numbers to reassure the public it has a coherent plan. On March 19, in one of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s early public statements on the crisis, he said that he believed the British people could send the virus “packing” within 12 weeks. Since returning to work after his own near-fatal bout of COVID-19, the illness caused by the virus, Johnson has fastened onto another metric: The number of new infections stemming from a single case, which has fallen to below one throughout Britain, but which Johnson fears could spike again if he lifts the social distancing measures too abruptly. Alongside the plan to ramp up testing, the government plans by mid-May to recruit around 18,000 people — including around 3,000 in the field — to conduct contact tracing. That is supposed to operate with a cellphone app that is being tested next week in one place, the Isle of Wight. But so far, Downing Street has been unable to say how many of the 18,000 new employees have been recruited. Johnson once set an objective of 250,000 tests a day, though the government now says that was conceived at a time when the search was on for an inexpensive and user-friendly antibody test, which would detect whether a person had been infected in the past. In fact, when it was announced, Hancock’s 100,000 target also included the possibility of counting antibody tests. “Targets work when you have confidence that hitting them helps you in meeting your goal,” said Stewart Wood, an adviser to former Prime Minister Gordon Brown. “The problem with this type of targeting is it suggests a level of competence which is not backed up by the strategy.” From the start, the government has publicly plotted the country’s death toll relative to its neighbours, a comparison that initially looked favourable for Britain. But that data came under scrutiny, since it was based on deaths in hospitals only, while France’s, for example, included fatalities in nursing homes, too. When non-hospital deaths were recently added into the equation, Britain suddenly appeared headed for among the worst fatality numbers in Europe. That prompted the government to add yet another new chart — based on per capita death rates — which puts it behind Belgium, Spain and Italy. As of Friday, Italy’s deaths totalled 28,236 — a number that excludes deaths in nursing homes. Its daily fatality rate has mostly declined over the last week, and was at 269 Friday. “You can see the shift in government messaging emerge, and the new line is the importance of data comparability,” said Sophia Gaston, director of the British Foreign Policy Group and a fellow at the London School of Economics. “There is some truth in that,” she said, “but at the same time it is dealing with the realisation that Britain is likely to come out of this with a rather ghastly report card.” The government, Wood said, would have been better served by explaining the uncertainty over statistics from the start and by being more explicit about the lack of up-to-date figures on nursing home fatalities. “The public would have understood that lack of certainty,” he said. “Instead, they have stuck with measures which everyone gradually has got to know are not quite right, and then had to shift, almost as a concession.” c.2020 The New York Times Company
3 May 11:09 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/health/2020/05/03/uk-virus-tests-surpass-target-but-britains-deaths-may-overtake-italysRating: 2.85
UK government says COVID-19 death toll up by 621 to 28,131
LONDON: The UK on Saturday announced 621 more deaths in the coronavirus outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131, just behind Europe's worst-hit country Italy. The government said that 182,260 people had tested positive for COVID-19, up 4,806 on Friday. But hospital admissions had fallen, it added. Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday said the country had "past the peak" of the virus, as he comes under mounting pressure to ease lockdown restrictions imposed in late March. A review is expected this Thursday and Johnson said the government would outline a plan to lift social distancing measures that would keep transmissions rates down. ALSO READ| UK PM Boris Johnson and fiancee Carrie Symonds name baby boy Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas "The very strong advice today is that moment has not yet come," housing minister Robert Jenrick told a daily briefing on the government's response to the outbreak. In the meantime, the public should remain at home except to shop for essential groceries, medicine or to exercise, he added. The government aims to keep transmission rates down by a wider testing regime, and also through contact tracing of people who have been in proximity with someone infected. Jenrick said that just under 106,000 tests were carried on Friday. Britain was initially criticised for its light-touch approach to the growing pandemic but introduced stricter measures after scientists warned of mass casualties. The country's overall death toll jumped mid-week after a change in reporting, by including deaths in all settings, including hospitals, care homes and the wider community. That saw numbers surge past Spain and France. It is now just behind Italy, which as of 1530 GMT on Saturday had 28,236 deaths, according to an AFP tally of official sources. The United States remains the worst-affected, with 65,173 deaths.
3 May 00:54 • The New Indian Express • https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2020/may/03/uk-government-says-covid-19-death-toll-up-by-621-to-28131-2138465.htmlRating: 2.04
Deaths due to coronavirus in UK mount to 28,131: Report
The UK on Saturday announced 621 more deaths in the coronavirus outbreak, taking the overall cumulative toll to 28,131, just behind Europe’s worst-hit country Italy. The government said that 182,260 people had tested positive for Covid-19, up 4,806 on Friday. But hospital admissions had fallen, it added. Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday said the country had “past the peak” of the virus, as he comes under mounting pressure to ease lockdown restrictions imposed in late March. A review is expected this Thursday and Johnson said the government would outline a plan to lift social distancing measures that would keep transmissions rates down. “The very strong advice today is that moment has not yet come,” housing minister Robert Jenrick told a daily briefing on the government’s response to the outbreak. In the meantime, the public should remain at home except to shop for essential groceries, medicine or to exercise, he added. The government aims to keep transmission rates down by a wider testing regime, and also through contact tracing of people who have been in proximity with someone infected. Just under 106,000 tests were carried on Friday, Jenrick said. Britain was initially criticised for its light-touch approach to the growing pandemic but introduced stricter measures after scientists warned of mass casualties. The country’s overall death toll jumped mid-week after a change in reporting, by including deaths in all settings, including hospitals, care homes and the wider community. That saw numbers surge past Spain and France. It is now just behind Italy, which as of 1530 GMT on Saturday had 28,236 deaths, according to an AFP tally of official sources. The United States remains the worst-affected, with 65,173 deaths.
2 May 17:14 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/deaths-due-to-coronavirus-in-uk-mount-to-28-131-report/story-QL1nPeUyXfHmyVi7WYhdjI.htmlRating: 0.30
Iran to reopen many mosques as 47 more die of virus
3 May 17:57
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Iran to reopen many mosques as 47 more die of virus
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country on Monday, as officials reported a drop in the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said 47 people died of the virus over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily count in 55 days. He told a news conference he hoped “the trend will continue in the upcoming days”. His remarks came as Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country's administrative divisions, would “reopen their mosques as of tomorrow”. “Social distancing is more important than collective prayer,” he said in a televised meeting of the country's virus taskforce. The president argued that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only “recommended”. Mosques and some key shrines in Iran were closed in early March amid the Middle East's deadliest Covid-19 outbreak. The targeted counties are “low-risk”, Rouhani said. The virus taskforce was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. According to Jahanpour, the 47 new deaths brought to 6,203 the total number officially recorded in Iran since it reported its first cases in mid-February. He added that 976 fresh infection cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 97,424. Over 78,420 of those hospitalised have since been discharged, while 2,690 are still in critical condition. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country's Covid-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were “much lower” compared to recent weeks. The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only “high-risk” businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. “We will continue the re-openings calmly and gradually,” Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for “bad scenarios” too, saying “this situation may continue into the summer”. Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday announced they were cancelling the annual day of protests against Israel known as Quds (Jerusalem) Day seemingly over the coronavirus pandemic. Spokesman Ramezan Sharif, quoted by Fars news agency, said the move was in line with the cancellation across Iran of other ceremonies and the closing of holy places. “Let's not worry about what the enemy might say,” he added. The day has been held every year since the 1979 Islamic Revolution to show support for the Palestinians and is usually marked on the last Friday of Ramazan, which falls on May 22 this year.
3 May 17:57 • DAWN.COM • https://www.dawn.com/news/1554234Rating: 2.87
Iran to reopen many mosques as 47 more die to virus
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country Monday, as officials reported a drop in the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said 47 people died of the virus over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily count in 55 days. He told a news conference he hoped "the trend will continue in the upcoming days". His remarks came as President Hassan Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country's administrative divisions, would "reopen their mosques as of tomorrow". "Social distancing is more important than collective prayer," he said in a televised meeting of the country's virus taskforce. The president argued that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only "recommended". Mosques and some key Shiite shrines in Iran were closed in early March amid the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. The targeted counties are "low-risk", Rouhani said. The virus taskforce was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. According to Jahanpour, the 47 new deaths brought to 6,203 the total number officially recorded in Iran since it reported its first cases in mid-February. He added that 976 fresh infection cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 97,424. Over 78,420 of those hospitalised have since been discharged, while 2,690 are still in critical condition. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country's COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were "much lower" compared to recent weeks. The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only "high-risk" businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. "We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually," Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for "bad scenarios" too, saying "this situation may continue into the summer". Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday announced they were cancelling the annual day of protests against Israel known as Qods (Jerusalam) Day seemingly over the coronavirus pandemic. Spokesman Ramezan Sharif, quoted by Fars news agency, said the move was in line with the cancellation across Iran of other ceremonies and the closing of holy places. "Let's not worry about what the enemy might say," he added. The day has been held every year since the 1979 Islamic Revolution to show support for the Palestinians and is usually marked on the last Friday of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, which falls on May 22 this year. amh/hkb https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 11:43 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/iran-to-reopen-many-mosques-as-47-more-die-to-virus/4mdl7fxRating: 0.51
Iran to reopen many mosques as 47 more die of virus
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country Monday, as officials reported a drop in the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said 47 people died of the virus over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily count in 55 days. He told a news conference he hoped "the trend will continue in the upcoming days". His remarks came as President Hassan Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country's administrative divisions, would "reopen their mosques as of tomorrow". "Social distancing is more important than collective prayer," he said in a televised meeting of the country's virus taskforce. The president argued that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only "recommended". Rouhani did not give the names of the counties affected by the measure or the number of mosques due to reopen on Monday. The measure is not expected to be implemented in the capital, Tehran, or in the main Shiite holy cities of Mashhad which are among those most affected by the outbreak. Mosques and some key Shiite shrines in Iran were closed in March amid the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. The targeted counties are "low-risk", Rouhani said. The virus taskforce was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. According to Jahanpour, the 47 new deaths brought to 6,203 the total number officially recorded in Iran since it reported its first cases in mid-February. He added that 976 fresh infection cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 97,424. Over 78,420 of those hospitalised have since been discharged, while 2,690 are still in critical condition. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country's COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. - Qods Day cancelled - Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were "much lower" compared to recent weeks. He said it is due to "83 percent of people on average observing health protocols" and thanked Iranians for their "cooperation". The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only "high-risk" businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. "We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually," Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for "bad scenarios" too, saying "this situation may continue into the summer". Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday announced they were cancelling the annual day of protests against Israel known as Qods (Jerusalam) Day seemingly over the coronavirus pandemic. Spokesman Ramezan Sharif, quoted by Fars news agency, said the move was in line with the cancellation across Iran of other ceremonies and the closing of holy places. "Let's not worry about what the enemy might say," he added. The day has been held every year since the 1979 Islamic Revolution to show support for the Palestinians and is usually marked on the last Friday of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, which falls on May 22 this year.
3 May 11:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/iran-to-reopen-many-mosques-as-47-more-die-to-virus/article/571130Rating: 0.78
Iran to reopen many mosques as 47 more die of virus
TEHRAN, Iran – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country Monday, May 4, as officials reported a drop in the number of deaths from the novel coronavirus. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said 47 people died of the virus over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily count in 55 days. He told a news conference he hoped "the trend will continue in the upcoming days." His remarks came as President Hassan Rouhani said 132 counties, around one-third of the country's administrative divisions, would "reopen their mosques as of tomorrow." "Social distancing is more important than collective prayer," he said in a televsed meeting of the country's virus taskforce. The president argued that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only "recommended." Mosques and some key Shiite shrines in Iran were closed in early March amid the Middle East's deadliest COVID-19 outbreak. The targeted counties are "low-risk," Rouhani said. The virus taskforce was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. According to Jahanpour, the 47 new deaths brought to 6,203 the total number officially recorded in Iran since it reported its first cases in mid-February. He added that 976 fresh infection cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours, bringing the total to 97,424. Over 78,420 of those hospitalized have since been discharged, while 2,690 are still in critical condition. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country's COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. Qods Day cancelled Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were "much lower" compared to recent weeks. The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only "high-risk" businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. "We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually," Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for "bad scenarios" too, saying "this situation may continue into the summer." Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday announced they were cancelling the annual day of protests against Israel known as Qods (Jerusalam) Day seemingly over the coronavirus pandemic. Spokesman Ramezan Sharif, quoted by Fars news agency, said the move was in line with the cancellation across Iran of other ceremonies and the closing of holy places. "Let's not worry about what the enemy might say," he added. The day has been held every year since the 1979 Islamic Revolution to show support for the Palestinians and is usually marked on the last Friday of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, which falls on May 22 this year. – Rappler.com
3 May 12:06 • Rappler • https://www.rappler.com/world/regions/middle-east/259791-iran-reopen-mosques-coronavirusRating: 1.64
Coronavirus: Iran set to reopen mosques in low-risk areas
Iran will reopen mosques in areas consistently free of the new coronavirus on Monday as the sanctions-hit country starts to ease restrictions aimed at containing the spread of the pandemic. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour said 47 people died of the virus over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily count in 55 days. He told a news conference he hoped "the trend will continue in the upcoming days". More: President Hassan Rouhani said in a televised statement on Sunday that 132 counties, about one-third of the country's administrative divisions, will "reopen their mosques as of tomorrow". "Social distancing is more important than collective prayer," he continued, arguing that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only "recommended". With mosques closed and religious gatherings banned since mid-March, ordinary Iranians have turned to drive-in theatres for ceremonies during the holy Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. State TV and videos on social media showed people in their cars watching a religious ceremony on a big screen in a car park in the capital, Tehran. Iran is one of the worst-hit countries in the Middle East. But the health ministry said on Saturday the trajectory of infections had started a "gradual" downward trend in Iran, where the death toll is 6,203 and the total number of diagnosed cases has reached 97,424. Rouhani said hospital visits over potential infections were "much lower" compared to recent weeks. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country's officials figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. Iran has already lifted a ban on inter-city trips and malls, with large shopping centres resuming activities despite warnings by some health officials of a new wave of infections. School and university closures were maintained, and cultural and sports gatherings are also still banned, though Rouhani said the plan was for some schools to reopen soon. "The schools in the white and low-risk areas will reopen from May 16... However, we will continue to review the situation," he said. Only "high-risk" businesses such as gyms and barber shops remain closed. "We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually," Rouhani said. Yet he warned Iran should also prepare for "bad scenarios", saying "this situation may continue into the summer".
3 May 13:59 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/coronavirus-iran-set-reopen-mosques-risk-areas-200503102728054.htmlRating: 2.44
Mosques to Reopen in Iran's Low-risk Areas
Iran plans to reopen mosques and schools in areas that have been consistently free of the coronavirus as President Hassan Rouhani's government starts to ease restrictions that were aimed at containing the outbreak. "Mosques will reopen in 132 low-risk or 'white cities' and towns from Monday. Friday prayer sermons will resume in those areas as well ... However, all these steps will be taken by respecting the health protocols," Rouhani said in a televised meeting. Iran's health ministry has divided the country into white, yellow and red areas based on the number of infections and deaths. Rouhani did not give the names of the counties affected by the measure or the number of mosques due to reopen on Monday. The ministry said on Saturday that the trajectory of infections has started a "gradual" downward trend in Iran. On Sunday the health ministry said the country's coronavirus death toll had risen to 6,203 after 47 people died in the past 24 hours, and the total number of diagnosed cases had reached 97,424. Iran has already lifted a ban on inter-city trips and malls, with large shopping centers resuming activities despite warnings by some health officials of a new wave of infections. School and university closures were maintained and cultural and sports gatherings are also still banned, though Rouhani said the plan is for some schools to reopen soon. "The schools in the white and low-risk areas will reopen from May 16 ... However, we will continue to review the situation," he said. Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Sunday announced they were cancelling the annual day of protests against Israel known as Quds (Jerusalam) Day seemingly over the coronavirus pandemic. Spokesman Ramezan Sharif, quoted by Fars news agency, said the move was in line with the cancellation across Iran of other ceremonies and the closing of holy places. "Let's not worry about what the enemy might say," he added.
3 May 16:45 • Asharq AL-awsat • https://aawsat.com/english/home/article/2265731/mosques-reopen-irans-low-risk-areasRating: 2.10
Iran to reopen many mosques as lockdown eases: Rouhani
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country Monday, after they were closed in early March amid the Middle East’s deadliest novel coronavirus outbreak. Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country’s administrative divisions, would “reopen their mosques as of tomorrow”. “Social distancing is more important than collective prayer,” he added, arguing that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only “recommended”. The targeted counties are “low-risk”, Rouhani said in a televised meeting of the country’s virus taskforce. He said the committee was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. The new coronavirus has killed more than 6,150 and infected over 96,440 in Iran since it announced its first cases in mid-February. Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were “much lower” compared to recent weeks. Iran on Saturday reported its lowest daily toll of new infections since March 10. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country’s COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only “high-risk” businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. “We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually,” Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for “bad scenarios” too, saying “this situation may continue into the summer”.
3 May 08:53 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/iran-to-reopen-many-mosques-as-lockdown-eases-rouhani/Rating: 0.30
Rouhani: Iran to reopen many mosques as lockdown eases
TEHRAN, May 3 — Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country today, after they were closed in early March amid the Middle East’s deadliest novel coronavirus outbreak. Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country’s administrative divisions, would “reopen their mosques as of tomorrow”. “Social distancing is more important than collective prayer,” he added, arguing that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only “recommended”. The targeted counties are “low-risk”, Rouhani said in a televised meeting of the country’s virus taskforce. He said the committee was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. The new coronavirus has killed more than 6,150 and infected over 96,440 in Iran since it announced its first cases in mid-February. Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were “much lower” compared to recent weeks. Iran on Saturday reported its lowest daily toll of new infections since March 10. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country’s COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only “high-risk” businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. “We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually,” Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for “bad scenarios” too, saying “this situation may continue into the summer”. — AFP
3 May 08:12 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/rouhani-iran-to-reopen-many-mosques-as-lockdown-eases/1862601Rating: 1.42
Palestinian laborers back working in Israel as virus slows
TEHRAN: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country Monday, after they were closed in early March amid the Middle East’s deadliest novel coronavirus outbreak.Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country’s administrative divisions, would “reopen their mosques as of tomorrow.”“Social distancing is more important than collective prayer,” he added, arguing that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only “recommended.”The targeted counties are “low-risk,” Rouhani said in a televised meeting of the country’s virus taskforce.He said the committee was also mulling reopening schools by May 16 to allow for a month of classes before the summer break.The new coronavirus has killed more than 6,150 and infected over 96,440 in Iran since it announced its first cases in mid-February.Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were “much lower” compared to recent weeks.Iran on Saturday reported its lowest daily toll of new infections since March 10.Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country’s COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported.The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March.But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since April 11, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down.Only “high-risk” businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed.“We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually,” Rouhani said.Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for “bad scenarios” too, saying “this situation may continue into the summer.”
3 May 08:19 • Arab News • https://www.arabnews.com/node/1668896/middle-eastRating: 1.72
Iran to Re-Open Mosques and Some Schools in Low Virus Districts
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques in areas where there has been a significant decline in the rate of coronavirus infections will reopen from May 4. In comments shown live on state TV, Rouhani said Friday prayers will also be allowed in 132 districts that have been labeled “white” or “low risk” in terms of the spread of the disease. Officials also plan to reopen schools for one month in the so-called white zones from May 16, Rouhani added, without giving further details.
3 May 07:08 • Bloomberg.com • https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-05-03/iran-to-re-open-mosques-and-some-schools-in-low-virus-districtsRating: 4.04
Iran to reopen many mosques as lockdown eases - Rouhani
TERHAN – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said mosques would reopen across large parts of the country Monday, after they were closed in early March amid the Middle East's deadliest novel coronavirus outbreak. Rouhani said 132 counties, around one third of the country's administrative divisions, would "reopen their mosques as of tomorrow". "Social distancing is more important than collective prayer," he added, arguing that Islam considers safety obligatory, while praying in mosques is only "recommended". The targeted counties are "low-risk", Rouhani said in a televised meeting of the country's virus taskforce. He said the committee was also mulling reopening schools by 16 May to allow for a month of classes before the summer break. The new coronavirus has killed more than 6,150 and infected over 96,440 in Iran since it announced its first cases in mid-February. Rouhani claimed hospital visits over potential infections were "much lower" compared to recent weeks. Iran on Saturday reported its lowest daily toll of new infections since 10 March. Experts and officials both in Iran and abroad have cast doubts over the country's COVID-19 figures, saying the real number of cases could be much higher than reported. The Islamic republic has tried to contain the spread of the virus by shutting universities, cinemas, stadiums and other public spaces since March. But it has allowed a phased reopening of its economy since 11 April, arguing that the sanctions-hit country cannot afford to remain shut down. Only "high-risk" businesses like gyms and barbershops remain closed. "We will continue the reopenings calmly and gradually," Rouhani said. Yet he warned that Iran should prepare for "bad scenarios" too, saying "this situation may continue into the summer".
3 May 00:00 • ewn.co.za • https://ewn.co.za/2020/05/03/iran-to-reopen-many-mosques-as-lockdown-eases-rouhaniRating: 1.68
Indian officials capture rare snow leopard, send it to zoo
3 May 18:46
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4 articles
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Best date: 3 May 18:46
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Indian officials capture rare snow leopard, send it to zoo
SHIMLA, INDIA -- A rare snow leopard captured as it savaged livestock in a remote village in the Indian Himalaya will be sent to a zoo instead of being released, officials said Sunday, triggering outrage from activists. The endangered creature was found on Saturday after it became trapped inside a pen containing sheep and goats in Giu village near the Tibetan border in India's Himachal Pradesh state. "The big cat was unable to escape from the enclosure after killing a few livestock," wildlife official Hardev Negi, who led the team that caught the snow leopard, told AFP. "The shepherd contacted us and we captured the animal in a cage." The state's chief wildlife official Savita Sharma told AFP the snow leopard was not being released since the incident involved "wild animal-human conflict," adding it would be transferred to a zoo in the foothills outside the state capital Shimla. Officials estimated that the juvenile animal killed 43 sheep and goats in the pen over four days. There are only 44 snow leopards living in the high passes and rugged valleys of Himachal Pradesh, according to Sharma. Rajeshwar Negi, the National Convener of Nature Watch India said the decision was condemning the creature to a life without freedom. "Don't they know how stressful it will be for the animal to be transported on a bumpy 350-kilometre long road," he told AFP. "Does it mean the snow leopard will spend the rest of its life in a zoo instead of the Himalayan wilds?" He added that the animal would also suffer in the higher temperatures at the zoo in Shimla, which is significantly warmer than its natural habitat. As few as 4,000 of the mysterious animals could be left in the high mountains of central Asia -- their sole habitat -- according to the World Wildlife Fund. Negi said snow leopards were being forced to move to lower altitudes and prey on domestic animals as the populations of their natural prey -- the ibex and blue sheep -- have been decimated by hunting. Global warming is also threatening the survival of the big cat, with warmer temperatures pushing the tree line higher and prompting farmers to move further up the mountains to plant crops and graze livestock, encroaching on the snow leopards' territory.
3 May 18:46 • CTVNews • https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/indian-officials-capture-rare-snow-leopard-send-it-to-zoo-1.4922906Rating: 2.87
Indian officials capture rare snow leopard, send it to zoo
A rare snow leopard captured as it savaged livestock in a remote village in the Indian Himalaya will be sent to a zoo instead of being released, officials said Sunday, triggering outrage from activists. The endangered creature was found on Saturday after it became trapped inside a pen containing sheep and goats in Giu village near the Tibetan border in India's Himachal Pradesh state. "The big cat was unable to escape from the enclosure after killing a few livestock," wildlife official Hardev Negi, who led the team that caught the snow leopard, told AFP. "The shepherd contacted us and we captured the animal in a cage." The state's chief wildlife official Savita Sharma told AFP the snow leopard was not being released since the incident involved "wild animal-human conflict," adding it would be transferred to a zoo in the foothills outside the state capital Shimla. Officials estimated that the juvenile animal killed 43 sheep and goats in the pen over four days. There are only 44 snow leopards living in the high passes and rugged valleys of Himachal Pradesh, according to Sharma. Rajeshwar Negi, the National Convener of Nature Watch India said the decision was condemning the creature to a life without freedom. "Don't they know how stressful it will be for the animal to be transported on a bumpy 350-kilometre long road," he told AFP. "Does it mean the snow leopard will spend the rest of its life in a zoo instead of the Himalayan wilds?" He added that the animal would also suffer in the higher temperatures at the zoo in Shimla, which is significantly warmer than its natural habitat. As few as 4,000 of the mysterious animals could be left in the high mountains of central Asia -- their sole habitat -- according to the World Wildlife Fund. Negi said snow leopards were being forced to move to lower altitudes and prey on domestic animals as the populations of their natural prey -- the ibex and blue sheep -- have been decimated by hunting. Global warming is also threatening the survival of the big cat, with warmer temperatures pushing the tree line higher and prompting farmers to move further up the mountains to plant crops and graze livestock, encroaching on the snow leopards' territory.
3 May 16:10 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/indian-officials-capture-rare-snow-leopard-send-it-to-zoo/article/571137Rating: 0.78
Indian officials capture rare snow leopard, send it to zoo
A rare snow leopard captured as it savaged livestock in a remote village in the Indian Himalaya will be sent to a zoo instead of being released, officials said Sunday, triggering outrage from activists. The endangered creature was found on Saturday after it became trapped inside a pen containing sheep and goats in Giu village near the Tibetan border in India's Himachal Pradesh state. "The big cat was unable to escape from the enclosure after killing a few livestock," wildlife official Hardev Negi, who led the team that caught the snow leopard, told AFP. "The shepherd contacted us and we captured the animal in a cage." The state's chief wildlife official Savita Sharma told AFP the snow leopard was not being released since the incident involved "wild animal-human conflict," adding it would be transferred to a zoo in the foothills outside the state capital Shimla. Officials estimated that the juvenile animal killed 43 sheep and goats in the pen over four days. There are only 44 snow leopards living in the high passes and rugged valleys of Himachal Pradesh, according to Sharma. Rajeshwar Negi, the National Convener of Nature Watch India said the decision was condemning the creature to a life without freedom. "Don't they know how stressful it will be for the animal to be transported on a bumpy 350-kilometre long road," he told AFP. "Does it mean the snow leopard will spend the rest of its life in a zoo instead of the Himalayan wilds?" He added that the animal would also suffer in the higher temperatures at the zoo in Shimla, which is significantly warmer than its natural habitat. As few as 4,000 of the mysterious animals could be left in the high mountains of central Asia—their sole habitat—according to the World Wildlife Fund. Negi said snow leopards were being forced to move to lower altitudes and prey on domestic animals as the populations of their natural prey—the ibex and blue sheep—have been decimated by hunting. Global warming is also threatening the survival of the big cat, with warmer temperatures pushing the tree line higher and prompting farmers to move further up the mountains to plant crops and graze livestock, encroaching on the snow leopards' territory. © 2020 AFP
3 May 17:30 • phys.org • https://phys.org/news/2020-05-indian-capture-rare-leopard-zoo.htmlRating: 1.30
Indian officials capture rare snow leopard, send it to zoo
A rare snow leopard captured as it savaged livestock in a remote village in the Indian Himalaya will be sent to a zoo instead of being released, officials said Sunday, triggering outrage from activists. The endangered creature was found on Saturday after it became trapped inside a pen containing sheep and goats in Giu village near the Tibetan border in India's Himachal Pradesh state. "The big cat was unable to escape from the enclosure after killing a few livestock," wildlife official Hardev Negi, who led the team that caught the snow leopard, told AFP. "The shepherd contacted us and we captured the animal in a cage." The state's chief wildlife official Savita Sharma told AFP the snow leopard was not being released since the incident involved "wild animal-human conflict," adding it would be transferred to a zoo in the foothills outside the state capital Shimla. Officials estimated that the juvenile animal killed 43 sheep and goats in the pen over four days. There are only 44 snow leopards living in the high passes and rugged valleys of Himachal Pradesh, according to Sharma. Rajeshwar Negi, the National Convener of Nature Watch India said the decision was condemning the creature to a life without freedom. "Don't they know how stressful it will be for the animal to be transported on a bumpy 350-kilometre long road," he told AFP. "Does it mean the snow leopard will spend the rest of its life in a zoo instead of the Himalayan wilds?" He added that the animal would also suffer in the higher temperatures at the zoo in Shimla, which is significantly warmer than its natural habitat. As few as 4,000 of the mysterious animals could be left in the high mountains of central Asia -- their sole habitat -- according to the World Wildlife Fund. Negi said snow leopards were being forced to move to lower altitudes and prey on domestic animals as the populations of their natural prey -- the ibex and blue sheep -- have been decimated by hunting. Global warming is also threatening the survival of the big cat, with warmer temperatures pushing the tree line higher and prompting farmers to move further up the mountains to plant crops and graze livestock, encroaching on the snow leopards' territory. str/grk/rma https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 16:13 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/indian-officials-capture-rare-snow-leopard-send-it-to-zoo/jl8g50mRating: 0.51
Chiefs concerned about mental health impacts of COVID-19 in their First Nations
3 May 11:00
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Chiefs concerned about mental health impacts of COVID-19 in their First Nations
OTTAWA - A few months before the novel coronavirus arrived in Canada, the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation at Loon Lake, Sask. was already raising the alarm over suicides in the community, about 360 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. The First Nation declared a state of crisis in mid-November 2019 after three deaths by suicide occurred over three weeks, including a 10-year-old girl. In the weeks that followed, band leaders say eight people, mainly youths, also tried to take their lives. Chief Ronald Mitsuing says a deep sense of grief remains within the community of just over 1,000 people, especially after a 31-year-old man in the community died by suicide two weeks ago. Now, Mitsuing says he fears the stress and worry about a possible outbreak of COVID-19 could trigger further mental health suffering among some of his residents. "Losing the youth really took a big toll out of our community. And I know it's ongoing — people thinking about it all the time, can't get past it," he said. "We're not in that comfortable stage yet where we know it's going to be all right." He is not alone. As the number of COVID-19 cases begins to climb in Indigenous communities across Canada, First Nations and Inuit chiefs say they are deeply concerned about how the pandemic is affecting the mental health of their residents. The Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation did receive help from the province and federal government to deal with the immediate aftermath of the suicide crisis, but Mitsuing says they need more permanent resources. He wants funding to train locals as trauma counsellors, rather than relying on outside help or having to send youth away for treatment. This is especially needed during the pandemic, as the First Nation remains locked down to outsiders, Mitsuing said. Chief Eugene Hart of the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in central Labrador shares the same concerns for his community, which also declared a crisis in the months before the pandemic following 10 suicide attempts in less than a week in October 2019. The community of roughly 1,300 people had also been struggling with more than a dozen other deaths from natural causes before that — a toll that was hardest felt by young people with few supports in place to help them address their grief, Hart said. "I'm worried about everything in general now, because we don't know what people are thinking, where we have the lockdown in the community as well. We don't know what kind of stress people are going through daily because we can't interact with them." He echoed Mitsuing's concerns about not having adequate supports that are permanent. He would like to see full-time crisis counsellors and staff and mental health crisis lines staffed by people in the community. However, he says his First Nation has not received the support from Ottawa or from the province necessary to make this happen. "Everything is totally different now, and it's going to be like this awhile and a lot of people are still scared," he said. Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller says he knows COVID-19 is affecting the mental health of Indigenous communities, particularly among those who are at a high risk from the illness — or have families who are. He says the federal government is increasing the number of crisis intervention counsellors on shift at the Hope for Wellness helpline, which provides telephone and online support for First Nations, Inuit and Metis in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut. More than 100 calls and chats every week are linked to COVID-19, according to assistant deputy minister Valerie Gideon, which represents an increase to previous volumes. "The apprehension and fear that exists within the communities is real and has an impact on mental health. As part of Indigenous Services Canada a large amount of the support we provide turns in and around supports around mental health," Miller said, adding the department is ready to do more as it assesses the impact of the pandemic. Grand Chief Garrison Settee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents northern First Nations in the province, says concern about inadequate personal protective equipment and sanitation supplies in remote, fly-in communities is further adding to the strain. "It's in our psyche, it's in our conscience. Every waking moment, I'm thinking about what's going to happen from day to day. Do we have enough resources to be able to address (COVID-19) if it does hit?" Settee said. Elia Nicholson-Nave, executive director of the Kuu-Us Crisis Line Society, which runs an Indigenous-specific crisis line in British Columbia, says March brought a noticeable spike in calls, which has continued, due to pandemic-related issues. "Many people are fearful of what is yet to come and often the unknown causes additional anxiety, depression and mental health distress," she said, adding they have received no extra funding. Back in Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, Chief Mitsuing says COVID-19 restrictions have put on hold any opportunity for healing as community members and elders remain shut in their houses. When COVID-19 is over, the chief says he wants to organize sharing circles to help people deal with their anxiety and ongoing grief. He also wants to teach the youth about their cultural identity as a way to help them heal. He said that is what one of the youths wrote in a letter before dying by suicide. "That's what they were asking for. They didn't know who they were ... that they didn't have an identity, so we're going to try to teach them their culture, the way we were brought up." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 11:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-indigenous-mental-health/cp1051362918Rating: 0.30
Chiefs concerned about mental health impacts of COVID-19 in their First Nations
OTTAWA — A few months before the novel coronavirus arrived in Canada, the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation at Loon Lake, Sask. was already raising the alarm over suicides in the community, about 360 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. The First Nation declared a state of crisis in mid-November 2019 after three deaths by suicide occurred over three weeks, including a 10-year-old girl. In the weeks that followed, band leaders say eight people, mainly youths, also tried to take their lives. Chief Ronald Mitsuing says a deep sense of grief remains within the community of just over 1,000 people, especially after a 31-year-old man in the community died by suicide two weeks ago. Now, Mitsuing says he fears the stress and worry about a possible outbreak of COVID-19 could trigger further mental health suffering among some of his residents. "Losing the youth really took a big toll out of our community. And I know it's ongoing — people thinking about it all the time, can't get past it," he said. "We're not in that comfortable stage yet where we know it's going to be all right." He is not alone. As the number of COVID-19 cases begins to climb in Indigenous communities across Canada, First Nations and Inuit chiefs say they are deeply concerned about how the pandemic is affecting the mental health of their residents. The Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation did receive help from the province and federal government to deal with the immediate aftermath of the suicide crisis, but Mitsuing says they need more permanent resources. He wants funding to train locals as trauma counsellors, rather than relying on outside help or having to send youth away for treatment. This is especially needed during the pandemic, as the First Nation remains locked down to outsiders, Mitsuing said. Chief Eugene Hart of the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in central Labrador shares the same concerns for his community, which also declared a crisis in the months before the pandemic following 10 suicide attempts in less than a week in October 2019. The community of roughly 1,300 people had also been struggling with more than a dozen other deaths from natural causes before that — a toll that was hardest felt by young people with few supports in place to help them address their grief, Hart said. "I'm worried about everything in general now, because we don't know what people are thinking, where we have the lockdown in the community as well. We don't know what kind of stress people are going through daily because we can't interact with them." He echoed Mitsuing's concerns about not having adequate supports that are permanent. He would like to see full-time crisis counsellors and staff and mental health crisis lines staffed by people in the community. However, he says his First Nation has not received the support from Ottawa or from the province necessary to make this happen. "Everything is totally different now, and it's going to be like this awhile and a lot of people are still scared," he said. Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller says he knows COVID-19 is affecting the mental health of Indigenous communities, particularly among those who are at a high risk from the illness — or have families who are. He says the federal government is increasing the number of crisis intervention counsellors on shift at the Hope for Wellness helpline, which provides telephone and online support for First Nations, Inuit and Metis in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut. More than 100 calls and chats every week are linked to COVID-19, according to assistant deputy minister Valerie Gideon, which represents an increase to previous volumes. "The apprehension and fear that exists within the communities is real and has an impact on mental health. As part of Indigenous Services Canada a large amount of the support we provide turns in and around supports around mental health," Miller said, adding the department is ready to do more as it assesses the impact of the pandemic. Grand Chief Garrison Settee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents northern First Nations in the province, says concern about inadequate personal protective equipment and sanitation supplies in remote, fly-in communities is further adding to the strain. "It's in our psyche, it's in our conscience. Every waking moment, I'm thinking about what's going to happen from day to day. Do we have enough resources to be able to address (COVID-19) if it does hit?" Settee said. Elia Nicholson-Nave, executive director of the Kuu-Us Crisis Line Society, which runs an Indigenous-specific crisis line in British Columbia, says March brought a noticeable spike in calls, which has continued, due to pandemic-related issues. "Many people are fearful of what is yet to come and often the unknown causes additional anxiety, depression and mental health distress," she said, adding they have received no extra funding. Back in Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, Chief Mitsuing says COVID-19 restrictions have put on hold any opportunity for healing as community members and elders remain shut in their houses. When COVID-19 is over, the chief says he wants to organize sharing circles to help people deal with their anxiety and ongoing grief. He also wants to teach the youth about their cultural identity as a way to help them heal. He said that is what one of the youths wrote in a letter before dying by suicide. "That's what they were asking for. They didn't know who they were ... that they didn't have an identity, so we're going to try to teach them their culture, the way we were brought up." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Teresa Wright, The Canadian Press
3 May 11:00 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/chiefs-concerned-about-mental-health-impacts-of-covid-19-in-their-first-nations-2320325Rating: 0.30
Chiefs concerned about mental health impacts of COVID-19 in their First Nations
OTTAWA — A few months before the novel coronavirus arrived in Canada, the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation at Loon Lake, Sask. was already raising the alarm over suicides in the community, about 360 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. The First Nation declared a state of crisis in mid-November 2019 after three deaths by suicide occurred over three weeks, including a 10-year-old girl. In the weeks that followed, band leaders say eight people, mainly youths, also tried to take their lives. Chief Ronald Mitsuing says a deep sense of grief remains within the community of just over 1,000 people, especially after a 31-year-old man in the community died by suicide two weeks ago. Now, Mitsuing says he fears the stress and worry about a possible outbreak of COVID-19 could trigger further mental health suffering among some of his residents. “Losing the youth really took a big toll out of our community. And I know it’s ongoing — people thinking about it all the time, can’t get past it,” he said. “We’re not in that comfortable stage yet where we know it’s going to be all right.” He is not alone. As the number of COVID-19 cases begins to climb in Indigenous communities across Canada, First Nations and Inuit chiefs say they are deeply concerned about how the pandemic is affecting the mental health of their residents. The Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation did receive help from the province and federal government to deal with the immediate aftermath of the suicide crisis, but Mitsuing says they need more permanent resources. He wants funding to train locals as trauma counsellors, rather than relying on outside help or having to send youth away for treatment. This is especially needed during the pandemic, as the First Nation remains locked down to outsiders, Mitsuing said. Chief Eugene Hart of the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in central Labrador shares the same concerns for his community, which also declared a crisis in the months before the pandemic following 10 suicide attempts in less than a week in October 2019. The community of roughly 1,300 people had also been struggling with more than a dozen other deaths from natural causes before that — a toll that was hardest felt by young people with few supports in place to help them address their grief, Hart said. “I’m worried about everything in general now, because we don’t know what people are thinking, where we have the lockdown in the community as well. We don’t know what kind of stress people are going through daily because we can’t interact with them.” He echoed Mitsuing’s concerns about not having adequate supports that are permanent. He would like to see full-time crisis counsellors and staff and mental health crisis lines staffed by people in the community. However, he says his First Nation has not received the support from Ottawa or from the province necessary to make this happen. “Everything is totally different now, and it’s going to be like this awhile and a lot of people are still scared,” he said. Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller says he knows COVID-19 is affecting the mental health of Indigenous communities, particularly among those who are at a high risk from the illness — or have families who are. He says the federal government is increasing the number of crisis intervention counsellors on shift at the Hope for Wellness helpline, which provides telephone and online support for First Nations, Inuit and Metis in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut. More than 100 calls and chats every week are linked to COVID-19, according to assistant deputy minister Valerie Gideon, which represents an increase to previous volumes. “The apprehension and fear that exists within the communities is real and has an impact on mental health. As part of Indigenous Services Canada a large amount of the support we provide turns in and around supports around mental health,” Miller said, adding the department is ready to do more as it assesses the impact of the pandemic. Grand Chief Garrison Settee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents northern First Nations in the province, says concern about inadequate personal protective equipment and sanitation supplies in remote, fly-in communities is further adding to the strain. “It’s in our psyche, it’s in our conscience. Every waking moment, I’m thinking about what’s going to happen from day to day. Do we have enough resources to be able to address (COVID-19) if it does hit?” Settee said. Elia Nicholson-Nave, executive director of the Kuu-Us Crisis Line Society, which runs an Indigenous-specific crisis line in British Columbia, says March brought a noticeable spike in calls, which has continued, due to pandemic-related issues. “Many people are fearful of what is yet to come and often the unknown causes additional anxiety, depression and mental health distress,” she said, adding they have received no extra funding. Back in Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, Chief Mitsuing says COVID-19 restrictions have put on hold any opportunity for healing as community members and elders remain shut in their houses. When COVID-19 is over, the chief says he wants to organize sharing circles to help people deal with their anxiety and ongoing grief. He also wants to teach the youth about their cultural identity as a way to help them heal. He said that is what one of the youths wrote in a letter before dying by suicide. “That’s what they were asking for. They didn’t know who they were … that they didn’t have an identity, so we’re going to try to teach them their culture, the way we were brought up.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Teresa Wright, The Canadian Press
3 May 11:00 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/chiefs-concerned-about-mental-health-impacts-of-covid-19-in-their-first-nations/Rating: 0.61
Chiefs concerned about toll COVID-19 will take on mental health in First Nations
OTTAWA -- A few months before the novel coronavirus arrived in Canada, the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation at Loon Lake, Sask. was already raising the alarm over suicides in the community, about 360 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon. The First Nation declared a state of crisis in mid-November 2019 after three deaths by suicide occurred over three weeks, including a 10-year-old girl. In the weeks that followed, band leaders say eight people, mainly youths, also tried to take their lives. Chief Ronald Mitsuing says a deep sense of grief remains within the community of just over 1,000 people, especially after a 31-year-old man in the community died by suicide two weeks ago. Now, Mitsuing says he fears the stress and worry about a possible outbreak of COVID-19 could trigger further mental health suffering among some of his residents. "Losing the youth really took a big toll out of our community. And I know it's ongoing -- people thinking about it all the time, can't get past it," he said. "We're not in that comfortable stage yet where we know it's going to be all right." He is not alone. As the number of COVID-19 cases begins to climb in Indigenous communities across Canada, First Nations and Inuit chiefs say they are deeply concerned about how the pandemic is affecting the mental health of their residents. The Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation did receive help from the province and federal government to deal with the immediate aftermath of the suicide crisis, but Mitsuing says they need more permanent resources. He wants funding to train locals as trauma counsellors, rather than relying on outside help or having to send youth away for treatment. This is especially needed during the pandemic, as the First Nation remains locked down to outsiders, Mitsuing said. Chief Eugene Hart of the Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation in central Labrador shares the same concerns for his community, which also declared a crisis in the months before the pandemic following 10 suicide attempts in less than a week in October 2019. The community of roughly 1,300 people had also been struggling with more than a dozen other deaths from natural causes before that -- a toll that was hardest felt by young people with few supports in place to help them address their grief, Hart said. "I'm worried about everything in general now, because we don't know what people are thinking, where we have the lockdown in the community as well. We don't know what kind of stress people are going through daily because we can't interact with them." He echoed Mitsuing's concerns about not having adequate supports that are permanent. He would like to see full-time crisis counsellors and staff and mental health crisis lines staffed by people in the community. However, he says his First Nation has not received the support from Ottawa or from the province necessary to make this happen. "Everything is totally different now, and it's going to be like this awhile and a lot of people are still scared," he said. Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller says he knows COVID-19 is affecting the mental health of Indigenous communities, particularly among those who are at a high risk from the illness -- or have families who are. He says the federal government is increasing the number of crisis intervention counsellors on shift at the Hope for Wellness helpline, which provides telephone and online support for First Nations, Inuit and Metis in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut. More than 100 calls and chats every week are linked to COVID-19, according to assistant deputy minister Valerie Gideon, which represents an increase to previous volumes. "The apprehension and fear that exists within the communities is real and has an impact on mental health. As part of Indigenous Services Canada a large amount of the support we provide turns in and around supports around mental health," Miller said, adding the department is ready to do more as it assesses the impact of the pandemic. Grand Chief Garrison Settee of Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents northern First Nations in the province, says concern about inadequate personal protective equipment and sanitation supplies in remote, fly-in communities is further adding to the strain. "It's in our psyche, it's in our conscience. Every waking moment, I'm thinking about what's going to happen from day to day. Do we have enough resources to be able to address (COVID-19) if it does hit?" Settee said. Elia Nicholson-Nave, executive director of the Kuu-Us Crisis Line Society, which runs an Indigenous-specific crisis line in British Columbia, says March brought a noticeable spike in calls, which has continued, due to pandemic-related issues. "Many people are fearful of what is yet to come and often the unknown causes additional anxiety, depression and mental health distress," she said, adding they have received no extra funding. Back in Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, Chief Mitsuing says COVID-19 restrictions have put on hold any opportunity for healing as community members and elders remain shut in their houses. When COVID-19 is over, the chief says he wants to organize sharing circles to help people deal with their anxiety and ongoing grief. He also wants to teach the youth about their cultural identity as a way to help them heal. He said that is what one of the youths wrote in a letter before dying by suicide. "That's what they were asking for. They didn't know who they were ... that they didn't have an identity, so we're going to try to teach them their culture, the way we were brought up." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 12:31 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/chiefs-concerned-about-toll-covid-19-will-take-on-mental-health-in-first-nations-1.4922687Rating: 2.87
Civil service saw COVID-19 benefit programs as 'Dunkirk'-style rescue effort
3 May 09:00
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Civil service saw COVID-19 benefit programs as 'Dunkirk'-style rescue effort
OTTAWA - It was a sunny March 18 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented the government's first big attempt at containing the economic fallout from COVID-19 in the form of an $82-billion rescue package. The viral pandemic's effect in Canada was already bad: Schools were closing, workplaces shutting down, employees being laid off or having their hours cut deeply. The $82-billion response was immense by any standard. But the jobless numbers would overwhelm it, and they were still rising. On the Monday before Trudeau spoke, there had been 71,000 claims on the employment-insurance system — surpassing the previous single-day record of 38,000 set during the global financial crisis just over a decade ago. On the day Trudeau announced the first relief plan, 87,000 claims were filed, almost 10 times the usual daily volume for mid-March. By Thursday morning, officials overseeing the safety-net program started sensing the magnitude of what was coming. Just processing all the incoming claims in the usual way would take months. They needed to explain it to a half-dozen senior civil servants in a boardroom and the remainder on videoconference for a regular morning briefing. "Dunkirk" was the comparison that stuck. Early in the Second World War in the face of an unexpected attack from Nazi Germany, an Allied army retreated to the French town on the English Channel. An immense sealift saved some 340,000 British, French and other soldiers so they could fight another day. Rescuing them took hundreds of vessels, including fishing boats and pleasure craft whose civilian crews set out from the south of Britain. Naval officers commandeered riverboats and took them to sea to take part in the mightiest such effort in history. "Dunkirk." That was the scale of what was coming, what would be needed. Everyone in the room perked up. "There was no way we could continue to deliver the EI program the way that it typically is delivered," said one official in the room, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the behind-the-scenes talks. Within an hour, there were briefings to key ministers and the clerk of the Privy Council, the most senior federal civil servant. By the afternoon, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough was telling the rest of the cabinet. The Liberals had promised a benefit for people staying home to care for a child or ill family member, and a second for those who had to go into quarantine or self-isolation. Qualtrough said the multiple programs were already complicated for Canadians to navigate and for the government to explain. Officials cloistered in meetings starting on Thursday afternoon and lasting into the weekend decided simply to roll everything into a single benefit, especially if an EI recipient was going to get less than the new consolidated benefit, which the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives estimated to be 84 per cent of recipients in early April. Eligibility was set at having earned $5,000 in the previous 12 months, and now having an income of zero as a result of COVID-19. But gaps emerged. Students didn't have enough earnings to qualify. Nor would people whose hours were slashed but still had some income. "It wasn't like a week later we said, 'Oh, boy, we didn't realize this.' In some cases there was a choice, in some cases not so much," Qualtrough said in an interview. The idea was to spread a broad net at first and then widen it to catch more people. The core system that delivers EI payments is over 40 years old, having gone through myriad changes over the years. It's fragile, already in need of replacement, and changing too much about how it works risked a debacle. Delivering the benefit through EI was out. By the end of the weekend, the Canada Revenue Agency had been called in to develop a delivery system because it handles millions of tax returns annually. Most Canadians already have tax accounts. Automation was agreed upon to limit manual work that would add to processing and payment times. At the same time, Employment and Social Development Canada found some 3,000 laptops for employees ordered to work at home — it's now closer to 7,000 — and boosted department bandwidth to handle thousands of remote users. (This week, there were 19,500 remote users on the network, keeping the system running mostly from their homes, on top of those who were still in the office.) By the start of the week after Trudeau made his first announcement, new legislation was being drafted and a budget put in place: spending was going up with one, instead of two, emergency benefits. All that was left was a launch date for the benefit, and a deadline to deal with the backlog of EI claims: April 6. Applications for the CERB launched that day. "It all came together, but it was through government doing things very differently, through decision-makers assuming a level of risk that was probably unprecedented," Qualtrough said. By the end of March, before the emergency benefit kicked in, the government had about 2.2 million EI claims. Now, there are over seven million people, or more than one-third of the Canadian workforce, on the benefit. The government says they have received about $26 billion. There have been hiccups: —Duplicate payments for those who applied for EI and then applied as well for the CERB. —Pregnant women whose EI files have yet to be migrated over to the CERB and receive their first payments —Single mothers who can't qualify for help because the drops they've seen in child support payments aren't counted in the income test. The first has been fixed and the other two will be, the government says, although the antiquated accounting system makes it more difficult. There are also hours-long wait times to get through to a special CERB call centre that was set up in nine days, including training 1,500 volunteers from ESDC to man the phones. "Our officials are doing everything that they can . . . to make sure we are serving Canadians promptly," Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is in charge of Service Canada call centres, told a Commons committee Thursday, "but we're dealing in a context of really unprecedented demand in terms of people calling in." Qualtrough said the government is now watching how the $35-billion CERB interacts with a separate $73-billion wage-subsidy program, which funnels money through employers to help keep people on payrolls. Even though officials considered the interplay between the two programs, Qualtrough said policy details are still being worked out, such as how a worker transitions between programs, and avoiding duplicate payments. "We knew that these things had to work together. We're not retroactively saying, 'Oh crap, we've got to make sure these things work together,'" Qualtrough said. "So right now we're dealing with the reality of who is not captured, will they be captured elsewhere, who do we still need to capture ... and who applies for what." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 09:00 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-cerb/cp272826541Rating: 0.30
Civil service saw COVID-19 benefit programs as 'Dunkirk'-style rescue effort
OTTAWA — It was a sunny March 18 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented the government's first big attempt at containing the economic fallout from COVID-19 in the form of an $82-billion rescue package. The viral pandemic's effect in Canada was already bad: Schools were closing, workplaces shutting down, employees being laid off or having their hours cut deeply. The $82-billion response was immense by any standard. But the jobless numbers would overwhelm it, and they were still rising. On the Monday before Trudeau spoke, there had been 71,000 claims on the employment-insurance system — surpassing the previous single-day record of 38,000 set during the global financial crisis just over a decade ago. On the day Trudeau announced the first relief plan, 87,000 claims were filed, almost 10 times the usual daily volume for mid-March. By Thursday morning, officials overseeing the safety-net program started sensing the magnitude of what was coming. Just processing all the incoming claims in the usual way would take months. They needed to explain it to a half-dozen senior civil servants in a boardroom and the remainder on videoconference for a regular morning briefing. "Dunkirk" was the comparison that stuck. Early in the Second World War in the face of an unexpected attack from Nazi Germany, an Allied army retreated to the French town on the English Channel. An immense sealift saved some 340,000 British, French and other soldiers so they could fight another day. Rescuing them took hundreds of vessels, including fishing boats and pleasure craft whose civilian crews set out from the south of Britain. Naval officers commandeered riverboats and took them to sea to take part in the mightiest such effort in history. "Dunkirk." That was the scale of what was coming, what would be needed. Everyone in the room perked up. "There was no way we could continue to deliver the EI program the way that it typically is delivered," said one official in the room, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the behind-the-scenes talks. Within an hour, there were briefings to key ministers and the clerk of the Privy Council, the most senior federal civil servant. By the afternoon, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough was telling the rest of the cabinet. The Liberals had promised a benefit for people staying home to care for a child or ill family member, and a second for those who had to go into quarantine or self-isolation. Qualtrough said the multiple programs were already complicated for Canadians to navigate and for the government to explain. Officials cloistered in meetings starting on Thursday afternoon and lasting into the weekend decided simply to roll everything into a single benefit, especially if an EI recipient was going to get less than the new consolidated benefit, which the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives estimated to be 84 per cent of recipients in early April. Eligibility was set at having earned $5,000 in the previous 12 months, and now having an income of zero as a result of COVID-19. But gaps emerged. Students didn't have enough earnings to qualify. Nor would people whose hours were slashed but still had some income. "It wasn't like a week later we said, 'Oh, boy, we didn't realize this.' In some cases there was a choice, in some cases not so much," Qualtrough said in an interview. The idea was to spread a broad net at first and then widen it to catch more people. The core system that delivers EI payments is over 40 years old, having gone through myriad changes over the years. It's fragile, already in need of replacement, and changing too much about how it works risked a debacle. Delivering the benefit through EI was out. By the end of the weekend, the Canada Revenue Agency had been called in to develop a delivery system because it handles millions of tax returns annually. Most Canadians already have tax accounts. Automation was agreed upon to limit manual work that would add to processing and payment times. At the same time, Employment and Social Development Canada found some 3,000 laptops for employees ordered to work at home — it's now closer to 7,000 — and boosted department bandwidth to handle thousands of remote users. (This week, there were 19,500 remote users on the network, keeping the system running mostly from their homes, on top of those who were still in the office.) By the start of the week after Trudeau made his first announcement, new legislation was being drafted and a budget put in place: spending was going up with one, instead of two, emergency benefits. All that was left was a launch date for the benefit, and a deadline to deal with the backlog of EI claims: April 6. Applications for the CERB launched that day. "It all came together, but it was through government doing things very differently, through decision-makers assuming a level of risk that was probably unprecedented," Qualtrough said. By the end of March, before the emergency benefit kicked in, the government had about 2.2 million EI claims. Now, there are over seven million people, or more than one-third of the Canadian workforce, on the benefit. The government says they have received about $26 billion. There have been hiccups: —Duplicate payments for those who applied for EI and then applied as well for the CERB. —Pregnant women whose EI files have yet to be migrated over to the CERB and receive their first payments —Single mothers who can't qualify for help because the drops they've seen in child support payments aren't counted in the income test. The first has been fixed and the other two will be, the government says, although the antiquated accounting system makes it more difficult. There are also hours-long wait times to get through to a special CERB call centre that was set up in nine days, including training 1,500 volunteers from ESDC to man the phones. "Our officials are doing everything that they can . . . to make sure we are serving Canadians promptly," Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is in charge of Service Canada call centres, told a Commons committee Thursday, "but we're dealing in a context of really unprecedented demand in terms of people calling in." Qualtrough said the government is now watching how the $35-billion CERB interacts with a separate $73-billion wage-subsidy program, which funnels money through employers to help keep people on payrolls. Even though officials considered the interplay between the two programs, Qualtrough said policy details are still being worked out, such as how a worker transitions between programs, and avoiding duplicate payments. "We knew that these things had to work together. We're not retroactively saying, 'Oh crap, we've got to make sure these things work together,'" Qualtrough said. "So right now we're dealing with the reality of who is not captured, will they be captured elsewhere, who do we still need to capture ... and who applies for what." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Jordan Press, The Canadian Press
3 May 09:00 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/civil-service-saw-covid-19-benefit-programs-as-dunkirk-style-rescue-effort-2320306Rating: 0.30
Civil service saw COVID-19 benefit programs as 'Dunkirk'-style rescue effort
OTTAWA — It was a sunny March 18 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented the government’s first big attempt at containing the economic fallout from COVID-19 in the form of an $82-billion rescue package. The viral pandemic’s effect in Canada was already bad: Schools were closing, workplaces shutting down, employees being laid off or having their hours cut deeply. The $82-billion response was immense by any standard. But the jobless numbers would overwhelm it, and they were still rising. On the Monday before Trudeau spoke, there had been 71,000 claims on the employment-insurance system — surpassing the previous single-day record of 38,000 set during the global financial crisis just over a decade ago. On the day Trudeau announced the first relief plan, 87,000 claims were filed, almost 10 times the usual daily volume for mid-March. By Thursday morning, officials overseeing the safety-net program started sensing the magnitude of what was coming. Just processing all the incoming claims in the usual way would take months. They needed to explain it to a half-dozen senior civil servants in a boardroom and the remainder on videoconference for a regular morning briefing. “Dunkirk” was the comparison that stuck. Early in the Second World War in the face of an unexpected attack from Nazi Germany, an Allied army retreated to the French town on the English Channel. An immense sealift saved some 340,000 British, French and other soldiers so they could fight another day. Rescuing them took hundreds of vessels, including fishing boats and pleasure craft whose civilian crews set out from the south of Britain. Naval officers commandeered riverboats and took them to sea to take part in the mightiest such effort in history. “Dunkirk.” That was the scale of what was coming, what would be needed. Everyone in the room perked up. “There was no way we could continue to deliver the EI program the way that it typically is delivered,” said one official in the room, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the behind-the-scenes talks. Within an hour, there were briefings to key ministers and the clerk of the Privy Council, the most senior federal civil servant. By the afternoon, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough was telling the rest of the cabinet. The Liberals had promised a benefit for people staying home to care for a child or ill family member, and a second for those who had to go into quarantine or self-isolation. Qualtrough said the multiple programs were already complicated for Canadians to navigate and for the government to explain. Officials cloistered in meetings starting on Thursday afternoon and lasting into the weekend decided simply to roll everything into a single benefit, especially if an EI recipient was going to get less than the new consolidated benefit, which the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives estimated to be 84 per cent of recipients in early April. Eligibility was set at having earned $5,000 in the previous 12 months, and now having an income of zero as a result of COVID-19. But gaps emerged. Students didn’t have enough earnings to qualify. Nor would people whose hours were slashed but still had some income. “It wasn’t like a week later we said, ‘Oh, boy, we didn’t realize this.’ In some cases there was a choice, in some cases not so much,” Qualtrough said in an interview. The idea was to spread a broad net at first and then widen it to catch more people. The core system that delivers EI payments is over 40 years old, having gone through myriad changes over the years. It’s fragile, already in need of replacement, and changing too much about how it works risked a debacle. Delivering the benefit through EI was out. By the end of the weekend, the Canada Revenue Agency had been called in to develop a delivery system because it handles millions of tax returns annually. Most Canadians already have tax accounts. Automation was agreed upon to limit manual work that would add to processing and payment times. At the same time, Employment and Social Development Canada found some 3,000 laptops for employees ordered to work at home — it’s now closer to 7,000 — and boosted department bandwidth to handle thousands of remote users. (This week, there were 19,500 remote users on the network, keeping the system running mostly from their homes, on top of those who were still in the office.) By the start of the week after Trudeau made his first announcement, new legislation was being drafted and a budget put in place: spending was going up with one, instead of two, emergency benefits. All that was left was a launch date for the benefit, and a deadline to deal with the backlog of EI claims: April 6. Applications for the CERB launched that day. “It all came together, but it was through government doing things very differently, through decision-makers assuming a level of risk that was probably unprecedented,” Qualtrough said. By the end of March, before the emergency benefit kicked in, the government had about 2.2 million EI claims. Now, there are over seven million people, or more than one-third of the Canadian workforce, on the benefit. The government says they have received about $26 billion. There have been hiccups: —Duplicate payments for those who applied for EI and then applied as well for the CERB. —Pregnant women whose EI files have yet to be migrated over to the CERB and receive their first payments —Single mothers who can’t qualify for help because the drops they’ve seen in child support payments aren’t counted in the income test. The first has been fixed and the other two will be, the government says, although the antiquated accounting system makes it more difficult. There are also hours-long wait times to get through to a special CERB call centre that was set up in nine days, including training 1,500 volunteers from ESDC to man the phones. “Our officials are doing everything that they can . . . to make sure we are serving Canadians promptly,” Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is in charge of Service Canada call centres, told a Commons committee Thursday, “but we’re dealing in a context of really unprecedented demand in terms of people calling in.” Qualtrough said the government is now watching how the $35-billion CERB interacts with a separate $73-billion wage-subsidy program, which funnels money through employers to help keep people on payrolls. Even though officials considered the interplay between the two programs, Qualtrough said policy details are still being worked out, such as how a worker transitions between programs, and avoiding duplicate payments. “We knew that these things had to work together. We’re not retroactively saying, ‘Oh crap, we’ve got to make sure these things work together,'” Qualtrough said. “So right now we’re dealing with the reality of who is not captured, will they be captured elsewhere, who do we still need to capture … and who applies for what.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Jordan Press, The Canadian Press
3 May 10:00 • City NEWS 1130 • https://www.citynews1130.com/2020/05/03/civil-service-saw-covid-19-benefit-programs-as-dunkirk-style-rescue-effort/Rating: 0.77
Civil service saw COVID-19 benefit programs as 'Dunkirk'-style rescue effort
OTTAWA — It was a sunny March 18 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented the government’s first big attempt at containing the economic fallout from COVID-19 in the form of an $82-billion rescue package. The viral pandemic’s effect in Canada was already bad: Schools were closing, workplaces shutting down, employees being laid off or having their hours cut deeply. The $82-billion response was immense by any standard. But the jobless numbers would overwhelm it, and they were still rising. On the Monday before Trudeau spoke, there had been 71,000 claims on the employment-insurance system — surpassing the previous single-day record of 38,000 set during the global financial crisis just over a decade ago. On the day Trudeau announced the first relief plan, 87,000 claims were filed, almost 10 times the usual daily volume for mid-March. By Thursday morning, officials overseeing the safety-net program started sensing the magnitude of what was coming. Just processing all the incoming claims in the usual way would take months. They needed to explain it to a half-dozen senior civil servants in a boardroom and the remainder on videoconference for a regular morning briefing. “Dunkirk” was the comparison that stuck. Early in the Second World War in the face of an unexpected attack from Nazi Germany, an Allied army retreated to the French town on the English Channel. An immense sealift saved some 340,000 British, French and other soldiers so they could fight another day. Rescuing them took hundreds of vessels, including fishing boats and pleasure craft whose civilian crews set out from the south of Britain. Naval officers commandeered riverboats and took them to sea to take part in the mightiest such effort in history. “Dunkirk.” That was the scale of what was coming, what would be needed. Everyone in the room perked up. “There was no way we could continue to deliver the EI program the way that it typically is delivered,” said one official in the room, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the behind-the-scenes talks. Within an hour, there were briefings to key ministers and the clerk of the Privy Council, the most senior federal civil servant. By the afternoon, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough was telling the rest of the cabinet. The Liberals had promised a benefit for people staying home to care for a child or ill family member, and a second for those who had to go into quarantine or self-isolation. Qualtrough said the multiple programs were already complicated for Canadians to navigate and for the government to explain. Officials cloistered in meetings starting on Thursday afternoon and lasting into the weekend decided simply to roll everything into a single benefit, especially if an EI recipient was going to get less than the new consolidated benefit, which the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives estimated to be 84 per cent of recipients in early April. Eligibility was set at having earned $5,000 in the previous 12 months, and now having an income of zero as a result of COVID-19. But gaps emerged. Students didn’t have enough earnings to qualify. Nor would people whose hours were slashed but still had some income. “It wasn’t like a week later we said, ‘Oh, boy, we didn’t realize this.’ In some cases there was a choice, in some cases not so much,” Qualtrough said in an interview. The idea was to spread a broad net at first and then widen it to catch more people. The core system that delivers EI payments is over 40 years old, having gone through myriad changes over the years. It’s fragile, already in need of replacement, and changing too much about how it works risked a debacle. Delivering the benefit through EI was out. By the end of the weekend, the Canada Revenue Agency had been called in to develop a delivery system because it handles millions of tax returns annually. Most Canadians already have tax accounts. Automation was agreed upon to limit manual work that would add to processing and payment times. At the same time, Employment and Social Development Canada found some 3,000 laptops for employees ordered to work at home — it’s now closer to 7,000 — and boosted department bandwidth to handle thousands of remote users. (This week, there were 19,500 remote users on the network, keeping the system running mostly from their homes, on top of those who were still in the office.) By the start of the week after Trudeau made his first announcement, new legislation was being drafted and a budget put in place: spending was going up with one, instead of two, emergency benefits. All that was left was a launch date for the benefit, and a deadline to deal with the backlog of EI claims: April 6. Applications for the CERB launched that day. “It all came together, but it was through government doing things very differently, through decision-makers assuming a level of risk that was probably unprecedented,” Qualtrough said. By the end of March, before the emergency benefit kicked in, the government had about 2.2 million EI claims. Now, there are over seven million people, or more than one-third of the Canadian workforce, on the benefit. The government says they have received about $26 billion. There have been hiccups: —Duplicate payments for those who applied for EI and then applied as well for the CERB. —Pregnant women whose EI files have yet to be migrated over to the CERB and receive their first payments —Single mothers who can’t qualify for help because the drops they’ve seen in child support payments aren’t counted in the income test. The first has been fixed and the other two will be, the government says, although the antiquated accounting system makes it more difficult. There are also hours-long wait times to get through to a special CERB call centre that was set up in nine days, including training 1,500 volunteers from ESDC to man the phones. “Our officials are doing everything that they can . . . to make sure we are serving Canadians promptly,” Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is in charge of Service Canada call centres, told a Commons committee Thursday, “but we’re dealing in a context of really unprecedented demand in terms of people calling in.” Qualtrough said the government is now watching how the $35-billion CERB interacts with a separate $73-billion wage-subsidy program, which funnels money through employers to help keep people on payrolls. Even though officials considered the interplay between the two programs, Qualtrough said policy details are still being worked out, such as how a worker transitions between programs, and avoiding duplicate payments. “We knew that these things had to work together. We’re not retroactively saying, ‘Oh crap, we’ve got to make sure these things work together,'” Qualtrough said. “So right now we’re dealing with the reality of who is not captured, will they be captured elsewhere, who do we still need to capture … and who applies for what.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Jordan Press, The Canadian Press
3 May 09:00 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/civil-service-saw-covid-19-benefit-programs-as-dunkirk-style-rescue-effort/Rating: 0.61
Civil service saw COVID-19 benefit programs as 'Dunkirk'-style rescue effort
OTTAWA -- It was a sunny March 18 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented the government's first big attempt at containing the economic fallout from COVID-19 in the form of an $82-billion rescue package. The viral pandemic's effect in Canada was already bad: Schools were closing, workplaces shutting down, employees being laid off or having their hours cut deeply. The $82-billion response was immense by any standard. But the jobless numbers would overwhelm it, and they were still rising. On the Monday before Trudeau spoke, there had been 71,000 claims on the employment-insurance system -- surpassing the previous single-day record of 38,000 set during the global financial crisis just over a decade ago. On the day Trudeau announced the first relief plan, 87,000 claims were filed, almost 10 times the usual daily volume for mid-March. By Thursday morning, officials overseeing the safety-net program started sensing the magnitude of what was coming. Just processing all the incoming claims in the usual way would take months. They needed to explain it to a half-dozen senior civil servants in a boardroom and the remainder on videoconference for a regular morning briefing. "Dunkirk" was the comparison that stuck. Early in the Second World War in the face of an unexpected attack from Nazi Germany, an Allied army retreated to the French town on the English Channel. An immense sealift saved some 340,000 British, French and other soldiers so they could fight another day. Rescuing them took hundreds of vessels, including fishing boats and pleasure craft whose civilian crews set out from the south of Britain. Naval officers commandeered riverboats and took them to sea to take part in the mightiest such effort in history. "Dunkirk." That was the scale of what was coming, what would be needed. Everyone in the room perked up. "There was no way we could continue to deliver the EI program the way that it typically is delivered," said one official in the room, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the behind-the-scenes talks. Within an hour, there were briefings to key ministers and the clerk of the Privy Council, the most senior federal civil servant. By the afternoon, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough was telling the rest of the cabinet. The Liberals had promised a benefit for people staying home to care for a child or ill family member, and a second for those who had to go into quarantine or self-isolation. Qualtrough said the multiple programs were already complicated for Canadians to navigate and for the government to explain. Officials cloistered in meetings starting on Thursday afternoon and lasting into the weekend decided simply to roll everything into a single benefit, especially if an EI recipient was going to get less than the new consolidated benefit, which the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives estimated to be 84 per cent of recipients in early April. Eligibility was set at having earned $5,000 in the previous 12 months, and now having an income of zero as a result of COVID-19. But gaps emerged. Students didn't have enough earnings to qualify. Nor would people whose hours were slashed but still had some income. "It wasn't like a week later we said, 'Oh, boy, we didn't realize this.' In some cases there was a choice, in some cases not so much," Qualtrough said in an interview. The idea was to spread a broad net at first and then widen it to catch more people. The core system that delivers EI payments is over 40 years old, having gone through myriad changes over the years. It's fragile, already in need of replacement, and changing too much about how it works risked a debacle. Delivering the benefit through EI was out. By the end of the weekend, the Canada Revenue Agency had been called in to develop a delivery system because it handles millions of tax returns annually. Most Canadians already have tax accounts. Automation was agreed upon to limit manual work that would add to processing and payment times. At the same time, Employment and Social Development Canada found some 3,000 laptops for employees ordered to work at home -- it's now closer to 7,000 -- and boosted department bandwidth to handle thousands of remote users. (This week, there were 19,500 remote users on the network, keeping the system running mostly from their homes, on top of those who were still in the office.) By the start of the week after Trudeau made his first announcement, new legislation was being drafted and a budget put in place: spending was going up with one, instead of two, emergency benefits. All that was left was a launch date for the benefit, and a deadline to deal with the backlog of EI claims: April 6. Applications for the CERB launched that day. "It all came together, but it was through government doing things very differently, through decision-makers assuming a level of risk that was probably unprecedented," Qualtrough said. By the end of March, before the emergency benefit kicked in, the government had about 2.2 million EI claims. Now, there are over seven million people, or more than one-third of the Canadian workforce, on the benefit. The government says they have received about $26 billion. There have been hiccups: --Duplicate payments for those who applied for EI and then applied as well for the CERB. --Pregnant women whose EI files have yet to be migrated over to the CERB and receive their first payments --Single mothers who can't qualify for help because the drops they've seen in child support payments aren't counted in the income test. The first has been fixed and the other two will be, the government says, although the antiquated accounting system makes it more difficult. There are also hours-long wait times to get through to a special CERB call centre that was set up in nine days, including training 1,500 volunteers from ESDC to man the phones. "Our officials are doing everything that they can . . . to make sure we are serving Canadians promptly," Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is in charge of Service Canada call centres, told a Commons committee Thursday, "but we're dealing in a context of really unprecedented demand in terms of people calling in." Qualtrough said the government is now watching how the $35-billion CERB interacts with a separate $73-billion wage-subsidy program, which funnels money through employers to help keep people on payrolls. Even though officials considered the interplay between the two programs, Qualtrough said policy details are still being worked out, such as how a worker transitions between programs, and avoiding duplicate payments. "We knew that these things had to work together. We're not retroactively saying, 'Oh crap, we've got to make sure these things work together,"' Qualtrough said. "So right now we're dealing with the reality of who is not captured, will they be captured elsewhere, who do we still need to capture ... and who applies for what." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 10:39 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/civil-service-saw-covid-19-benefit-programs-as-dunkirk-style-rescue-effort-1.4922657Rating: 1.66
Behind the scenes: How CERB went from an idea to a reality
OTTAWA -- It was a sunny March 18 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau presented the government's first big attempt at containing the economic fallout from COVID-19 in the form of an $82-billion rescue package. The viral pandemic's effect in Canada was already bad: Schools were closing, workplaces shutting down, employees being laid off or having their hours cut deeply. The $82-billion response was immense by any standard. But the jobless numbers would overwhelm it, and they were still rising. On the Monday before Trudeau spoke, there had been 71,000 claims on the employment-insurance system -- surpassing the previous single-day record of 38,000 set during the global financial crisis just over a decade ago. On the day Trudeau announced the first relief plan, 87,000 claims were filed, almost 10 times the usual daily volume for mid-March. By Thursday morning, officials overseeing the safety-net program started sensing the magnitude of what was coming. Just processing all the incoming claims in the usual way would take months. They needed to explain it to a half-dozen senior civil servants in a boardroom and the remainder on videoconference for a regular morning briefing. "Dunkirk" was the comparison that stuck. Early in the Second World War in the face of an unexpected attack from Nazi Germany, an Allied army retreated to the French town on the English Channel. An immense sealift saved some 340,000 British, French and other soldiers so they could fight another day. Rescuing them took hundreds of vessels, including fishing boats and pleasure craft whose civilian crews set out from the south of Britain. Naval officers commandeered riverboats and took them to sea to take part in the mightiest such effort in history. "Dunkirk." That was the scale of what was coming, what would be needed. Everyone in the room perked up. "There was no way we could continue to deliver the EI program the way that it typically is delivered," said one official in the room, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the behind-the-scenes talks. Within an hour, there were briefings to key ministers and the clerk of the Privy Council, the most senior federal civil servant. By the afternoon, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough was telling the rest of the cabinet. The Liberals had promised a benefit for people staying home to care for a child or ill family member, and a second for those who had to go into quarantine or self-isolation. Qualtrough said the multiple programs were already complicated for Canadians to navigate and for the government to explain. Officials cloistered in meetings starting on Thursday afternoon and lasting into the weekend decided simply to roll everything into a single benefit, especially if an EI recipient was going to get less than the new consolidated benefit, which the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives estimated to be 84 per cent of recipients in early April. Eligibility was set at having earned $5,000 in the previous 12 months, and now having an income of zero as a result of COVID-19. But gaps emerged. Students didn't have enough earnings to qualify. Nor would people whose hours were slashed but still had some income. "It wasn't like a week later we said, 'Oh, boy, we didn't realize this.' In some cases there was a choice, in some cases not so much," Qualtrough said in an interview. The idea was to spread a broad net at first and then widen it to catch more people. The core system that delivers EI payments is over 40 years old, having gone through myriad changes over the years. It's fragile, already in need of replacement, and changing too much about how it works risked a debacle. Delivering the benefit through EI was out. By the end of the weekend, the Canada Revenue Agency had been called in to develop a delivery system because it handles millions of tax returns annually. Most Canadians already have tax accounts. Automation was agreed upon to limit manual work that would add to processing and payment times. At the same time, Employment and Social Development Canada found some 3,000 laptops for employees ordered to work at home -- it's now closer to 7,000 -- and boosted department bandwidth to handle thousands of remote users. (This week, there were 19,500 remote users on the network, keeping the system running mostly from their homes, on top of those who were still in the office.) By the start of the week after Trudeau made his first announcement, new legislation was being drafted and a budget put in place: spending was going up with one, instead of two, emergency benefits. All that was left was a launch date for the benefit, and a deadline to deal with the backlog of EI claims: April 6. Applications for the CERB launched that day. "It all came together, but it was through government doing things very differently, through decision-makers assuming a level of risk that was probably unprecedented," Qualtrough said. By the end of March, before the emergency benefit kicked in, the government had about 2.2 million EI claims. Now, there are over seven million people, or more than one-third of the Canadian workforce, on the benefit. The government says they have received about $26 billion. There have been hiccups: The first has been fixed and the other two will be, the government says, although the antiquated accounting system makes it more difficult. There are also hours-long wait times to get through to a special CERB call centre that was set up in nine days, including training 1,500 volunteers from ESDC to man the phones. "Our officials are doing everything that they can . . . to make sure we are serving Canadians promptly," Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is in charge of Service Canada call centres, told a Commons committee Thursday, "but we're dealing in a context of really unprecedented demand in terms of people calling in." Qualtrough said the government is now watching how the $35-billion CERB interacts with a separate $73-billion wage-subsidy program, which funnels money through employers to help keep people on payrolls. Even though officials considered the interplay between the two programs, Qualtrough said policy details are still being worked out, such as how a worker transitions between programs, and avoiding duplicate payments. "We knew that these things had to work together. We're not retroactively saying, 'Oh crap, we've got to make sure these things work together,"' Qualtrough said. "So right now we're dealing with the reality of who is not captured, will they be captured elsewhere, who do we still need to capture ... and who applies for what." This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 12:07 • Coronavirus • https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/coronavirus/behind-the-scenes-how-cerb-went-from-an-idea-to-a-reality-1.4922682Rating: 2.87
Unconvincing explanations cloud dramatic coronavirus recovery figure in Bangladesh
3 May 23:31
•
3 articles
Weight: 1.42
Importance: 1.42
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 23:31
Average US: 0.26666666666666666
Weighted average US: 0.6497834187898498
Average GB: 0.0
Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 7.0
Weighted average IN: 2.6899365386141887
Unconvincing explanations cloud dramatic coronavirus recovery figure in Bangladesh
Confusions have clouded new Health Directorate estimates updated in a matter of 24 hours that show more than 1,000 people have recovered from coronavirus. The figure for recovery on Saturday was 177 after three more won the battle against the deadly illness in the preceding 24 hours. In the Sunday brief, DGHS Additional Director General Nasima Sultana put the total number of recovered patients at 1,063, a whopping rise in the past 24 hours. The uplifting statistics, she said, was based on new calculations done following 'revised guidelines'. But the factors at play in this dramatic leap in the number of people surviving the deadly illness remains unclear. A total of 624 patients were discharged from hospitals in Dhaka while 272 others recovered outside the capital, according to Nasima. "There is a clinical management committee for cases of recovery and they have made a new guideline which sets a criteria for when we can say a patient has recovered, when they can leave hospitals. So, 1,063 patients have recovered under this criteria," she said. bdnews24.com called on DGHS officials for a better understanding of the development, but the explanations remained vague. According to previous guidelines, the sample of a person who tested positive for coronavirus would be tested again after 14 days. If it came back negative, another test would follow seven days later. If results again return negative, the patient would once again be tested within 72 hours and if the result is still negative, that individual would be put on the list of recoveries and advised to remain in three-week quarantine on discharge from hospital. "According to the new guidelines, if a patient has clinically recovered, meaning if they do not have fever, cough or respiratory problem for three consecutive days, they would be released and sent back home to remain in isolation for two weeks," virologist Prof Dr Nazrul Islam, who advises the national technical committee, told bdnews24.com. The tests which were conducted in hospitals previously would be carried out at home, he said. However, he was tight-lipped when asked how the information of a patient who recovers at home would be collated. Also, the question as to whether a person would be considered to have recovered if no symptoms show in two-three days went unanswered. But Md Habibur Rahman Khan, additional secretary to the health ministry, gave bdnews24.com a different explanation. "We have been providing information on the hospitals in Dhaka all these days. From today, details coming in from all over the country are being added up. This has caused the number of recoveries to surge," he said. "From today information on patients recovering from hospitals all over the country will be provided. This is what Health Directorate's Additional Director General Nasima Sultana told me," he said. bdnews24.com failed to reach Nasima Sultana for her comments on the issue. The DGHS has been subject to criticism in social media about its handling of the COVID-19 crisis. Bangladesh confirmed two more deaths from the coronavirus in a daily count, taking the total to 177 on Sunday. The tally of COVID-19 infections spiralled to 9,455 in the same period after another 665 people tested positive from 5,368 samples in the biggest single-day spike.
3 May 23:31 • Bdnews24 • https://bdnews24.com/health/2020/05/04/unconvincing-explanations-cloud-dramatic-coronavirus-recovery-figure-in-bangladeshRating: 2.85
Covid-19 patients in ICU falls below 700 for first time in 40 days; Many released from hospital
The number of patients from the Netherlands in intensive care for respiratory illness Covid-19 totaled 688 on Sunday, 20 fewer than the previous day. It was the 22nd straight daily decrease, according to patient coordination office LCPS. It was also over 51 percent lower than the peak total of patients on April 9, when 1,417 were in ICU for the coronavirus disease. "The number of COVID registrations outside the ICU is now also falling rapidly, down to 1,380 at the moment. This decrease offers room for expansion of non-COVID care in the coming week," the LCPS said. Intensive care capacity was below 100 percent in every region of the country, added Ernst Kuipers, the chair of the acute care network in the Netherlands. Saturday was also the first date since late March when the total number of ICU patients with or without Covid-19 was below normal capacity. The LCPS said another 382 patients without Covid-19 were also being treated in ICUs, and 28 of the Dutch Covid-19 patients were being cared for in Germany. Out of 2,812 total patients who required intensive care since the pandemic began, 720 have died, 695 have been discharged, and 652 were being treated in other departments, according to intensive care nonprofit organization NICE.
3 May 14:52 • NL Times • https://nltimes.nl/2020/05/03/covid-19-patients-icu-falls-700-first-time-40-days-many-released-hospitalRating: 0.33
ICU patient total back to “normal” level: 708 Covid-19 patients in intensive care
With Dutch hospitals treating fewer and fewer Covid-19 patients in intensive care after nearly three straight weeks of daily declines, occupancy in ICU has returned to a normal level. There were 708 ICU patients from the Netherlands in intensive care on Saturday, patient coordination office LCPS confirmed. "The overall ICU occupancy of 1098 patients in the Netherlands is within normal ICU capacity again. This gives the ICU staff space to catch their breath," said Ernst Kuipers, the chair of the acute care network in the Netherlands. Before the coronavirus pandemic began, the Netherlands had about 1,150 spaces in its intensive care units across the country. Since then, the ICU capacity was scaled up to accommodate the increase in patients caused by the global health crisis. Over the past week, 105 patients with Covid-19 were discharged from the hospital after being treated in ICU, and 160 were transferred to other departments in the hospital. Another 35 died over the past week, according to statistics from intensive care nonprofit NICE. A total of 714 patients in ICU with the coronavirus disease died from the illness since the pandemic began, while 684 have been discharged and 654 were transferred out of the ICU. A total of 2,815 patients from the Netherlands with Covid-19 have been treated in hospitals. On Saturday, Dutch hospitals were treating 680 patients for Covid-19, and 418 for issues unrelated to coronavirus. Another 28 Covid-19 patients from the Netherlands are being treated in Germany. "The number of non-COVID patients in intensive care has decreased slightly, which is in line with the lower number of surgeries that will take place over the weekend," Kuipers said.
2 May 14:17 • NL Times • https://nltimes.nl/2020/05/02/icu-patient-total-back-normal-level-708-covid-19-patients-intensive-careRating: 0.33
Lockdown relief: More than 10 000 food parcels to be given to small-scale fishers
3 May 17:07
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4 articles
Weight: 1.42
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Best date: 3 May 17:07
Average US: 1.7000000000000002
Weighted average US: 1.7787951415781955
Average GB: 0.0
Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 0.425
Weighted average IN: 0.46113151253535195
Lockdown relief: More than 10 000 food parcels to be given to small-scale fishers
More than 10 000 food parcels will be delivered to distressed small-scale and interim relief fishers across the country. In a partnership between the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, FishSA, major fishing corporations and the SA Fishing Development fund, registered small-scale fishers in the Cape Town Metro, West Coast, and Northern Cape will receive the parcels from Monday. During the next week, registered small-scale fishers in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal will receive parcels. Around 1 500 parcels have already been distributed to assist fishers in the Overberg Region and Southern Cape. Small-scale fishing communities in the Western Cape were initially hard hit in January and February this year during the Covid-19 pandemic in China, when restaurants closed and fishers were unable to sell abalone and West Coast rock lobster to their traditional markets. Consequently, some sections of the fishing industry have felt the impact of the coronavirus longer than other sectors of the economy. Although fishing has been declared an essential service, the closure of domestic restaurants has hit small-scale fishers hard and many struggle to find a market for their catch. Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Barbara Creecy said: "The generosity of Fish SA, the SA Fishing Development Fund, as well as several large-scale commercial fishing companies, has made this possible and I want to thank them for taking the initiative to help thousands of families in distress." The Department has implemented various measures to support the fishing industry, including extending permits and fishing seasons, as well as exemptions from lockdown and travel restrictions.
3 May 17:07 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/lockdown-relief-more-than-10-000-food-parcels-to-be-given-to-small-scale-fishers-20200503Rating: 2.83
Small-scale and interim relief fishers in all provinces to receive food parcels
Image: iStock The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries in partnership with FishSA, and major fishing corporations and the SA Fishing Development fund are distributing over 10 000 food parcels to distressed small-scale and interim relief fishers across the country. According to a statement issued by the department 1 500 parcels have been distributed to date to assist fishers in the Overberg Region, and Southern Cape from Witsand in the west, to Bitou in the east. “From 4 May, registered small-scale fishers in Cape Town Metro, West Coast, and Northern Cape will benefit. The Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal’s turn will be during the week of the 11th May.” The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Ms Barbara Creecy welcomed the initiative of those who have responded to calls to assist all small scale fishers in the country with distress relief. “The generosity of Fish SA, the SA Fishing Development Fund as well as several large scale commercial fishing companies has made this possible and I want to thank them for taking the initiative to help thousands of families in distress,” said Creecy. According to the department, small scale fishing communities in the Western Cape were initially hard hit in January and February this year during the Covid 19 pandemic in China when restaurants closed and fishers were unable to sell abalone and West Coast Rock Lobster to their traditional marketers. Consequently, some sections of the fishing industry have felt the impact of the coronavirus longer than other sectors of the economy. RELATED: Sea lovers will likely have to wait a bit longer to hit the waves When the national lockdown was declared in South Africa on 26 March, fishing was declared an essential service. However, the closure of domestic restaurants has hit small scale fishers hard and many struggle to find a market for their catch. “An initiative of this nature is a true reflection of the spirit of Ubuntu from our sector. We join with government in its endeavours to flatten the infection curve, and to lend a helping hand to those hard hit by the virus. We call on all economic sectors to do likewise. Together, united as a nation we can get past these tough times,” said Chairperson of Fish SA Loyiso Pantshwa. Throughout the Lockdown, the Department of Environment Forestry and Fisheries has implemented various measures to support the fishing industry: Further interventions that the department has taken is to engage with the department of tourism, which has identified accommodation establishments on the West Coast and were approved by the department to operate for the purpose of accommodating small-scale fishers travelling from distant areas and catching Snoek which is migrating along the coast. Licenced Fish Processing Establishments were also engaged and encouraged to buy fish directly from the small-scale and traditional line-fishers. The minister and the department are engaging with other private and public institutions to continue with this support through the Solidarity Fund and will also to add the names and contact details of the small-scale and interim relief fishers to the government’s database for distress relief.
3 May 11:27 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/south-africa/local-news/2278072/small-scale-and-interim-relief-fishers-in-all-provinces-to-receive-food-parcels/Rating: 1.26
Lockdown relief: More than 10 000 food parcels to be given to small-scale fishers
Fishermen drag their net during the traditional Poutine fishing in Cagnes-sur-Mer southeastern France, on March 10, 2020. Poutine are minute baby sardine which are exclusively fished between Antibes and Menton on the French Riviera for only 45 days each year at the end of the winter and fetch around 50 € per kilos at market. / AFP / VALERY HACHE More than 10 000 food parcels will be delivered to distressed small-scale and interim relief fishers across the country. In a partnership between the Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, FishSA, major fishing corporations and the SA Fishing Development fund, registered small-scale fishers in the Cape Town Metro, West Coast, and Northern Cape will receive the parcels from Monday. During the next week, registered small-scale fishers in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal will receive parcels. Around 1 500 parcels have already been distributed to assist fishers in the Overberg Region and Southern Cape. Small-scale fishing communities in the Western Cape were initially hard hit in January and February this year during the Covid-19 pandemic in China, when restaurants closed and fishers were unable to sell abalone and West Coast rock lobster to their traditional markets. Consequently, some sections of the fishing industry have felt the impact of the coronavirus longer than other sectors of the economy. Although fishing has been declared an essential service, the closure of domestic restaurants has hit small-scale fishers hard and many struggle to find a market for their catch. Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Barbara Creecy said: “The generosity of Fish SA, the SA Fishing Development Fund, as well as several large-scale commercial fishing companies, has made this possible and I want to thank them for taking the initiative to help thousands of families in distress.” The Department has implemented various measures to support the fishing industry, including extending permits and fishing seasons, as well as exemptions from lockdown and travel restrictions.
3 May 15:21 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/covid-19/2278128/lockdown-relief-more-than-10-000-food-parcels-to-be-given-to-small-scale-fishers/Rating: 1.26
Fisheries Dept to distribute over 10,000 food parcels to small-scale fishers
CAPE TOWN - The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries will this week distribute over 10,000 food parcels to small-scale fishers across the country. Communities that rely on small-scale fishing have been hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic. They have been unable to sell products to the public at markets and most restaurants they supply have been closed during the lockdown. The department's Albi Modise said major fishing corporations are assisting in the relief efforts. “To date, 1,500 food parcels have been distributed to assist fishers in the Overberg region and South Cape. From 4 May, registered small-scale fishers in the Cape Town Metro, West Coast and Northern Cape will benefit from this scheme. The Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal’s term will be during the week of 11 May.”
3 May 00:00 • ewn.co.za • https://ewn.co.za/2020/05/03/fisheries-dept-to-distribute-over-10-000-food-parcels-to-small-scale-fishersRating: 1.68
275 South Africans repatriated from US, hundreds more to arrive this week
3 May 17:20
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3 articles
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Best date: 3 May 20:30
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Weighted average US: 3.883555937523056
Average GB: 2.0366666666666666
Weighted average GB: 0.8652917388087026
Average IN: 1.3
Weighted average IN: 0.9305335862575319
275 South Africans repatriated from US, hundreds more to arrive this week
File image. The first of three SAA flights to repatriate South Africans from the US has landed on home soil. The flight, which landed on Sunday evening, was carrying 275 South African citizens, Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Clayson Monyela said. The remaining two flights would arrive on 5 May and 9 May, carrying 275 passengers each. These follow several flights from Miami, the last of which arrived on Friday and was carrying 256 South Africans. Once the last SAA flight lands on 9 May, all South Africans who requested repatriation from the US would be home, Monyela said. All of them would undergo a 14-day quarantine period at a government-selected quarantine site, he added. With the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdown imposed by countries across the globe – which includes the almost complete cessation of flights – about 4 500 South Africans found themselves stranded abroad, according to a circular released by Dirco on 27 April. These included tourist and South Africans working overseas, who now found themselves unemployed. By 27 April, more than 2 000 South African had been repatriated, with around 11 chartered and commercial airline flights taking place that week. Most South Africans stranded in Europe have been evacuated, according to the circular. However, more than 1 100 South Africans remain stranded in Asia, 400 in Australia, and more than 350 in other African countries.
3 May 17:20 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/covid-19/2278218/275-south-africans-repatriated-from-us-hundreds-more-to-arrive-this-week/Rating: 1.26
275 South Africans repatriated from US, hundreds more to arrive this week
The first of three SAA flights to repatriate South Africans from the US has landed on home soil. The flight, which landed on Sunday evening, was carrying 275 South African citizens, Department of International Relations and Cooperation spokesperson Clayson Monyela said. The remaining two flights would arrive on 5 May and 9 May, carrying 275 passengers each. These follow several flights from Miami, the last of which arrived on Friday and was carrying 256 South Africans. Once the last SAA flight lands on 9 May, all South Afircans who requested repatriation from the US would be home, Monyela said. All of them would undergo a 14-day quarantine period at a government-selected quarantine site, he added. ALSO READ | Stranded abroad: 600 South Africans brought home, more than 3 000 still waiting - Pandor With the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdown imposed by countries across the globe - which includes the almost complete cessation of flights - about 4 500 South Africans found themselves stranded abroad, according to a circular released by Dirco on 27 April. These included tourist and South Africans working overseas, who now found themselves unemployed. By 27 April, more than 2 000 South African had been repatriated, with around 11 chartered and commercial airline flights taking place that week. Most South Africans stranded in Europe have been evacuated, according to the circular. However, more than 1 100 South Africans remain stranded in Asia, 400 in Australia, and more than 350 in other African countries.
3 May 20:30 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/275-south-africans-repatriated-from-us-hundreds-more-to-arrive-this-week-20200503Rating: 2.83
Evacuation flight brings back 339 Egyptians stranded in US
CAIRO – 3 May 2020: An exceptional flight carrying 339 Egyptian passengers arrived on Sunday morning at Marsa Alam International Airport, in the southeast of Egypt, as Egypt has worked to repatriate all expatriates who are willing to return amid the coronavirus crisis. This is the third exceptional flight to arrive from Washington, DC, a source at the airport said. The first two flights arrived in April. Also, a flight operated by the Egyptian flag carrier EgyptAir took off on Sunday en route to Washington, DC, in order to repatriate 302 Egyptian citizens stranded in the US. All arrivals will be quarantined in nearby hotels for 14 days, according to the instructions of the Egyptian Health Ministry. On April 22nd, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi noted that around 3,500 Egyptians are stranded abroad over coronavirus, affirming that authorities are committed to bringing them back despite "hard circumstances". Egypt recorded, Saturday 298 new coronavirus cases and 9 deaths, which raises the total infected patients of COVID-19 to 6,193 and the total deaths to 415 according to Health Minster Hala Zayed’s daily briefing. Health Ministry Spokesman Khaled Megahed added that 62 patients, were discharged from the hospital after being confirmed that they are completely recovered from the viruses, this also raises the number of recovered cases to 1,522 out of 1,970 who had been retested for the virus and had received negative results.
3 May 00:00 • Egypt Today • http://egypttoday.com/Article/1/85357/Evacuation-flight-brings-back-339-Egyptians-stranded-in-USRating: 0.67
Coronavirus: Hundreds screened for Covid-19 at Gauteng roadblocks
3 May 19:07
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5 articles
Weight: 1.42
Importance: 1.42
Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 21:00
Average US: 0.8800000000000001
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Weighted average GB: 0.0
Average IN: 0.24
Weighted average IN: 0.52339569738617
Coronavirus: Hundreds screened for Covid-19 at Gauteng roadblocks
A 37-year-old man was arrested in KZN as he was about to recite his wedding vows. Image: iStock More than 2700 people were screened during roadblocks on the N14 in Ventersdorp, Brandvlei and the N1 North freeway, on Sunday. The roadblock was held to monitor commuters returning to Gauteng. Law enforcement officers and health officials were joined at the roadblock by Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi. Of those screened for Covid-19, five were taken in for testing, Lesufi’s office said. Two people were arrested for the possession of alcohol, while nine motorists were fined for various traffic infringements. Lesufi was not the only politician in attendance at a roadblock in the province, with Gauteng Health MEC Bandile Masuku joining law enforcement officers and health officials on the N1 North freeway. The number of commuters screened in this second roadblock was 2000, confirms Gauteng Health spokesperson Philani Mhlungu. Under the Level 4 lockdown regulations, once-off travel to various provinces will be permitted until 7 May for people returning home. Long-distance bus and taxi operators are allowed to undertake long-distance travel during this window period.
3 May 19:07 • The Citizen • https://citizen.co.za/news/covid-19/2278254/coronavirus-hundreds-screened-for-covid-19-at-gauteng-roadblocks/Rating: 1.26
Coronavirus: Hundreds screened for Covid-19 at Gauteng roadblocks
More than 2700 people were screened during roadblocks on the N14 in Ventersdorp, Brandvlei and the N1 North freeway, on Sunday. The roadblock was held to monitor commuters returning to Gauteng. Law enforcement officers and health officials were joined at the roadblock by Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi. Of those screened for Covid-19, five were taken in for testing, Lesufi's office said. Two people were arrested for the possession of alcohol, while nine motorists were fined for various traffic infringements. Lesufi was not the only politician in attendance at a roadblock in the province, with Gauteng Health MEC Bandile Masuku joining law enforcement officers and health officials on the N1 North freeway. The number of commuters screened in this second roadblock was 2000, confirms Gauteng Health spokesperson Philani Mhlungu. Under the Level 4 lockdown regulations, once-off travel to various provinces will be permitted until 7 May for people returning home. Long-distance bus and taxi operators are allowed to undertake long-distance travel during this window period.
3 May 21:00 • News24 • https://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/coronavirus-hundreds-screened-for-covid-19-at-gauteng-roadblocks-20200503Rating: 2.83
Coronavirus | 27 Bangladeshis held in Assam on way back home
The police in western Assam’s Dhubri district on Sunday detained 27 Bangladeshi nationals, who had entered the State on a tourist visa before the COVID-19 lockdown but were found to have been working for a contractor in the eastern part. The 27 persons, travelling on two minibuses that were seized, were caught during a routine check at Bahalpur under the Chapar police station. The police said they were studying the travel documents of the 27 people and organising their health check-up. Dhubri Deputy Commissioner Anant Lal Gyani said the vehicles had come from Jorhat in eastern Assam, 470 km from Chapar, on curfew passes issued in the name of a local contractor for inter-district travel. Also read: Impersonators strike across Assam during COVID-19 lockdown “They said they came to Assam on a tourist visa before the lockdown, but according to the rules you cannot work with such a visa. They could not answer the questions of the police properly, but said they were keen on returning to Bangladesh,” he told The Hindu from Dhubri town. “Right now, they are being detained. We are trying to find out whether their passports are fake or expired. Action will be taken according to the relevant law if their papers are not in order,” said District Superintendent of Police Yuvraj. Police officials investigating the case said some of the Bangladeshi nationals claimed to be involved in fishery. A Bangladeshi diplomat posted in eastern India said the Bangladeshi High Commission could arrange for their travel back home if the State government raised the issue formally. “We have already sent back more than 40 Bangladeshi nationals. In all probability, these people were stuck in Assam, but their overstay should not be a punishable offence given the relaxation of visa terms for the lockdown,” he said. He said the people should have informed the High Commission of their travel plan in Assam.
3 May 16:51 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/coronavirus-27-bangladeshis-held-in-assam-on-way-back-home/article31495646.eceRating: 0.30
Coronavirus | 87 Manipuris brought home from Assam
A group of 87 Manipuris, mostly students, were brought to Imphal on Saturday from the Manipur House in Guwahati. Full coverage on coronavirus The group were among those stranded in Assam since the beginning of the countrywide lockdown. The State government had sent four buses to evacuate the group from the Assam capital. Though the police were in touch with their counterparts in Nagaland and Assam, there were delays of several hours since some police stations said they had no information about the evacuation. Officials said just one person was allowed to sit a seat normally meant for two or three passengers. All 87 persons were screened at Mao Gate, the first police station in Manipur. They were again screened in Imphal. State Helpline numbers for COVID-19 | e-Book on COVID-19 Officials said though none was found to be COVID-19 positive, as per WHO guidelines, the returnees will be kept in quarantine for 14 days. A vacated school building of Imphal Valley Academy was converted into a makeshift quarantine centre. In case of any COVID-19 symptoms, the persons would be moved to the isolation wards of the two medical college hospitals in Imphal — RIMS and JNIMS. Some of the students said they had been well looked after by government officials in Guwahati. All of them had faced starvation and had been sleeping under the open sky since they had no money at all. The government has credited ₹2,000 each into the accounts of bona fide students and other workers. Coronavirus, May 2 updates | State-wise tracker for coronavirus cases, deaths and testing rates Appeals have been pouring in from several stranded Manipuris from several States. Officials said there are about 50,000 Manipuri students, employees of the government and private companies, traders and other professionals outside the State. Government sources said efforts are on to evacuate other Manipuris stranded in almost all cities and towns in the country. Watch | Guidelines for extended lockdown There has been no fresh report of COVID-19 cases in the State. Despite a government notification, only one person, who had attended the religious event at Nizamuddin in Delhi came forward for testing. He was found to be positive but later recovered and tested negative. The State government meanwhile has collected hefty fines from from persons violating lockdown restrictions and curfew. Sources said the daily collection of fines is around ₹1 lakh.
2 May 13:45 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/coronavirus-87-manipuris-brought-home-from-assam/article31489920.eceRating: 0.30
First batch of 84 stranded Manipuris arrive home from Guwahati
Manipur Government has brought back as many as 84 Manipuris who were stranded at Guwahati due to the nationwide lockdown for over a month. Four buses which were sent last Wednesday to evacuate those stranded at Manipur Bhawan in Guwahati, arrived on Saturday morning. Before proceeding to Imphal, all the passengers of the buses were screened by the official of the health department at Mao gate, which is the entry point to Manipur bordering Nagaland. However, no one was found with symptoms during the initial screening. “All the individuals who were brought from Guwahati were screened at Mao gate and no one was found with symptoms. They have left Mao gate”, said Dr. Sasheekumar, spokesperson Manipur Health department. The spokesperson said that the 84 passengers will be put under quarantine for 14 days as a mandatory action. He further informed they will be kept at a quarantine centre in Imphal, where samples will be collected for testing. As such, they have to spend a day in the quarantine centre, he added. All those who tested negative will be sent to their respective homes and will be under home quarantine. Those whose results tested positive will be sent to Isolation wards of JNIMS and RIMS hospital, Imphal. Manipur Health Minister L. Jayantakumar Singh on Thursday said that the state government is seeking the help of the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Home Affairs, to give permission for chartered flights to bring back the stranded state natives scattered in different parts of the country. Click here for more He appealed to the public not to stigmatize those who are returning back home as they have not been classified as infected by the virus. As many as 152 natives of Mizoram who was stranded at Churachandpur district of Manipur left the district for their state on Thursday. The stranded Mizos left in altogether 24 hired vehicles, the expenses of which will be borne by the Home department of Mizoram.
2 May 07:57 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/north-east-india/manipur/coronavirus-lockdown-first-batch-of-84-stranded-manipuris-arrive-home-from-guwahati-6390205/Rating: 0.30
Post ICJ, India tried to persuade Pak through back channel to release Kulbhushan Jadhav: Harish Salve
3 May 15:41
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8 articles
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Post ICJ, India tried to persuade Pak through back channel to release Kulbhushan Jadhav: Harish Salve
India had hoped it might be able to persuade Pakistan through "back channel" to release retired Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death by a Pakistan military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" in 2017, senior advocate Harish Salve has said. Salve was the lead counsel for India in the Jadhav case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which had last year ruled that Pakistan must review the death sentence awarded to the retired naval officer after a closed trial. During an online lecture series organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Saturday, Salve from London said the Indian side has kept on asking how do Pakistan propose to carry out the ICJ judgement and give effective review and reconsideration, but no answer has been forthcoming. "We were hoping that through back channel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on humanitarian ground or whatever, we want him back. We said let him go. Because it has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping that they will let him go. They haven't," he said, while answering a question on the current situation in the matter. "We have written four-five letters. They just keep on denying," he said. "I think we have reached a point where we have to now decide whether we want to go back to ICJ for consequential directions because Pakistan has not moved ahead." Salve said that following the ICJ order, Pakistan had granted consular access but it was too late and "we have now been in a tussle with Pakistan to get them to set up machinery." "Pakistan believes, first of all they told the whole world they have won the case, good for them. And now, they keep saying that you have to file a proceeding in a Pakistani court or take Pakistani proceedings," he said. "We keep saying how you propose to carry out the judgement of ICJ and give effective review and reconsideration. They refuse to answer that question. We have had exchanges backward and forward. I think the Government of India has been writing to them and who knows the way things are going, we may have to go back in the ICJ someday, trying to get justice for Jadhav," Salve said. He said till date, Pakistan has refused to share the case details such as the FIR, the chargesheet or the judgement of the military court in the matter. Responding to a question about the alleged offensive languages used by lawyer representing Pakistan at the ICJ, Salve said the Pakistan's lawyer had used very "strong language" against India. "In the ICJ, we never used words like these. I did the word check and worlds like disgusting, lying and dishonest have been used by Pakistan many times," he said. Salve said that he did not want to stoop to the Pakistan's level as Indian traditions did not allow him to use such bad words and, moreover, he respected the ICJ and its portal. Salve then referred to a statement of a registrar of the ICJ made to the Indian ambassador during a function. "He (registrar) said that there was so much heat in this case." Salve recalled, adding that he said that the America-Iran sanction case was important one, but that was done peacefully. Sharing the experience about the hearing in the Jadhav case, he said that by the time of rejoinder argument, the Pakistan lawyer was apologetic for the language used. “We are keeping this case under the glare of the international community in the hope that Pakistan does not do what it does,” he said in response to a question as to how to save Jadhav from the fate meted out to Sarabjit Singh in a Pakistan jail. Sarabjit, who was convicted for alleged involvement in bomb attacks in Pakistan's Punjab province in 1990, was brutally attacked by inmates in the Kot Lakhpat Jail and had died in a hospital in the country. Salve, while addressing the lawyers, gave the background of Jadhav’s case and said he is the ex-navy commander and his case is that he carries out business in Iran and one day he was kidnapped. “He was handed over by the Taliban to the Pakistan Army. The fact that he was seized by the Pakistan Army at the Pakistan border with Iran is an admitted fact. Of course Pakistan does not admit that he was kidnapped by the Taliban. There is no clarity. There has been no clarity in Pakistan’s case as to how they nabbed him,” Salve said. “Their case generally is that they caught him trying to infiltrate Pakistan at the Pakistan-Iran border at the place called Chhabahar. That’s where they caught him,” he said. Salve added that before Pakistan informed India about Jadhav’s arrest, they had made his confession global. “The confession makes an interesting reading. It is a very general kind of confession saying that I have been a bad boy. I have indulged in terrorism activities in this place and that place and on behalf of India. I have done lot of bad things in Pakistan. No details, no dates, no incidents mentioned, no specific incidents mentioned. They claim that on basis of this, he was then sent to trial, he was given an Army officer, as a lawyer to represent him. They claim he was tried,” he said. Pakistan has claimed that Jadhav was arrested on March 3, 2016 and India was informed on March 25, 2016, when its Foreign Secretary raised the matter with the Indian consulate in Islamabad. Jadhav was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017 by the Army court. India had moved the ICJ against the Pakistan Army court. PTI ABA MNL SJK MNL TIR TIR
3 May 15:41 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/post-icj-india-tried-to-persuade-pak-through-back-channel-to-release-kulbhushan-jadhav-harish-salve-833014.htmlRating: 2.25
India tried to persuade Pakistan to free Kulbhushan Jadhav: Harish Salve
India had hoped it might be able to persuade Pakistan through ‘back channel’ to release retired Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death by a Pakistan military court on charges of ‘espionage and terrorism’ in 2017, senior advocate Harish Salve has said. Also read: Comment | Takeaways from the Kulbhushan Jadhav case ruling Mr. Salve was the lead counsel for India in the Jadhav case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which had last year ruled that Pakistan must review the death sentence awarded to the retired naval officer after a closed trial. During an online lecture series organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on Saturday, Mr. Salve, from London, said the Indian side had kept on asking how do Pakistan propose to carry out the ICJ judgment and give effective review and reconsideration, but no answer had been forthcoming. “We were hoping that through back channel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on humanitarian ground or whatever, we want him back. We said let him go. Because it has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping that they will let him go. They haven’t,” he said, answering a question on the current situation in the matter. “We have written four-five letters. They just keep on denying,” he said. “I think we have reached a point where we have to now decide whether we want to go back to ICJ for consequential directions because Pakistan has not moved ahead.” Mr. Salve said that following the ICJ order, Pakistan had granted consular access but it was too late and “we have now been in a tussle with Pakistan to get them to set up machinery.” “Pakistan believes, first of all they told the whole world they have won the case, good for them. And now, they keep saying that you have to file a proceeding in a Pakistani court or take Pakistani proceedings,” he said. “We keep saying how you propose to carry out the judgment of ICJ and give effective review and reconsideration. They refuse to answer that question. We have had exchanges backward and forward. I think the Government of India has been writing to them and who knows the way things are going, we may have to go back in the ICJ someday, trying to get justice for Jadhav,” Mr. Salve said. He said that till date, Pakistan had refused to share the case details such as the FIR, the chargesheet or the judgment of the military court in the matter. Responding to a question about the alleged offensive languages used by the lawyer representing Pakistan at the ICJ, Mr. Salve said the Pakistan’s lawyer had used very “strong language” against India. “In the ICJ, we never used words like these. I did the word check and words like disgusting, lying and dishonest have been used by Pakistan many times,” he said. Mr. Salve said he did not want to stoop to the Pakistan’s level as Indian traditions did not allow him to use such bad words and, moreover, he respected the ICJ and its portal. He then referred to a statement of a registrar of the ICJ made to the Indian ambassador during a function. “He [registrar] said that there was so much heat in this case,” Mr. Salve recalled, adding that he said the America-Iran sanction case was important one, but that was done peacefully. Sharing the experience about the hearing in the Jadhav case, he said that by the time of rejoinder argument, the Pakistan lawyer was apologetic for the language used. “We are keeping this case under the glare of the international community in the hope that Pakistan does not do what it does,” he said in response to a question as to how to save Jadhav from the fate meted out to Sarabjit Singh in a Pakistan jail. Sarabjit, who was convicted for alleged involvement in bomb attacks in Pakistan’s Punjab province in 1990, was brutally attacked by inmates in the Kot Lakhpat Jail and had died in a hospital in the country. Mr. Salve, while addressing the lawyers, gave the background of Jadhav’s case and said he was the ex-navy commander and his case was that he carries out business in Iran and one day he was kidnapped. He was handed over by the Taliban to the Pakistan Army. The fact that he was seized by the Pakistan Army at the Pakistan border with Iran was an admitted fact. Of course Pakistan did not admit that he was kidnapped by the Taliban. There was no clarity. There had been no clarity in Pakistan’s case as to how they nabbed him, Mr. Salve said. “Their case generally is that they caught him trying to infiltrate Pakistan at the Pakistan-Iran border at the place called Chhabahar. That’s where they caught him,” he said. Mr. Salve added that before Pakistan informed India about Jadhav’s arrest, they had made his confession global. “The confession makes an interesting reading. It is a very general kind of confession saying that I have been a bad boy. I have indulged in terrorism activities in this place and that place and on behalf of India. I have done lot of bad things in Pakistan. No details, no dates, no incidents mentioned, no specific incidents mentioned. They claim that on basis of this, he was then sent to trial, he was given an Army officer, as a lawyer to represent him. They claim he was tried,” Mr. Salve said. Pakistan has claimed that Jadhav was arrested on March 3, 2016 and India was informed on March 25, 2016, when its Foreign Secretary raised the matter with the Indian consulate in Islamabad. Jadhav was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017 by the Army court. India had moved the ICJ against the Pakistan Army court.
3 May 16:16 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/post-icj-india-tried-to-persuade-pak-to-free-jadhav-harish-salve/article31495498.eceRating: 0.30
India tried to bring back Kulbhushan Jadhav through 'back channel': Salve
India had hoped it might be able to persuade Pakistan through "back channel" to release retired Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death by a Pakistan military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" in 2017, senior advocate Harish Salve has said. Salve was the lead counsel for India in the Jadhav case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which had last year ruled that Pakistan must review the death sentence awarded to the retired naval officer after a closed trial. During an online lecture series organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Saturday, Salve from London said the Indian side has kept on asking how do Pakistan propose to carry out the ICJ judgement and give effective review and reconsideration, but no answer has been forthcoming. "We were hoping that through backchannel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on the humanitarian ground or whatever, we want him back. Because it has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping that they will let him go. They haven't," he said while answering a question on the current situation in the matter. ALSO READ: Rise in corona cases expected to stabilise anytime soon: Niti Aayog member "We have written four-five letters. They just keep on denying," he said. "I think we have reached a point where we have to now decide whether we want to go back to ICJ for consequential directions because Pakistan has not moved ahead." Salve said that following the ICJ order, Pakistan had granted consular access but it was too late, and "we have now been in a tussle with Pakistan to get them to set up machinery." "Pakistan believes, first of all, they told the whole world they have won the case, good for them. And now, they keep saying that you have to file a proceeding in a Pakistani court or take Pakistani proceedings," he said. "We keep saying how you propose to carry out the judgment of ICJ and give effective review and reconsideration. They refuse to answer that question. We have had exchanges backward and forward. I think the Government of India has been writing to them and who knows the way things are going, we may have to go back in the ICJ someday, trying to get justice for Jadhav," Salve said. ALSO READ: Non-stop, 1200 passengers: 10 things you should know about 'Shramik Train' He said to date, Pakistan has refused to share the case details such as the FIR, the charge sheet or the judgment of the military court in the matter. Responding to a question about the alleged offensive languages used by a lawyer representing Pakistan at the ICJ, Salve said Pakistan's lawyer had used very "strong language" against India. "In the ICJ, we never used words like these. I did the word check and worlds like disgusting, lying and dishonest have been used by Pakistan many times," he said. Salve said that he did not want to stoop to Pakistan's level as Indian traditions did not allow him to use such bad words and, moreover, he respected the ICJ and its portal. Salve then referred to a statement of a registrar of the ICJ made to the Indian ambassador during a function. "He (registrar) said that there was so much heat in this case," Salve recalled, adding that he said that the America-Iran sanction case was an important one, but that was done peacefully. ALSO READ: 99% depositors of CKP Co-operative Bank to get back money, says RBI Sharing the experience about the hearing in the Jadhav case, he said that by the time of rejoinder argument, the Pakistan lawyer was apologetic for the language used. We are keeping this case under the glare of the international community in the hope that Pakistan does not do what it does, he said in response to a question as to how to save Jadhav from the fate meted out to Sarabjit Singh in a Pakistan jail. Sarabjit, who was convicted for alleged involvement in bomb attacks in Pakistan's Punjab province in 1990, was brutally attacked by inmates in Kot Lakhpat Jail and had died in a hospital in the country. Salve, while addressing the lawyers, gave the background of Jadhav's case and said he is the ex-navy commander and his case is that he carries out business in Iran and one day he was kidnapped. He was handed over by the Taliban to the Pakistan Army. The fact that he was seized by the Pakistan Army at the Pakistan border with Iran is an admitted fact. Of course, Pakistan does not admit that he was kidnapped by the Taliban. There is no clarity. There has been no clarity in Pakistan's case as to how they nabbed him, Salve said. Their case generally is that they caught him trying to infiltrate Pakistan at the Pakistan-Iran border at the place called Chhabahar. That's where they caught him, he said. Salve added that before Pakistan informed India about Jadhav's arrest, they had made his confession global. The confession makes interesting reading. It is a very general kind of confession saying that I have been a bad boy. I have indulged in terrorism activities in this place and that place and on behalf of India. I have done a lot of bad things in Pakistan. No details, no dates, no incidents mentioned, no specific incidents mentioned. They claim that on the basis of this, he was then sent to trial, he was given an Army officer, as a lawyer to represent him. They claim he was tried, he said. Pakistan has claimed that Jadhav was arrested on March 3, 2016, and India was informed on March 25, 2016, when its Foreign Secretary raised the matter with the Indian consulate in Islamabad. Jadhav was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017 by the Army court.
3 May 11:36 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-tried-to-bring-back-kulbhushan-jadhav-through-back-channel-salve-120050300628_1.htmlRating: 0.30
Harish Salve Says After ICJ, India Tried To Persuade Pakistan Through Back Channel To Release Kulbhushan Jadhav
Senior advocate Harish Salve on Saturday (2 May) revealed that after the International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearing, India had tried to persuade Pakistan through “back channel” to release former Indian Navy personnel Kulbhushan Jadhav, The Economic Times reported. Salve had represented India at the ICJ after a Pakistan military court had sentenced Jadhav to death on allegations of “espionage and terrorism” in 2017. The ICJ had later in 2018 ruled that his death sentence must be reviewed by Pakistan after a closed trial. Speaking at an online lecture series organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Salve said after the ICJ ruling India has been consistently asking Pakistan side of its plan as to how they are going to out the ICJ judgement and give effective review and reconsideration. But, we have not received any satisfactory answer from Pakistan, the senior counsel added. “We were hoping that through back channel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on humanitarian ground or whatever, we want him back. We said let him go. Because it has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping that they will let him go. They haven't,” he said, while answering a question on the current situation in the matter. “We have written four-five letters. They just keep on denying,” he said. He further said he thinks India had reached a point where we should now decide whether we want to go back to ICJ for consequential directions because Pakistan has not moved ahead. Although following the ICJ order Pakistan had granted Jadhav consular access, it was too late and ever since we have been struggling to get Pakistan to setup a machinery, he added. “Pakistan believes, first of all they told the whole world they have won the case, good for them. And now, they keep saying that you have to file a proceeding in a Pakistani court or take Pakistani proceedings,” he said. According to Salve, Pakistan has also refused to share the necessary details of the case such as the FIR, the chargesheet, or the judgement of the military court with Indian officials.
3 May 17:40 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/harish-salve-says-after-icj-india-tried-to-persuade-pakistan-through-back-channel-to-release-kulbhushan-jadhavRating: 1.22
Post ICJ, India tried to persuade Pak through back channel to release Kulbhushan: Harish Salve
New Delhi, May 03: India had hoped it might be able to persuade Pakistan through "back channel" to release retired Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death by a Pakistan military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" in 2017, senior advocate Harish Salve has said. Salve was the lead counsel for India in the Jadhav case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which had last year ruled that Pakistan must review the death sentence awarded to the retired naval officer after a closed trial. During an online lecture series organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) on Saturday, Salve from London said the Indian side has kept on asking how do Pakistan propose to carry out the ICJ judgement and give effective review and reconsideration, but no answer has been forthcoming. "We were hoping that through back channel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on humanitarian ground or whatever, we want him back. We said let him go. Because it has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping that they will let him go. They haven't," he said, while answering a question on the current situation in the matter. "We have written four-five letters. They just keep on denying," he said. "I think we have reached a point where we have to now decide whether we want to go back to ICJ for consequential directions because Pakistan has not moved ahead." Salve said that following the ICJ order, Pakistan had granted consular access but it was too late and "we have now been in a tussle with Pakistan to get them to set up machinery." "Pakistan believes, first of all they told the whole world they have won the case, good for them. And now, they keep saying that you have to file a proceeding in a Pakistani court or take Pakistani proceedings," he said. "We keep saying how you propose to carry out the judgement of ICJ and give effective review and reconsideration. They refuse to answer that question. We have had exchanges backward and forward. I think the Government of India has been writing to them and who knows the way things are going, we may have to go back in the ICJ someday, trying to get justice for Jadhav," Salve said. He said till date, Pakistan has refused to share the case details such as the FIR, the chargesheet or the judgement of the military court in the matter. Responding to a question about the alleged offensive languages used by lawyer representing Pakistan at the ICJ, Salve said the Pakistan's lawyer had used very "strong language" against India. "In the ICJ, we never used words like these. I did the word check and worlds like disgusting, lying and dishonest have been used by Pakistan many times," he said. Salve said that he did not want to stoop to the Pakistan's level as Indian traditions did not allow him to use such bad words and, moreover, he respected the ICJ and its portal. Salve then referred to a statement of a registrar of the ICJ made to the Indian ambassador during a function. "He (registrar) said that there was so much heat in this case." Salve recalled, adding that he said that the America-Iran sanction case was important one, but that was done peacefully. Sharing the experience about the hearing in the Jadhav case, he said that by the time of rejoinder argument, the Pakistan lawyer was apologetic for the language used. “We are keeping this case under the glare of the international community in the hope that Pakistan does not do what it does,” he said in response to a question as to how to save Jadhav from the fate meted out to Sarabjit Singh in a Pakistan jail. Sarabjit, who was convicted for alleged involvement in bomb attacks in Pakistan's Punjab province in 1990, was brutally attacked by inmates in the Kot Lakhpat Jail and had died in a hospital in the country. Salve, while addressing the lawyers, gave the background of Jadhav’s case and said he is the ex-navy commander and his case is that he carries out business in Iran and one day he was kidnapped. “He was handed over by the Taliban to the Pakistan Army. The fact that he was seized by the Pakistan Army at the Pakistan border with Iran is an admitted fact. Of course Pakistan does not admit that he was kidnapped by the Taliban. There is no clarity. There has been no clarity in Pakistan’s case as to how they nabbed him,” Salve said. “Their case generally is that they caught him trying to infiltrate Pakistan at the Pakistan-Iran border at the place called Chhabahar. That’s where they caught him,” he said. Salve added that before Pakistan informed India about Jadhav’s arrest, they had made his confession global. “The confession makes an interesting reading. It is a very general kind of confession saying that I have been a bad boy. I have indulged in terrorism activities in this place and that place and on behalf of India. I have done lot of bad things in Pakistan. No details, no dates, no incidents mentioned, no specific incidents mentioned. They claim that on basis of this, he was then sent to trial, he was given an Army officer, as a lawyer to represent him. They claim he was tried,” he said. Pakistan has claimed that Jadhav was arrested on March 3, 2016 and India was informed on March 25, 2016, when its Foreign Secretary raised the matter with the Indian consulate in Islamabad. Jadhav was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017 by the Army court. India had moved the ICJ against the Pakistan Army court.
3 May 10:05 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/post-icj-india-tried-to-persuade-pak-through-back-channel-to-release-kulbhushan-jadhav-3082125.htmlRating: 0.30
Back-channel used to ‘urge’ Pak to release Kulbhushan Jadhav: Harish Salve
INDIA RESORTED to “back-channel” efforts to “persuade” Islamabad to release Kulbhushan Jadhav, a former Indian Navy officer who is on death row in Pakistan on charges of spying and terrorist activities. This was revealed by India’s lead counsel in the case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Harish Salve, a senior Supreme Court lawyer and former Solicitor General of India, during an online interaction on Saturday. The Indian Express has learnt that National Security Advisor Ajit Doval had, in one of his interactions with then Pakistan NSA, Nasser Khan Janjua, “gently nudged” Pakistan to release Jadhav. Responding to questions, Salve, who was speaking from London, said, “We were hoping that through the back-channel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on humanitarian grounds or whatever, we want him back. We said, let him go. Because it’s become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping they would let him go, they haven’t.” Read | Central Vista: Nod for new Parliament after nearly 1,300 objections The online session was organised by Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, an all-India lawyers’ association associated with the RSS. According to Pakistan, Jadhav was arrested on March 3, 2016. India was informed on March 25, 2016, when the Pakistan Foreign Secretary raised the matter with the Indian High Commissioner in Islamabad. India immediately sought consular access at the earliest. Jadhav was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017. In May 2017, India moved the ICJ against the “farcical trial” by Pakistan’s military court. Read | Bread & butter story: How kitchen items are delivered during lockdown In July last year, the ICJ, in its verdict, directed Pakistan to allow consular access and effectively review the death sentence. The court observed that Pakistan had breached international law by not granting consular access. But, with Pakistan not moving forward – it has allowed an Indian diplomat to meet Jadhav under watch – Salve said on Saturday, “I think we have reached a point where we may have to decide whether to go to ICJ for further consequential directions. Because Pakistan has not moved ahead.” He said the ICJ had rejected Pakistan’s stand that their laws provide for review and reconsideration, and said there must be “effective review and reconsideration.” Read | Rush for seats as first train leaves from Surat, site of migrant unrest “We have come this far, they cannot now put him (Jadhav) to death; our consular officers have to be given access,” he said. He said Jadhav’s alleged confession must be disregarded – without which there will be no evidence. “Pakistan, till date, has refused to share the FIR, the chargesheet or the military court judgment,” he said. “We (India) have been writing to Pakistan asking them to show evidence against Jadhav (in order) to better assist him. They refuse to part with it. We will not give it to you (they say),” he said. “I think they (Pakistan) have a serious problem on their hands. Other than the confession, they have nothing,” he said. “Their domestic courts may find that sufficient. They know if it comes to a fair consideration and a fair trial, they will have no choice but to release him. Someday, we shall have him back in India,” said Salve.
3 May 07:52 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/india/kulbhushan-jadhav-release-pakistan-harish-salve-6391139/Rating: 0.30
Tried back channel for Kulbhushan Jadhav's release: Salve
India had hoped it might be able to persuade Pakistan through "back channel" to release retired Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav, who was sentenced to death by a Pakistan military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" in 2017, senior advocate Harish Salve has said. Salve was the lead counsel for India in the Jadhav case at the International Court of Justice which had last year ruled that Pakistan must review the death sentence awarded to the retired naval officer after a closed trial. During an online lecture series organised by the Akhil Bharatiya Adhivakta Parishad, affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh on Saturday, Salve from London said the Indian side has kept on asking how do Pakistan propose to carry out the ICJ judgement and give effective review and reconsideration, but no answer has been forthcoming. "We were hoping that through back channel, we may be able to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say on humanitarian ground or whatever, we want him back. We said let him go. Because it has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. So, we were hoping that they will let him go. They haven't," he said, while answering a question on the current situation in the matter. "We have written four-five letters. They just keep on denying," he said. "I think we have reached a point where we have to now decide whether we want to go back to ICJ for consequential directions because Pakistan has not moved ahead." Salve said that following the ICJ order, Pakistan had granted consular access but it was too late and "we have now been in a tussle with Pakistan to get them to set up machinery." "Pakistan believes, first of all they told the whole world they have won the case, good for them. And now, they keep saying that you have to file a proceeding in a Pakistani court or take Pakistani proceedings," he said. "We keep saying how you propose to carry out the judgement of ICJ and give effective review and reconsideration. They refuse to answer that question. We have had exchanges backward and forward. I think the Government of India has been writing to them and who knows the way things are going, we may have to go back in the ICJ someday, trying to get justice for Jadhav," Salve said. He said till date, Pakistan has refused to share the case details such as the FIR, the chargesheet or the judgement of the military court in the matter. Responding to a question about the alleged offensive languages used by lawyer representing Pakistan at the ICJ, Salve said the Pakistan's lawyer had used very "strong language" against India. "In the ICJ, we never used words like these. I did the word check and worlds like disgusting, lying and dishonest have been used by Pakistan many times," he said. Salve said that he did not want to stoop to the Pakistan's level as Indian traditions did not allow him to use such bad words and, moreover, he respected the ICJ and its portal. Salve then referred to a statement of a registrar of the ICJ made to the Indian ambassador during a function. "He (registrar) said that there was so much heat in this case." Salve recalled, adding that he said that the America-Iran sanction case was important one, but that was done peacefully. Sharing the experience about the hearing in the Jadhav case, he said that by the time of rejoinder argument, the Pakistan lawyer was apologetic for the language used. “We are keeping this case under the glare of the international community in the hope that Pakistan does not do what it does,” he said in response to a question as to how to save Jadhav from the fate meted out to Sarabjit Singh in a Pakistan jail. Sarabjit, who was convicted for alleged involvement in bomb attacks in Pakistan's Punjab province in 1990, was brutally attacked by inmates in the Kot Lakhpat Jail and had died in a hospital in the country. Salve, while addressing the lawyers, gave the background of Jadhav's case and said he is the ex-navy commander and his case is that he carries out business in Iran and one day he was kidnapped. “He was handed over by the Taliban to the Pakistan Army. The fact that he was seized by the Pakistan Army at the Pakistan border with Iran is an admitted fact. Of course Pakistan does not admit that he was kidnapped by the Taliban. There is no clarity. There has been no clarity in Pakistan's case as to how they nabbed him,” Salve said. “Their case generally is that they caught him trying to infiltrate Pakistan at the Pakistan-Iran border at the place called Chhabahar. That's where they caught him,” he said. Salve added that before Pakistan informed India about Jadhav's arrest, they had made his confession global. “The confession makes an interesting reading. It is a very general kind of confession saying that I have been a bad boy. I have indulged in terrorism activities in this place and that place and on behalf of India. I have done lot of bad things in Pakistan. No details, no dates, no incidents mentioned, no specific incidents mentioned. They claim that on basis of this, he was then sent to trial, he was given an Army officer, as a lawyer to represent him. They claim he was tried,” he said. Pakistan has claimed that Jadhav was arrested on March 3, 2016 and India was informed on March 25, 2016, when its Foreign Secretary raised the matter with the Indian consulate in Islamabad. Jadhav was sentenced to death on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017 by the Army court. India had moved the ICJ against the Pakistan Army court.
3 May 00:00 • Rediff • https://www.rediff.com/news/report/tried-back-channel-for-kulbhushan-jadhavs-release-salve/20200503.htmRating: 0.30
Kulbhushan Jadhav case: May have to go back to ICJ as Pakistan refuses to give access, says advocate Harish Salve
India's counsel on the Kulbhushan Jadhav case, Harish Salve has said that the country may have to back to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to get direction as Pakistan has failed acted on the court's decision and give access to the retired Indian Navy official. Kulbhushan Jadhav, accused of spying by Pakistan, was sentenced to death by now-abolished military courts in April 2017. In its July 2019 order, the ICJ had asked Pakistan to undertake an "effective" review of the conviction and sentence of Kulbhushan Jadhav and asked it to grant consular access to him without further delay. Harish Salve, who was sharing the case Kulbhushan Jadhav insights in an online lecture, said India has had seven or eight exchanges with Pakistan. "We have been trying to persuade Pakistan to let him go. If they want to say they are releasing him on humanitarian grounds, they can do so. We want him back," Harish Salve said. "It has become a big ego problem in Pakistan. We have written them several letters, they just keep denying. I think we have reached a point where we may have to decide on whether we want to go back to the ICJ for the consequential directions. Pakistans has just not moved ahead," he said. On the question of how can India assure that Kulbhushan Jadhav does not get treated like Sarabjit Singh, Harish Salve said India has been doing all that is possible, including keeping the spotlight on the case. He also said that the case is also mentioned in the ICJ's annual presentation of important cases to the United Nations (UN). "We have kept the glare on this case in the hope that Pakistan, despite what it, will not act worse than it generally does," Harish Salve said. Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of espionage and terrorism in April 2017. Weeks later, India approached the ICJ against Pakistan for denial of consular access to Jadhav and to challenge the death sentence. In its verdict in the case on July 17, the ICJ ordered Pakistan to undertake an "effective" review of the conviction and sentence of Jadhav and asked it to grant consular access to him without further delay.
2 May 19:23 • India Today • https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/kulbhushan-jadhav-case-may-have-to-go-back-to-icj-as-pakistan-refuses-to-give-access-says-advocate-harish-salve-1673789-2020-05-03Rating: 0.30
India's military salutes coronavirus workers with rose petals, flypasts
3 May 13:16
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India's military salutes coronavirus workers with rose petals, flypasts
NEW DELHI: Helicopters showered masked health workers with rose petals and jets roared across the skies on Sunday as India’s military paid tribute to frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. In one of the first of several gestures on Sunday, petals fell on to the upturned faces of medical personnel clad in protective gear as an army band played patriotic tunes including “Jai Ho” (May victory prevail) from the popular Slumdog Millionaire film. In several states and territories across the vast nation of 1.3 billion people, fighter jets and transport aircraft in formations took part in low-flying aerial salutes to thank the country’s so-called “corona warriors”. “The entire nation stands united in these challenging times,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted Sunday as he praised the “commendable work” of the “frontline warriors”, including police which have been enforcing the nationwide virus lockdown in place since late March. The navy will light up its ships off the sub-continent’s shores when night falls as part of the tributes. The performances were the third public show of gratitude to health and other frontline workers, after Indians took part in nationwide clapping and lamp lighting efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on previous Sundays. The lockdown was extended for another two weeks by the government on Friday, although some restrictions were lifted in regions that have lower numbers of virus cases. India has recorded almost 40,000 coronavirus cases, including 1,301 deaths.
3 May 13:16 • The Express Tribune • https://tribune.com.pk/story/2213193/3-indias-military-salutes-coronavirus-workers-rose-petals-flypasts/Rating: 1.80
India’s military salutes virus workers with rose petals, flypasts
NEW DELHI, May 3 — Helicopters showered masked health workers with rose petals and jets roared across the skies Sunday as India’s military paid tribute to frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. In one of the first of several gestures on Sunday, petals fell on to the upturned faces of medical personnel clad in protective gear as an army band played patriotic tunes including “Jai Ho” (May victory prevail) from the popular Slumdog Millionaire film. In several states and territories across the vast nation of 1.3 billion people, fighter jets and transport aircraft in formations took part in low-flying aerial salutes to thank the country’s so-called “corona warriors”. “The entire nation stands united in these challenging times,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted Sunday as he praised the “commendable work” of the “frontline warriors”, including police which have been enforcing the nationwide virus lockdown in place since late March. The navy will light up its ships off the sub-continent’s shores when night falls as part of the tributes. The performances were the third public show of gratitude to health and other frontline workers, after Indians took part in nationwide clapping and lamp lighting efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on previous Sundays. The lockdown was extended for another two weeks by the government on Friday, although some restrictions were lifted in regions that have lower numbers of virus cases. India has recorded almost 40,000 coronavirus cases, including 1,301 deaths. — AFP
3 May 12:45 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/indias-military-salutes-virus-workers-with-rose-petals-flypasts/1862673Rating: 1.42
India's military salutes virus workers with rose petals, flypasts
Helicopters showered masked health workers with rose petals and jets roared across the skies Sunday as India's military paid tribute to frontline workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. In one of the first of several gestures on Sunday, petals fell on to the upturned faces of medical personnel clad in protective gear while an army band played patriotic tunes including "Jai Ho" (May victory prevail) from the popular "Slumdog Millionaire" film. In several states and territories across the vast nation of 1.3 billion people, fighter jets and transport aircraft in formations took part in low-flying aerial salutes to thank the country's so-called "corona warriors". "The entire nation stands united in these challenging times," Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted Sunday. He praised the "commendable work" of the "frontline warriors", including police who have been enforcing the nationwide virus lockdown in place since late March. The navy lit up its ships off the sub-continent's shores when night fell, as part of the tributes. The performances were the third public show of gratitude to health and other frontline workers, after Indians took part in nationwide clapping and lamp lighting efforts led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on previous Sundays. The lockdown was extended for another two weeks by the government on Friday, although some restrictions were lifted in regions that have lower numbers of virus cases. India has recorded almost 40,000 coronavirus cases, including 1,301 deaths.
3 May 11:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/india-s-military-salutes-virus-workers-with-rose-petals-flypasts/article/571131Rating: 0.78
COVID-19: Kogi doctors reject salary cut
3 May 18:09
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COVID-19: Kogi doctors reject salary cut
Members of the Kogi State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association have vowed not to accept the proposed cutting of salaries of its members and other healthcare workers by the Kogi State Government. A statement by the Chairman of the NMA in the state, Dr Kabiru Zubair, in Lokoja on Sunday, said the attention of the NMA had been drawn to the proposed wage cut by the government. ”The NMA is not unaware of the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19 and the consequent economic downturn. But, the NMA strongly rejects any salary cut for doctors and other health care workers. ”This is because doctors in Kogi State have been getting along on half salary before now, occasioned by the non-implementation of corrected CONMESS -Consolidated Medical Salary Structure. ”Non-implementation of the new minimum wage of N30, 000 and its consequential adjustment, skipping, relativity, promotion, and annual step increment. READ ALSO: CBN, banks suspend staff lay-off ”The average doctor working with the Kogi State Civil Service is already at a serious financial disadvantage, compared to their counterparts at federal or other states in the federation where salary adjustments have been implemented.” Zubair stressed that any cuts of the salaries of doctors and other workers in the state would impoverish them, and accelerate the exodus of doctors from the state’s civil service. He noted that doctors and other health workers remained foot-soldiers at the fore-front of the fight against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and were being appreciated across the globe. The chairman noted that the Federal Government had recently increased hazard allowances of health workers from the paltry monthly N5, 000 by 50 per cent, to encourage and retain them to do more for the nation. ”NMA expects Kogi State Government to take similar steps to encourage and retain its health care workers at this time and not to cut wages. ”This is not the time to start losing doctors and other workers, due to salary matters as we are in the middle of a healthcare war that we do not know when it will end.” He drew the attention of the government to emerging challenges, regarding patients’ management in hospitals as coronavirus community transmission increases. He said, “It is no longer news that over 100 health workers have been infected by this virus and some have paid the supreme price. Hence, most hospitals are on red alert and consider all patients as potential carriers of COVID-19. ”Because of this high level of suspicions, doctors prefer to detect COVID-19 in patients before proceeding to manage them for their clinical conditions. ”The inability of the state to test or follow laid down protocols in order to exclude COVID-19 patient may lead to the needless death of patients presenting other clinical conditions, due to neglect by health workers. ”It should be noted that if doctors should attend to one unknown case of COVID-19 in the hospital settings, it may spread to many health workers and their families.” NAN
3 May 18:09 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/covid-19-kogi-doctors-reject-salary-cut/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: Kogi medical doctors reject salary cut
Kindly Share This Story: Members of the Kogi State Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) have vowed not to accept the proposed cutting of salaries of its members and other healthcare workers by the Kogi Government. A statement by the Chairman of the NMA in the state, Dr Kabiru Zubair, in Lokoja on Sunday, said the attention of the NMA had been drawn to the proposed wage cut by the government. ”The NMA is not unaware of the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19 and the consequent economic downturn. But, the NMA strongly rejects any salary cut for doctors and other health care workers. ”This is because doctors in Kogi State have been getting along on half salary before now, occasioned by the non-implementation of corrected CONMESS -Consolidated Medical Salary Structure. ”Non-implementation of the new minimum wage of N30, 000 and its consequential adjustment, skipping, relativity, promotion and annual step increment. ”The average doctor working with the Kogi State Civil Service is already at a serious financial disadvantage, compared to their counterparts at federal or other states in the federation where salary adjustments have been implemented.” Zubair stressed that any further cuts of the salaries of doctors and other workers in the state would impoverish them, and accelerate the exodus of doctors from the state’s civil service. He noted that doctors and other health workers remained foot-soldiers at the forefront of the fight against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and were being appreciated across the globe. The chairman noted that the Federal Government had recently increased hazard allowances of health workers from the paltry monthly N5, 000 by 50 per cent, to encourage and retain them to do more for the nation. ”NMA expects Kogi State Government to take similar steps to encourage and retain its health care workers at this time and not to cut wages. ”This is not the time to start losing doctors and other workers, due to salary matters as we are in the middle of a healthcare war that we do not know when it will end.” He drew the attention of the government to emerging challenges, regarding patients’ management in hospitals as coronavirus community transmission increases. According to him, feedbacks from NMA members in various hospitals reveal that it is becoming difficult to manage patients with other clinical conditions without first excluding COVID-19 patients coming from high-risk states such as Lagos, Kano and the FCT. ”It is no longer news that over 100 health workers have been infected by this virus and some have paid the supreme price. Hence, most hospitals are on red alert and consider all patients as potential carriers of COVID-19. ”Because of this high level of suspicions, doctors prefer to detect COVID-19 in patients before proceeding to manage them for their clinical conditions. ”The inability of the state to test or follow laid down protocols in order to exclude COVID-19 patient may lead to needless death of patients presenting other clinical conditions, due to neglect by health workers. ”It should be noted that if doctors should attend to one unknown case of COVID-19 in the hospital settings, it may spread to many health workers and their families.” Zubair advised the government to open channels for testing, to mitigate escalation of COVID-19, advising health workers to be on guard and resist any attempt to attend to patients without observing necessary precautions. Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 17:25 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-kogi-medical-doctors-reject-salary-cut/Rating: 2.43
NMA rejects Kogi's proposed percentage salary payment
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Kogi State chapter has rejected the proposed percentage salary payment to its members by the State Government. The state NMA Chairman, Dr Kabiru Zubair, in a statement, on Sunday in Lokoja, said the body strongly rejected any salary cut for doctors and other healthcare workers (HCWs). It reads: “The attention of the NMA Kogi State chapter has been drawn by her affiliate bodies in the state to the proposed wage cut by the Kogi State Government. ”The NMA is not unaware of the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19 and the consequent economic downturn. But, the NMA strongly reject any salary cut for doctors and other health care workers. ”This is because doctors in Kogi State have just been getting along on half salary before now, occasioned by the non implementation of corrected CONMESS (Consolidated Medical Salary Structure), the new minimum wage of N30,000 and its consequential adjustment, skipping and relativity, promotion and annual step increment. ”Hence, the average doctor working with the Kogi Civil Service is already at a serious financial disadvantage compared to his or her counterpart working with the Federal Civil Service or other states in the face, where these salary adjustment have been implemented.” He stressed any further cuts in the salaries of doctors and other HCWs in the state would further impoverish them, and would certainly accelerate the exodus of doctors from the state civil service. He added that doctors and other HCWs remained the footsoldiers at the forefront of the fight against the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19, for which they are being appreciated across to globe. He noted that the FG had recently increased the monthly hazard allowance of all HCWs, to encourage and retain them to do more for the nation, saying it was commendable. ”The NMA expected Kogi State Government to take similar step to encourage and retain her HCWs at this time and not to cut wages. ”This is not the time to start loosing doctors and other HCWs due to salary matters, as we are in the middle of a healthcare war that we do not know when it will end,” he added.
3 May 15:37 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/nma-rejects-kogis-proposed-percentage-salary-payment/Rating: 0.30
‘We’re already receiving half salary’ – Kogi doctors reject pay cut
Doctors in Kogi state have rejected the state government’s proposal to cut salaries of health workers. In a statement on Sunday, Kabiru Zubair, chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Kogi state chapter, said doctors working with the state’s civil service are already at a serious financial disadvantage when compared to their counterparts in other states. “The NMA is not unaware of the ongoing global pandemic of COVID-19 and the consequent economic downturn. But, the NMA strongly rejects any salary cut for doctors and other health care workers,” Zubair said. ”This is because doctors in Kogi state have been getting along on half salary before now, occasioned by the non-implementation of corrected CONMESS -Consolidated Medical Salary Structure. ”Non-implementation of the new minimum wage of N30, 000 and its consequential adjustment, skipping, relativity, promotion, and annual step increment. ”The average doctor working with the Kogi state civil service is already at a serious financial disadvantage, compared to their counterparts at federal or other states in the federation where salary adjustments have been implemented.” Zubair said the federal government’s decision to increase the hazard allowance of health workers from the initial N5,000 by 50 percent is to encourage the workers who are at the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic. “NMA expects Kogi state government to take similar steps to encourage and retain its health care workers at this time and not to cut wages,” he said. ”This is not the time to start losing doctors and other workers, due to salary matters as we are in the middle of a healthcare war that we do not know when it will end.” “It is no longer news that over 100 health workers have been infected by this virus and some have paid the supreme price. Hence, most hospitals are on red alert and consider all patients as potential carriers of COVID-19. ”Because of this high level of suspicions, doctors prefer to detect COVID-19 in patients before proceeding to manage them for their clinical conditions. ”The inability of the state to test or follow laid down protocols in order to exclude COVID-19 patient may lead to the needless death of patients presenting other clinical conditions, due to neglect by health workers. ”It should be noted that if doctors should attend to one unknown case of COVID-19 in the hospital settings, it may spread to many health workers and their families.”
3 May 18:59 • TheCable • https://www.thecable.ng/were-already-receiving-half-salary-kogi-doctors-reject-pay-cutRating: 0.30
Another prominent Kano community leader dies
3 May 14:17
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9 articles
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Another prominent Kano community leader dies
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter Prof. Isa Hashim, a senior council member, Kano Emirate Council, has died at the age of 86. The community leader, who is the Jarman Kano, died on Sunday following a brief illness in Kano. A family member of the deceased, Aliyu Ibrahim, said Hashim’s health condition had deteriorated in recent days. He added that the remains of Hashim had been buried in accordance with Islamic rites. Hashim, a professor of Political Science, was a senior lecturer with Bayero University Kano, where he taught for many years before his retirement. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Hashim’s death came barely 24 hours after the death of the Emir of Rano, Alhaji Abubakar Tafida. Tafida and many other prominent sons of the state, including academics, industrialists, bankers, activists, journalists, community and religious leaders, lost their lives to strange death in Kano in recent weeks. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name * Email * Website Yes, add me to your mailing list
3 May 14:17 • The Eagle Online • https://theeagleonline.com.ng/another-prominent-kano-community-leader-dies/Rating: 0.39
Another prominent Kano prof, Isa Hashim, dies
A senior council member, Kano Emirate Council, Prof. Isa Hashim, has died at the age of 86 years. Hashim, who is the Jarman Kano, died on Sunday after a brief illness in Kano. A family member of the deceased, Aliyu Ibrahim, said Hashim’s health condition had deteriorated in recent days. He added that the remains of Hashim had been buried in accordance with Islamic rites. Hashim, a professor of Political Science, was a senior lecturer with Bayero University, Kano where he taught for many years before his retirement. Hashim’s death came barely 24 hours after the death of Emir of Rano, Alhaji Abubakar Tafida. Tafida and many other prominent sons of the state including academics, industrialists, bankers, activists, journalists, community, and religious leaders lost their lives in recent weeks. (NAN)
3 May 13:32 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/another-prominent-kano-prof-isa-hashim-dies/Rating: 0.30
JJUST IN: Jarman Kano, Isa Hashim, dies at 86 - The Nation News
A senior counsellor in Kano Emirate Council, Prof. Isa Hashim, is dead Hashim, who was the Jarman Kano, died on Sunday morning after a brief illness. A family source, Ibrahim Aliyu, told reporters that the 86- year -old traditional title holder died when his health deteriorated following the deaths of some of his childhood friends in quick succession. Hashim, a Professor of Political Science, was a senior lecturer with Bayero University Kano (BUK) where he taught for many years before his retirement.
3 May 11:02 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/just-in-jarman-kano-isa-hashim-dies-at-86/Rating: 0.30
Another traditional leader, Jarman Kano dies at 86
Kindly Share This Story: KANO – Another traditional leader, Jarman Kano, Professor Isa Hashim is dead. He died in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 86. A government official who confirmed this to Vanguard, said Hashim died on Sunday. This was coming barely hours after the death of the Emir of Rano, Alhaji Tafida Abubakar Ila II who passed away on Saturday. The one-time lecturer at the Bayero University Kano was a senior council member of Kano Emirate council. He was appointed Jarman Kano by the late Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero following the death of the former Jarman Kano, late Alhaji Adamu Dankabo, Chairman of Kabo Air. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 10:56 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/another-traditional-leader-jarman-kano-dies-at-86/Rating: 2.43
Prof Isa Hashim: Kano Emirate loses prominent traditional leader
- As if the scourge of coronavirus in Kano is enough, the state now has another reason to mourn - This is as a top member of the state's emirate council, Professor Isa Hashim, died on Sunday, May 3 - Hashim in his lifetime was a counsellor at the emirate and a professor at Bayero University Kano A top counsellor in the Kano emirate, Professor Isa Hashim, who was also the Jarman Kano, has been reported dead a deteriorating health condition. Hashim, according to PM News, was said to have died at the early hours of Sunday, May 3, a deteriorating health condition, PM News reports. The traditional leader at a time in his life was a professor of Political Science was a senior lecturer with Bayero University Kano. An aid who works at the emirate council, Tijani Sarki, revealed to journalists that the deceased's burial will take place on Sunday in line with Islamic rites following funeral prayers for him at the Emir's palace. The governor is lying - Ex-NHIS boss accuses Ganduje of downplaying Kano situation Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state on Sunday, May 3, in Lafia announced the closure of the state’s House of Assembly following the death of a lawmaker as a result of COVID-19. Sule, while briefing newsmen, said the closure would enable the state government trace all the contacts the dead lawmaker had in recent times. PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Legit.ng News on your Facebook News Feed! “The speaker and all members of the Assembly have agreed to be isolated and their samples have been taken for COVID-19 test,’’ the governor said. The victim, who was the first casualty from the novel virus in the state, died on Thursday in Keffi. “Before the result could return, the member had died and his remains buried according to Islamic rights in Nasarawa local government area. COVID-19: Rate of community transmission in Kano now 80% - Presidential task force “But when his result came out on Saturday, it was positive. Unfortunately, all those who attended the burial did so not knowing his status. PAY ATTENTION: Get the Latest Nigerian News Anywhere 24/7. Spend less on the Internet! “The member participated in all the Assembly sittings, a development which has complicated our situation,” he said. The governor said the state currently has recorded eight active COVID-19 cases and one death from the virus. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. How I go sitdon for house when I no get husband? - Market woman - Legit TV
3 May 18:21 • Legit • https://www.legit.ng/1326395-prof-isa-hashim-kano-emirate-loses-prominent-traditional-leader.htmlRating: 0.30
Another traditional title holder Prof. Isa Hashim dies in Kano
The Jarma of Kano, a senior traditional title holder at Kano emirate council, Professor Isa Hashim is dead. Professor Hashim died in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 86 after brief illness, a palace source confirmed to The Guardian. Professor Hashim passed on less than 24 hours after the Emir of Rano, Alhaji Tafida Abubakar Ila, a first class chief of Rano emirate council, died. The two traditional icons joined the wave of multiple deaths hitting on Kano presently. Professor Hashim, bagged his PhD in 1976 at University of Southern California, USA. The professor of political science joined the services of Bayero university, Kano as associate professor in 1992 and was promoted to the rank of full professor in 1999. He retired in 2004 after which he was accorded the traditional title of Jarma Kano.
3 May 10:09 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/another-traditional-title-holder-prof-isa-hashim-dies-in-kano/Rating: 0.30
Another Kano elder Isa Hashim dies at 86
- Less than 24 hours after the death of the Emir if Rano, another elder statesman has died in Kano - Isa Hashim's daughter, Dija, disclosed that the 86-year-old died at his home, following a short illness - According to a family member, Hashim’s health deteriorated following the deaths of some of his childhood friends in quick succession - PAY ATTENTION: Click “See First” under the “Following” tab to see Legit.ng News on your Facebook News Feed! Another elder statesman and community leader in Kano state, Isa Hashim, has passed on. Hashim, who is a retired professor, held the title of Jarman Kano in the Kano emirate council. Premium Times reports that the 86-year-old died on Sunday, May 3, at his home, following a short illness, according to his daughter, Dija Hashim. This is coming less than 24 hours after the death of Tafida Abubakar, the emir of Rano in Kano state. Though details of his ailment were not disclosed, a family member said Mr Hashim’s health deteriorated following the deaths of some of his childhood friends in quick succession. Hashim was a retired professor of political science, administrator and author. He enrolled into the then Kano Native Authority in 1948 as a first school leaver and rose to the position of a permanent secretary before he retired in 1979. He joined Bayero University Kano (BUK) when he retired and taught for many years. Since the news of mass deaths in Kano surfaced, the number of casualties has continued to surge. Hashim's death is the latest among the hundreds reported in Kano. Legit.ng had also reported about Nasidi Nuhu, a former director of Bayero University Health Services; Yusuf Wakili Yola, a journalist; Ubale Ibrahim, Kannywood actor, who were some of the latest persons to have died in Kano. The government has, however, said the deaths are not COVID-19 related. Meanwhile, a former executive secretary of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof Usman Yusuf, recently expressed worry over the rising cases of coronavirus in Kano and reports of hundreds of "strange deaths" recorded in the state. PAY ATTENTION: Install our latest app for Android, read best news on Nigeria’s #1 news app Legit.ng reported that a recent interview with The Sun, Yusuf accused the state governor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, of downplaying the situation in Kano. According to him, if urgent steps are not taken, Kano will take the whole of Nigeria down with it. "We are in trouble in Nigeria because if Kano goes down, the whole of Nigeria goes with it, as well as Africa. Kano is already going down, hundreds are dying every day; hundreds are dying every day and there is no solution," the professor stated. NAIJ.com (naija.ng) -> Legit.ng We keep evolving to serve our readers better. Update: Nigerian states without coronavirus as country hits over 1k cases | Legit TV
3 May 09:33 • Legit • https://www.legit.ng/1326325-another-kano-elder-isa-hashim-dies-86.htmlRating: 0.30
Kano elder, Isa Hashim, dies at 86
Less than 24 hours after the death of Tafida Abubakar, the emir of Rano in Kano State, another elder statesman and community leader has passed on. Isa Hashim, a retired professor who held the title of Jarman Kano in the Kano emirate council, died on Sunday morning, according to a family member. The 86-year-old died at his home, following a short illness, his daughter, Dija Hashim, told PREMIUM TIMES. Details of his ailment were not immediately available but a family member said Mr Hashim’s health deteriorated following the deaths of some of his childhood friends in quick succession. Mr Hashim was a retired professor of political science, administrator and author. He enrolled into the then Kano Native Authority in 1948 as a first school leaver and rose to the position of a permanent secretary before he retired in 1979. Upon his retirement, he joined Bayero University Kano (BUK) where he taught for many years. Mr Hashim’s death is the latest among increasing deaths of the elderly in Kano. At least two independent studies conducted in the last two weeks established a surge in number of deaths in the densely populated metropolis. In a BBC Hausa interview Friday evening, Nasir Gwarzo, who led a federal government medical intervention team to Kano, said his team suspects strong link between the increased deaths and coronavirus. He said the pandemic has passed its two initial stages of transmission in the city and gone into the “scary stage of community transmission”. The Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 has announced deployment of 3,000 workers to help contain the pandemic. On Friday, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje announced donation of a 400-capacity mobile testing facility by Kano-born business tycoon, Aliko Dangote. Some health workers in Kano are however worried that attitudinal indifference by the people in complying with health protocols may only lead to more surge in cases.
3 May 07:00 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/nwest/391127-kano-elder-isa-hashim-dies-at-86.htmlRating: 0.30
BREAKING: Covid-19: UNICEF Head of Communications in Kano is dead
Malam Rabiu Musa, Head of Communications in the Kano Field Office of the United Nations Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF), is dead. Musa Rabiu, his son confirmed the death to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kano on Saturday, he said that the UNICEF official (his father) died at the age of 60. He is quoted to have said; At about 2.00 p.m. when NAN contacted the son, he said: “We are now at the hospital with the officials of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for his burial.” Follow us on Facebook – @Lailasnews; Twitter – @LailaIjeoma for updates
2 May 17:25 • LailasNews.com • https://lailasnews.com/breaking-covid-19-unicef-head-of-communications-in-kano-is-dead/Rating: 1.27
Trump blasts George W. Bush for not speaking out against impeachment ‘hoax’
3 May 17:26
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Trump blasts George W. Bush for not speaking out against impeachment ‘hoax’
President Trump on Sunday ripped former President George W. Bush for urging Americans to dismiss partisanship during the coronavirus pandemic, questioning where the Republican was during the impeachment “hoax.” In a three-minute video released on the Twitter account of The George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, the former commander-in-chief reminded Americans “how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat.” “@PeteHegseth ‘Oh bye the way, I appreciate the message from former President Bush, but where was he during Impeachment calling for putting partisanship aside,” Trump tweeted, citing comments from the “Fox & Friends” host. “He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” Trump added. The Democratic-controlled House last December voted to impeach Trump over a phone call to the Ukrainian president seeking an investigation into Joe Biden, a political rival. Trump was acquitted in the GOP-controlled Senate in January.
3 May 17:26 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/trump-blasts-bush-for-not-speaking-out-against-impeachment-hoax/Rating: 2.55
Kenyan Man's Bold Message Catches Donald Trump's Attention [PHOTOS]
US President Donald Trump on Sunday, May 3 took the time to respond to a Kenyan supporter who backed him after he came under attack for criticizing a US journalist, Nicole Wallace. Wallace, a staunch critic of Trump, hosts Deadline: White House on MSNBC and was also on ABC talk-show The View between 2014 and 2015. "She was thrown off The View like a dog, Zero TV Personas. Now Wallace is a 3rd rate lapdog for Fake News MSDNC (Concast). Doesn’t have what it takes!" Trump had tweeted of Wallace. In response, David Kyallo Musyoka, who describes himself as a Kenyan patriot, wrote: "Trump has done more for Blacks than all the other Presidents combined! Are we together?", a message that Trump then endorsed. File image of David Kyallo MusyokaTwitter Trump suggested that only the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, who led the country through the civil war might have matched his record. "So true, although Honest Abe wasn’t bad. Thank you!" he told Musyoka in a tweet. Excited, Musyoka thanked Trump for his response as he urged him to continue executing his mandate. "Thank you Mr. President! I Pray for you as you diligently serve! You are doing a fantastic job. May God grant you wisdom beyond your own understanding and the courage to always choose the right path no matter how narrow the gate! God bless you man of Courage, man of valour!" he wrote. On his platforms, Musyoka regularly shares content promoting Kenyan culture and identity as well as inspirational videos in which he delivers spiritual messages. Their brief conversation sparked a heated online debate among Americans online on whether Trump had supported the African American community in the United States. Those who backed him argued that his focus on employment and job-creation had helped many black people secure reliable incomes. Others, however, maintained that Trump had little regard for African Americans and, alongside his supporters, perpetuated division along racial lines. With the presidential election in the United States slated for November 2020, Trump has in recent weeks made no secret of his desire to secure a second term. He is expected to face off with Democratic Party candidate Joe Biden, with the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the economy expected to play a key role in informing voting patterns. File image of David Kyallo MusyokaInstagram File image of David Kyallo MusyokaInstagram
3 May 16:22 • Kenyans.co.ke • https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/52799-kenyan-mans-bold-message-catches-donald-trumps-attention-photosRating: 1.04
Trump Criticizes Bush After Message of Unity Amid Coronavirus
U.S. President Donald Trump criticized former president George W. Bush’s message of unity for Americans during the coronavirus crisis on Sunday morning. Trump tweeted, “@PeteHegseth ‘Oh bye the way, I appreciate the message from former President Bush, but where was he during Impeachment calling for putting partisanship aside.’ @foxandfriends He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” Trump appeared to take issue with Bush’s message of putting partisanship aside and instead called him out for not taking his side during his impeachment. Trump has received criticism during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic for not putting aside partisan fights and continuing to lash out at critics and political opponents. Coronavirus tracker: Live statistics of cases and deaths in Israel and around the world >> Latest coronavirus stories "Let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat," Bush said in a video posted on Saturday. "In the final analysis, we are not partisan combatants. We are human beings, equally vulnerable and equally wonderful in the sight of God. We rise or fall together." The nearly 3-minute video, shared by the George W. Bush Presidential Center, began by invoking Bush’s non-partisan response after the 9/11 terror attacks and highlighted how tragedy is shared equally within society. "Let's remember that the suffering we experience as a nation does not fall evenly. In the days to come, it will be especially important to care in practical ways for the elderly, the ill and the unemployed," Bush said. Some 30 million people have filed for unemployment in the last six weeks as many Americans struggle to pay their bills with diminished or no income.
3 May 13:06 • Haaretz • https://www.haaretz.com/us-news/trump-dismisses-bush-s-message-of-untiy-amid-coronavirus-1.8816933Rating: 1.13
Trump responds to Bush’s call for bipartisan unity with tweets attacking his enemies
Amid rising confirmed coronavirus case counts, and a death toll that has begun to plateau, President Donald Trump spent much of Sunday lashing out at politicians, attacking the media, and bragging about his poll numbers. He also seemed to suggest Covid-19 is a cosmic or biblical force — and one that has already been stopped. Sunday morning, the president panned former President George W. Bush’s recent call for bipartisan unity in the face of the coronavirus pandemic, arguing his predecessor should have spoken up on his behalf during Trump’s impeachment process. “Let us remember how small our differences are in the face of this shared threat,” Bush said Saturday in a video message to the public. “In the final analysis, we are not partisan combatants.” Trump felt this was inappropriate, however, quoting comments made by Pete Hegseth, a weekend cohost of Fox & Friends, who asked “where [Bush] was during impeachment calling for putting partisanship aside.” To this, Trump added, “He was nowhere to be found in speaking up against the greatest Hoax in American history!” After sending out the tweet about Bush, Trump proceeded to send out one adversarial and divisive post after another. He deemed NBC and CNN “Chinese puppets who want to do business there” and “the enemy of the people.” He boasted about his approval ratings among Republicans and said that a new Gallup poll shows “Trump beating Sleepy Joe Biden.” (It does not.) He said there were “many complaints coming in” over Maine’s coronavirus response (despite the state government’s rising approval ratings) — and then added that he won the state. He also retweeted some of his old tweets, one in which he declared a video of a boat owner who painted Trump’s name onto his boat “very cool,” and another in which he falsely claims Democrats want “OPEN BORDERS.” He capped off his spree with a tweet about America coming together as a nation — and it was an odd one, in which he described an America rising from the “death and destruction” caused by “a great and powerful Plague” that led to “lost souls all over the World:” Trump’s tone in the tweet, which didn’t seem to have any obvious contextual explanation, was roundly mocked on social media by his critics. “Camus wept,” quipped Charles Pierce, a politics writer for Esquire. Talking Points Memo founder Josh Marshall tweeted, “tfw you try to bible-speak on twitter.” The tweet appeared to suggest the danger posed by the coronavirus had largely passed, given that it was all written in the past tense, but with its biblical language also seemed to place blame for the virus on some force greater than Trump himself, and one that he didn’t have control over. While it is true that the coronavirus is believed to have come from nature, in reality, Trump has botched countless opportunities to fight against the virus. Among many other things, he downplayed its dangers, dismantled the bureaucratic expertise required to manage a pandemic, refused to swiftly take steps to provide Americans with protective gear and medical equipment, and conditioned aid to states on political favors. These latest tweets have come during a period of heavy Twitter activity by the president. In general, Trump appears to tweet more when he feels under siege and wants to push back against particular narratives or Democratic attacks that undermine his reputation. Given that Trump is constantly under fire these days for his catastrophic mismanagement of the American coronavirus response, it’s not exactly surprising that he took to Twitter to unleash a wave of attacks. Support Vox’s explanatory journalism Every day at Vox, we aim to answer your most important questions and provide you, and our audience around the world, with information that has the power to save lives. Our mission has never been more vital than it is in this moment: to empower you through understanding. Vox’s work is reaching more people than ever, but our distinctive brand of explanatory journalism takes resources — particularly during a pandemic and an economic downturn. Your financial contribution will not constitute a donation, but it will enable our staff to continue to offer free articles, videos, and podcasts at the quality and volume that this moment requires. Please consider making a contribution to Vox today.
3 May 20:45 • Vox • https://www.vox.com/2020/5/3/21245726/trump-tweets-bush-coronavirus-bipartisan-unity-plagueRating: 2.47
Nicolle Wallace: 5 Things About MSNBC Reporter Donald Trump Called A ‘3rd Rate Lapdog’
MSNBC reporter Nicolle Wallace, who hosts the political program Deadline: White House faced President Donald Trump‘s ire when he went on a brutal rant, calling her a “3rd rate lap dog”. The cable news anchor defended former Vice President Joe Biden in a segment on May 1, and in response, Trump directed a string of insults at her, MSNBC and its parent company, Comcast, which he misspelled as Concast. “She was thrown off The View like a dog, Zero T.V. Personas. Now Wallace is a 3rd rate lapdog for Fake News MSDNC (Concast). Doesn’t have what it takes!” the POTUS tweeted on May 2. Here are 5 things to know about Nicolle. 1. Her commentary about the assault allegation leveled against Joe Biden led to Trump’s Twitter attack. During a May 1 panel discussion on MSNBC about Joe’s interview on the network earlier that morning, Nicolle said, “Having once been a member of the Republican party, the right isn’t running an intellectually honest operation to get to the bottom of whether Tara Reade was victimized. The right is running a smear campaign against Joe Biden.” Conservative author and Fox News host Mark Levin criticized Nicolle for accusing the right of trying to “smear” Joe Biden. Trump then responded to Mark’s tweet with his own attack on the cable news anchor. 2. Nicolle has worked in The White House. She previously served as the White House Communications Director for George W. Bush and was a senior advisor for John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign. She served as “a voice for more openness with reporters” according to reports in The Washington Post, and former colleagues described her as having been “very persuasive in the halls of the West Wing.” 3. She is a staunch critic of the Trump administration. Despite her political affiliations with the Republican Party in the past, Nicolle has been one of the Trump administration’s strongest critics since he took office in 2016. 4. She was a co-host on The View. In 2014, it was announced that Nicolle would join the team alongside fellow newcomer Rose Perez. She made her debut on the premiere of the show’s 18th season, and left the series at the end of season 18. 5. Nicolle is a frequent contributor on many MSNBC programs. Along with her position as the anchor of Deadline: White House, which she has held since 2017, Nicolle also contributes to, and guest hosts programs like The 11th Hour With Brian Williams, Morning Joe, and The Today Show.
3 May 14:07 • Hollywood Life • https://hollywoodlife.com/feature/who-is-nicolle-wallace-reporter-4040850/Rating: 1.32
Donald Trump: Nicolle Wallace 'Third Rate Lapdog' for MSDNC
President Donald Trump mocked anti-Trump pundit Nicolle Wallace on Saturday, calling her a “third rate lapdog.” “She was thrown off The View like a dog, Zero T.V. Personas,” Trump wrote on Twitter. “Now Wallace is a 3rd rate lapdog for Fake News MSDNC (Concast). Doesn’t have what it takes!” Trump reacted to a video of Wallace accusing Republicans of running a “smear campaign” against Joe Biden after former Senate staffer Tara Reade accused him of a sexual assault. Wallace worked for former President George W. Bush’s White House and continued on as Republican establishment strategist. She also joined Sen. John McCain’s 2008 campaign and was an adviser to Sarah Palin. Wallace later said she did not vote for McCain because of her concerns about Palin. She was a co-host on ABC’s The View for a year before she was fired. by and went to MSNBC during Trump’s campaign. Wallace left the Republican party, joining up with the scattered Never Trump punditry propped up by cable news. In 2018, she asked an NBC reporter how she resisted the temptation to run up and wring White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders’ neck. She was also mocked for an interview with Biden in March.
3 May 00:18 • Breitbart • https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2020/05/02/donald-trump-nicolle-wallace-third-rate-lapdog-for-msdnc/Rating: 0.30
Girl, 15, screams for her mum as she’s battered by teen yobs in sickening unprovoked tram attack in Manchester
3 May 23:40
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Girl, 15, screams for her mum as she’s battered by teen yobs in sickening unprovoked tram attack in Manchester
THIS is the moment a schoolgirl begged for her mum when she was viciously beaten and robbed on a tram by a group of thugs. The 15-year-old was left needing hospital treatment after she was set upon - before one of her attackers posted the horrifying footage on social media. She was travelling from north Manchester into the city centre last month. The girl was sat in the final carriage of a double-length tram when she was surrounded by a group of teenage boys and girls. One of those allegedly involved filmed the incident on their phone - and shared the sickening footage on social media, Manchester Evening News reported. The video shows a girl repeatedly punching the victim around the head before dragging her to the floor, where she is further kicked and punched. At one point, the teenager can be heard screaming for help and begging for her mum. Her iPhone was stolen during the incident. Officers from the Greater Manchester Police anti-robbery unit Operation Valiant launched an investigation following the incident on April 19 and have made four arrests. Two girls aged 14 and one aged 16 were arrested on suspicion of robbery. Another girl, 15, was arrested on suspicion of assault. All have been bailed pending further inquiries. The victim's iPhone has also been recovered. The victim's sister said: "It's just horrendous. The lads were egging the girls on. "They were putting the video on Snapchat and laughing about it. "I posted it on Facebook because I wanted show the parents what their children are up to." It is believed the tram driver was unaware of the incident. The victim got off when the tram stopped in the Piccadilly area and was helped by a passer-by who called the police and an ambulance. She was taken to hospital, where she was treated for bruised ribs and a dislocated wrist. The victim's sister added: "There were other adults on the tram - but nobody did anything, not one person intervened. "You would have thought there would be a natural reaction, just to say 'get off', just speaking out. "But not one person did anything." The victim's family says she has been left deeply traumatised by the attack and continues to struggle with her mental health.
3 May 23:40 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11540484/girl-battered-unprovoked-tram-attack-manchester/Rating: 2.72
20-year-old woman strangled in Fukushima
FUKUSHIMA — Police in Sukagawa, Fukushima Prefecture, are looking for a man suspected of strangling his 20-year-old girlfriend at her home. According to police, the body of Ruka Kawada was found by her mother in her room at around 1:50 p.m. Friday, Fuji TV reported. The mother called 110 and said her daughter was unconscious and her body cold. Ruka was taken to hospital where she was declared dead. An autopsy on Saturday showed she she had been strangled. Police said they are looking for Ruka’s boyfriend, who was seen arriving with her at her home on Friday morning. His whereabouts are currently unknown. Ruka lived with her mother and brother who were out on Friday morning. Police said Ruka worked for a company doing decontamination work at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. © Japan Today
3 May 07:00 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/crime/20-year-old-woman-strangled-in-FukushimaRating: 2.09
East Kilbride 'murder': Tributes to "beautiful soul", 33, found dead in her home
Detectives are investigating the suspected murder of a 33-year-old woman who was found lifeless in her home. Louise Aitchison, who was described by friends as a "beautiful soul", was discovered by police in East Kilbride, near Glasgow, on Thursday, April 30. Officers had been called to her house after concerns were raised for the occupant, the Daily Record reports. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene and police are now treating her death as murder. In wake of her tragic death, devastated friends have taken to social media to pay tribute to Louise, who was from East Kilbride and was well known in the town. One friend said: "Can't believe you're gone! What a fun and gorgeous friend you've been, sending all my love up to you in heaven. God bless." Another wrote: "Beautiful girl inside and out. God rest your beautiful soul Louise." A third friend said: "Louise knew you from a bump in your mum's tummy, Nicole was a bump in mines at same time, the two of you grew up together as best friends as did your mum and me, you have always been in our life. "To be taken like this has left us heartbroken, you will be so sorely, missed young lady, my daughter is torn, sleep well princess. RIP." A relative said: "My niece tragically taken so soon. Rip Louise, fly high with the angels, granda Ian will be there to look after you." Jamie Allison, a friend of Louise's sister Stephanie, has also launched a fundraiser to help her family with funeral costs. He wrote: "I'm hoping to raise money to help towards the funeral costs for our beautiful friend Louise aged just 33. "Caroline, Stephanie and Sean are absolutely devastated but worried about the upcoming pressures of organising and covering the costs of Louise funeral especially at this already difficult time. "I met Louise many years ago though her younger Sister Stephanie. Louise was a saint for Steph and made sure her disability didn't stop her from doing her thing! "She was also very well known in her home town of East Kilbride so I'm hoping friends, neighbours and the local community can rally together and help get this poor family though this tragic time. "That's why I'm asking you to please dig deep and spare what you can to help towards the costs of the family saying goodbye to their beautiful Louise. "All money raised from this page will be given to Louise's mum Caroline to support them through this horrible time." The fundraiser has already raised £1,645 - exceeding its target of £1,500 - in just 12 hours. To donate click here. Detective Inspector Sandy MacKinnon of the Major Investigation Team said: “Our thoughts are with Louise’s family at this incredibly difficult time and we are keeping them fully updated on the progress of our enquiries. "As we continue to seek answers for them, I urge anyone who may have information which could be relevant to contact us or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.” Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1951 of 30 April, or report this anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
3 May 03:53 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/charged-east-kilbride-woman-police-21965480Rating: 2.39
Tributes paid to 'fun and gorgeous' woman found dead in her East Kilbride home
Tributes have been paid to a ‘fun and gorgeous’ girl after she was found dead in her home. Louise Aitchison was discovered by cops in a Park Terrace, East Kilbride, during the coronavirus lockdown on Thursday, April 30. Officers had been called to the house after concerns for the occupant were reported. The 33-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Detectives are treating her death as murder. Heartbroken pals have taken to social media to pay tribute to ‘beautiful’ Louise. One friend said: "Can't believe you're gone! What a fun and gorgeous friend you've been, sending all my love up to you in heaven. God bless." Another friend wrote: "Beautiful girl inside and out. God rest your beautiful soul Louise." A third friend said: “"Louise knew you from a bump in your mum's tummy, Nicole was a bump in mines at same time, the two of you grew up together as best friends as did your mum and me, you have always been in our life. "To be taken like this has left us heartbroken, you will be so sorely, missed young lady, my daughter is torn, sleep well princess. RIP." A relative said: “My niece tragically taken so soon. Rip Louise, fly high with the angels, granda Ian will be there to look after you.” Family friend Jamie Allison, who is friends with Louise’s sister Stephanie has launched a fundraiser to help her family with funeral costs. He wrote: "I'm hoping to raise money to help towards the funeral costs for our beautiful friend Louise aged just 33. "Louise was cruelly taken before her time. Caroline, Stephanie and Sean are absolutely devastated but worried about the upcoming pressures of organising and covering the costs of Louise funeral especially at this already difficult time. "I met Louise many years ago though her younger Sister Stephanie. Louise was a saint for Steph and made sure her disability didn't stop her from doing her thing! "She was also very well known in her home town of East Kilbride so I'm hoping friends, neighbours and the local community can rally together and help get this poor family though this tragic time. "That's why I'm asking you to please dig deep and spare what you can to help towards the costs of the family saying goodbye to their beautiful Louise. "All money raised from this page will be given to Louise's mum Caroline to support them through this horrible time." Well-wishers have raised more than £1,300 in less than 24 hours. To donate to the fundraiser visit here. A 35-year-old man has been arrested in connection with her death. He is due to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday, 4 May. Officers are still appealing for information, so they can establish exactly what happened to Miss Aitchison. Detective Inspector Sandy MacKinnon, of Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts are with Louise's family at this incredibly difficult time and we are keeping them fully updated on the progress of our enquiries. "As we continue to seek answers for them, I urge anyone who may have information which could be relevant to contact us or Crimestoppers as soon as possible." Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1951 of April 30. Crime prevention charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
2 May 21:18 • dailyrecord • https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/tributes-paid-fun-gorgeous-woman-21964655Rating: 0.35
Tributes paid to ‘beautiful and fun’ East Kilbride woman Louise Aitchison after she was found dead
TRIBUTES have been paid to East Kilbride woman Louise Aitchison after she was found dead in her home. Cops confirmed a 35-year-old man has been arrested and charged with the 33-year-old woman’s death after her body was discovered on Thursday. She was pronounced dead after emergency services raced to a property in Park Terrace at 4.30pm. And now loved ones have paid tribute to Louise on social media after a fundraiser was set up to help pay for her funeral costs. Posting on Facebook, one person wrote: “Beautiful girl inside and out. God rest your beautiful soul Louise.” Another said: “God rest you Louise beautiful girl.” A third person commented: “Can't believe your gone! What a fun and gorgeous friend you've been, sending all my love up to you in heaven.” The GoFundMe which was set up to help Louise’s family has smashed its £1,500 target. On the fundraiser, pal Jamie Allison said: “I'm hoping to raise £1000 to help towards the funeral costs for our beautiful friend Louise aged just 33. “She was also very well known in her home town of East Kilbride so I'm hoping friends, neighbours and the local community can rally together and help get this poor family though this tragic time. “That's why I'm asking you to please dig deep and spare what you can to help towards the costs of the family saying goodbye to their beautiful Louise.” The man charged with her alleged murder is due to appear at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday. Detective Inspector Sandy MacKinnon of the Major Investigation Team said: “Our thoughts are with Louise’s family at this incredibly difficult time.” “We are keeping them fully updated on the progress of our enquiries. "As we continue to seek answers for them, I urge anyone who may have information which could be relevant to contact us or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.” Anyone with information should call cops on 101, quoting incident number 1951 of April 30. Alternatively, you can an anonymous report to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
2 May 16:50 • The Scottish Sun • https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/news/5555189/tributes-east-kilbride-louise-aitchison-dead/Rating: 0.30
Paramedic’s family in tears after vandals torch car outside home while they slept
3 May 14:19
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3 articles
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Paramedic’s family in tears after vandals torch car outside home while they slept
A PARAMEDIC's family has been left in tears after vile thugs torched his car as he slept. John Lowe, 46, was woken up around midnight on Friday by loud banging noises outside his home in Oldham, Gtr Manchester. The medic, who works for North West Ambulance Service, opened the front door as his wife and teenage son slept upstairs to find his Vauxhall Astra engulfed in flames. John checked his CCTV and was horrified to see someone throwing an object at his car before it set alight. He said: "You try and do the best for people and there's no reason you should be targeted for it. "My wife is really shaken up and scared. "She hasn’t stopped crying and my son is feeling really frightened by it. "Why would someone target someone who is part of the NHS or a key worker?" Fire crews were able to put the flames out before it reached John's house. Fortunately, nobody was injured in the blaze although John says his car has been completely written off. Shocking pictures show the back of the vehicle completely gutted by the blaze with ash sprayed across the driveway. John added: “It easily could have set the house on fire. It doesn't bear thinking about what could have happened. "It is a lovely street usually. You feel like you do your best to serve the public and everyone round here knows that I am a paramedic. "I just don't understand why my family have been targeted. "I am just glad I wasn't working a night shift because I don't know what I would have done if I wasn't there. Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for comment.
3 May 14:19 • The Sun • https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/11538462/paramedic-vandals-car-oldham-manchester/Rating: 2.72
Paramedic's family traumatised after car torched outside home while they slept
A paramedic has hit out at vandals who torched his wife's car as they slept upstairs. The shocking incident took place on Friday evening in Failsworth in Oldham, Greater Manchester, after John Lowe and his family had gone to bed. The dad-of-one, 46, says he was woken up just before midnight by a neighbour banging loudly on his front door, the Manchester Evening News reports. When he opened it he saw his wife's Vauxhall Astra - which had been parked just outside their home - engulfed in flames. The North West Ambulance Service employee, whose teenage son was also in the house at the time, says he can't imagine why anyone would want to target his family. "You try and do the best for these people and there's no reason you should be targeted for it," John said, adding that the incident has left his family traumatised. "My wife is really shaken up and scared. She hasn't stopped crying all day and my son is feeling really frightened by it," he continued. "I just don't understand why my family have been targeted. "I am just glad I wasn't working a night shift because I don't know what I would have done if I wasn't there. "Why would someone target someone who is part of the NHS or a key worker? "It is a lovely street usually and easily the best place we have lived. "You feel like you do your best to serve the public and everyone round here knows that I am a paramedic." Fire crews were thankfully able to bring the flames under control before they reached the family's home, and no one was injured in the blaze. Although John had hoped the fire was caused by an electrical fault, he says that CCTV footage shows a person throwing an object at the car before it caught fire. Shocking pictures show the back of the white vehicle completely gutted by the blaze, with ash sprayed across the driveway. John says the car has been completely written off as a result. "It is lucky that our neighbours noticed the fire and came and alerted us as it easily could have set the house on fire," John said. "It doesn't bear thinking about what could have happened." John parks his own car on the road and fortunately, it was not damaged during the blaze. Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for comment.
3 May 01:19 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/paramedics-family-traumatised-after-car-21965378Rating: 2.39
"Why target someone working for the NHS?" - paramedic traumatised after car 'torched' while family slept upstairs
A paramedic says his family have been left traumatised after he claims his wife's car was set on fire whilst they slept upstairs. John Lowe, 46, works for North West Ambulance Service and lives in Failsworth in Oldham with his wife and teenage son. The family had gone to bed and were awoken just before midnight on Friday evening by loud banging on the door. As the dad-of-one opened his front door, he said he was horrified to see his wife's white Vauxhall Astra engulfed by flames. Fire crews attended and put the fire out before the flames reached John's house. Fortunately, nobody was injured in the blaze. John said he hoped the fire had been started by an electrical fault, but after checking CCTV, he could see a person throwing an object at the car, before it caught fire. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, John says he can't imagine why anyone would want to target his family, especially as someone who works on the NHS front line. "You try and do the best for these people and there's no reason you should be targeted for it," John said. "My wife is really shaken up and scared. She hasn't stopped crying all day and my son is feeling really frightened by it." John says the car has been completely written off by the fire. Shocking pictures show the back of the vehicle completely gutted by the blaze, with ash sprayed across the driveway. "It is lucky that our neighbours noticed the fire and came and alerted us as it easily could have set the house on fire," John said. "It doesn't bear thinking about what could have happened." John parks his own car on the road and fortunately, his car was not damaged during the blaze. "It is a lovely street usually and easily the best place we have lived," John said. "You feel like you do your best to serve the public and everyone round here knows that I am a paramedic. "I just don't understand why my family have been targeted. "I am just glad I wasn't working a night shift because I don't know what I would have done if I wasn't there. "Why would someone target someone who is part of the NHS or a key worker? "I don't understand why we have been targeted." Greater Manchester Police have been contacted for comment.
2 May 20:18 • men • https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/why-target-someone-working-nhs-18190658Rating: 1.15
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
3 May 19:20
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8 articles
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Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
HALIFAX - The Snowbirds aerobatics team flew over Nova Scotia communities Sunday in remembrance of the victims of a mass shooting and six deaths in last week's navy helicopter crash. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets performed above the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died Wednesday in the incident, which is now under investigation by the military. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The nine-plane formation began at the Greenwood air base, travelled over the communities affected by the mass shooting, flew over Shearwater and downtown Halifax and then returned to the base during the afternoon. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, said in a telephone interview from Greenwood, N.S., that the team hoped to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. "The first word that comes to my mind is that I'm honoured," said the captain, who is in his first year in the unit. "It's been tragedy after tragedy for Nova Scotia." "It's one little thing we can do during what's been a terrible month for the province as a whole." The aerobatics team planned to fly in its usual diamond shape over most areas. However, Wilson said the team planned to fly a special pattern over Shearwater in honour of the air crew and the Royal Canadian Navy personnel lost in the Cyclone crash. He described it as the "missing man" manoeuvre, where one of the jets flies off the formation to symbolize personnel who have died in the course of duty. The native of Brantford, Ont., said there are members of his unit who have connections to the Canadian Forces members who died, giving the flyover added meaning to the pilots and the technicians. The performance is also part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. Wilson said the unit encouraged the public to maintain social distancing while observing the planes, even as municipal parks in Halifax were reopened to the public after weeks of lockdown. "We're at about 1,000 feet, which can be viewable from a further distance than usual," he said. Exact details on when and where the Snowbirds will next perform will be posted online, but it's expected they'll focus on flyovers over hospitals and neighbourhoods. Some Canadians took to social media last week to ask whether the flyovers are necessary, given many people are continuing to struggle and die from COVID-19. Caryma Sa'd, a Toronto lawyer, wrote: "Is it too late to call off the whole Snowbirds thing? With many people cooped up and sheltering in place, the sound of military jets overhead will be anything but comforting." That was similar to criticisms of the U.S. military's decision to deploy its Blue Angels and Thunderbirds teams. "We would be flying regardless,'' the Snowbirds wrote on their official Twitter account last week in response to the various concerns. "Now we're just spreading the love (from a distance of course) instead of saying hello to the same farmers around Moose Jaw.'' The Snowbirds initially paused their training in March because of COVID-19 and delayed the start of their flying season, which was to begin in June. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 19:20 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-snowbirds/cp2133349568Rating: 0.30
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
HALIFAX - The Snowbirds aerobatics team flew over Nova Scotia communities Sunday in remembrance of the victims of a mass shooting and six deaths in last week's navy helicopter crash. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets performed above the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died Wednesday in the incident, which is now under investigation by the military. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The nine-plane formation began at the Greenwood air base, travelled over the communities affected by the mass shooting, flew over Shearwater and downtown Halifax and then returned to the base during the afternoon. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, said in a telephone interview from Greenwood, N.S., that the team hoped to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. “The first word that comes to my mind is that I'm honoured,” said the captain, who is in his first year in the unit. “It's been tragedy after tragedy for Nova Scotia.” “It's one little thing we can do during what's been a terrible month for the province as a whole.” The aerobatics team planned to fly in its usual diamond shape over most areas. However, Wilson said the team planned to fly a special pattern over Shearwater in honour of the air crew and the Royal Canadian Navy personnel lost in the Cyclone crash. He described it as the “missing man” manoeuvre, where one of the jets flies off the formation to symbolize personnel who have died in the course of duty. The native of Brantford, Ont., said there are members of his unit who have connections to the Canadian Forces members who died, giving the flyover added meaning to the pilots and the technicians. The performance is also part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. Wilson said the unit encouraged the public to maintain social distancing while observing the planes, even as municipal parks in Halifax were reopened to the public after weeks of lockdown. “We're at about 1,000 feet, which can be viewable from a further distance than usual,” he said. Exact details on when and where the Snowbirds will next perform will be posted online, but it's expected they'll focus on flyovers over hospitals and neighbourhoods. Some Canadians took to social media last week to ask whether the flyovers are necessary, given many people are continuing to struggle and die from COVID-19. Caryma Sa'd, a Toronto lawyer, wrote: “Is it too late to call off the whole Snowbirds thing? With many people cooped up and sheltering in place, the sound of military jets overhead will be anything but comforting.” That was similar to criticisms of the U.S. military's decision to deploy its Blue Angels and Thunderbirds teams. “We would be flying regardless,” the Snowbirds wrote on their official Twitter account last week in response to the various concerns. “Now we're just spreading the love (from a distance of course) instead of saying hello to the same farmers around Moose Jaw.” The Snowbirds initially paused their training in March because of COVID-19 and delayed the start of their flying season, which was to begin in June. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 22:57 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/snowbirds-fly-over-nova-scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-shooting-1.4923088Rating: 1.66
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
HALIFAX — The Snowbirds aerobatics team flew over Nova Scotia communities Sunday in remembrance of the victims of a mass shooting and six deaths in last week's navy helicopter crash. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets performed above the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died Wednesday in the incident, which is now under investigation by the military. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The nine-plane formation began at the Greenwood air base, travelled over the communities affected by the mass shooting, flew over Shearwater and downtown Halifax and then returned to the base during the afternoon. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, said in a telephone interview from Greenwood, N.S., that the team hoped to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. "The first word that comes to my mind is that I'm honoured," said the captain, who is in his first year in the unit. "It's been tragedy after tragedy for Nova Scotia." "It's one little thing we can do during what's been a terrible month for the province as a whole." The aerobatics team planned to fly in its usual diamond shape over most areas. However, Wilson said the team planned to fly a special pattern over Shearwater in honour of the air crew and the Royal Canadian Navy personnel lost in the Cyclone crash. He described it as the "missing man" manoeuvre, where one of the jets flies off the formation to symbolize personnel who have died in the course of duty. The native of Brantford, Ont., said there are members of his unit who have connections to the Canadian Forces members who died, giving the flyover added meaning to the pilots and the technicians. The performance is also part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. Wilson said the unit encouraged the public to maintain social distancing while observing the planes, even as municipal parks in Halifax were reopened to the public after weeks of lockdown. "We're at about 1,000 feet, which can be viewable from a further distance than usual," he said. Exact details on when and where the Snowbirds will next perform will be posted online, but it's expected they'll focus on flyovers over hospitals and neighbourhoods. Some Canadians took to social media last week to ask whether the flyovers are necessary, given many people are continuing to struggle and die from COVID-19. Caryma Sa'd, a Toronto lawyer, wrote: "Is it too late to call off the whole Snowbirds thing? With many people cooped up and sheltering in place, the sound of military jets overhead will be anything but comforting." That was similar to criticisms of the U.S. military's decision to deploy its Blue Angels and Thunderbirds teams. "We would be flying regardless,'' the Snowbirds wrote on their official Twitter account last week in response to the various concerns. "Now we're just spreading the love (from a distance of course) instead of saying hello to the same farmers around Moose Jaw.'' The Snowbirds initially paused their training in March because of COVID-19 and delayed the start of their flying season, which was to begin in June. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. Michael Tutton, The Canadian Press
3 May 19:20 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/snowbirds-fly-over-nova-scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-shooting-2320799Rating: 0.30
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
HALIFAX -- The Snowbirds aerobatics team flew over Nova Scotia communities Sunday in remembrance of the victims of a mass shooting and six deaths in last week's navy helicopter crash. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets performed above the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died Wednesday in the incident, which is now under investigation by the military. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The nine-plane formation began at the Greenwood air base, travelled over the communities affected by the mass shooting, flew over Shearwater and downtown Halifax and then returned to the base during the afternoon. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, said in a telephone interview from Greenwood, N.S., that the team hoped to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. "The first word that comes to my mind is that I'm honoured," said the captain, who is in his first year in the unit. "It's been tragedy after tragedy for Nova Scotia." "It's one little thing we can do during what's been a terrible month for the province as a whole." The aerobatics team planned to fly in its usual diamond shape over most areas. However, Wilson said the team planned to fly a special pattern over Shearwater in honour of the air crew and the Royal Canadian Navy personnel lost in the Cyclone crash. He described it as the "missing man" manoeuvre, where one of the jets flies off the formation to symbolize personnel who have died in the course of duty. The native of Brantford, Ont., said there are members of his unit who have connections to the Canadian Forces members who died, giving the flyover added meaning to the pilots and the technicians. The performance is also part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. Wilson said the unit encouraged the public to maintain social distancing while observing the planes, even as municipal parks in Halifax were reopened to the public after weeks of lockdown. "We're at about 1,000 feet, which can be viewable from a further distance than usual," he said. Exact details on when and where the Snowbirds will next perform will be posted online, but it's expected they'll focus on flyovers over hospitals and neighbourhoods. Some Canadians took to social media last week to ask whether the flyovers are necessary, given many people are continuing to struggle and die from COVID-19. Caryma Sa'd, a Toronto lawyer, wrote: "Is it too late to call off the whole Snowbirds thing? With many people cooped up and sheltering in place, the sound of military jets overhead will be anything but comforting." That was similar to criticisms of the U.S. military's decision to deploy its Blue Angels and Thunderbirds teams. "We would be flying regardless," the Snowbirds wrote on their official Twitter account last week in response to the various concerns. "Now we're just spreading the love (from a distance of course) instead of saying hello to the same farmers around Moose Jaw." The Snowbirds initially paused their training in March because of COVID-19 and delayed the start of their flying season, which was to begin in June. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020.
3 May 19:33 • Atlantic • https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/snowbirds-fly-over-nova-scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-shooting-1.4922931Rating: 0.30
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
HALIFAX - The famed Snowbirds aerobatics team is flying over Nova Scotia communities today in an effort to remember lost comrades in a naval helicopter crash and to lift the spirits of a province struggling after a mass shooting. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets were expected to fly over the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died in the incident on Wednesday. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The Snowbirds were scheduled to be over downtown Halifax and to fly past communities affected by the mass shooting. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, says the team hopes to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. The performance is part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic.
3 May 19:20 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/snowbirds-fly-over-nova-scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-shooting/it72910Rating: 0.30
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
The Snowbirds aerobatics team flew over Nova Scotia communities Sunday in remembrance of the victims of a mass shooting and six deaths in last week’s navy helicopter crash. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets performed above the 12 Wing Shearwater airbase in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died Wednesday in the incident, which is now under investigation by the military. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The nine-plane formation began at the Greenwood airbase, travelled over the communities affected by the mass shooting, flew over Shearwater and downtown Halifax and then returned to the base during the afternoon. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, said in a telephone interview from Greenwood, N.S., that the team hoped to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. “The first word that comes to my mind is that I’m honoured,” said the captain, who is in his first year in the unit. “It’s been tragedy after tragedy for Nova Scotia.” “It’s one little thing we can do during what’s been a terrible month for the province as a whole.” The aerobatics team planned to fly in its usual diamond shape over most areas. However, Wilson said the team planned to fly a special pattern over Shearwater in honour of the aircrew and the Royal Canadian Navy personnel lost in the Cyclone crash. He described it as the “missing man” manoeuvre, where one of the jets flies off the formation to symbolize personnel who have died in the course of duty. The native of Brantford, Ont., said there are members of his unit who have connections to the Canadian Forces members who died, giving the flyover added meaning to the pilots and the technicians. The performance is also part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. Wilson said the unit encouraged the public to maintain social distancing while observing the planes, even as municipal parks in Halifax were reopened to the public after weeks of lockdown. “We’re at about 1,000 feet, which can be viewable from a further distance than usual,” he said. Exact details on when and where the Snowbirds will next perform will be posted online, but it’s expected they’ll focus on flyovers over hospitals and neighbourhoods. Some Canadians took to social media last week to ask whether the flyovers are necessary, given many people are continuing to struggle and die from COVID-19. Caryma Sa’d, a Toronto lawyer, wrote: “Is it too late to call off the whole Snowbirds thing? With many people cooped up and sheltering in place, the sound of military jets overhead will be anything but comforting.” That was similar to criticisms of the U.S. military’s decision to deploy its Blue Angels and Thunderbirds teams. “We would be flying regardless,” the Snowbirds wrote on their official Twitter account last week in response to the various concerns. “Now we’re just spreading the love (from a distance of course) instead of saying hello to the same farmers around Moose Jaw.” The Snowbirds initially paused their training in March because of COVID-19 and delayed the start of their flying season, which was to begin in June. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 16:31 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-snowbirds-fly-over-nova-scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-2/Rating: 2.18
Snowbirds fly over Nova Scotia to mark naval helicopter crash, mass shooting
HALIFAX — The famed Snowbirds aerobatics team is flying over Nova Scotia communities today in an effort to remember lost comrades in a naval helicopter crash and to lift the spirits of a province struggling after a mass shooting. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets were expected to fly over the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died in the incident on Wednesday. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The Snowbirds were scheduled to be over downtown Halifax and to fly past communities affected by the mass shooting. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, says the team hopes to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. The performance is part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 16:21 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/snowbirds-fly-over-nova-scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-shooting/Rating: 0.61
Snowbirds fly over NS
The famed Snowbirds aerobatics team is flying over Nova Scotia communities today in an effort to remember lost comrades in a naval helicopter crash and to lift the spirits of a province struggling after a mass shooting. On a warm, clear day over the East Coast province, the red, white and blue Tutor jets were expected to fly over the 12 Wing Shearwater air base in Halifax, home to the CH-148 Cyclone helicopter that crashed off Greece. Six members of the Canadian Forces died in the incident on Wednesday. The loss of life came in the wake of a mass shooting by a gunman, who took 22 lives on April 18 and 19, beginning in the coastal community of Portapique, where 13 people died. The Snowbirds were scheduled to be over downtown Halifax and to fly past communities affected by the mass shooting. The day began with performances over Saint John, N.B., Fredericton and Kentville, N.S. Capt. Joel Wilson, a 27-year-old pilot participating in the flights, says the team hopes to provide relief and inspiration for Nova Scotians at a difficult time. The performance is part of a cross-country tour which the military says aims to boost morale as the country continues to struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic.
3 May 09:42 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/Canada/298978/Snowbirds-fly-over-Nova-Scotia-to-mark-naval-helicopter-crash-mass-shootingRating: 1.34
Buhari appoints NAICOM, NDIC board members - Premium Times Nigeria
3 May 10:57
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Average IN: 0.054000000000000006
Weighted average IN: 0.17667891551756176
Buhari appoints NAICOM, NDIC board members - Premium Times Nigeria
President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Sunday Thomas as the substantive Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM). Yunusa Abdullahi, Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday. Mr Thomas replaced Mohammed Kari, who was Acting Commissioner for Insurance/CEO of the commission. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new appointee has over three decades of experience in the industry as an operator and regulator. He was appointed Deputy Commissioner in charge of technical matters by Mr Buhari in April 2017 and was also a former Director-General of the Nigerian Insurers Association in 2010. The special adviser also announced the appointments of two board members for the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC). He said Ya’ana Yaro was appointed as Non-Executive Director representing the North East while Diana Okonta was appointed as Non-Executive Director representing South South. He added that the appointments take immediate effect. (NAN)
3 May 10:57 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/391156-buhari-appoints-naicom-ndic-board-members.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitterRating: 0.30
President Buhari appoints NAICOM, NDIC board members
President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Mr Sunday Thomas as the substantive Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM). Mr Yunusa Abdullahi, Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday. Thomas replaced Malam Mohammed Kari, who was Acting Commissioner for Insurance/CEO of the commission. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the new appointee has over three decades of experience in the industry as an operator and regulator. He was appointed Deputy Commissioner in charge of technical matters by Buhari in April 2017 and was also a former Director-General of the Nigerian Insurers Association in 2010. The special adviser also announced the appointments of two board members for the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC). He said Mrs Ya’ana Yaro was appointed as Non-Executive Director representing the North East while Mrs Diana Okonta as Non-Executive Director representing South South. He added that the appointments take immediate effect.
3 May 10:14 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/president-buhari-appoints-naicom-ndic-board-members/Rating: 0.30
President Buhari appoints NAICOM, NDIC Boards members
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Sunday Thomas as the substantive Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer, National Insurance Commission. Yunusa Abdullahi, Special Adviser, Media and Communications to the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday. Thomas replaced Malam Mohammed Kari, who was Acting Commissioner for Insurance/CEO of the commission. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the new appointee has over three decades of experience in the industry as an operator and regulator. He was appointed Deputy Commissioner in charge of technical matters by Buhari in April 2017 and was also a former Director-General of the Nigerian Insurers Association in 2010. The Special Adviser also announced the appointments of two Board members for the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation. Abdullahi said Ya’ana Yaro was appointed as Non-Executive Director representing the North East, while Diana Okonta emerges Non-Executive Director representing South South. He added that the appointments take immediate effect. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name * Email * Website Yes, add me to your mailing list
3 May 14:45 • The Eagle Online • https://theeagleonline.com.ng/president-buhari-appoints-naicom-ndic-boards-members/Rating: 0.39
Buhari confirms Thomas as Commissioner for Insurance
Ifeanyi Onuba, Abuja The President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), has approved the appointment of Mr. Sunday Thomas as the substantive Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer, National Insurance Commission. The Special Adviser to the Minister of Finance, Yunusa Abdullahi, said this in a statement issued on Sunday. Thomas replaced the immediate past commissioner for Insurance/CEO, Mohammed Kari, as Acting Commissioner for insurance/CEO of the National Insurance Commission in July 2019. The statement said Thomas, who has over three decades of experience in the industry as an operator and regulator, was appointed Deputy Commissioner in charge of technical matters by Buhari in April 2017. READ ALSO: US lawmakers oppose return of $320m Abacha loot He was formerly Director-General of the Nigerian Insurers Association in 2010. The statement also said the President approved the appointments of two board members for Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation. They are Mrs. Ya’ana Talib Yaro who was appointed as the Non-Executive Director representing the North East, and Mrs. Diana Okonta as Non-Executive Director, to fill the slot for the South-South. The appointments, the statement added take immediate effect.
3 May 09:20 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/breaking-buhari-confirms-thomas-as-commissioner-for-insurance/Rating: 0.30
Buhari appoints Thomas as NAICOM’s Commissioner for Insurance
Kindly Share This Story: President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the appointment of Mr. Sunday Thomas as the substantive Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM). According to the Special Adviser, Media, and Communications, to the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi, the appointment takes effect from 2nd May 2020. It will be recalled that Thomas replaced immediate past Commissioner for Insurance/CEO, Mallam Mohammed Kari, as Acting Commissioner for Insurance/CEO of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) in July 2019. Thomas, who has over three decades of experience in the industry as an operator and regulator, was appointed Deputy Commissioner in charge of technical matters by President Buhari in April 2017. He was formerly Director-General (DG) of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) in 2010. The President also approved the appointments of two board members for Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mrs. Ya’ana Talib Yaro as the Non-Executive Director representing the North East, and Mrs. Diana O. Okonta as Non Executive Director, to fill the slot for the South South. However, Vanguard earlier reported that the president had sacked the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA, Engr. Mustapha Y. Maihaja. Maihaja’s four-year tenure would have elapsed by April 2021, but his time at the disaster management agency had been dogged with series of controversies. The sacked NEMA DG had been embroiled in crisis with his local chapter of the All Progressives Congress APC as well as the House of Representatives which accused him in 2018 of mismanagement of resources as well as inefficiency. A parliamentary committee was put in place to investigate the release of N5.9 billion Food Intervention in the North-east, N3.1 billion Food Intervention in the same region, release of N1.6 billion for Libyan returnees, release of N1.6 billion Flood Intervention for 16 states and donation of 6,779 Metric Tons of rice by the Chinese Government. Vanguard News Nigeria. Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 09:52 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/buhari-appoints-thomas-as-naicoms-commissioner-for-insurance/Rating: 2.43
Fake NSCDC official arrested, quarantined in Ebonyi-Commandant
3 May 14:59
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4 articles
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Fake NSCDC official arrested, quarantined in Ebonyi-Commandant
Kindly Share This Story: The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ebonyi Command, has said that one James Mbah, arrested in Ebonyi, who claimed to be a staff of the NSCDC was an impersonator. The NSCDC Ebonyi Commandant, Lucy Samu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki on Sunday that the suspect had been quarantined to ascertain his COVID-19 status. NAN reports that the suspect, Mr James Mbah, was arrested at the Timber Shed Junction on Afikpo/Abakaliki Expressway on April 30 by officials of the state’s Neighbourhood Watch while conveying two persons on his motorcycle. Mbah, who hails from Ishieke in Ebonyi Local Council of Ebonyi, claimed to be an official of NSCDC in Anambra. Samu told NAN that Mbah was not an officer of the corps but an ‘impersonator,’ who wore NSCDC uniform to beat the state’s restriction of movement order. Samu said that she had inquired from the Anambra Command of the corps and was informed that Mbah was not a staff there nor was he on its payroll. “The Anambra commandant said he also inquired from the Divisional Office, where Mbah claimed he was attached, he was not also on the staff list. “He is also not a staff in the Ebonyi office or on our payroll. He (allegedly) wore the NSCDC uniform and paraded himself as our officer but he is not one of us,” she said. The NSCDC Ebonyi commandant said that the suspect had been quarantined and would receive all necessary checks before being prosecuted. “This is to ascertain his COVID-19 status and if negative, he will be handed over to us for prosecution but if positive, will receive the necessary treatment before prosecution. “I have advised the COVID-19 taskforce team and relevant security agencies to properly check the identities of anyone who claims to be a security personnel. “They should also demand for a travel pass from the head of the concerned security outfit,” she said. Mr Stanley Okoro-Emegha, State Commissioner for Border Peace and Internal Security, confirmed to NAN that Mbah claimed to be attached to the NSCDC office in Umunze, Anambra. “The state government’s directive is that any Ebonyi indigene who gets to any of its boundaries would not be sent back but brought to its withholding centre in Abakaliki for quarantine and testing. “Mbah will however be prosecuted by the NSCDC as the state commandant informed us that he was not their staff,” Okoro-Emegha said. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 14:59 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/fake-nscdc-official-arrested-quarantined-in-ebonyi-commandant/Rating: 2.43
Fake NSCDC official arrested, quarantined in Ebonyi
The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ebonyi Command, has said that one James Mbah, arrested in Ebonyi, who claimed to be a staff of the NSCDC was an impersonator. The NSCDC Ebonyi Commandant, Lucy Samu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abakaliki on Sunday that the suspect had been quarantined to ascertain his COVID-19 status. NAN reports that the suspect, Mr James Mbah, was arrested at the Timber Shed Junction on Afikpo/Abakaliki Expressway on April 30 by officials of the state’s Neighbourhood Watch while conveying two persons on his motorcycle. Mbah, who hails from Ishieke in Ebonyi Local Council of Ebonyi, claimed to be an official of NSCDC in Anambra. Samu told NAN that Mbah was not an officer of the corps but an ‘impersonator,’ who wore NSCDC uniform to beat the state’s restriction of movement order. Samu said that she had inquired from the Anambra Command of the corps and was informed that Mbah was not a staff there nor was he on its payroll. “The Anambra commandant said he also inquired from the Divisional Office, where Mbah claimed he was attached, he was not also on the staff list. “He is also not a staff in the Ebonyi office or on our payroll. He (allegedly) wore the NSCDC uniform and paraded himself as our officer but he is not one of us,” she said. The NSCDC Ebonyi commandant said that the suspect had been quarantined and would receive all necessary checks before being prosecuted. “This is to ascertain his COVID-19 status and if negative, he will be handed over to us for prosecution but if positive, will receive the necessary treatment before prosecution. “I have advised the COVID-19 taskforce team and relevant security agencies to properly check the identities of anyone who claims to be a security personnel. “They should also demand for a travel pass from the head of the concerned security outfit,” she said. Mr Stanley Okoro-Emegha, State Commissioner for Border Peace and Internal Security, confirmed to NAN that Mbah claimed to be attached to the NSCDC office in Umunze, Anambra. “The state government’s directive is that any Ebonyi indigene who gets to any of its boundaries would not be sent back but brought to its withholding centre in Abakaliki for quarantine and testing. “Mbah will however be prosecuted by the NSCDC as the state commandant informed us that he was not their staff,” Okoro-Emegha said.
3 May 15:35 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/fake-nscdc-official-arrested-quarantined-in-ebonyi/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: NSCDC disowns ‘official’ nabbed for smuggling people into Ebonyi
Sodiq Oyeleke The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has clarified that none of its officials was arrested for smuggling passengers into Ebonyi State. The NSCDC disowned the arrested Ebonyi indigene who claimed to be a staff of the corps, saying it has no record of him as an officer. The PUNCH reports that the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Internal Security and Border Peace, Mr Stanley Emegha, had on Friday, announced the arrest of one Mbam James, who was said to be an official of the NSCDC. James was alleged of smuggling two passengers on his motorcycle into Ebonyi State. READ ALSO: Nasarawa Assembly member dies of COVID-19 But the Media Assistant to the NSCDC Commandant General, Ekunola Gbenga, in a press statement said Mbam James’ name was not contained in the database of the corps. The statement read, “The attention of the corps has been called to a report on a section of media that the Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Security Watch has arrested one Mr Mbam James, who claimed to be a personnel of the NSCDC attached to Orumba Umunze in Anambra State and two other passengers he smuggled into the state with his motorcycle. “However, we wish to place on record that the said Mbam James from all available records is not a staff of NSCDC.” The statement added that the NSCDC’s commandant General, Abdullahi Muhammadu, has ordered an investigation into the case. “Therefore, on hearing the report, the Commandant General ordered an investigation into the case. “While the investigation is ongoing, it should be noted that the suspect shall be prosecuted in the court of law immediately he leaves the withholding centre in Ebonyi, where he is been quarantined and expected to be tested for COVID-19,” the statement added.
3 May 14:19 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/covid-19-nscdc-disowns-official-nabbed-for-smuggling-people-into-ebonyi/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: NSCDC disowns self-proclaimed official, says he's an impersonator
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has disowned an Ebonyi indigene who was parading himself as a staff of the Corps, saying it has no record of him as an officer. “I further state that the said name “Mbam James” is not contained in the database of the Corps and I am unable to provide any information on him. “The attention of the Corps has been called to a report on section of media that the Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Security Watch has arrested one Mr. Mbam James who claimed to be a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) attached to Orumba Umunze in Anambra State and 2 other passenger he smuggled into the State with his motorcycle.” The Corps appreciated the members of the Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Security Watch for accosting and eventually arresting the impersonator Mbam James who was carrying two persons on his motorcycle coming to Abakaliki and was arrested at Timber Shade axis of Afikpo North Local Government Area, of the state. It was reported that; Mbam James was flagged down by members of Ebonyi State Neighbourhood Security Watch and he was asked to identify himself, which he could not provide Identity card nor Curfew/Movement/Emergency Pass, when contacted about the development, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in the state, Lucy Samu, said she has no record of Mbam James and declared him impersonator. “However, we wish to place on record that the said Mr. Mbam James from all available records is not a staff of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Civil Defence under the able leadership of the Commandant General Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu is noted for discipline and exemplary behaviour with adequate machinery to check excesses and abuses. We therefore always inculcate in staff at all times the necessity to follow the laid down rules and regulation while on official duties and even on private engagements. Therefore, on hearing the report, the Commandant General Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu, a disciplinarian, who has zero tolerance for indiscipline, ordered investigation into the case. Throughout this period of move restriction, all staffs including those on escort duties traveling inter-states must notify their state Commandants and obtain a ‘permit’ to travel between states in the country; Gana Said. While the investigation is on-going, it should be noted that the suspect shall be prosecuted in the court of law immediately he lives withholding centre in Ebonyi where is been quarantined and expected to be tested for COVID-19. “The Commandant General wishes to use this opportunity to enjoin all Nigerians to cooperate with the Corps and indeed all other security agencies by giving credible information that will assist in the identification and eventual arrest of the criminals in any part of our beloved country.” SignedEkunola GbengaMedia Assistant to the Commandant General
3 May 13:44 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-east/391177-covid-19-nscdc-disowns-self-proclaimed-official-says-hes-an-impersonator.htmlRating: 0.30
2 charged with killing 16-yr-old over weed in Deerfield Beach
3 May 17:03
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11 articles
Weight: 1.28
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Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 20:11
Average US: 70.1818181818182
Weighted average US: 68.03604059398634
Average GB: 0.7636363636363637
Weighted average GB: 1.1817053331204275
Average IN: 2.5818181818181816
Weighted average IN: 2.7306036536196014
2 charged with killing 16-yr-old over weed in Deerfield Beach
DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Two Florida teens were arrested this past week after authorities said they fatally shot a 16-year-old in the back over a marijuana sale gone bad. Lacharles Jean sent an Instagram message to an account named “Weed Connoisseur” and later headed to the parking lot of a Deerfield Beach condominium to get the drugs, according to the Broward Sheriff’s office. Several security cameras captured the meeting between Jean and 19-year-olds Conn Errico and Christopher Snyder. Jean punched Errico in the face and took off. The two followed, shooting Jean in the back before speeding away, authorities said. Errico was arrested Wednesday and accused of pulling the trigger. Snyder was arrested March 27. Both are charged with murder and are being held without bond. The Sun Sentinel reports that Errico’s DNA and cellphone GPS put him at the crime scene. Snyder also admitted driving Errico to the meeting and watching Errico shoot Jean, the newspaper reported.
3 May 17:03 • WSVN 7News • https://wsvn.com/news/local/2-charged-with-killing-16-yr-old-over-weed-in-deerfield-beach/Rating: 0.30
Florida teens charged with killing 16-year-old over weed
DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Authorities say two Florida teens fatally shot a 16-year-old in the back over a marijuana sale gone bad. Broward Sheriff's authorities say Lacharles Jean sent an Instagram message to an account named “Weed Connoisseur” and later met up in the parking lot of a Deerfield Beach condominium. Several security cameras captured the meeting between Jean and 19-year-olds Conn Errico and Christopher Snyder. Jean allegedly punched Errico in the face and took off. Authorities say the two followed, shooting Jean in the back before speeding away. Errico was arrested Wednesday. Snyder was arrested March 27. Both are charged with murder and are being held without bond.
3 May 18:40 • ABC Action News - WFTS - Tampa Bay • https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/state/florida-teens-charged-with-killing-16-year-old-over-weedRating: 0.30
Nurse visiting from out of state fights off attempted rapist in Manhattan
HAMILTON HEIGHTS, Manhattan (WABC) -- A nurse visiting from out of state is recovering after she was followed into her apartment building by a man and brutally attacked. The incident happened on Friday around 9:00 p.m. in Hamilton Heights on 149th Street. According to police, once inside, the man punched the 32-year-old woman in the face and attempted to remove her pants. Officers say the victim was able to fight off the perpetrator, and he fled with her cellphone. The victim suffered pain and bruising but has refused medical attention. Police say she was in town to help out in the fight against COVID-19. Anyone with information regarding the identity of this male is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).
3 May 17:45 • ABC7 New York • https://abc7ny.com/nurse-visiting-from-out-of-state-fights-off-attempted-rapist/6147084/Rating: 0.30
Two men charged following St Catherine robbery
The police in St Catherine have charged two men with robbery with aggravation and illegal possession of firearm after they were accosted following a robbery in Rosemount district in Linstead. Charged are 29-year-old Brian Deans, a bar operator and 36-year-old Oniel Aughle, a mason, both of Deeside in Linstead in the parish. The police report that about 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15, four armed men travelling in a Mitsubishi Attrage motorcar held up and robbed a man of his vehicle. A police team saw what happened, went in pursuit of the men, and intercepted the vehicle. Dean and Aughle were found inside the vehicle and were arrested and later charged. Follow The Gleaner on Twitter and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.
3 May 18:23 • The Gleaner • http://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/news/20200503/two-men-charged-following-st-catherine-robberyRating: 0.43
Woman fights off attempted rapist in Manhattan
HAMILTON HEIGHTS, Manhattan (WABC) -- A 32-year-old woman is recovering today after she was followed into her apartment building by a man and brutally attacked. The terrible incident happened on Friday around 9:00 pm in Hamilton Heights on 149th Street. According to police, once inside, the man punched the woman in the face and attempted to remove her pants. Officers say the victim was able to fight off the perpetrator, and he fled with her cell phone. The victim suffered pain and bruising but has refused medical attention. Anyone with information regarding the identity of this male is asked to call the NYPD's Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).
3 May 17:45 • ABC7 New York • https://abc7ny.com/nyc-woman-fights-off-attempted-rapist/6147084/Rating: 0.30
Nurse helping on coronavirus front line fends off attempted rape
An upstate nurse traveled to New York City to help out on the coronavirus front lines — but was instead forced to fight off a creep who tried to rape her inside a Manhattan apartment, police and sources said Sunday. The depraved fiend followed the 32-year-old Upstate New York woman into a Hamilton Heights apartment building on 149th Street and Broadway, Friday at around 9 p.m., according to the NYPD and police sources. He then punched her in the face and tried to tear off her pants, cops said. But the brave healthcare worker was able to fight the sicko off — and he fled with her cellphone. She was bruised up, but refused medical attention. Police released surveillance photos and videos of the man wanted in the stomach-churning incident, who was spotted exiting the lobby of a building with a blue scarf draped over his head. “This is a terrible situation for people pouring their love into New York City and then to be treated as victims,” a police source said. More than 90,000 retired and active health care workers have signed up to volunteer in the Empire State, including at least 21,000 from outside New York, the governor’s office said last month. Several hotels and companies have offered discounted housing for medical staffers lending a hand in Gotham amid the pandemic. It was unclear if the nurse was renting the apartment where the alleged attack occurred — or whether she remained in New York City following the harrowing ordeal. Anyone with information is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477) or for Spanish, 1-888-57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM, or on Twitter @NYPDTips.
3 May 20:11 • New York Post • https://nypost.com/2020/05/03/nurse-helping-on-coronavirus-front-line-fends-off-accused-rapist/Rating: 2.55
Kisoro Police probe double murder
According to a Police statement issued on Saturday, the two who were in company of friends, were coming from drinking alcohol when they were killed.The Police in Kisoro district have arrested two bar owners over a double murder that happened on Friday night in Muramba sub-county. The bar owners are Samuel Kabahoze and one Kwizera. The deceased are Rodgers Hafasha, 23, and Mathias Ndungutse, 17 all these were residents of Bukazi village, Gisozi parish in Muramba. According to a Police statement issued on Saturday, the two who were in company of friends, werecoming from drinking alcohol at Bukazi trading centre, were murdered at around 9pm on their way home. “They were attacked, assaulted and stoned. This caused the friends to scream for help. On hearing the alarm, the residents went to the scene of the crime but unfortunately, Rodgers died instantly while Mathias died on the way as he was being taken to hospital for treatment after the cruel incident,” the Police statement said. The LC1 chairman of Bukazi village, Saveriya Buzamanza, reported the murder to the Police who visited the scene of crime and arrested the two suspects for questioning. The bodies of the deceased were taken to Kisoro hospital by the Police for postmortem. The Kisoro assistant O/C CID, Robert Mugenyi, condemned the murder, adding that inquiries are on-going to establish the motive of the murder while the hunt was also on for other suspects behind the crime.
3 May 05:38 • New Vision • https://www.newvision.co.ug/new_vision/news/1518450/kisoro-police-probe-double-murderRating: 0.79
Florida teens charged with killing 16-yr-old over weed
DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla. (AP) - Two Florida teens were arrested this week after authorities said they fatally shot a 16-year-old in the back over a marijuana sale gone bad. Lacharles Jean sent an Instagram message to an account named “Weed Connoisseur” and later headed to the parking lot of a Deerfield Beach condominium to get the drugs, according to the Broward Sheriff’s office. Several security cameras captured the meeting between 19-year-olds Jean and Conn Errico and Christopher Snyder. Jean punched Errico in the face and took off. The two followed, shooting Jean in the back before speeding away, authorities said. Errico was arrested Wednesday and accused of pulling the trigger. Snyder was arrested March 27. Both are charged with murder and are being held without bond. The Sun Sentine l reports that Errico’s DNA and cellphone GPS put him at the crime scene. Snyder also admitted driving Errico to the meeting and watching Errico shoot Jean, the newspaper reported.
3 May 00:00 • The Washington Times • https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/may/3/florida-teens-charged-with-killing-16-yr-old-over-/Rating: 0.79
Kentucky man charged with attempted murder of a police officer
CLAY COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT./WYMT) -- Kentucky officials said two people were arrested after a police chase in Clay County. According to the Clay County Sheriff's Office, deputies were drawn into a chase with Eric Miller, 38, and Amber Collins, 27. During the chase, deputies said Miller ran multiple other people off the road and attempted to hit the deputies cruiser. Miller reportedly came to an abrupt stop in the middle of the road and forced an officer to swerve to miss Miller's vehicle. According to reports, the deputy crashed into another vehicle as a result. After the crash, Miller and Collins allegedly ran from their vehicle. An investigation revealed the vehicle involved in the incident was reported stolen. Miller was charged with fleeing or evading Police 1st Degree (Motor Vehicle), possession of a controlled substance 1st degree (Methamphetamine), attempted murder of a police officer, wanton Endangerment 1st Degree- Police Officer and operating a motor vehicle under the influence. Collis was charged with fleeing or evading Police 1st Degree (Motor Vehicle) and hindering prosecution or apprehension, 1st Degree. Both individuals were taken to the Clay County Detention Center.
2 May 14:48 • WVLT • https://www.wvlt.tv/content/news/Kentucky-man-charged-with-attempted-murder-of-a-police-officer-570142801.htmlRating: 0.30
Police identify shooter, victim in murder-suicide
MOORE — Police have identified two male roommates who died in an apparent murder-suicide Wednesday night. Austin Blake Mansfield, 27, shot and killed Trey Allen Mitchelltree, 26, inside a home in the 4200 block of Notting Hill and then turned the gun on himself, Moore police Sgt. Jeremy Lewis told The Oklahoman on Friday. Mansfield and Mitchelltree were longtime friends, Lewis said. Police are trying to determine what led to the shootings, he added. "They were the only ones there," Lewis said. "He was very very upset about something." According to Lewis, one of the men called his parents and told them he'd been shot by his roommate. When officers arrived sometime after 8:30 p.m. they heard multiple gunshots coming from inside the home. Police waited for backup, then went inside and found two men dead in the back of the house, Lewis said.
2 May 06:04 • THE OKLAHOMAN • https://oklahoman.com/article/5661398/police-identify-shooter-victim-in-murder-suicideRating: 0.30
Prosecutors identify victim, suspect in fatal North Buffalo stabbing
The man killed Friday in the parking lot of an Elmwood Avenue shopping plaza was 41-year-old Duane Donaldson, the Erie County District Attorney's Office said Saturday. Frederick D. Jordan III, 37, of Buffalo, is accused of stabbing Donaldson at about 10 a.m. Friday in the plaza on Elmwood, near Hinman Avenue, prosecutors said. Donaldson died at the scene. Buffalo police on Friday said the two men apparently had a dispute over money, and the dispute turned physical. An off-duty volunteer assistant fire chief from the Town of Tonawanda broke up the fight, then held Jordan until officers arrived, police said. Jordan was arraigned Friday night before Buffalo City Court Judge Craig D. Hannah on a charge of second-degree murder, prosecutors said. Hannah ordered him held without bail. Jordan is scheduled to return to court June 1 for a felony hearing.
2 May 12:31 • The Buffalo News • https://buffalonews.com/2020/05/02/prosecutors-identify-victim-man-charged-in-fatal-north-buffalo-stabbing/Rating: 0.30
With 441 new cases, city tally up to 8,800
3 May 20:31
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4 articles
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With 441 new cases, city tally up to 8,800
Mumbai reported 441 new cases and 21 deaths on Sunday, bringing the total number of cases in the city up to 8,800. At least 343 citizens have succumbed to the virus till now. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) daily report, of the 21 deaths, 10 patients suffered from co-morbid diseases and seven had age-related issues. One patient who succumbed was below the age of 40, 11 were above 60 years old and nine were between 40 and 60 years of age. The BMC said of the 441 new cases, only 381 were Sunday’s cases while 60 were patients who tested positive in various labs on April 30 and May 1 and have been included in the tally now. Around 100 patients who recovered were discharged on Sunday. The BMC has advised citizens who test positive not to rush to big hospitals for admission if they do not have symptoms. “The Health Department will guide you to nearby COVID-19 care centres,” it said. Another BMC staffer succumbed to the virus on Saturday. Eight of his colleagues have also tested positive for COVID-19. The 49-year-old mukadam from F South ward’s solid waste management (SWM) department had gone on leave for about a week. The patient, who lived at Kasarwadi municipal chawl in Dadar, reportedly visited a local dispensary when he started developing symptoms. He was admitted to KEM Hospital on Friday night where he tested positive and passed away within 24 hours. His family has been quarantined and will be tested. An official from the ward said he did not work in a containment zone but on a garbage disposal truck. Concerns have been raised in the past about the disposal of used masks, gloves and other contaminated material along with regular garbage. The BMC had held a health camp for its staffers from the ward earlier this week where eight staffers from SWM department had tested positive. Since none of them have symptoms, they have been kept in COVID Care Centre 1, meant for asymptomatic positives. “Our staff has been given gloves and masks to wear while working with solid waste. Besides, biomedical waste is collected and disposed separately. He had gone on leave but did not inform us of symptoms,” said an official from the BMC. The health officer of the ward claimed that she had not been notified of the case. Milind Ranade of Kachra Vahtuk Shramik Sangh said, “In Parel, in the past when conservancy staffers would be asked to go into containment zones, they were not even given protective suits. It was only after we demanded it that they were allowed the suits. Now they are being asked to wash those themselves and reuse them.”
3 May 20:31 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/with-441-new-cases-city-tally-up-to-8800/article31496637.eceRating: 0.30
Covid-19 outbreak: Confirmed coronavirus infections in Greece at 2,626; fatalities reach 144
The number of confirmed coronavirus infections role by six on Sunday, bringing the total to 2,626 in a population of roughly 11 million, while one more related fatality was cited. The death toll in the country attributed to the Covid-19 reached 144. The average age of the victims was 75, while 92.4 percent either suffered from an underlying condition or were above the age of 70. Tests in the country neared 80,000. As of Sunday, 37 people remained in life support in ICUs. Of this sample, the average age is 67, while 78 people once in hospitalized in ICUs have recovered.
3 May 11:24 • naftemporiki.gr • https://www.naftemporiki.gr/story/1595387/covid-19-outbreak-confirmed-coronavirus-infections-in-greece-at-2626-fatalities-reach-144Rating: 2.56
COVID-19 | Mumbai records highest deaths in a day so far
Mumbai recorded 547 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, taking the tally to 8,359. The city also recorded the highest number of deaths (27) in a single day, pushing the death toll to 322. The financial capital is a hotspot contributing nearly 68% cases and 62% deaths to the State tally. The fatality rate in the city currently stands at 3.8%. The deaths recorded on Saturday included 20 men and seven women. Civic officials said 20 deceased had co-morbid conditions like diabetes, hypertension and asthma. While 15 deceased were in the age group of 40 to 60 years, 12 were above the age of 60. “We have reported a few deaths in the younger age ground below 40. However, we have found that a majority in the younger age group also had some underlying conditions,” said Dr. Daksha Shah, deputy executive health officer, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The city’s last highest single-day death toll was 26, recorded on April 29. The number of deaths has doubled in a span of 10 days. The BMC has now concentrated its efforts on house to house surveillance to detect cases from the community as early as possible. While it had earlier relied on projections that 10% of total positive patients will require hospitals beds, the actual requirement is seen at 30% to 40%. Manisha Mhaiskar, principal secretary on special deputation to the BMC, said patients find a hospital bed more reassuring. “Factoring this, hospital beds augmentation is being reassessed,” Ms. Mhasikar said, adding that Nair hospital will have 935 beds ready by next week and 388 have already been commissioned. Similar measures were on at other hospitals. On the other hand, the civic body will also start allowing asymptomatic patients without any co-morbid conditions to remain in home isolation. “This will be decided on a case to case basis depending on if the patient has a separate room and there is enough space for the family to maintain distancing. Such patients will be allowed to follow up with their own physicians,” Dr. Shah said, adding that the Centre has drawn out detailed guidelines for home quarantining patients, which will have to be followed stringently. On Saturday, 137 patients went home after recovery from various city hospitals. In all, 1,704 patients have recovered in Mumbai so far.
2 May 20:15 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/covid-19-mumbai-records-highest-deaths-in-a-day-so-far/article31492481.eceRating: 0.30
Mumbai records highest deaths in a day so far
Mumbai recorded 547 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, taking the tally to 8,359. The city also recorded the highest number of deaths (27) in a single day, pushing the death toll to 322. The financial capital is a hotspot contributing nearly 68% cases and 62% deaths to the State tally. The fatality rate in the city currently stands at 3.8%. The deaths recorded on Saturday included 20 men and seven women. Civic officials said 20 deceased had co-morbid conditions like diabetes, hypertension and asthma. While 15 deceased were in the age group of 40 to 60 years, 12 were above the age of 60. “We have reported a few deaths in the younger age ground below 40. However, we have found that a majority in the younger age group also had some underlying conditions,” said Dr. Daksha Shah, deputy executive health officer, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The city’s last highest single-day death toll was 26, recorded on April 29. The number of deaths has doubled in a span of 10 days. The BMC has now concentrated its efforts on house to house surveillance to detect cases from the community as early as possible. While it had earlier relied on projections that 10% of total positive patients will require hospitals beds, the actual requirement is seen at 30% to 40%. Manisha Mhaiskar, principal secretary on special deputation to the BMC, said patients find a hospital bed more reassuring. “Factoring this, hospital beds augmentation is being reassessed,” Ms. Mhasikar said, adding that Nair hospital will have 935 beds ready by next week and 388 have already been commissioned. Similar measures were on at other hospitals. On the other hand, the civic body will also start allowing asymptomatic patients without any co-morbid conditions to remain in home isolation. “This will be decided on a case to case basis depending on if the patient has a separate room and there is enough space for the family to maintain distancing. Such patients will be allowed to follow up with their own physicians,” Dr. Shah said, adding that the Centre has drawn out detailed guidelines for home quarantining patients, which will have to be followed stringently. On Saturday, 137 patients went home after recovery from various city hospitals. In all, 1,704 patients have recovered in Mumbai so far.
2 May 20:15 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/mumbai/mumbai-records-highest-deaths-in-a-day-so-far/article31492481.eceRating: 0.30
Wuhan evacuee wishes he had never left China
3 May 12:38
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7 articles
Weight: 1.26
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Age penalty: 1.00
Best date: 3 May 12:29
Average US: 10.042857142857143
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Weighted average GB: 24.881792578976594
Average IN: 5.428571428571428
Weighted average IN: 6.690589453699173
Wuhan evacuee wishes he had never left China
A Wuhan evacuee who was quarantined for two weeks when he returned to the UK has said he wishes he had never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted “We’re free” as he walked out of quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but now says he went “out of the pot, into the fire” when he was released. He told the PA news agency: “We should never have left China. “We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. “At the time coronavirus was not in England – I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought ‘They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away’. “They did nothing.” He said: “They’re out of lockdown, it looks like they’ve got control of the situation. “Ying’s brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they’re still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily.” Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done “everything right” and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19 making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. “That’s really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed,” he said. “We know what we’ve got to do now, we need to stay inside and it’s not going to be forever. “I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. “We’ve made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now.”
3 May 12:38 • Jersey Evening Post • https://jerseyeveningpost.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/wuhan-evacuee-wishes-he-had-never-left-china/Rating: 0.38
Wuhan evacuee wishes he had never left China to go back to UK
A Wuhan evacuee who was quarantined for two weeks when he returned to the UK has said he wishes he had never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted “We’re free” as he walked out of quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but now says he went “out of the pot, into the fire” when he was released. He told the PA news agency: “We should never have left China. “We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. “At the time coronavirus was not in England – I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought ‘They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away’. “They did nothing.” Mr Raw, who arrived back in Britain on January 31 with his wife, Ying, 38, and his 75-year-old mother, Hazel, who has dementia, said that for friends and family in Wuhan things are starting to get back to normal. He said: “They’re out of lockdown, it looks like they’ve got control of the situation. “Ying’s brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they’re still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily.” Covid-19 apps around the world Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done “everything right” and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19 making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. Mr Raw said he has been filming YouTube videos, playing the piano and spending time in the garden of his home in Knutsford, Cheshire, to occupy himself during lockdown. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. “That’s really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed,” he said. “We know what we’ve got to do now, we need to stay inside and it’s not going to be forever. “I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. “We’ve made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now.” YouTube terminates David Icke’s account
3 May 06:59 • Irishexaminer • https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/world/wuhan-evacuee-wishes-he-had-never-left-china-to-go-back-to-uk-997391.htmlRating: 0.69
British man who fled to UK from Wuhan now wishes he never left China
A man who fled to the UK from Wuhan in January has said he wishes he never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted ‘we’re free’ after spending two weeks in quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but he now says he went ‘out of the pot, into the fire’. ‘We should never have left China,’ he said. ‘We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. ‘At the time coronavirus was not in England – I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought ‘They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away’. ‘They did nothing,’ he added. Mr Raw, who arrived back in Britain on January 31 with his wife, Ying, 38, and his 75-year-old mother, Hazel, who has dementia, said that for friends and family in Wuhan things are starting to get back to normal. He said: ‘They’re out of lockdown, it looks like they’ve got control of the situation. ‘Ying’s brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they’re still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily.’ For our Coronavirus live blog click here. Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done ‘everything right’ and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19, making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. Mr Raw said he has been filming YouTube videos, playing the piano and spending time in the garden of his home in Knutsford, Cheshire, to occupy himself during lockdown. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. ‘That’s really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed,’ he said. ‘We know what we’ve got to do now, we need to stay inside and it’s not going to be forever. ‘I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. ‘We’ve made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now.’ Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 12:29 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/british-man-who-fled-uk-wuhan-now-wishes-never-left-china-12647971/Rating: 2.18
Wuhan evacuee quarantined when he returned to UK 'wishes he had never left China'
A Wuhan evacuee who was quarantined for two weeks when he returned to the UK has said he wishes he had never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted "We're free" as he walked out of quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but now says he went "out of the pot, into the fire" when he was released. He told the PA news agency: "We should never have left China. "We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. "At the time coronavirus was not in England - I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought 'They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away'. "They did nothing." Mr Raw, who arrived back in Britain on January 31 with his wife, Ying, 38, and his 75-year-old mother, Hazel, who has dementia, said that for friends and family in Wuhan things are starting to get back to normal. He said: "They're out of lockdown, it looks like they've got control of the situation. "Ying's brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they're still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily." Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done "everything right" and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19 making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. Mr Raw said he has been filming YouTube videos, playing the piano and spending time in the garden of his home in Knutsford, Cheshire, to occupy himself during lockdown. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. "That's really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed," he said. "We know what we've got to do now, we need to stay inside and it's not going to be forever. "I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. "We've made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now."
3 May 03:14 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/wuhan-evacuee-quarantined-returned-uk-21965437Rating: 2.39
Wuhan evacuee wishes he had never left China
A Wuhan evacuee who was quarantined for two weeks when he returned to the UK has said he wishes he had never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted “We’re free” as he walked out of quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but now says he went “out of the pot, into the fire” when he was released. He told the PA news agency: “We should never have left China. “We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. “At the time coronavirus was not in England – I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought ‘They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away’. “They did nothing.” Mr Raw, who arrived back in Britain on January 31 with his wife, Ying, 38, and his 75-year-old mother, Hazel, who has dementia, said that for friends and family in Wuhan things are starting to get back to normal. He said: “They’re out of lockdown, it looks like they’ve got control of the situation. “Ying’s brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they’re still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily.” Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done “everything right” and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19 making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. Mr Raw said he has been filming YouTube videos, playing the piano and spending time in the garden of his home in Knutsford, Cheshire, to occupy himself during lockdown. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. “That’s really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed,” he said. “We know what we’ve got to do now, we need to stay inside and it’s not going to be forever. “I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. “We’ve made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now.”
3 May 01:48 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/wuhan-evacuee-wishes-he-had-never-left-china/Rating: 0.30
Wuhan evacuee wishes he had never left China
A Wuhan evacuee who was quarantined for two weeks when he returned to the UK has said he wishes he had never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted “We’re free” as he walked out of quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but now says he went “out of the pot, into the fire” when he was released. He told the PA news agency: “We should never have left China. “We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. “At the time coronavirus was not in England – I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought ‘They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away’. “They did nothing.” Mr Raw, who arrived back in Britain on January 31 with his wife, Ying, 38, and his 75-year-old mother, Hazel, who has dementia, said that for friends and family in Wuhan things are starting to get back to normal. He said: “They’re out of lockdown, it looks like they’ve got control of the situation. “Ying’s brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they’re still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily.” Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done “everything right” and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19 making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. Mr Raw said he has been filming YouTube videos, playing the piano and spending time in the garden of his home in Knutsford, Cheshire, to occupy himself during lockdown. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. “That’s really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed,” he said. “We know what we’ve got to do now, we need to stay inside and it’s not going to be forever. “I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. “We’ve made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now.”
3 May 01:47 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/wuhan-evacuee-wishes-he-had-never-left-china/Rating: 0.88
Wuhan evacuee wishes he had never left China
Matt Raw says he went ‘out of the pot, into the fire’ when he was released from quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral. A Wuhan evacuee who was quarantined for two weeks when he returned to the UK has said he wishes he had never left China. Matt Raw, 38, shouted “We’re free” as he walked out of quarantine at Arrowe Park Hospital in Wirral on February 13, but now says he went “out of the pot, into the fire” when he was released. He told the PA news agency: “We should never have left China. “We made the decision to come back over here because there was a killer virus running loose around Wuhan. “At the time coronavirus was not in England – I think the first case was while we were in quarantine in Arrowe Park, and I thought ‘They have seen what happened in China, they will jump on this straight away’. “They did nothing.” Mr Raw, who arrived back in Britain on January 31 with his wife, Ying, 38, and his 75-year-old mother, Hazel, who has dementia, said that for friends and family in Wuhan things are starting to get back to normal. He said: “They’re out of lockdown, it looks like they’ve got control of the situation. “Ying’s brother has his own business and, as far as I understand, they are all back at work now, but they’re still being sensible, taking precautions and not going out unnecessarily.” Mr Raw abandoned his Jeep at Wuhan airport before boarding the repatriation flight, but said his brother-in-law had now been able to collect the vehicle. He said he believed China had done “everything right” and acted more quickly and with greater force than the UK to restrict the spread of the virus. Now, he is not planning to return to the country until there is a vaccine for Covid-19 making it safe for his mother to travel. He said his wife had applied for a visa to stay in the UK but delays with the process mean they are not sure if she will need to return to China next month. Mr Raw said he has been filming YouTube videos, playing the piano and spending time in the garden of his home in Knutsford, Cheshire, to occupy himself during lockdown. He also praised his neighbours, who, he said, have been supporting each other. “That’s really what makes it all very, very bearable indeed,” he said. “We know what we’ve got to do now, we need to stay inside and it’s not going to be forever. “I would rather be in quarantine over here than in China, but I think, very definitely, that coming back here was a mistake. “We’ve made our bed so we just have to put on a happy face and lie in it now.”
3 May 01:47 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/wuhan-evacuee-wishes-he-had-never-left-china/Rating: 0.30
Fayemi names Amotekun board members, ombud chair
3 May 23:19
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Fayemi names Amotekun board members, ombud chair
Abiodun Nejo, Ado Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has approved the appointment of members of the Governing Board of the Ekiti State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps). A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, on Sunday stated that the approval was “in a bid to ensure effective take off and efficient management of state security network.” He listed members of the board as Mr Akin Aregbesola (Chairman), Dr B.J. Akin-Obasola, Mr Joel Idowu Ajayi, Major Fatai Fakorede (retd.) and Brig. Gen. Joe Komolafe (retd.), who is to serve as the Corps Commander. The governor also approved the appointment of Justice Cornelius Akintayo (retd.) as Chairman, Independent Amotekun Complaints Board. Oyebode stated that the appointments take immediate effect. However, the All Progressives Congress, in the state has congratulated Aregbesola on his appointment, saying he would “make use of his past experience to make the agency much more effective and efficient to meet its target in the state.” The APC State Publicity Secretary, Ade Ajayi, said, “Aregbesola, being a security expert, will use his wealth of experience on the board to add to the efforts being made by Governor Fayemi to checkmate the nefarious activities of the evil men to enhance peace in the state.” Copyright PUNCH.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH. Contact: theeditor@punchng.com
3 May 23:19 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/fayemi-names-amotekun-board-members-ombud-chair/Rating: 0.30
Amotekun: Fayemi names Governing Board
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter In a bid to ensure effective take off and efficient management of the Ekiti State Security Network, the Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has approved the appointment of members of the Governing Board of the Ekiti State Security Network Agency (AMOTEKUN Corps). The appointments were contained in a statement on Sunday by Fayemi’s Chief Press Secretary, Olayinka Oyebode. The statement named Akin Aregbesola as Chairman of the Board, with Brigadier General Joe Komolafe (retd) as the Corps Commander. Members of the Board were named as Dr. B.J. Akin-Obasola, Joel Idowu Ajayi and Major Fatai Fakorede (retd). The Governor also approved the appointment of Justice Cornelius Akintayo (retd) as Chairman, Independent Amotekun Complaints Board. The appointments, Oyebode said, take immediate effect. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Comment Name * Email * Website Yes, add me to your mailing list
3 May 21:19 • The Eagle Online • https://theeagleonline.com.ng/amotekun-fayemi-names-governing-board/Rating: 0.39
Amotekun: Ekiti constitutes board as Ondo screens candidates
The Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, on Sunday appointed Akin Aregbesola as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Ekiti State Security Network Agency (Amotekun). He also appointed Joe Komolafe, a retired brigadier-general, as the corps commander and member of the board. Other members of the board are B.J Akin-Obasola, Joel Idowu Ajayi and Fatai Fakorede, a retired Major. According to a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Olayinka Oyebode, the governor also approved the appointment of Cornelius Akintayo, a retired judge as Chairman of the Independent Amotekun Complaints Board. “The appointments take immediate effect,” the statement said. The activation of the Amotekun corps legislation is coming a week after the Commissioner for Agriculture, Folorunso Olabode, was kidnapped by armed gangs who demanded huge sums as ransom. Mr Olabode and another person were kidnapped along Iludun-Isan road around 7.30 p.m on Sunday. A councillor and House Leader at the Ilejemeje Local Government Area of the state who was driving the vehicle conveying the commissioner was shot dead in the incident. The police confirmed during the week that they were later released by the kidnappers somewhere in Kwara State. Meanwhile, the Ondo State Government said it had started the screening of candidates for the board of Amotekun in the state. The Commissioner for Information, Donald Ojogo, told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday that although the initial limitations to the setting up of the security network had been taken care of, the need to ensure the appointment of credible persons to run the corps was delaying its takeoff. “We are presently conducting security checks on the people who will be members of the Amotekun board, because we don’t want people of questionable past to get in there,” said Mr Ojogo. “What we are trying to do is to ensure that those who will be operatives, especially at the manifest level, will have to go through serious security vetting. “That process is on; we don’t want to take chances. We are trying to be meticulous and methodical about it.” Mr Ojogo further noted that the state had involved all the relevant security agencies in the country in the vetting process, and until the task was concluded, the Amotekun in the state would not be unveiled. The Amotekun security outfit was the creation of the governors of the southwest in response to the incessant kidnapping and killings perpetrated by armed bandits across the region. The federal government had voiced its misgivings at the initial stage particularly with reference to its legality, but after further discussions, it was decided that the states should own their respective outfits instead of a regional security network. Despite the lockdown across the states following the outbreak of the new coronavirus pandemic, the wave of violent crime and kidnapping has been sustained by the bandits. In March, two footballers in the Nigeria local league were kidnapped in Ipele in Ondo State, while returning from a game. They were only released after a ransom was paid.
3 May 16:18 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/regional/ssouth-west/391194-amotekun-ekiti-constitutes-board-as-ondo-screens-candidates.htmlRating: 0.30
Gov. Fayemi names governing board for Ekiti Amotekun
Kindly Share This Story: Ekiti Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has approved the appointment of members of the Governing Board of the Ekiti Security Network Agency, popularly known as “Amotekun Corps”. Chief Press to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, in a statement in Ado Ekiti, made available to newsmen on Sunday, said the appointment came in a bid to ensure effective take-off and efficient management of the Amotekun in Ekiti. According to him, Chairman of the security outfit is Mr Akin Aregbesola, while the current Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brig. Gen. Joe Komolafe (rtd) will serve as the Corps Commander. Other appointees to the board are Dr BJ Akin-Obasola, Mr Joel Idowu Ajayi and Major Fatai Fakorede. The governor also approved the appointment of Justice Cornelius Akintayo (rtd) as Chairman of what is to be known as Independent Amotekun Complaints Board. He said that all the appointments took immediate effect. Fayemi, in March 2020, signed the Amotekun bill into law, warning criminals to stay away from the state. The governor, while assenting to the bill, reiterated his earlier assertion that the Amotekun outfit was not a substitute for existing security agencies. He said Amotekun is a complementary agency that would enhance and sustain the existing security architecture in the entire Southwest region of the country. Fayemi also said that the Amotekun corps, in collaboration with similar security agencies in other states, would cooperate with, and assist security agencies in gathering information about crime, arrest and prosecution of persons suspected or involved in crimes. He highlighted such crimes to include kidnapping, terrorism, cattle rustling, cultism, highway robbery, illegal mining, trespass to farmland, illegal logging and other nefarious activities in the state and the southwest zone. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 13:47 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/gov-fayemi-names-governing-board-for-ekiti-amotekun/Rating: 2.43
Fayemi names Amotekun board members
Abiodun Nejo, Ado Ekiti Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has approved the appointment of members of the Governing Board of the Ekiti State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps). A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, on Sunday, stated that the approval was “in a bid to ensure effective takeoff and efficient management of the state security network”. READ ALSO: We shouldn’t be in haste to enact law that’ll tie our hands — Ogirima, Ex-NMA boss He listed members of the board as Mr Akin Aregbesola (Chairman), Dr B.J Akin-Obasola, Mr Joel Idowu Ajayi, Major Fatai Fakorede (retd.) and Brig. General Joe Komolafe (retd), who is to serve as the Corps Commander. The governor also approved the appointment of Justice Cornelius Akintayo (retd.) as Chairman, Independent Amotekun Complaints Board. Oyebode stated that “the appointments take immediate effect”.
3 May 13:35 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/fayemi-names-amotekun-board-members/Rating: 0.30
Fayemi names Ekiti Amotekun corps Commander, others
Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi on Sunday announced the appointment of Brig. General Joe Komolafe (rtd) as the Commander of the newly established Amotekun corps. Fayemi also approved the appointment of Hon Justice Cornelius Akintayo (rtd) as Chairman, Independent Amotekun Complaints Board and the constitution of the Ekiti State Security Network Agency Governing Board. The members of the board include; Mr. Akin Aregbesola (Chairman), retired Brig. General Joe Komolafe (Corps Commander), Dr. (Mrs) B.J Akin-Obasola, Mr. Joel Idowu Ajayi, and Maj. Fatai Fakorede ( Rtd). The Governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Yinka Oyebode, in a statement, said the appointment was to ensure effective take off and efficient management of the State Security Network. He added that the appointments take immediate effect. The bill for the establishment of the state Security Network Agency and Amotekun Corps was signed into law by Governor Fayemi after scaling through the hurdles of legislative processes. The security outfit was initiated by the six South-West governors to tackle the prevailing security challenges facing the region.
3 May 12:27 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/fayemi-names-ekiti-amotekun-corps-commander-others/Rating: 0.30
Man who escaped from quarantine in Tanzania isolated
3 May 09:01
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3 articles
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Man who escaped from quarantine in Tanzania isolated
A middle-aged man has been isolated at Taveta Sub-county Hospital in Taita Taveta County after sneaking into the country from Tanzania. The man who is said to have escaped from a quarantine facility in the neighbouring country was being sought by authorities in both Tanzania and Kenya. County health officials in Taita Taveta said the patient was involved in an accident and presented himself for treatment, unaware that authorities had launched a search to track him down. The Coronavirus Tracker DID NOT DISCLOSE Sources at the hospital said the patient did not disclose that he had recently travelled to Tanzania until a medic raised alarm after seeing his details on social media. "Medical workers at the hospital attended to him normally. Later they were told that the man escaped from Tanzania while he was under quarantine. That is when he was isolated," the source told the Nation. The medics who came into contact with the patient have since been quarantined. County executive for Health John Mwangeka confirmed the incident, saying his samples were taken to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri) in Kilifi County for testing. "We are waiting for the results to know whether he's positive or not," he said. He added that all staff at the facility have been adequately trained to handle patients whether they are Covid-19 positive or not. "We have started contact tracing as we await his results," he said. ILLEGAL TRADE, CROSSING Cases of people using illegal routes at the Taveta-Holili crossing to and from Tanzania have continued to be reported as residents fear that coronavirus might spread into the border county. Tanzania has reported a high number of confirmed Covid-19 cases at 480, currently the highest in the region. Residents now fear that the swelling numbers might spill into Taveta border town. A Kitobo resident, Charles Mwangangi, said boda boda operators were still operating normally in the area to sneak sugar out to Tanzania. "They are using the porous border to do illegal business. I see them every day. Some of them carry passengers," he said. Mr Mwangangi claimed that the operators were working despite the full knowledge of local administrators. WARNING County commissioner Rhonda Onyancha last week warned illegal sugar racketeers that they will be apprehended and charged. She said the government will also place them in mandatory quarantine at their own cost and their motorbikes confiscated. "We have beefed up security along the border and anyone who will be caught defying government orders will face the full force of the law," she warned.
3 May 09:01 • Daily Nation • https://www.nation.co.ke/counties/taita-taveta/Man-who-escaped-from-quarantine-in-Tanzania-isolated/1183326-5541170-nonllf/index.htmlRating: 1.96
Suspected COVID-19 Kenyan truck driver isolated in Mbale
Mbale, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Mbale Regional Referral Hospital is holding a Kenyan truck driver in it’s COVID-19 isolation center. The driver is said to have entered into the country through the Malaba border and proceeded to South Sudan. He was reportedly picked from Tororo district on Saturday by authorities from Mbale Hospital after a call from a concerned Tororo district Health officer. According to Dr. Emmanuel Tugaineyo, the driver’s samples were first taken from Malaba and they tested negative and later when he reached Elegu border another sample was taken. He said they will comment after getting the second tests of the driver. Social media has been filled with claims that Mbale is currently hosting a positive case which Dr. Tugaineyo has refuted saying that the National surveillance team does not have the driver as one of the positive cases. He said fresh samples have been taken from the driver and will be delivered to the Uganda Virus research institute in Entebbe as they continue to monitor him. Dr. Tugaineyo said the driver currently has no signs and symptoms of the virus. **** URN Share on: WhatsApp
3 May 16:07 • The Independent Uganda: • https://www.independent.co.ug/suspected-covid-19-kenyan-truck-driver-isolated-in-mbale/Rating: 0.30
Patient Who Escaped From Tanzania Quarantine Crashes in Kenya
A man who escaped a quarantine facility in Tanzania and sneaked into Kenya was arrested on Saturday, April 2, and isolated at the Taveta Sub-county Hospital. The middle-aged man who is alleged to have escaped a Tanzanian quarantine centre due to alleged harsh conditions he encountered, was involved in a road accident after sneaking back into Kenya. Following the accident, he was rushed to Taveta Sub-county Hospital for emergency treatment, only for the health workers at the hospital to learn if his quarantine history later on. He was then hurriedly transferred to a holding room and his samples rushed to Kenya Medical Research Institute (KeMri) laboratory in Kilifi for testing. A medical practitioner dressed in protective gear at the Coronavirus isolation and treatment facility in Mbagathi District Hospital on Friday, March 6, 2020.Simon KiraguKenyans.co.ke The process of contact tracing to identify all the individuals who might have come into contact with the patient since he sneaked back into the country was commenced. “We are waiting for the results for samples sent to Kilifi. While we do, we are looking for anyone who came into contact with the patient. This is a normal precautionary measure,” Taita-Taveta County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health John Mwangeka stated. Former county boss John Mruttu urged residents of the border villages to be on the lookout and report cases of foreigners and local people who are crossing over to Tanzania. “We must all work together to ensure we put our safety first. This is a time to be vigilant for all,” he reiterated. Tanzania has the most number of confirmed coronavirus cases (480 as of May 2) in East Africa. On May 1, 50 Covid-19 patients reportedly died in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Trucks at the Namanga Kenya-Tanzania border town. Dar’s rejection of Kenya’s poultry exports could trigger off a trade war.The Standard The entire region was taken aback on April 29 when the confirmed Covid-19 cases in Tanzania was announced as 196, the largest single-day confirmation witnessed in the region. On May 2, Kenyans called for the closure of the Namanga border following the rise of Covid-19 cases in Tanzania, citing the high risk posed by individuals sneaking in and out of both countries. Health Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Dr Mercy Mwangangi, had on the same day announced 2 cases of patients testing positive for the virus in Kuria West (Migori County). "7 cases are from Kawangware, 10 from Eastleigh, 5 from Mombasa and 2 from Kuria West (Migori County) who had recently travelled to Tanzania," she announced. Health Ministry Chief Administrative Secretary Mercy Mwangangi addressing the media, April 2020.File
3 May 09:16 • Kenyans.co.ke • https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/52782-patient-who-escaped-tanzania-quarantine-crashes-kenyaRating: 1.04
Ebonyi fifth COVID-19 patient infected at isolation centre
3 May 09:37
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3 articles
Weight: 1.24
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Average US: 2.7133333333333334
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Average IN: 0.09
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Ebonyi fifth COVID-19 patient infected at isolation centre
Ebonyi Governor David Umahi has confirmed two more cases of Covid-19 in the State. The Governor stated this when he phoned into the situation room, an update programme on coronavirus on the state’s broadcast stations. According to the Governor, the fourth case returned from Lagos with the virus while the fifth case got the virus from the third case at the Pa Oruta Ngele Stadium Abakaliki holding area. “The 4th case is a 22- year- old boy who leaves in Ojo Lagos. He left Lagos on 26 and entered Ebonyi through Nkalagu border. “And from there when entered bus to Ezzamgbo junction. Thereafter he entered bus to Ede Ishieke in Ebonyi local government”, the governor said. He said the man was intercepted at Ishieke by anti Covid-19 task force and brought to the stadium where a sample was collected from him which turned out to be positive. On the fifth case Umahi said she returned to Uburu with her family from Énugu where she resides but was brought to the holding area in Abakaliki in line with the policy of the State Government that anyone who comes in from outside the state must be tested. “The fifth case is a 24- year- old girl. A hair dresser from Awgu in Uburu in Ohaozara local government area. She resides at No 30 Queens close Ọkpara Avenue in Enugu. “She was picked from Uburu to Stadium. While at the stadium she had contact with the third case and this evening her result came out and she tested positive” Umahi however noted that the family members that she came back with all tested negative. He, however noted that they will still be kept at the holding area and monitored for next 14 days. He said that he has also directed the Medical team to go for contact tracing of all the patient’s contacts. The Governor while advising the people to remain vigilant urged them not to panic as the state government was doing all in its power to prevent spread. He commended some local government chairman who he said are doing well in effectively manning their borders. The Governor also lamented the unseriousness of others warning that there will be dire consequences for such persons after the war on the pandemic is over. He said all the confirmed cases are doing well at the isolation centre. ” In the next one week, I am sure that they will be cleared to go home after they must have tested negative twice”, he said.
3 May 09:37 • Latest Nigeria News, Nigerian Newspapers, Politics • https://thenationonlineng.net/ebonyi-fifth-covid-19-patient-infected-at-isolation-centre/Rating: 0.30
Umahi confirms 2 new COVID-19 cases in Ebonyi
Gov. Dave Umahi of Ebonyi has confirmed the fourth and fifth positive cases of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the state. Umahi disclosed this while giving update on the COVID-19 situation on Sunday in Abakaliki. He said: “Fourth case is a twenty-two year old man, he lives in Ojo in Lagos state. “Just as it is with the third case, he left Lagos on April 26, and entered Ebonyi through Nkalagu border and from there, he entered a bus to Ezzamgbo junction. “Thereafter, he entered another car from Ezzamgbo junction in Ohaukwu local government area to Effium from where he entered a bike to Edeh in Ishieke, Ebonyi LGA, where he was intercepted by security men and brought to the stadium on April 27. “And by the directive of government, a sample was taken from him and he tested positive. “The fifth case is a 24-year-old lady, a hairdresser from Ogwu in Umuobuna ward of Ohaozara LGA of the state. She resides at Number 30, Queens Close, Okpara Avenue, Enugu. “She returned to Ebonyi with her family members on April 27 to Ogbu in Uburu. “She was picked from Uburu to the stadium. While at the stadium, she had a contact with the third case, and this evening, her result came out and it tested positive.” Umahi further explained that the two positive cases had been taken from the stadium to the isolation/treatment Centre at the Unity Square, Abakaliki, where they are currently receiving medical attention. The governor also noted that the girl’s family members who came back with her from Enugu were equally tested, but they came out negative. He, however stated that they would still be retained at the quarantine centre in the stadium for the next 14 days for further confirmation. Umahi also directed the medical team to proceed to Uburu for contact tracing in relation to the positive cases.
3 May 12:36 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/umahi-confirms-2-new-covid-19-cases-in-ebonyi/Rating: 0.30
Ebonyi records 4th, 5th cases of COVID-19
Kindly Share This Story: Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, weekend announced that the State has recorded its 4th and 5th cases of COVID-19 as both patients are in their twenties. The Governor, who made this known in Abakaliki, called on security personnel to ensure proper manning of the borders as contact tracing involving those affected by the virus had begun in earnest. His words, “4th case is a 22yrs boy who lives in Ojo, Lagos State just like the 3rd case. He left Lagos State on 26th April and entered Ebonyi through Nkalagu border, and from there he boarded a bus to Ezzamgbo Junction. Thereafter, he boarded a cab from Ezzamgbo Junction to Effium, where he mounted an Okada to Ede Ishieke in Ebonyi Local Government where he was caught by security personnel who intercepted him and brought him to the stadium on 27th of April 2020. “By the directive of government, a sample was collected from him and he tested positive. He has been removed from the isolation centre at the stadium and has been taken to the treatment centre at the Unity Square. “The 5th case is a 24yrs old girl, a hairdresser from Agwu in Uburu, Umuobuna ward, Ohaozara LGA. She resides at 30, Queen Close Okpara Avenue, Enugu. She returned to Ebonyi with her family members on 27th April 2020 to Agwu Uburu. She was picked from Uburu to the stadium, while in the stadium, she had contact with the third case. This evening, her result came back positive. Her family members from Enugu were also traced to the stadium and they tested negative. “However, there are still detained at the isolation centre for the next fourteen days. Now, I have directed the medical team to go for contact tracing of this fifth case at Uburu in Ohaozara LGA. “Let me also ask Ebonyians to be very vigilant and I want to thank the LGA chairmen, traditional institutions and everyone that is committed to fighting this course. Our strategy is given to us by God, we still presume is the best. Imagine if all these five people were allowed to mix freely with our people, by now there would have been an epidemic in Ebonyi State. “I want to insist that the only way to curtail this thing effectively is to man the borders. I feel so sad that when a case escapes from one LGA and is apprehended in the next LGA. We are keeping notes of this indices by LGA authority and we are not happy. “While I’m expressing sadness over such indices, I want to continue to encourage those who have taken this very seriously and plead that all those who still play with this should understand that our lives are involved. The manner where this evil COVID-19 spreads nobody can say. “The only thing we owe Ebonyians is to work and pray hard and observe all the policies that NCDC and WHO gave to us. “Again, I want to assure Ebonyians that the manner and the way the government is handling this thing is only from God, so be not afraid, but rather be prayerful and have faith. Your immunity will drop if you entertain fear. I believe strongly that our strategies are good and they are working. “Those who are being treated are responding very well and I’m sure that between the next seven days they would have been free to reunite with their families that is when they must have tested negative twice,” he said. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 11:02 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/ebonyi-records-4th-5th-cases-of-covid-19/Rating: 2.43
Teens set off flare in B.C. store in 'reckless' act, traumatize clerk: RCMP
3 May 23:40
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11 articles
Weight: 1.24
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Teens set off flare in B.C. store in 'reckless' act, traumatize clerk: RCMP
NANAIMO, B.C. - The RCMP are accusing two teenagers of creating mayhem in a convenience store in Nanaimo, B.C., after shoplifting and then setting off a flare indoors on their way out. Mounties say in a news release the alleged incident occurred Saturday night and caused thousands of dollars in damage. They say a lone employee reported two young men picked up a few items and, before leaving without paying, one of them discharged a single-tube flare in the direction of the employee. The fire ignited merchandise and caused extensive structural damage inside and outside the store, and firefighters put out the blaze. The employee was forced outside and the discarded flare was found outside the business. Investigators have identified both suspects, who are 16, by reviewing security footage but have not been able to locate them. "This was a reckless and extremely dangerous act that has significantly impacted a local business, traumatized the clerk and could have resulted in significant personal injury to the employee," Const. Gary O'Brien said.
3 May 23:40 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/teens-set-off-flare-in-bc-store-in-reckless-act-traumatize-clerk-rcmp/it72916Rating: 0.30
Teens set off flare in B.C. store in ‘reckless’ act that started fire, traumatized clerk, RCMP say
The RCMP are accusing two teenagers of creating mayhem in a convenience store in Nanaimo, B.C., after shoplifting and then setting off a flare indoors on their way out. Mounties say in a news release the alleged incident occurred Saturday night and caused thousands of dollars in damage. They say a lone employee reported two young men picked up a few items and, before leaving without paying, one of them discharged a single-tube flare in the direction of the employee. The fire ignited merchandise and caused extensive structural damage inside and outside the store. Firefighters put out the blaze. The employee was forced outside and the discarded flare was found outside the business. Investigators have identified both suspects, who are 16, by reviewing security footage but were not been able to immediately locate them. “This was a reckless and extremely dangerous act that has significantly impacted a local business, traumatized the clerk and could have resulted in significant personal injury to the employee,” Const. Gary O’Brien said. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 19:38 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/british-columbia/article-teens-set-off-flare-in-bc-store-in-reckless-act-traumatize-clerk/Rating: 2.18
Teens set off flare in Nanaimo convenience store, traumatize clerk: RCMP
A gas station convenience store has been shut down due to fire damage after a shoplifter shot a flare in the direction of a clerk inside. Nanaimo Fire Rescue crews were called out to the fire at the Circle K convenience store on Departure Bay Road and Norwell Drive on Saturday just after 9 p.m. Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, said two teenagers allegedly shoplifted from the store. “One of them discharged a single-tube flare into the store directly at the clerk, struck merchandise, a fire ignited, caused significant damage, the clerk fled the store,” O’Brien said. The clerk wasn’t hurt, but was traumatized by the incident, O’Brien said, adding that the store sustained extensive damage to the structure and the merchandise. Police have accessed surveillance video and have identified the suspects involved as two 16-year-olds, whom they have not yet located. He said a possible charge of mischief endangering life could stem from the incident. story continues below Jodi Le Masurier, assistant fire chief, said crews did a great job getting the fire quickly under control and extinguished. She said a fire at a gas station potentially adds risks. “In those kinds of situations, definitely the incident commander would be aware of the tanks that are close by and would be taking those risks into consideration,” she said. TODAY’S MOST-READ: Thieves manage to steal 25 propane tanks from Nanaimo business YESTERDAY’S MOST-READ: Nanaimo resident petitions for $20-per-hour minimum wage for essential workers
3 May 19:40 • North Delta Reporter • https://www.northdeltareporter.com/news/teens-set-off-flare-in-nanaimo-convenience-store-traumatize-clerk-rcmp/Rating: 0.30
Teens set off flare in store
The RCMP are accusing two teenagers of creating mayhem in a convenience store in Nanaimo, B.C., after shoplifting and then setting off a flare indoors on their way out. Mounties say in a news release the alleged incident occurred Saturday night and caused thousands of dollars in damage. They say a lone employee reported two young men picked up a few items and, before leaving without paying, one of them discharged a single-tube flare in the direction of the employee. The fire ignited merchandise and caused extensive structural damage inside and outside the store, and firefighters put out the blaze. The employee was forced outside and the discarded flare was found outside the business. Investigators have identified both suspects, who are 16, by reviewing security footage but have not been able to locate them. "This was a reckless and extremely dangerous act that has significantly impacted a local business, traumatized the clerk and could have resulted in significant personal injury to the employee," Const. Gary O'Brien said.
3 May 12:29 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/298985/Teens-set-off-flare-in-B-C-store-in-reckless-act-traumatize-clerk-RCMPRating: 1.34
Alligator sighting in Brampton pond turned out to be beaver, police say
TORONTO -- A case of mistaken identity had police in Brampton, Ont., looking for an alligator in a storm drainage pond. Peel Regional Police were called to the Brampton pond Friday night after some reported seeing the reptile -- said to be almost two-metres long. Police tweeted they were "ready to provide Gator-aid" to animal control officers. But after a few hours, police tweeted that Brampton Animal Control had reviewed video on social media and determined the gator was actually a beaver.
2 May 15:58 • Toronto • https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/alligator-sighting-in-brampton-pond-turned-out-to-be-beaver-police-say-1.4922084Rating: 0.30
Alligator spotted in Brampton was a beaver: police
Peel Regional Police say the alligator someone spotted in a drainage pond in Brampton was a beaver. Const. Akhil Mooken said someone called police on their non-emergency line, reporting that an alligator was spotted in a storm drainage pond in the area of Creditview and James Potter roads. The animal was described as five-to-six-foot long. After checking video from the area, Peel Regional Police say animal control informed them the animal was a beaver.
2 May 02:03 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/alligator-spotted-in-brampton-was-a-beaver-police-1.4921855Rating: 1.66
Man arrested as major cannabis farm found in Walsall town centre
West Midlands Police discovered the cannabis factory at a property in the town centre on Friday night. One man has been arrested after being chased down by officers on foot. Sharing the find on Twitter, St Matthews Police said: "Great result for team three officers tonight [Friday]. "A large scale cannabis factory has been discovered at a property in the town centre with what we approximate to be around 1,000 plants. "One in custody after a decent foot chase." The West Midlands Police Dog Section was also involved in the discovery. West Midlands Police has been approached for further information.
2 May 13:57 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/crime/2020/05/02/man-arrested-after-1000-cannabis-plants-found-in-walsall/Rating: 0.30
Peel police say alligator sighting in Brampton pond turned out to be beaver
A case of mistaken identity had police in Brampton looking for an alligator in a storm drainage pond. Peel Regional Police were called to a pond in Damatta Park Friday night after someone reported seeing the reptile — said to be almost two meters long. Police tweeted they were “ready to provide Gator-aid” to animal control officers. But after a few hours, police tweeted that Brampton Animal Control had reviewed video on social media and determined the gator was actually a beaver.
2 May 15:27 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/02/brampton-alligator-actually-a-beaver/Rating: 0.61
Police investigating reported sightings of alligator in Brampton
Peel Regional Police are investigating after a reported alligator sighting in Brampton on Friday evening. Const. Akhil Mooken said someone called police on their non-emergency line, reporting that an alligator was spotted in a storm drainage pond in the area of Creditview and James Potter roads. The animal is described as five-to-six-foot long. "We're in the area investi-gatoring," Mooken said. Police said Brampton Animal Services has been called to assist. The nearby park will be closed while animal services conduct a search, police said. "Something I thought I would never have to say, Brampton please keep your eyes peeled for an alligator loose in our city," Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said in a tweet.
2 May 02:03 • CP24 • https://www.cp24.com/news/police-investigating-reported-sightings-of-alligator-in-brampton-1.4921855Rating: 1.66
Police say alligator sighting in Brampton pond turned out to be beaver
BRAMPTON, Ont. — A case of mistaken identity had police in Brampton, Ont., looking for an alligator in a storm drainage pond. Peel Regional Police were called to the Brampton pond Friday night after some reported seeing the reptile — said to be almost two-metres long. Police tweeted they were "ready to provide Gator-aid" to animal control officers. But after a few hours, police tweeted that Brampton Animal Control had reviewed video on social media and determined the gator was actually a beaver. The Canadian Press
2 May 15:02 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/around-ontario/police-say-alligator-sighting-in-brampton-pond-turned-out-to-be-beaver-2319109Rating: 0.30
Warning to dog owners after second incident at Sandwell Valley Country Park
A dog was seen loose in a field of cows and calves on Friday afternoon, on grazing land at the country park in West Bromwich. The animals were not injured in the incident, but were left distressed. The dog owner has been reported to West Midlands Police. It follows a Shetland pony being attacked and badly injured by a dog in a paddock at nearby Sandwell Park Farm on Monday, April 27. Rocky, the Shetland pony, is recovering well after he needed multiple stitches to his face after being savaged by the dog in his paddock. Sandwell Council’s deputy leader, Councillor Maria Crompton, said: “This is heartbreaking for us, our animals and everyone who works at our farms. “The cows and calves are now extremely anxious. "To have this happen twice in a week at one of our farms is just unacceptable." Councillor Crompton added: “Dog owners must take more care and not allow their pets anywhere near our livestock. "All dogs must be kept on leads on farm land – it’s an offence to let a dog off-lead around livestock and the police have been informed.”
2 May 09:07 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/local-hubs/sandwell/west-bromwich/2020/05/02/warning-to-dog-owners-after-second-incident-at-sandwell-valley-country-park/Rating: 0.30
Sidelined by pandemic, Trump campaign turns to digital shows
3 May 15:17
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5 articles
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Weighted average IN: 38.18121111597795
Sidelined by pandemic, Trump campaign turns to digital shows
WASHINGTON (AP) — The streaming video began and, within minutes, the president’s eldest son was musing that Osama bin Laden had endorsed Joe Biden. Subtle, it was not. Welcome to the Trump campaign, digital edition. Seven nights a week, President Donald Trump’s reelection team is airing live programming online to replace his trademark rallies made impossible for now by the coronavirus pandemic. Hosted by top campaign officials, prominent Republicans and “Make America Great Again” luminaries, the freewheeling shows offer reality according to Trump. The shows are an effort to stay connected with core supporters and maintain enthusiasm for a suspended campaign that has had to rewire itself on the fly. Trump himself has not yet appeared in his campaign’s shows. A review of one week’s worth of the 8 p.m. broadcasts, ending on the final day of April, reveals a concerted effort to test attacks on Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee. But the inherently limited effort also raises questions as to whether the campaign can replace the gold mines of potentially new voter data that the rallies delivered as it attempts to reverse a recent slide in a number of battleground states. The shows are a proxy for the “Trump TV” network the president considered launching had he lost the 2016 election, and they create an echo chamber for true believers. Akin to actors in a beloved sitcom well into its run, the Trump officials warmly speak in shorthand, trusting that their audience knows the plot and its characters and are tuning in to see programs that, at times, made the president’s infamously off-the-cuff rallies look tightly scripted. “Joe Biden had the coveted Osama bin Laden endorsement! That’s sort of a big deal!” exclaimed Donald Trump Jr. on April 24, hosting that night’s broadcast deemed “Triggered” after his new book. Trump Jr. had seized upon an oddly timed recent Fox News story, which in itself was drawn from 2012 reporting that bin Laden, the late al-Qaida leader, had once proposed assassinating President Barack Obama because doing so would thrust Biden into power and the then-vice president was “totally unprepared for that post,” in bin Laden’s estimation. Trump cackled while sitting on the couch next to his girlfriend, former Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle, and looked into his Skype camera to declare that even bin Laden knew that Biden “would destroy America.” After Guilfoyle went to cook dinner — it was the couple’s second anniversary that night — the president’s son, joined by Republican National Committee official Chris Carr and GOP operative David Bossie, continued to make politically incorrect observations that would draw more scrutiny if they were made anywhere other than a fans-only online broadcast. “China basically screwed the whole world with their lies” about the origin of the coronavirus, Trump Jr. said, before addressing the theory that the pandemic began in a live-animal “wet market” in Wuhan, the epicenter of the Chinese outbreak. “The world would be a better place if China cared a little more about feeding their own people so they don’t have to eat bats. I don’t know, just a casual observation.” Since the Trump campaign went fully virtual on March 13, each video has received at least 1 million hits, according to campaign spokeswoman Erin Perrine. She added that the shows drew more than 300 million combined views in April across all of its platforms: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Twitch, Mixr, and the campaign’s own website, with Facebook by far the biggest source of traffic. Tuesday’s installment, which featured House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California, had received 10,943 views on YouTube as of mid-Friday morning. The campaign declined to release any information as to what it could glean in terms of the identity or demographics or hometown of its viewers, all of which was mined from rally sign-ups. “Given the current dynamic, there are a lot of things up in the air,” said Republican strategist David Winston. “Maybe this works, maybe it doesn’t. But you have to be creative as you try to address the issue of how are you going to go about reaching voters.” A sense of irreverence, inspired by the president’s lack of filter, permeates the proceedings. On a Saturday night, campaign manager Brad Parscale and Lara Trump, a senior campaign adviser who is married to the president’s son Eric, traded observations about Biden, reinforcing a campaign narrative that the former Delaware senator was not up to the job. After Lara Trump said Biden cannot “form a coherent sentence,” Parscale went on to add, “I feel bad for him. I wish his wife would pull him out of this” and take him to a beach in Delaware. Parscale said the Trump team moved seamlessly into virtual campaigning after COVID-19 took hold in America and that even after the ground game returns, the campaign will leave its bolstered virtual apparatus in place. He later said his favorite item in his Florida home office was the Hillary Clinton toilet paper that someone gave him in 2016. “I have boxes of it,” he said, “and I take it into the bathroom and it’s just enjoyable since she said so many mean things about me and our campaign and our president.” Clinton was the Democratic nominee in 2016. The Biden campaign has said that, since mid-March, more than 63 million people have engaged with their online content, including livestreams, speeches, press briefings and replays of televised interviews. The candidate has done more online events since a makeshift television studio was set up in his Delaware home. The Trump surrogates were all sent lights and laptops but the proceedings have a do-it-yourself feel, as the talking heads appear on their couches or in front of campaign signs plastered to home office walls. There are different themes nightly: one show during the week was centered around “Veterans for Trump,” another was “Women for Trump” and a third was “Black Voices for Trump.” All were meant to be an answer to what was being shown at that moment on MSNBC and CNN. “We hope you like it, it’s an unconventional format, basically me hopped up on caffeine doing a rant,” said Trump Jr. “But if you like it, we’ll do a lot more of them.”
3 May 15:17 • WSVN 7News • https://wsvn.com/news/politics/sidelined-by-pandemic-trump-campaign-turns-to-digital-shows/Rating: 0.30
Sidelined by pandemic, Trump campaign turns to digital shows
The streaming video began and, within minutes, the president’s eldest son was musing that Osama bin Laden had endorsed Joe Biden. Subtle, it was not. Welcome to the Trump campaign, digital edition. Seven nights a week, President Donald Trump’s reelection team is airing live programming online to replace his trademark rallies made impossible for now by the coronaviruspandemic. Hosted by top campaign officials, prominent Republicans and Make America Great Again luminaries, the freewheeling shows offer reality according to Trump. The shows are an effort to stay connected with core supporters and maintain enthusiasm for a suspended campaign that has had to rewire itself on the fly. Trump himself has not yet appeared in his campaign’s shows. A review of one week’s worth of the 8 pm broadcasts, ending on the final day of April, reveals a concerted effort to test attacks on Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee. But the inherently limited effort also raises questions as to whether the campaign can replace the gold mines of potentially new voter data that the rallies delivered as it attempts to reverse a recent slide in a number of battleground states. The shows are a proxy for the Trump TV network the president considered launching had he lost the 2016 election, and they create an echo chamber for true believers. Akin to actors in a beloved sitcom well into its run, the Trump officials warmly speak in shorthand, trusting that their audience knows the plot and its characters and are tuning in to see programs that, at times, made the president’s infamously off-the-cuff rallies look tightly scripted. Joe Biden had the coveted Osama bin Laden endorsement! That’s sort of a big deal! exclaimed Donald Trump Jr on April 24, hosting that night’s broadcast deemed Triggered after his new book. Trump Jr had seized upon an oddly timed recent Fox News story, which in itself was drawn from 2012 reporting that bin Laden, the late al-Qaida leader, had once proposed assassinating President Barack Obama because doing so would thrust Biden into power and the then-vice president was totally unprepared for that post, in bin Laden’s estimation. Trump cackled while sitting on the couch next to his girlfriend, former Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle, and looked into his Skype camera to declare that even bin Laden knew that Biden would destroy America. After Guilfoyle went to cook dinner it was the couple’s second anniversary that night the president’s son, joined by Republican National Committee official Chris Carr and GOP operative David Bossie, continued to make politically incorrect observations that would draw more scrutiny if they were made anywhere other than a fans-only online broadcast. China basically screwed the whole world with their lies about the origin of the coronavirus, Trump Jr said, before addressing the theory that the pandemic began in a live-animal wet market in Wuhan, the epicentre of the Chinese outbreak. The world would be a better place if China cared a little more about feeding their own people so they don’t have to eat bats. I don’t know, just a casual observation. Since the Trump campaign went fully virtual on March 13, its programs have averaged about 300,000 viewers an evening and, all told, each video has received at least 1 million hits, according to campaign spokeswoman Erin Perrine. She added that the shows drew a combined millions more views in April across all of its platforms: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Twitch, Mixr, and the campaign’s own website, with Facebook by far the biggest source of traffic. Tuesday’s installment, which featured House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California, had received 10,943 views on YouTube as of mid-Friday morning. The campaign declined to release any information as to what it could glean in terms of the identify or demographics or hometown of its viewers, all of which was mined from rally sign-ups. Given the current dynamic, there are a lot of things up in the air, said Republican strategist David Winston. Maybe this works, maybe it doesn’t. But you have to be creative as you try to address the issue of how are you going to go about reaching voters. A sense of irreverence, inspired by the president’s lack of filter, permeates the proceedings. On a Saturday night, campaign manager Brad Parscale and Lara Trump, a senior campaign adviser who is married to the president’s son Eric, traded observations about Biden, reinforcing a campaign narrative that the former Delaware senator was not up to the job. After Lara Trump said Biden cannot form a coherent sentence, Parscale went on to add, “I feel bad for him. I wish his wife would pull him out of this and take him to a beach in Delaware. Parscale said the Trump team moved seamlessly into virtual campaigning after COVID-19 took hold in America and that even after the ground game returns, the campaign will leave its bolstered virtual apparatus in place. He later said his favourite item in his Florida home office was the Hillary Clinton toilet paper that someone gave him in 2016. I have boxes of it, he said, and I take it into the bathroom and it’s just enjoyable since she said so many mean things about me and our campaign and our president. Clinton was the Democratic nominee in 2016. The Biden campaign has said that, since mid-March, more than 63 million people have engaged with their online content, including livestreams, speeches, press briefings and interviews. The candidate has done more online events since a makeshift television studio was set up in his Delaware home.
3 May 14:14 • The Indian Express • https://indianexpress.com/article/world/sidelined-by-pandemic-trump-campaign-turns-to-digital-shows-6392052/Rating: 0.30
Sidelined by coronavirus pandemic, Donald Trump campaign turns to digital shows
The streaming video began and, within minutes, the president's eldest son was musing that Osama bin Laden had endorsed Joe Biden. Subtle, it was not. Welcome to the Trump campaign, digital edition. Seven nights a week, President Donald Trump's reelection team is airing live programming online to replace his trademark rallies made impossible for now by the coronavirus pandemic. Hosted by top campaign officials, prominent Republicans and “Make America Great Again” luminaries, the freewheeling shows offer reality according to Trump. The shows are an effort to stay connected with core supporters and maintain enthusiasm for a suspended campaign that has had to rewire itself on the fly. Trump himself has not yet appeared in his campaign's shows. A review of one week's worth of the 8 pm broadcasts, ending on the final day of April, reveals a concerted effort to test attacks on Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee. But the inherently limited effort also raises questions as to whether the campaign can replace the gold mines of potentially new voter data that the rallies delivered as it attempts to reverse a recent slide in a number of battleground states. The shows are a proxy for the “Trump TV” network the president considered launching had he lost the 2016 election, and they create an echo chamber for true believers. Akin to actors in a beloved sitcom well into its run, the Trump officials warmly speak in shorthand, trusting that their audience knows the plot and its characters and are tuning in to see programs that, at times, made the president's infamously off-the-cuff rallies look tightly scripted. “Joe Biden had the coveted Osama bin Laden endorsement! That's sort of a big deal!” exclaimed Donald Trump Jr on April 24, hosting that night's broadcast deemed “Triggered” after his new book. Trump Jr had seized upon an oddly timed recent Fox News story, which in itself was drawn from 2012 reporting that bin Laden, the late al-Qaida leader, had once proposed assassinating President Barack Obama because doing so would thrust Biden into power and the then-vice president was “totally unprepared for that post,” in bin Laden's estimation. Trump cackled while sitting on the couch next to his girlfriend, former Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle, and looked into his Skype camera to declare that even bin Laden knew that Biden “would destroy America.” After Guilfoyle went to cook dinner — it was the couple's second anniversary that night — the president's son, joined by Republican National Committee official Chris Carr and GOP operative David Bossie, continued to make politically incorrect observations that would draw more scrutiny if they were made anywhere other than a fans-only online broadcast. “China basically screwed the whole world with their lies” about the origin of the coronavirus, Trump Jr said, before addressing the theory that the pandemic began in a live-animal “wet market” in Wuhan, the epicentre of the Chinese outbreak. “The world would be a better place if China cared a little more about feeding their own people so they don't have to eat bats. I don't know, just a casual observation.” Since the Trump campaign went fully virtual on March 13, its programs have averaged about 300,000 viewers an evening and, all told, each video has received at least 1 million hits, according to campaign spokeswoman Erin Perrine. She added that the shows drew a combined millions more views in April across all of its platforms: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Twitch, Mixr, and the campaign's own website, with Facebook by far the biggest source of traffic. Tuesday's instalment, which featured House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California, had received 10,943 views on YouTube as of mid-Friday morning. The campaign declined to release any information as to what it could glean in terms of the identity or demographics or hometown of its viewers, all of which was mined from rally sign-ups. “Given the current dynamic, there are a lot of things up in the air,” said Republican strategist David Winston. “Maybe this works, maybe it doesn't. But you have to be creative as you try to address the issue of how are you going to go about reaching voters.” A sense of irreverence, inspired by the president's lack of filter, permeates the proceedings. On a Saturday night, campaign manager Brad Parscale and Lara Trump, a senior campaign adviser who is married to the president's son Eric, traded observations about Biden, reinforcing a campaign narrative that the former Delaware senator was not up to the job. After Lara Trump said Biden cannot “form a coherent sentence,” Parscale went on to add, "I feel bad for him. I wish his wife would pull him out of this” and take him to a beach in Delaware. Parscale said the Trump team moved seamlessly into virtual campaigning after COVID-19 took hold in America and that even after the ground game returns, the campaign will leave its bolstered virtual apparatus in place. He later said his favourite item in his Florida home office was the Hillary Clinton toilet paper that someone gave him in 2016. “I have boxes of it,” he said, “and I take it into the bathroom and it's just enjoyable since she said so many mean things about me and our campaign and our president.” Clinton was the Democratic nominee in 2016. The Biden campaign has said that, since mid-March, more than 63 million people have engaged with their online content, including live streams, speeches, press briefings and interviews. The candidate has done more online events since a makeshift television studio was set up in his Delaware home.
3 May 19:23 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/international/sidelined-by-coronavirus-pandemic-donald-trump-campaign-turns-to-digital-shows-833097.htmlRating: 2.25
Sidelined by COVID-19 pandemic, Trump campaign turns to digital shows
The streaming video began and, within minutes, the President’s eldest son was musing that Osama bin Laden had endorsed Joe Biden. Subtle, it was not. Welcome to the Trump campaign, digital edition. Seven nights a week, President Donald Trump’s re-election team is airing live programming online to replace his trademark rallies made impossible for now by the coronavirus pandemic. Hosted by top campaign officials, prominent Republicans and “Make America Great Again” luminaries, the freewheeling shows offer reality according to Mr. Trump. The shows are an effort to stay connected with core supporters and maintain enthusiasm for a suspended campaign that has had to rewire itself on the fly. Mr. Trump himself has not yet appeared in his campaign’s shows. A review of one week’s worth of the 8 p.m. broadcasts, ending on the final day of April, reveals a concerted effort to test attacks on Mr. Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee. But the inherently limited effort also raises questions as to whether the campaign can replace the gold mines of potentially new voter data that the rallies delivered as it attempts to reverse a recent slide in a number of battleground states. The shows are a proxy for the “Trump TV” network the President considered launching had he lost the 2016 election, and they create an echo chamber for true believers. Akin to actors in a beloved sitcom well into its run, the Trump officials warmly speak in shorthand, trusting that their audience knows the plot and its characters and are tuning in to see programs that, at times, made the President’s infamously off-the-cuff rallies look tightly scripted. “Joe Biden had the coveted Osama bin Laden endorsement! That’s sort of a big deal!” exclaimed Donald Trump Jr. on April 24, hosting that night’s broadcast deemed Triggered after his new book. Mr. Trump Jr. had seized upon an oddly timed recent Fox News story, which in itself was drawn from 2012 reporting that Osama bin Laden had once proposed assassinating President Barack Obama because doing so would thrust Mr. Biden into power and the then-vice-president was “totally unprepared for that post,” in the estimation of the al-Qaida leader. Mr. Trump cackled while sitting on the couch next to his girlfriend, former Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle, and looked into his Skype camera to declare that even Osama bin Laden knew that Biden “would destroy America.” After Ms. Guilfoyle went to cook dinner – it was the couple’s second anniversary that night – the President’s son, joined by Republican National Committee official Chris Carr and GOP operative David Bossie, continued to make politically incorrect observations that would draw more scrutiny if they were made anywhere other than on a fans-only online broadcast. “China basically screwed the whole world with their lies” about the origin of the coronavirus, Mr. Trump Jr. said, before addressing the theory that the pandemic began in a live-animal “wet market” in Wuhan, the epicentre of the Chinese outbreak. “The world would be a better place if China cared a little more about feeding their own people so they don’t have to eat bats. I don’t know, just a casual observation.” Since the Trump campaign went fully virtual on March 13, each video has received at least one million hits, according to campaign spokeswoman Erin Perrine. She added that the shows drew more than 300 million combined views in April across all of its platforms: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Twitch, Mixr, and the campaign’s own website, with Facebook by far the biggest source of traffic. Tuesday’s instalment, which featured House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California, had received 10,943 views on YouTube as of mid-Friday morning. The campaign declined to release any information as to what it could glean in terms of the identify or demographics or hometown of its viewers, all of which was mined from rally sign-ups. “Given the current dynamic, there are a lot of things up in the air,” said Republican strategist David Winston. “Maybe this works, maybe it doesn’t. But you have to be creative as you try to address the issue of how are you going to go about reaching voters.” A sense of irreverence, inspired by the President’s lack of filter, permeates the proceedings. On a Saturday night, campaign manager Brad Parscale and Lara Trump, a senior campaign adviser who is married to the President’s son Eric, traded observations about Mr. Biden, reinforcing a campaign narrative that the former Delaware senator was not up to the job. After Lara Trump said Mr. Biden cannot “form a coherent sentence,” Mr. Parscale went on to add, “I feel bad for him. I wish his wife would pull him out of this” and take him to a beach in Delaware. Mr. Parscale said the Trump team moved seamlessly into virtual campaigning after COVID-19 took hold in the United States and that even after the ground game returns, the campaign will leave its bolstered virtual apparatus in place. He later said his favourite item in his Florida home office was the Hillary Clinton toilet paper that someone gave him in 2016. “I have boxes of it,” he said, “and I take it into the bathroom and it’s just enjoyable since she said so many mean things about me and our campaign and our President.” Ms. Clinton was the Democratic nominee in 2016. The Biden campaign has said that, since mid-March, more than 63 million people have engaged with their online content, including livestreams, speeches, press briefings and replays of televised interviews. The candidate has done more online events since a makeshift television studio was set up in his Delaware home. The Trump surrogates were all sent lights and laptops but the proceedings have a do-it-yourself feel, as the talking heads appear on their couches or in front of campaign signs plastered to home office walls. There are different themes nightly: one show during the week was centred around “Veterans for Trump,” another was “Women for Trump” and a third was “Black Voices for Trump.” All were meant to be an answer to what was being shown at that moment on MSNBC and CNN. “We hope you like it, it’s an unconventional format, basically me hopped up on caffeine doing a rant,” said Mr. Trump Jr. “But if you like it, we’ll do a lot more of them.” Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 13:25 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/us-politics/article-sidelined-by-pandemic-trump-campaign-turns-to-digital-shows/Rating: 2.18
Sidelined by COVID-19, Trump campaign turns to digital shows | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
WASHINGTON >> The streaming video began and, within minutes, the president’s eldest son was musing that Osama bin Laden had endorsed Joe Biden. Subtle, it was not. Welcome to the Trump campaign, digital edition. Seven nights a week, President Donald Trump’s reelection team is airing live programming online to replace his trademark rallies made impossible for now by the coronavirus pandemic. Hosted by top campaign officials, prominent Republicans and “Make America Great Again” luminaries, the freewheeling shows offer reality according to Trump. The shows are an effort to stay connected with core supporters and maintain enthusiasm for a suspended campaign that has had to rewire itself on the fly. Trump himself has not yet appeared in his campaign’s shows. A review of one week’s worth of the 8 p.m. broadcasts, ending on the final day of April, reveals a concerted effort to test attacks on Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee. But the inherently limited effort also raises questions as to whether the campaign can replace the gold mines of potentially new voter data that the rallies delivered as it attempts to reverse a recent slide in a number of battleground states. The shows are a proxy for the “Trump TV” network the president considered launching had he lost the 2016 election, and they create an echo chamber for true believers. Akin to actors in a beloved sitcom well into its run, the Trump officials warmly speak in shorthand, trusting that their audience knows the plot and its characters and are tuning in to see programs that, at times, made the president’s infamously off-the-cuff rallies look tightly scripted. “Joe Biden had the coveted Osama bin Laden endorsement! That’s sort of a big deal!” exclaimed Donald Trump Jr. on April 24, hosting that night’s broadcast deemed “Triggered” after his new book. Trump Jr. had seized upon an oddly timed recent Fox News story, which in itself was drawn from 2012 reporting that bin Laden, the late al-Qaida leader, had once proposed assassinating President Barack Obama because doing so would thrust Biden into power and the then-vice president was “totally unprepared for that post,” in bin Laden’s estimation. Trump cackled while sitting on the couch next to his girlfriend, former Fox News host Kimberly Guilfoyle, and looked into his Skype camera to declare that even bin Laden knew that Biden “would destroy America.” After Guilfoyle went to cook dinner — it was the couple’s second anniversary that night — the president’s son, joined by Republican National Committee official Chris Carr and GOP operative David Bossie, continued to make politically incorrect observations that would draw more scrutiny if they were made anywhere other than a fans-only online broadcast. “China basically screwed the whole world with their lies” about the origin of the coronavirus, Trump Jr. said, before addressing the theory that the pandemic began in a live-animal “wet market” in Wuhan, the epicenter of the Chinese outbreak. “The world would be a better place if China cared a little more about feeding their own people so they don’t have to eat bats. I don’t know, just a casual observation.” Since the Trump campaign went fully virtual on March 13, each video has received at least 1 million hits, according to campaign spokeswoman Erin Perrine. She added that the shows drew more than 300 million combined views in April across all of its platforms: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Twitch, Mixr, and the campaign’s own website, with Facebook by far the biggest source of traffic. Tuesday’s installment, which featured House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California, had received 10,943 views on YouTube as of mid-Friday morning. The campaign declined to release any information as to what it could glean in terms of the identity or demographics or hometown of its viewers, all of which was mined from rally sign-ups. “Given the current dynamic, there are a lot of things up in the air,” said Republican strategist David Winston. “Maybe this works, maybe it doesn’t. But you have to be creative as you try to address the issue of how are you going to go about reaching voters.” A sense of irreverence, inspired by the president’s lack of filter, permeates the proceedings. On a Saturday night, campaign manager Brad Parscale and Lara Trump, a senior campaign adviser who is married to the president’s son Eric, traded observations about Biden, reinforcing a campaign narrative that the former Delaware senator was not up to the job. After Lara Trump said Biden cannot “form a coherent sentence,” Parscale went on to add, “I feel bad for him. I wish his wife would pull him out of this” and take him to a beach in Delaware. Parscale said the Trump team moved seamlessly into virtual campaigning after COVID-19 took hold in America and that even after the ground game returns, the campaign will leave its bolstered virtual apparatus in place. He later said his favorite item in his Florida home office was the Hillary Clinton toilet paper that someone gave him in 2016. “I have boxes of it,” he said, “and I take it into the bathroom and it’s just enjoyable since she said so many mean things about me and our campaign and our president.” Clinton was the Democratic nominee in 2016. The Biden campaign has said that, since mid-March, more than 63 million people have engaged with their online content, including livestreams, speeches, press briefings and replays of televised interviews. The candidate has done more online events since a makeshift television studio was set up in his Delaware home. The Trump surrogates were all sent lights and laptops but the proceedings have a do-it-yourself feel, as the talking heads appear on their couches or in front of campaign signs plastered to home office walls. There are different themes nightly: one show during the week was centered around “Veterans for Trump,” another was “Women for Trump” and a third was “Black Voices for Trump.” All were meant to be an answer to what was being shown at that moment on MSNBC and CNN. “We hope you like it, it’s an unconventional format, basically me hopped up on caffeine doing a rant,” said Trump Jr. “But if you like it, we’ll do a lot more of them.”
3 May 17:06 • Star-Advertiser • https://www.staradvertiser.com/2020/05/03/breaking-news/sidelined-by-covid-19-trump-campaign-turns-to-digital-shows/Rating: 0.30
Rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases steadying for a while: Vardhan
3 May 14:05
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4 articles
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Rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases steadying for a while: Vardhan
Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said the rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases has been steadying for a while and the recovery rate improving, adding that India is on the path of success and will win the war against the pandemic. He said around 10,000 COVID-19 patients have recovered so far. “The recovery rate of COVID-19 patients has steadily increased which shows that more and more of these patients are getting better and going back home,” he said. “The rate of growth of new cases has also been steadying for a while,” Dr. Vardhan said. According to the data received on Sunday, for the past three days, the doubling rate of the virus is 12.0, for seven days it is 11.7 and for 14 days it is 10.4, the minister was quoted as saying in a statement. Also read: Coronavirus India lockdown Day 40 updates We have crossed over 10 lakh tests till date and are performing over 74,000 tests in a day presently, he said. The minister added that the government has distributed around 20 lakh PPE kits all over India and supplied medicines [both Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Paracetamol (PCM)] to more than 100 countries. He said India is on a “better footing” as compared to other nations, adding the country is capable of pulling off any eventuality with more than 2.5 lakh beds in dedicated COVID-19 hospitals and health centers. Dr. Vardhan also urged the people to observe the extended period of lockdown 3.0 (till May 17) in letter and spirit and treat it as an effective intervention to cut down the chain of transmission of COVID-19. “We are on the path of success and we will win this war against COVID-19,” he asserted. The health minister urged people to not ostracize the doctors treating COVID-19 patients or stigmatize the patients who have won the battle against the deadly disease. They are our heroes and need a worthy treatment, he said. The minister also had a word of praise for the frontline workers. Today, the Indian Air Force is acknowledging these warriors, throughout the country, by sprinkling them with flower petals through helicopters, he said. Fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Sunday carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, while military choppers showered petals on leading hospitals across the country as part of a mega exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. Dr. Vardhan said the fight of India with COVID-19 is lauded not only by WHO, but by the whole world in unison. He also paid a visit to the Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), one of India’s oldest and established medical colleges, to review the status of COVID-19 management. At the COVID-19 block in the hospital, Dr. Vardhan spoke through video call to two intern doctors who got infected with the virus while treating patients at LHMC, and were admitted at the facility. He also interacted with two patients admitted in the COVID-19 ward through the digital platform, who, in turn, apprised him about the facilities in the coronavirus ward. “In last few days, I have been visiting various hospitals like AIIMS (Delhi), LNJP, RML, Safdarjung, AIIMS Jhajjar, Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty and now LHMC to review the preparedness of COVID-19 and I am satisfied with the arrangements made by these hospitals to deal effectively with the outbreak,” he said. He said there are 130 Hotspots Districts, 284 Non-hotspot Districts and 319 Non-infected Districts. According to the health ministry, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country is 39,980.
3 May 14:05 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rate-of-growth-of-new-covid-19-cases-steadying-for-a-while-vardhan/article31494983.eceRating: 0.30
Rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases steadying for a while: Vardhan
New Delhi: Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Sunday said the rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases has been steadying for a while and the recovery rate improving, adding that India is on the path of success and will win the war against the pandemic. He said around 10,000 COVID-19 patients have recovered so far. "The recovery rate of COVID-19 patients has steadily increased which shows that more and more of these patients are getting better and going back home," he said. "The rate of growth of new cases has also been steadying for a while," Vardhan said. According to the data received on Sunday, for the past three days, the doubling rate of the virus is 12.0, for seven days it is 11.7 and for 14 days it is 10.4, the minister was quoted as saying in a statement. "We have crossed over 10 lakh tests till date and are performing over 74,000 tests in a day presently," he said. The minister added that the government has distributed around 20 lakh PPE kits all over India and supplied medicines [both Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Paracetamol (PCM)] to more than 100 countries. He said India is on a "better footing" as compared to other nations, adding the country is capable to pull off any eventuality with more than 2.5 lakh beds in dedicated COVID-19 hospitals and health centers. Vardhan also urged the people to observe the extended period of lockdown 3.0 (till May 17) in letter and spirit and treat it as an effective intervention to cut down the chain of transmission of COVID-19. "We are on the path of success and we will win this war against COVID-19," he asserted. The health minister urged people to not ostracize the doctors treating COVID-19 patients or stigmatize the patients who have won the battle against the deadly disease. "They are our heroes and need a worthy treatment," he said. The minister also had a word of praise for the "corona warriors". "Today, the Indian Air Force is acknowledging these warriors, throughout the country, by sprinkling them with flower petals through helicopters," he said. Fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Sunday carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, while military choppers showered petals on leading hospitals across the country as part of a mega exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. Vardhan said the fight of India with COVID-19 is "lauded not only by WHO, but by the whole world in unison". He also paid a visit to the Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), one of India's oldest and established medical colleges, to review the status of COVID-19 management. At the COVID-19 block in the hospital, Vardhan spoke through video call to two intern doctors who got infected with the virus while treating patients at LHMC, and were admitted at the facility. He also interacted with two patients admitted in the COVID-19 ward through the digital platform, who, in turn, apprised him about the facilities in the coronavirus ward. "In last few days, I have been visiting various hospitals like AIIMS (Delhi), LNJP, RML, Safdarjung, AIIMS Jhajjar, Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty and now LHMC to review the preparedness of COVID-19 and I am satisfied with the arrangements made by these hospitals to deal effectively with the outbreak," he said. He said there are 130 Hotspots Districts, 284 Non-hotspots Districts and 319 Non-infected Districts. According to the health ministry, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country is 39,980. UZM SRY
3 May 14:02 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/rate-of-growth-of-new-covid-19-cases-steadying-for-a-while-vardhan/articleshow/75520269.cmsRating: 0.30
‘We are on the path of success’: Health Minister on fight against Covid-19
Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, on Sunday, said that the rate of growth of new Covid-19 cases has been steadying for a while, and the recovery rate is improving. He also added that India is “on the path of success and will win the war against the pandemic”. He said around 10,000 Covid-19 patients have recovered so far. “The recovery rate of Covid-19 patients has steadily increased, which shows that more and more of these patients are getting better and going back home,” he said. “The rate of growth of new cases has also been steadying for a while,” the Health Minister. According to the data received on Sunday, for the past three days, the doubling rate of the virus is 12.0, for seven days it is 11.7 and for 14 days it is 10.4, the minister was quoted as saying in a statement. “We have crossed over 10 lakh tests till date, and are performing over 74,000 tests in a day presently,” he said. The minister added that the government has distributed around 20 lakh PPE kits all over India, and supplied medicines (both Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Paracetamol (PCM)) to more than 100 countries. He said India is on a “better footing” as compared to other nations, adding the country is capable to pull off any eventuality with more than 2.5 lakh beds in dedicated Covid-19 hospitals and health centres. Dr Vardhan urged the people to observe the extended period of lockdown 3.0 (till May 17) in letter and spirit, and treat it as an effective intervention to cut down the chain of transmission of Covid-19. Also Read‘Need to consolidate gains’: Niti Aayog's VK Paul on lockdown extension “We are on the path of success and we will win this war against Covid-19,” he asserted. The Health Minister urged people to not ostracize the doctors treating Covid-19 patients or stigmatize the patients who have won the battle against the deadly disease. “They are our heroes and need a worthy treatment,” he said. The minister also had a word of praise for the ‘corona warriors’. “Today, the Indian Air Force is acknowledging these warriors, throughout the country, by sprinkling them with flower petals through helicopters,” he said. Fighter jets and transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force on Sunday carried out fly-pasts over major cities and towns, while military choppers showered petals on leading hospitals across the country as part of a mega exercise to express gratitude to lakhs of doctors, paramedics and other front-line workers battling the coronavirus pandemic. Vardhan said the fight of India with Covid-19 is lauded not only by WHO, but by the whole world. He also paid a visit to the Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), one of India’s oldest and established medical colleges, to review the status of Covid-19 management. At the Covid-19 block in the hospital, he spoke through video call to two intern doctors who got infected with the virus while treating patients at LHMC, and were admitted at the facility. He also interacted with two patients admitted in the Covid-19 ward through the digital platform, who, in turn, apprised him about the facilities in the coronavirus ward. “In last few days, I have been visiting various hospitals like AIIMS (Delhi), LNJP, RML, Safdarjung, AIIMS Jhajjar, Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty and now LHMC to review the preparedness of Covid-19 and I am satisfied with the arrangements made by these hospitals to deal effectively with the outbreak,” he said. He said there are 130 hotspots districts, 284 non-hotspots districts and 319 non-infected districts. According to the Union Health Ministry, the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country is 39,980.
3 May 14:10 • BusinessLine • https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/we-are-on-the-path-of-success-union-health-minister-on-fight-against-covid-19/article31495010.eceRating: 1.98
Over 10,000 COVID-19 Patients Fully Recover; National Doubling Rate Increased To 12 Days: Health Minister
In a major milestone moment in India's pushback against the COVID-19 pandemic, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Harsh Vardhan shared today (3 May) that more than 10,000 confirmed patients of the disease have successfully recovered so far, reports Hindustan Times. Dr Vardhan also underscored that many more who are still admitted in hospitals across the nation are on the road to recovery. He further added that the nation has been successful in increasing the doubling rate of the COVID-19 cases in the nation to around 12 days. It should be noted that the doubling rate of cases in India has been consistently improving. Over the past 14 days, the doubling rate stood at 10.5 days. Also, India has achieved the aforementioned metrics while also ensuring a mortality rate of just 3.2 per cent which is the lowest, anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, it should be noted that the European nation of Belgium has the worst mortality rate of 15 per cent. The nation has reported around 50,000 COVID-19 cases of whom over 8,000 have died.
3 May 20:26 • Swarajya • https://swarajyamag.com/insta/over-10000-covid-19-patients-fully-recover-national-doubling-rate-increased-to-12-days-health-ministerRating: 1.22
Taraba discharges 124 persons from quarantine
3 May 17:00
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Taraba discharges 124 persons from quarantine
Kindly Share This Story: The Taraba Technical Committee on COVID-19 on Sunday discharged 124 persons quarantined at the state NYSC orientation camp in Barikin Sibre, Jalingo. Dr Innocent Vakkai, Chairman of the Committee and Commissioner for Health, while handing the 124 persons to their various local government Council Chairmen, said they tested negative twice. According to him, 130 people are intercepted at the Taraba boundary and quarantine because they were coming from high-risk areas. “Out of the 130 people, six tested positive while the remaining tested negative twice after 14 days in quarantine. “Though we have eight cases- two of the cases are not from among the 130 people quarantined in this centre. “We have called the Chairmen of various local government Councils to handover their people to them and we have profiled them for easy tracing in case of any issue arising hereafter,” he said. Caretaker Chairman of Jalingo local government and the State ALGON Chairman, Alhaji Abdulnaseer Boboji, said local government Councils in the State have keyed into the state government efforts to contain the virus. Boboji said no local government council could afford to provide face masks and other personal protective equipment to all residents. The Chairman called on non-governmental organisations, well-meaning individuals in the society to assist the underprivileged in their communities. Vanguard News Nigeria Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 17:00 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/taraba-discharges-124-persons-from-quarantine/Rating: 2.43
Taraba discharges 124 from isolation centre
Justin Tyopuusu, Jalingo The Taraba State Task force on COVID-19 on Sunday discharged 124 people quarantined at the state NYSC orientation camp in Sibre, near Jalingo. Chairman of the State task force committee on COVID-19 and Commissioner for Health, Dr Innocent Vakkai, while handing over the 124 people to the seven local government councils caretaker chairmen in the state, said, “Out of the 130 people, six tested positive while the remaining tested negative twice after 14 days in quarantine. “We have called the chairmen of various local government councils to hand over their people to them and we have profiled them for easy tracing in case of any issue arising hereafter.” Copyright PUNCH.All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH. Contact: theeditor@punchng.com
3 May 23:26 • Punch Newspapers • https://punchng.com/taraba-discharges-124-from-isolation-centre/Rating: 0.30
COVID-19: Taraba discharges 124 persons from quarantine
Kindly Share This Story: The Taraba Technical Committee on COVID-19 on Sunday discharged 124 persons quarantined at the state NYSC orientation camp in Barikin Sibre, Jalingo. Dr Innocent Vakkai, Chairman of the Committee and Commissioner for Health, while handing the 124 persons to their various local government Council Chairmen, said they tested negative twice. According to him, 130 people are intercepted at the Taraba boundary and quarantine because they were coming from high risk areas. “Out of the 130 people, six tested positive while the remaining tested negative twice after 14 days in quarantine. “Though we have eight cases- two of the cases are not from among the 130 people quarantined in this centre. “We have called the Chairmen of various local government Councils to handover their people to them and we have profiled them for easy tracing in case of any issue arising hereafter,” he said. Caretaker Chairman of Jalingo local government and the State ALGON Chairman, Alhaji Abdulnaseer Boboji, said local government Councils in the State have keyed into the state government efforts to contain the virus. Boboji said no local government council could afford to provide face masks and other personal protective equipment to all residents. The Chairman called on non-governmental organisations, well-meaning individuals in the society to assist the underprivileged in their communities. (NAN) VANGUARD Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 13:35 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-taraba-discharges-124-persons-from-quarantine/Rating: 2.43
Taraba discharges 124 persons from quarantine
The Taraba Technical Committee on COVID-19 on Sunday discharged 124 persons quarantined at the state NYSC orientation camp in Barikin Sibre, Jalingo. Dr Innocent Vakkai, Chairman of the Committee and Commissioner for Health, while handing the 124 persons to their various local government Council Chairmen, said they tested negative twice. According to him, 130 people are intercepted at the Taraba boundary and quarantine because they were coming from high risk areas. “Out of the 130 people, six tested positive while the remaining tested negative twice after 14 days in quarantine. “Though we have eight cases- two of the cases are not from among the 130 people quarantined in this centre. “We have called the Chairmen of various local government Councils to handover their people to them and we have profiled them for easy tracing in case of any issue arising hereafter,” he said. Caretaker Chairman of Jalingo local government and the State ALGON Chairman, Alhaji Abdulnaseer Boboji, said local government Councils in the State have keyed into the state government efforts to contain the virus. Boboji said no local government council could afford to provide face masks and other personal protective equipment to all residents. The Chairman called on non-governmental organisations, well-meaning individuals in the society to assist the underprivileged in their communities.
3 May 13:00 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/taraba-discharges-124-persons-from-quarantine/Rating: 0.30
World Press Freedom Day: Gbajabiamila, Wase hail Journalists on frontline of COVID -19 pandemic coverage
3 May 16:08
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World Press Freedom Day: Gbajabiamila, Wase hail Journalists on frontline of COVID -19 pandemic coverage
Kindly Share This Story: Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila and his deputy, Hon. Idris Wase has paid glowing tributes to Nigerian Journalists working at the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic coverage at great “personal cost”, saying they deserved better. Both leaders in their respective statements to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day with the theme ‘Journalism Without Fear or Favour’, however, asked the media and the practitioners to tackle the menace of fake news. In his statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, Lanre Lasisi, Gbajabiamila said Nigerian media practitioners must resist every temptation that would make them promote reportage that was anti-people. He lauded the doggedness of the Nigerian media in reporting and helping in finding solutions to the challenges facing the country over the years. The Speaker said although the Nigerian media has contributed a lot in stabilizing the country, it would not be out of place to call on media practitioners in the country to be more factual about their reportage of activities in the society with a view to promoting development. Gbajabiamila said the Nigerian media must rise to the challenge of fake news, especially as the country battles the COVID-19 pandemic, saying such news would not do the country any good. He said: “The choice is ours: either to make our country great through good reportage and analysis of issues or to allow fake news and, in many cases, flagrant falsehood to take over space. At this age of social/online media, the onus is on the real journalists to make a difference. “But I believe that the Nigerian media would not do anything that will take us backwards. I also want to believe that media practitioners in the country are ever committed to seeing the country move forward. “If that is the case, we must show patriotism in our dealings as media men and women. We must fight fake news, especially at this time of COVID-19 pandemic. I also wish to pay tribute to journalists who have been working hard at the frontline of reporting this pandemic at great personal cost”. Similarly, the Deputy Speaker of the House, Idris Ahmed in a solidarity message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Umar Muhammad Puma on the commemoration of the day, commended Nigerian journalists for their enviable contributions towards the sustenance of democratic rule in the country. He said journalists in the country deserved a better deal considering the poor conditions under which some of them are consigned to and made to operate. He said that that better welfare would spur the media to be more productive and alive to her responsibilities. “I wish to commend the Nigerian journalists for their resilience in spite of obvious poor working conditions. Your laudable contributions in information dissemination, education and enlightenment of the citizenry are well-acknowledged and appreciated. “As you join your colleagues across the globe to mark the World Press Freedom Day, I commend your resilience and commitment to good governance in the discharge of your duties as the fourth estate of the realm. “I urge all media owners to see to strive to provide enabling environment and improvement of the welfare of their employees. A worker who is better motivated will always give his best. “The resilience and commitment of Nigerian journalists to good governance was paramount in the return to democratic rule. Wase, however, noted that “reporting without fear or favour entails giving out information that is factual, objective and balanced and avoiding anything that is sensational and fake.” He enjoined journalists to eschew fake news in their reportage in order to feed the society with “credible and truthful information that could advance the cause of good governance, socio-economic development, peace and unity in the nation”. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 16:08 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/world-press-freedom-day-gbajabiamila-wase-hail-journalists-on-frontline-of-covid-19-pandemic-coverage/Rating: 2.43
World Press Freedom Day: Buhari hails Nigerian media in fight against COVID-19
President Muhammadu Buhari has hailed the Nigerian media, applauding “the good work they have done, and are still doing, as the nation confronts the ravaging Coronavirus pandemic.” In his message on the occasion of World, Press Freedom Day celebrated every May 3, President Buhari specifically commended the media for their role in Nigeria’s effort to tackle the disease he described as “unseen enemy called COVID-19.” “We cannot overemphasise the role of the media in keeping people informed and educated on the pernicious virus, which has no friend or foe. It simply seeks to mow down anyone and everyone in its path, and public awareness is very important, lest we become like sitting ducks. The media are doing this quite effectively,” the President said. He applauded the role media have played thus far, and charged that they continue, “till we get to safe harbour, when the world and our country are finally free of this greatest health challenge in recent history.” Reflecting on the theme of World Press Freedom Day 2020, ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation,’ President Buhari said Nigeria has a very unhealthy dose of disinformation, fake news, hate news, purveyed by people who use media platforms, particularly the digital variant. “They don’t mean well for us, and no country can afford to close its eyes to the evil disinformation can cause. In a plural polity like ours, it has the potential to rupture relationships, sow seeds of discord, and set on the path of destabilisation. When fake and hate news are added unabashedly, it can only signpost doom. I urge the press to use the occasion of World Press Freedom Day to see how this can be vigorously tackled,” he said. The President pledged a recommitment to the ideals of freedom of the press, noting that democracy thrives better in an atmosphere of transparency, as opposed to opacity. “We appreciate the cooperation we have enjoyed from the media in tackling the Coronavirus, and look forward to same, post COVID-19, when all hands must be on deck to repair the damages done to our economic and social lives, “ President Buhari said.
3 May 04:00 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/world-press-freedom-day-buhari-hails-nigerian-media-in-fight-against-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
World Press Freedom Day: Buhari lauds media over fight against COVID-19
President Muhammadu Buhari has commended the role of the Nigerian media in keeping people informed and educated on the pernicious Coronavirus pandemic in the country. The president gave the commendation in a statement by his spokesperson, Femi Adesina, in Abuja on Saturday, to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day. He said: “We cannot overemphasize the role of the media in keeping people informed and educated on the pernicious virus, which has no friend or foe. ”It simply seeks to mow down anyone and everyone in its path, and public awareness is very important, lest we become like sitting ducks.The media are doing this quite effectively.” He further charged the media to continue with their good work, “till we get to safe harbour, when the world, and our country are finally free of this greatest health challenge in recent history.” While reflecting on the theme of World Press Freedom Day 2020, ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation,’ President Buhari opined that Nigeria has a very unhealthy dose of disinformation, fake news, hate news, purveyed by people who use media platforms, particularly the digital variant. ”They don’t mean well for us, and no country can afford to close its eyes to the evil disinformation can cause. In a plural polity like ours, it has the potential to rupture relationships, sow seeds of discord, and set on the path of destabilisation. ”When fake and hate news are added unabashedly, it can only signpost doom. I urge the Press to use the occasion of World Press Freedom Day to see how this can be vigorously tackled,” he added. On the part of government, the president pledged a recommitment to the ideals of freedom of the press, noting that democracy thrives better in an atmosphere of transparency, as opposed to opacity. “We appreciate the cooperation we have enjoyed from the media in tackling the Coronavirus, and look forward to same, post COVID-19, when all hands must be on deck to repair the damages done to our economic and social lives,” the president affirmed. (NAN)
2 May 17:14 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/391073-world-press-freedom-day-buhari-lauds-media-over-fight-against-covid-19.htmlRating: 0.30
Buhari to journalists: Tackle fake news vigorously
President Muhammadu Buhari has asked Nigerian journalists to find a way to “vigorously” tackle fake news and hate speech. The president said this while congratulating journalists as they mark the world press freedom day for 2020. In a statement by Femi Adesina, special adviser to the president, Buhari applauded “the good work” the media have done, and are still doing “as the nation confronts the unseen enemy called COVID-19″. The president appreciated the cooperation of the media and asked that they continue “till we get to safe harbour, when the world and our country are finally free of this greatest health challenge in recent history”. “We appreciate the cooperation we have enjoyed from the media in tackling the Coronavirus, and look forward to same, post COVID-19, when all hands must be on deck to repair the damages done to our economic and social lives,” Buhari said. “We cannot overemphasize the role of the media in keeping people informed and educated on the pernicious virus, which has no friend or foe. “It simply seeks to mow down anyone and everyone in its path, and public awareness is very important, lest we become like sitting ducks. The media are doing this quite effectively.” Commenting on the year’s theme, ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation’, Buhari said Nigeria has an unhealthy dose of disinformation, fake news, hate news, purveyed by people who use media platforms, particularly the digital variant. “They don’t mean well for us, and no country can afford to close its eyes to the evil disinformation can cause,” he said. “In a plural polity like ours, it has the potential to rupture relationships, sow seeds of discord, and set on the path of destabilisation. When fake and hate news are added unabashedly, it can only signpost doom. “I urge the Press to use the occasion of World Press Freedom Day to see how this can be vigorously tackled.” The president pledged a recommitment to the ideals of freedom of the press, saying democracy thrives better in an atmosphere of transparency, as opposed to opacity.
2 May 15:09 • TheCable • https://www.thecable.ng/buhari-to-journalists-tackle-fake-news-vigorouslyRating: 0.30
Kidnappers free twin children abducted in Ibadan
3 May 13:03
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4 articles
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Kidnappers free twin children abducted in Ibadan
Kindly Share This Story: The twin children of the former Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim wing), Alhaji Taofeeq Akewugbagold, who were abducted about a week ago have been released. The children were kidnapped at the residence of their parents in Ojoo area of Ibadan. The mother of the twin who pleaded with the abductors to consider her twelve years of barrenness before giving birth to them through IVF wept uncontrollably for days. While breaking the news of their release on his Facebook page, the Islamic cleric kept sealed lips on the amount he paid as ransom. He wrote that his children whose names are Walfiq and Walfiqoh were released at 5:30am on Sunday. He said, “My children were released at 5:30am on Sunday 3rd May. They were released to me beside a bush after eight days in an unknown land. Thanks to you all for your prayers.” Also confirming their release, the Oyo State Public Relations Officer, SP Gbenga Fadeyi, said, ” the children were released early this morning and efforts are on going to arrest the culprits. We shall get them soon.” Asked if any ransom was paid, the PPRO said, “I’m not privy to that information”. VANGUARD Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 13:03 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/kidnappers-free-twin-children-abducted-in-ibadan/Rating: 2.43
Children aged 5, 8 kill six-year-old friend in Lahore
Two minors on Saturday teamed up to attack their friend after a small fight, resulting in the laters death in Raiwind area of Lahore. According to the details, the incident took place when the deceased child whose name has been revealed to be Hassnain was out playing with two of his friends in the fields and they had a fight. Local police told that one of the kids named Ali alias ‘mota’ filled Hassnain’s mouth and nostrils with sand, rendering him incapable of breathing. An autopsy of the deceased Hassnain’s body has been performed and the body has been handed over to the bereaved parents.
2 May 18:36 • Pakistan Today • https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/05/02/children-aged-5-8-kill-six-year-old-friend-in-lahore/Rating: 0.87
“My children’s abductors have asked for £100, 000 ransom” – Father of twins abducted in Oyo state
Father of twins abducted in Oyo state about a week ago claims the kidnappers have requested a ransom of £100, 000. The father of the twins, Sheik Taofeeq Akewugbagold, revealed his tow-year-old twin children, a boy and girl were kidnapped at gunpoint at his Ojoo residence on Saturday night, April 25. He made a post on his social media page April 26 crying out for help. The state police command revealed that efforts are being made to locate the abductors and rescue the children alive but one week later, the twins are still with their abductors. According to LIB who reached out to children’s father, the abductors have contacted him and are demanding for £100, 000 ransom for their release. Recall that Sheik Taofeeq had earlier pleaded with the abductors saying the mother of the twins waited for 12 years before giving birth to them. He has now revealed that she has been terribly ill since the incident happened. She made a video few days ago weeping as she appealed to the abductors of her children to release them. Follow us on Facebook – @Lailasnews; Twitter – @LailaIjeoma for updates
2 May 13:49 • LailasNews.com • https://lailasnews.com/my-childrens-abductors-have-asked-for-100-000-ransom2-father-of-twins-abducted-in-oyo-state/Rating: 1.27
Sudden Death, Maupuia
Around 2pm yesterday (1 May) Police were called to a report of a body found in bush off Akaroa Drive, Maupuia. The body has been identified as that of 49-year-old Jason Cambourn, who was reported missing from Porirua on 23 March. Police extend their sincere sympathies to Jason’s family, who have endured many weeks of distress since he was reported missing. Jason’s death is not thought to be suspicious and has been referred to the Coroner. Police would like to thank the public for their assistance. © Scoop Media
2 May 07:43 • SCOOP • https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK2005/S00044/sudden-death-maupuia.htmRating: 0.30
Labor internal angst at Kristina Keneally's call to lower immigration
3 May 07:47
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3 articles
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Labor internal angst at Kristina Keneally's call to lower immigration
Kristina Keneally's call to give Australians "first go" at jobs by cutting temporary migration has won cautious support from unions but divided Labor MPs who are worried the home affairs spokeswoman was freelancing with policy aimed at more conservative voters. Several of Senator Keneally's colleagues privately voiced frustrations on Sunday about her decision to write an opinion piece arguing against the "lazy approach" used by governments to prop up economic growth through immigration and suggested that the overall migrant intake could be less under Labor. Other MPs publicly defended Senator Keneally, arguing that Australia's use of temporary migrants was a debate that needed to happen as the nation recovered from the coronavirus crisis. In an opinion piece for The Sun-Herald and The Sunday Age on Sunday, Senator Keneally said Australian workers must "get a fair go and a first go at jobs", and the country had an unprecedented chance to overhaul the immigration system, particularly the temporary worker intake which was not capped. It was not the first time Senator Keneally has called for the government to look at temporary migration, but it was her strongest suggestion yet that the overall number of migrants would be lower under Labor. "The post-COVID-19 question we must ask now is this: when we restart our migration program, do we want migrants to return to Australia in the same numbers and in the same composition as before the crisis? Our answer should be no," she wrote. Australian Council of Trade Unions secretary Sally McManus said on Twitter that too many employers had used the temporary visa system to avoid hiring local workers and were exploiting people whose visa status and security depended on their employer. Ms McManus argued this had led to systematic wage theft. Victorian Labor MP Ged Kearney, former president of the ACTU, told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age she welcomed the debate on whether to overhaul the immigration system. "I think we really do need to have the conversation and get the balance right – and it may need to be a lower overall intake, but the focus should be on temporary migration and increasing permanent migration," she said. Immigration is a vexed issue for Labor with the party occasionally being accused of over-compensating in response to Coalition attack campaigns over border security. Bill Shorten, when he was leader in 2016, caused controversy with an “Australia First” television advertisement which featured almost all white people and pledged that Labor would “build Australian first, buy Australian first and employ Australians first". Multiple senior Labor sources confirmed the issue of whether to restart a debate on the size and composition of Australia's immigration program had been discussed at shadow cabinet level but no decision had been made on a change of policy. Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese did not respond to a request for comment. "This is still just Kristina's view at this stage, not the party's," one shadow cabinet source said. Senator Keneally, who emigrated to Australia from the US, also caused frustration among senior Labor MPs because they were blindsided by her opinion piece. It wasn't featured in the original talking points circulated by Mr Albanese's office to MPs on Sunday morning. A second round of talking points - the party's message on the topical issues of the day - was sent out later in the day which included Labor's position on immigration. One Labor MP from the Left faction, which tends to support a more-open approach to migrants and refugees, said they were concerned about being accused of "dog-whistling". "We don't have a problem with the call to look at temporary migration, but we don't have to sound like Peter Dutton while doing it," he said. Another Labor MP said: “This is a very sensitive issue. The ALP has torn itself apart over this issue in the past. This is an issue that needs to be handled very sensitively." Labor's education spokeswoman, Tanya Plibersek, said immigration was an important part of Australia's multicultural make-up, but Labor's view had always been that the number and composition of the intake should be in the national interest. “Immigration is a really important part of our economic success story. One of the reasons the Australian economy has been growing at all, frankly, in recent times is because of strong immigration numbers," she said. Victorian Labor MP Julian Hill said the COVID-19 crisis had exposed the Morrison government's failure in migration policy, "and in particular the massive explosion in temporary migration". “Morrison has tried an enormous con job trumpeting a fake cut to migration, which is really just sleight of hand cutting valuable permanent migration while lower skilled permanent migration explodes," he said. Acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge accused Senator Keneally of not having a consistent position on temporary migrants. "She wants to give temporary migrants welfare payments so they can stay in Australia, but now says she doesn’t want temporary migrants," he said. Senator Keneally said in her piece that although migration would be a key element to the way the Australian economy recovered from the pandemic, changes had to be made to the current system which had resulted in an over-reliance on temporary workers. The setting of limits on the migrant intake may be moot point for years with Australia's immigration to take a serious hit coming out of the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week revealed Australia's net overseas migration numbers would drop by 85 per cent in the 2020-21 financial year, compared to 2018-19 numbers.
3 May 07:47 • The Age • https://www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/labor-internal-angst-at-kristina-keneally-s-call-to-lower-immigration-20200503-p54pd7.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_politics_federalRating: 2.20
Labor internal angst at Kristina Keneally's call to lower immigration
Kristina Keneally's call to give Australians "first go" at jobs by cutting temporary migration has won cautious support from unions but divided Labor MPs who are worried the home affairs spokeswoman was freelancing with policy aimed at more conservative voters. Several of Senator Keneally's colleagues privately voiced frustrations on Sunday about her decision to write an opinion piece arguing against the "lazy approach" used by governments to prop up economic growth through immigration and suggested that the overall migrant intake could be less under Labor. Other MPs publicly defended Senator Keneally, arguing that Australia's use of temporary migrants was a debate that needed to happen as the nation recovered from the coronavirus crisis. In an opinion piece for The Sun-Herald and The Sunday Age on Sunday, Senator Keneally said Australian workers must "get a fair go and a first go at jobs", and the country had an unprecedented chance to overhaul the immigration system, particularly the temporary worker intake which was not capped. It was not the first time Senator Keneally has called for the government to look at temporary migration, but it was her strongest suggestion yet that the overall number of migrants would be lower under Labor. "The post-COVID-19 question we must ask now is this: when we restart our migration program, do we want migrants to return to Australia in the same numbers and in the same composition as before the crisis? Our answer should be no," she wrote. Australian Council of Trade Unions secretary Sally McManus said on Twitter that too many employers had used the temporary visa system to avoid hiring local workers and were exploiting people whose visa status and security depended on their employer. Ms McManus argued this had led to systematic wage theft. Victorian Labor MP Ged Kearney, former president of the ACTU, told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age she welcomed the debate on whether to overhaul the immigration system. "I think we really do need to have the conversation and get the balance right – and it may need to be a lower overall intake, but the focus should be on temporary migration and increasing permanent migration," she said. Immigration is a vexed issue for Labor with the party occasionally being accused of over-compensating in response to Coalition attack campaigns over border security. Bill Shorten, when he was leader in 2016, caused controversy with an “Australia First” television advertisement which featured almost all white people and pledged that Labor would “build Australian first, buy Australian first and employ Australians first". Multiple senior Labor sources confirmed the issue of whether to restart a debate on the size and composition of Australia's immigration program had been discussed at shadow cabinet level but no decision had been made on a change of policy. Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese did not respond to a request for comment. "This is still just Kristina's view at this stage, not the party's," one shadow cabinet source said. Senator Keneally, who emigrated to Australia from the US, also caused frustration among senior Labor MPs because they were blindsided by her opinion piece. It wasn't featured in the original talking points circulated by Mr Albanese's office to MPs on Sunday morning. A second round of talking points - the party's message on the topical issues of the day - was sent out later in the day which included Labor's position on immigration. One Labor MP from the Left faction, which tends to support a more-open approach to migrants and refugees, said they were concerned about being accused of "dog-whistling". "We don't have a problem with the call to look at temporary migration, but we don't have to sound like Peter Dutton while doing it," he said. Another Labor MP said: “This is a very sensitive issue. The ALP has torn itself apart over this issue in the past. This is an issue that needs to be handled very sensitively." Labor's education spokeswoman, Tanya Plibersek, said immigration was an important part of Australia's multicultural make-up, but Labor's view had always been that the number and composition of the intake should be in the national interest. “Immigration is a really important part of our economic success story. One of the reasons the Australian economy has been growing at all, frankly, in recent times is because of strong immigration numbers," she said. Victorian Labor MP Julian Hill said the COVID-19 crisis had exposed the Morrison government's failure in migration policy, "and in particular the massive explosion in temporary migration". “Morrison has tried an enormous con job trumpeting a fake cut to migration, which is really just sleight of hand cutting valuable permanent migration while lower skilled permanent migration explodes," he said. Acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge accused Senator Keneally of not having a consistent position on temporary migrants. "She wants to give temporary migrants welfare payments so they can stay in Australia, but now says she doesn’t want temporary migrants," he said. Senator Keneally said in her piece that although migration would be a key element to the way the Australian economy recovered from the pandemic, changes had to be made to the current system which had resulted in an over-reliance on temporary workers. The setting of limits on the migrant intake may be moot point for years with Australia's immigration to take a serious hit coming out of the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week revealed Australia's net overseas migration numbers would drop by 85 per cent in the 2020-21 financial year, compared to 2018-19 numbers.
3 May 07:47 • Brisbane Times • https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/federal/labor-internal-angst-at-kristina-keneally-s-call-to-lower-immigration-20200503-p54pd7.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_politics_federalRating: 0.86
Labor internal angst at Kristina Keneally's call to lower immigration
Kristina Keneally's call to give Australians "first go" at jobs by cutting temporary migration has won cautious support from unions but divided Labor MPs who are worried the home affairs spokeswoman was freelancing with policy aimed at more conservative voters. Several of Senator Keneally's colleagues privately voiced frustrations on Sunday about her decision to write an opinion piece arguing against the "lazy approach" used by governments to prop up economic growth through immigration and suggested that the overall migrant intake could be less under Labor. Other MPs publicly defended Senator Keneally, arguing that Australia's use of temporary migrants was a debate that needed to happen as the nation recovered from the coronavirus crisis. In an opinion piece for The Sun-Herald and The Sunday Age on Sunday, Senator Keneally said Australian workers must "get a fair go and a first go at jobs", and the country had an unprecedented chance to overhaul the immigration system, particularly the temporary worker intake which was not capped. It was not the first time Senator Keneally has called for the government to look at temporary migration, but it was her strongest suggestion yet that the overall number of migrants would be lower under Labor. "The post-COVID-19 question we must ask now is this: when we restart our migration program, do we want migrants to return to Australia in the same numbers and in the same composition as before the crisis? Our answer should be no," she wrote. Australian Council of Trade Unions secretary Sally McManus said on Twitter that too many employers had used the temporary visa system to avoid hiring local workers and were exploiting people whose visa status and security depended on their employer. Ms McManus argued this had led to systematic wage theft. Victorian Labor MP Ged Kearney, former president of the ACTU, told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age she welcomed the debate on whether to overhaul the immigration system. "I think we really do need to have the conversation and get the balance right – and it may need to be a lower overall intake, but the focus should be on temporary migration and increasing permanent migration," she said. Immigration is a vexed issue for Labor with the party occasionally being accused of over-compensating in response to Coalition attack campaigns over border security. Bill Shorten, when he was leader in 2016, caused controversy with an “Australia First” television advertisement which featured almost all white people and pledged that Labor would “build Australian first, buy Australian first and employ Australians first". Multiple senior Labor sources confirmed the issue of whether to restart a debate on the size and composition of Australia's immigration program had been discussed at shadow cabinet level but no decision had been made on a change of policy. Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese did not respond to a request for comment. "This is still just Kristina's view at this stage, not the party's," one shadow cabinet source said. Senator Keneally, who emigrated to Australia from the US, also caused frustration among senior Labor MPs because they were blindsided by her opinion piece. It wasn't featured in the original talking points circulated by Mr Albanese's office to MPs on Sunday morning. A second round of talking points - the party's message on the topical issues of the day - was sent out later in the day which included Labor's position on immigration. One Labor MP from the Left faction, which tends to support a more-open approach to migrants and refugees, said they were concerned about being accused of "dog-whistling". "We don't have a problem with the call to look at temporary migration, but we don't have to sound like Peter Dutton while doing it," he said. Another Labor MP said: “This is a very sensitive issue. The ALP has torn itself apart over this issue in the past. This is an issue that needs to be handled very sensitively." Labor's education spokeswoman, Tanya Plibersek, said immigration was an important part of Australia's multicultural make-up, but Labor's view had always been that the number and composition of the intake should be in the national interest. “Immigration is a really important part of our economic success story. One of the reasons the Australian economy has been growing at all, frankly, in recent times is because of strong immigration numbers," she said. Victorian Labor MP Julian Hill said the COVID-19 crisis had exposed the Morrison government's failure in migration policy, "and in particular the massive explosion in temporary migration". “Morrison has tried an enormous con job trumpeting a fake cut to migration, which is really just sleight of hand cutting valuable permanent migration while lower skilled permanent migration explodes," he said. Acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge accused Senator Keneally of not having a consistent position on temporary migrants. "She wants to give temporary migrants welfare payments so they can stay in Australia, but now says she doesn’t want temporary migrants," he said. Senator Keneally said in her piece that although migration would be a key element to the way the Australian economy recovered from the pandemic, changes had to be made to the current system which had resulted in an over-reliance on temporary workers. The setting of limits on the migrant intake may be moot point for years with Australia's immigration to take a serious hit coming out of the coronavirus pandemic. Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week revealed Australia's net overseas migration numbers would drop by 85 per cent in the 2020-21 financial year, compared to 2018-19 numbers.
3 May 07:47 • WAtoday • https://www.watoday.com.au/politics/federal/labor-internal-angst-at-kristina-keneally-s-call-to-lower-immigration-20200503-p54pd7.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_politics_federalRating: 0.55
Greater testing capacity earlier would have reduced deaths, minister admits
3 May 10:47
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Greater testing capacity earlier would have reduced deaths, minister admits
Fewer Britons would have died from coronavirus if more tests had been available earlier, a Cabinet minister has admitted, as he warned life would not return to “business as usual” when Boris Johnson sets out his exit strategy. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said “many things” could have been different if the UK’s testing capacity was above 100,000 before Covid-19 spread in the country. More than 28,000 people have now died after testing positive for the virus in the UK. Mr Shapps also confirmed the NHSX contact tracing app – which he said would need 50%-60% of people to use for it to be successful – will be trialled on the Isle of Wight this week before being rolled out later this month. The app will be central to the Government’s efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. In an interview with BBC One’s The Andrew Marr Show, he was asked whether fewer people would have died if testing capacity had been greater sooner. Mr Shapps replied: “Yes. If we had had 100,000 test capacity before this thing started and the knowledge that we now have retrospectively, I’m sure many things could be different. “The fact of the matter is this is not a country that had – although we’re very big in pharmaceuticals as a country – we’re not a country that had very large test capacity.” He also revealed that he was “actively looking at” quarantining people travelling to Britain from abroad to keep coronavirus infection rates under control. The Prime Minister has pledged to set out a “comprehensive plan” on how the current lockdown may be eased on Thursday, when the Government must legally review the measures. Mr Shapps cautioned that life would not return to how it was in February, before the social distancing measures were introduced. He told Sky’s Sophy Ridge On Sunday: “I don’t think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February – that’s clearly not going to happen and I don’t think anyone imagines that for one moment. “The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do do going forward doesn’t undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 – the all-critical reproduction rate doesn’t come back up because that’s when we’d see a second spike. “So, no, I’m afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the routemap lies.” Meanwhile: – A former Government chief scientific adviser, Sir David King, has assembled a group of experts to look at how the UK could work its way out of the lockdown in response to concerns over the “lack of transparency” coming from the Sage group of advisers. – Conservative peer and former minister Baroness Ros Altmann said a requirement for older people to remain in lockdown longer as restrictions are lifted for the rest of the country would be “age discrimination”. – Former head of the army General Lord Dannatt and ex-chief of the defence staff General Lord Richards backed calls for health workers to be given daily allowances like those given to soldiers in war zones. – Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO technical lead on Covid-19, said all countries must remain “on alert” over the possibility of further transmission of coronavirus. – Professor Sir Ian Diamond, UK national statistician, cautioned against international comparisons of death figures and warned that a “lengthy and deep recession” could lead to increased deaths. It comes as Mr Johnson revealed that doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital last month. The Prime Minister spent three nights in intensive care at St Thomas’ in London with the disease, where he said medics gave him “litres and litres of oxygen”. He described it as a “tough old moment”, telling the Sun On Sunday: “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. “They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen. and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie.” Mr Johnson, 55, said it was “hard to believe” his health had deteriorated in just a few days, saying he “couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting better”. The PM told the paper the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction” and that he kept asking himself: “How am I going to get out of this?” “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” He said he was “in denial” initially about how serious his illness was and that doctors were right to “force” him to go to hospital. After a fortnight convalescing from the virus, and just two days after he returned to work full-time, his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth to their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. They named him after their grandfathers and two doctors – Dr Nick Price and Prof Nick Hart – who helped save Mr Johnson’s life.
3 May 10:47 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/greater-testing-capacity-earlier-would-have-reduced-deaths-minister-admits/Rating: 0.30
Greater testing capacity earlier would have reduced deaths, minister admits
Fewer British people would have died from coronavirus if more tests had been available earlier, a Cabinet minister has admitted, as he warned life would not return to "business as usual" when Boris Johnson sets out his exit strategy. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said "many things" could have been different if the UK's testing capacity was above 100,000 before Covid-19 spread in the country. More than 28,000 people have now died after testing positive for the virus in the UK. Mr Shapps also confirmed the NHSX contact tracing app - which he said would need 50%-60% of people to use for it to be successful - will be trialled on the Isle of Wight this week before being rolled out later this month. READ MORE: Boris Johnson says doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus The app will be central to the Government's efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. In an interview with BBC One's The Andrew Marr Show, he was asked whether fewer people would have died if testing capacity had been greater sooner. Mr Shapps replied: "Yes. If we had had 100,000 test capacity before this thing started and the knowledge that we now have retrospectively, I'm sure many things could be different. "The fact of the matter is this is not a country that had - although we're very big in pharmaceuticals as a country - we're not a country that had very large test capacity." He also revealed that he was "actively looking at" quarantining people travelling to Britain from abroad to keep coronavirus infection rates under control. The Prime Minister has pledged to set out a "comprehensive plan" on how the current lockdown may be eased on Thursday, when the Government must legally review the measures. Mr Shapps cautioned that life would not return to how it was in February, before the social distancing measures were introduced. He told Sky's Sophy Ridge On Sunday: "I don't think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February - that's clearly not going to happen and I don't think anyone imagines that for one moment. "The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do do going forward doesn't undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 - the all-critical reproduction rate doesn't come back up because that's when we'd see a second spike. "So, no, I'm afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the routemap lies."
3 May 11:45 • The Irish News • http://www.irishnews.com/news/uknews/2020/05/03/news/greater-testing-capacity-earlier-would-have-reduced-deaths-minister-admits-1924769/Rating: 0.30
Coronavirus death toll would be lower if UK had done more testing sooner, minister admits
Fewer Brits would have died from coronavirus if more tests had been available sooner, a Cabinet minister has admitted. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said "many things" could have been different if the 100,000-a-day testing capacity had been reached more quickly. Greater testing will allow the government to spot and isolate Covid-19 patients quickly, before they infect too many other people. But ministers struggled to increase testing for several weeks, with numbers only shooting up substantially in the past week or so. The UK smashed its 100,000 target on Thursday with 122,000 - but only by including 40,000 tests that had been posted out and not yet completed. Mr Shapps was asked by the BBC's Andrew Marr Show if fewer people would have died if testing capacity had been greater sooner. Host Andrew Marr said: "If we’d been doing this a little bit earlier, a lot of people might not have died..." Mr Shapps nodded and replied: "Yes. If we had had 100,000 test capacity before this thing started and the knowledge that we now have retrospectively, I'm sure many things could be different. "The fact of the matter is this is not a country that had - although we're very big in pharmaceuticals as a country - we're not a country that had very large test capacity." It comes days after Dominic Raab, the PM's deputy, declined to say whether quicker and broader testing in care homes could have avoided some UK deaths. The Mirror asked Mr Raab the question after care home staff, and people being discharged into care homes from hospital, only started being tested routinely on April 15. By then there thousands of care home residents had already died. In total, more than 28,000 people have now died after testing positive for the virus in the UK. Professor Martin Green, the head of Care England, has condemned the government and warned the true death toll in care homes may never be known. He told the Mail on Sunday: "There is no form of tracking mechanism and unless we have testing, it will not be clear who has died of Covid-19 and who hasn't." Questioned by the Mirror on Wednesday, Mr Raab said: "There's always learning in an unprecedented, unique crisis that we'll want to feed back in so that we can refine and fine tune the measures we're taking. "We take the actions and the steps that we take based on the best scientific evidence that we've got at the time." At the time Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director of Public Health England, added it was "impossible to say" if better testing would have avoided some deaths. Mr Shapps also confirmed the NHSX contact tracing app - which he said would need 50%-60% of people to use for it to be successful - will be trialled on the Isle of Wight this week before being rolled out later this month. The app will be central to the Government's efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. He also revealed he was "actively looking at" quarantining people travelling to Britain from abroad to keep coronavirus infection rates under control. The Prime Minister has pledged to set out a "comprehensive plan" on how the current lockdown may be eased later this week. Mr Shapps cautioned that life would not return to how it was in February, before the social distancing measures were introduced. He told Sky's Sophy Ridge On Sunday: "I don't think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February - that's clearly not going to happen and I don't think anyone imagines that for one moment. "The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do do going forward doesn't undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 - the all-critical reproduction rate doesn't come back up because that's when we'd see a second spike. "So, no, I'm afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the routemap lies."
3 May 12:33 • mirror • https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/coronavirus-death-toll-would-lower-21966429Rating: 2.39
Greater testing capacity earlier would have reduced deaths, minister admits
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps cautioned that life would not return to normal when the Prime Minister sets out an exit strategy this week. Fewer Britons would have died from coronavirus if more tests had been available earlier, a Cabinet minister has admitted, as he warned life would not return to “business as usual” when Boris Johnson sets out his exit strategy. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said “many things” could have been different if the UK’s testing capacity was above 100,000 before Covid-19 spread in the country. More than 28,000 people have now died after testing positive for the virus in the UK. Mr Shapps also confirmed the NHSX contact tracing app – which he said would need 50%-60% of people to use for it to be successful – will be trialled on the Isle of Wight this week before being rolled out later this month. The app will be central to the Government’s efforts in slowing the spread of coronavirus and will involve alerting people who have been in contact with an infected person and asking them to self-isolate. In an interview with BBC One’s The Andrew Marr Show, he was asked whether fewer people would have died if testing capacity had been greater sooner. Mr Shapps replied: “Yes. If we had had 100,000 test capacity before this thing started and the knowledge that we now have retrospectively, I’m sure many things could be different. “The fact of the matter is this is not a country that had – although we’re very big in pharmaceuticals as a country – we’re not a country that had very large test capacity.” He also revealed that he was “actively looking at” quarantining people travelling to Britain from abroad to keep coronavirus infection rates under control. The Prime Minister has pledged to set out a “comprehensive plan” on how the current lockdown may be eased on Thursday, when the Government must legally review the measures. Mr Shapps cautioned that life would not return to how it was in February, before the social distancing measures were introduced. He told Sky’s Sophy Ridge On Sunday: “I don’t think we should expect us to go from this situation that we have at the moment of social distancing back to where we were in February – that’s clearly not going to happen and I don’t think anyone imagines that for one moment. “The most important thing is that the absolute focus of what the Prime Minister will be announcing later in the week is that what we do do going forward doesn’t undo the brilliant work people have been doing to get that R number below 1 – the all-critical reproduction rate doesn’t come back up because that’s when we’d see a second spike. “So, no, I’m afraid it is definitely not going to be business as usual but we do want to make sure that people understand where the routemap lies.” Meanwhile: – A former Government chief scientific adviser, Sir David King, has assembled a group of experts to look at how the UK could work its way out of the lockdown in response to concerns over the “lack of transparency” coming from the Sage group of advisers. – Conservative peer and former minister Baroness Ros Altmann said a requirement for older people to remain in lockdown longer as restrictions are lifted for the rest of the country would be “age discrimination”. – Former head of the army General Lord Dannatt and ex-chief of the defence staff General Lord Richards backed calls for health workers to be given daily allowances like those given to soldiers in war zones. – Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO technical lead on Covid-19, said all countries must remain “on alert” over the possibility of further transmission of coronavirus. – Professor Sir Ian Diamond, UK national statistician, cautioned against international comparisons of death figures and warned that a “lengthy and deep recession” could lead to increased deaths. It comes as Mr Johnson revealed that doctors prepared to announce his death as he battled coronavirus in hospital last month. The Prime Minister spent three nights in intensive care at St Thomas’ in London with the disease, where he said medics gave him “litres and litres of oxygen”. He described it as a “tough old moment”, telling the Sun On Sunday: “They had a strategy to deal with a ‘death of Stalin’-type scenario. “I was not in particularly brilliant shape and I was aware there were contingency plans in place. “The doctors had all sorts of arrangements for what to do if things went badly wrong. “They gave me a face mask so I got litres and litres of oxygen. and for a long time I had that and the little nose jobbie.” Mr Johnson, 55, said it was “hard to believe” his health had deteriorated in just a few days, saying he “couldn’t understand why I wasn’t getting better”. The PM told the paper the “indicators kept going in the wrong direction” and that he kept asking himself: “How am I going to get out of this?” “The bad moment came when it was 50-50 whether they were going to have to put a tube down my windpipe. “That was when it got a bit … they were starting to think about how to handle it presentationally.” He said he was “in denial” initially about how serious his illness was and that doctors were right to “force” him to go to hospital. After a fortnight convalescing from the virus, and just two days after he returned to work full-time, his fiancee Carrie Symonds gave birth to their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas Johnson. They named him after their grandfathers and two doctors – Dr Nick Price and Prof Nick Hart – who helped save Mr Johnson’s life.
3 May 10:47 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/greater-testing-capacity-earlier-would-have-reduced-deaths-minister-admits/Rating: 0.30
Hero paramedic dies of Covid-19 after he traveled to NYC to combat pandemic
3 May 17:11
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Hero paramedic dies of Covid-19 after he traveled to NYC to combat pandemic
A paramedic tragically died of Covid-19 after he traveled over 1,800 miles in an ambulance to help combat the outbreak in New York City. Paul Cary, 66, died at the Montefiore Medical Center on the Bronx on Thursday. Cary, a retired firefighter and skilled paramedic from Aurora, Colorado, had been assisting emergency workers in the coronavirus hotspot for weeks before succumbing to the virus. He reportedly arrived in New York in late March after authorities issued an emergency alert about the outbreak and said they were ‘Seeking licensed heath care workers’ to help pitch in during the crisis. Cary, who had been working for ambulance service provider Ambulnz, was ‘adamant’ about joining the front lines in the battle against the outbreak in New York, the company told Buzzfeed News. ‘He actually already had signed up for a second deployment before his death. This is where he wanted (and demanded) to be,’ an Ambulnz spokesperson said. Cary reportedly began showing symptoms of Covid-19 on April 20 and was admitted to the Bronx medical center the following day. While at the hospital, Cary’s condition worsened and he was put on a ventilator before he died. On Friday, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio honored Cary’s sacrifice during his daily Covid-19 press briefing. ‘He did not have to do it. He made the choice to come here and save lives,’ Mayor de Blasio said. ‘We have lost someone who came to our aid, to our defense and there’s something particularly painful when someone does the right thing — a fellow American comes from across the country to try to help the people of New York City, and while working to save lives here, gives his own life. It’s very painful,’ the mayor continued, adding that the city will create a memorial to honor Cary and other first responders. Cary reportedly leaves behind two sons and four grandchildren. In a statement to The New York Times, Cary’s family said: ‘He risked his own health and safety to protect others and left this world a better place.’ ‘We are at peace knowing that Paul did what he loved and what he believed in, right up until the very end.’
3 May 17:11 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/hero-paramedic-dies-covid-19-traveled-nyc-combat-pandemic-12648838/Rating: 2.18
Colorado paramedic who came to help New York dies from COVID-19 | Honolulu Star-Advertiser
On the same day that New York City’s 911 dispatchers fielded a volume of calls not seen since the Sept. 11 attacks, Paul Cary, a paramedic, set out for the nearly 1,800-mile drive from Denver to New York City in an ambulance. Cary, a retired firefighter who worked for three decades with the Aurora Fire Department, was known for being a skilled paramedic who was willing to pitch in to cover the shifts of co-workers. A colleague, Rick Diemert, described Cary as a “really, really dependable gentleman.” Cary arrived in New York City in late March, days before authorities issued an emergency alert about the growing coronavirus pandemic: “Seeking licensed health care workers.” For three weeks, Cary transported COVID-19 patients to hospitals by ambulance and helped dispatch 911 calls because of the high volume. Cary, 66, had already signed up for a second 30-day deployment in New York when he started feeling sick. Eleven days later — on Thursday — he died from COVID-19 at the Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx. Cary was employed by Ambulnz, an ambulance company that deployed 72 employees from across the country, including California, Colorado and Tennessee, to help in New York. Mayor Bill de Blasio said Friday that New York was grieving for Cary and that the city would erect a memorial to him. “We have lost someone who came to our aid, to our defense,” he said. “And there’s something particularly painful when someone does the right thing — a fellow American comes from across the country to try to help the people of New York City — and while working to save lives here gives his own life. It’s very painful.” Cary’s colleagues will remember him for his kindness and his service to others, Diemert, operations manager for Ambulnz, said at a news conference. Cary’s two sons and four grandchildren said they were devastated. “He risked his own health and safety to protect others and left this world a better place,” the family said in a statement. “We are at peace knowing that Paul did what he loved and what he believed in, right up until the very end.” Cary was among the thousands of front-line responders who, answering calls for help during the coronavirus crisis, traveled to New York during one of its darkest times. New York officials have said the additional help from retired and active health care workers has been invaluable. More than 94,000 have signed up online to work in New York City, including more than 27,000 from outside New York, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office. “Our condolences go out to Mr. Cary’s family and friends,” the Federal Emergency Management Agency said Saturday. “He was serving an important role as part of the whole-of-America COVID-19 response in the New York area.” Today, an honor guard and a large procession of emergency vehicles will leave a funeral home on Staten Island, headed to Newark Liberty International Airport. Cary’s body will then be flown to Denver, where a second ceremony will take place.
3 May 17:55 • Star-Advertiser • https://www.staradvertiser.com/2020/05/03/news/colorado-paramedic-who-came-to-help-new-york-dies-from-covid-19/Rating: 0.30
A 66-year-old paramedic from Colorado died from COVID-19 after traveling to New York City to work on the front lines of the pandemic
A 66-year-old paramedic from Colorado traveled to New York to volunteer on the front lines of COVID-19 – then he died from the virus. Paul Cary, from Aurora, Colorado, died from COVID-19 on Thursday, about a week after testing positive for the virus. He had traveled to New York to volunteer for Ambulnz, an ambulance service provider, where he transported COVID-19 patients, KDVR reported. In a statement to CBS Denver, Cary’s family said they were “devastated” by his death. “Accepting Paul’s commitment to serving others in need, we respected his choice to volunteer to be part of Ambulnz’s response team to the COVID-19 crisis in New York City,” the family said. “He risked his own health and safety to protect others and left this world a better place. We are at peace knowing that Paul did what he loved and what he believed in, right up until the very end.” According to ABC 7 New York, Cary was the first FEMA-deployed volunteer responder to COVID-19 in New York to die from the virus. Mayor Bill de Blasio gave a tribute to Cary in his daily COVID-19 press conference. “We have lost someone who came to our aid, to our defense and there’s something particularly painful when someone does the right thing; a fellow American comes from across the country to try and help the people in New York City and while working to save lives here, gives his own life,” de Blasio said, according to ABC 7. “It’s very painful. It’s heroic. It’s something we honor, but it’s very, very painful that we’ve lost this good man. Paramedic Paul Cary from Aurora, Colorado, part of the FEMA relief effort has died of the coronavirus. For three decades he served the people of Aurora and then came very bravely to serve us – he did not have to do it – he made the choice to come here to save lives.” Cary spent more than 30 years working as a firefighter and paramedic for Aurora’s fire department before joining Ambulnz. He is survived by two sons and four grandchildren.
2 May 15:40 • Business Insider Malaysia • https://www.businessinsider.my/colorado-paramedic-working-coronavirus-front-lines-died-covid-19-2020-5Rating: 0.30
A 66-year-old paramedic from Colorado died from COVID-19 after traveling to New York City to work on the front lines of the pandemic, Business Insider - Business Insider Singapore
A 66-year-old paramedic from Colorado traveled to New York to volunteer on the front lines of COVID-19 – then he died from the virus. Paul Cary, from Aurora, Colorado, died from COVID-19 on Thursday, about a week after testing positive for the virus. He had traveled to New York to volunteer for Ambulnz, an ambulance service provider, where he transported COVID-19 patients, KDVR reported. In a statement to CBS Denver, Cary’s family said they were “devastated” by his death. “Accepting Paul’s commitment to serving others in need, we respected his choice to volunteer to be part of Ambulnz’s response team to the COVID-19 crisis in New York City,” the family said. “He risked his own health and safety to protect others and left this world a better place. We are at peace knowing that Paul did what he loved and what he believed in, right up until the very end.” According to ABC 7 New York, Cary was the first FEMA-deployed volunteer responder to COVID-19 in New York to die from the virus. Mayor Bill de Blasio gave a tribute to Cary in his daily COVID-19 press conference. “We have lost someone who came to our aid, to our defense and there’s something particularly painful when someone does the right thing; a fellow American comes from across the country to try and help the people in New York City and while working to save lives here, gives his own life,” de Blasio said, according to ABC 7. “It’s very painful. It’s heroic. It’s something we honor, but it’s very, very painful that we’ve lost this good man. Paramedic Paul Cary from Aurora, Colorado, part of the FEMA relief effort has died of the coronavirus. For three decades he served the people of Aurora and then came very bravely to serve us – he did not have to do it – he made the choice to come here to save lives.” Cary spent more than 30 years working as a firefighter and paramedic for Aurora’s fire department before joining Ambulnz. He is survived by two sons and four grandchildren.
2 May 15:40 • www.businessinsider.sg • https://www.businessinsider.sg/colorado-paramedic-working-coronavirus-front-lines-died-covid-19-2020-5Rating: 0.30
A 66-year-old paramedic from Colorado died from COVID-19 after travelling to New York City to work on the front lines of the pandemic
A 66-year-old paramedic from Colorado travelled to New York to volunteer on the front lines of COVID-19 – then he died from the virus. Paul Cary, from Aurora, Colorado, died from COVID-19 on Thursday, about a week after testing positive for the virus. He had travelled to New York to volunteer for Ambulnz, an ambulance service provider, where he transported COVID-19 patients,KDVR reported. In a statement to CBS Denver, Cary’s family said they were “devastated” by his death. “Accepting Paul’s commitment to serving others in need, we respected his choice to volunteer to be part of Ambulnz’s response team to the COVID-19 crisis in New York City,” the family said. “He risked his own health and safety to protect others and left this world a better place. We are at peace knowing that Paul did what he loved and what he believed in, right up until the very end.” According to ABC 7 New York, Cary was the first FEMA-deployed volunteer responder to COVID-19 in New York to die from the virus. Mayor Bill de Blasio gave a tribute to Cary in his daily COVID-19 press conference. “We have lost someone who came to our aid, to our defence and there’s something particularly painful when someone does the right thing; a fellow American comes from across the country to try and help the people in New York City and while working to save lives here, gives his own life,” de Blasio said, according to ABC 7. “It’s very painful. It’s heroic. It’s something we honour, but it’s very, very painful that we’ve lost this good man. Paramedic Paul Cary from Aurora, Colorado, part of the FEMA relief effort has died of the coronavirus. For three decades he served the people of Aurora and then came very bravely to serve us – he did not have to do it – he made the choice to come here to save lives.” Cary spent more than 30 years working as a firefighter and paramedic for Aurora’s fire department before joining Ambulnz. He is survived by two sons and four grandchildren.
2 May 15:40 • Business Insider Australia • https://www.businessinsider.com.au/colorado-paramedic-working-coronavirus-front-lines-died-covid-19-2020-5Rating: 0.30
SERAP wants confiscated buildings used as isolation centres
3 May 12:09
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4 articles
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SERAP wants confiscated buildings used as isolation centres
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Federal Government to identify, publish and use confiscated buildings as isolation centres for COVID-19 patients. SERAP made the the call in a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, which was made available to newsmen in Lagos. The letter, dated May 2, was signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Mr Kolawole Oluwadare.[]It urged Buhari to instruct the attorney-general of the federation to identify and publish such assets. It said that using confiscated assets as isolation centres would provide an enabling environment for the treatment and care of patients and improve Nigeria’s ability to respond to COVID-19 as well as protect public health. “While it is important to ramp up testing for COVID-19 to prevent the spread of the virus, asking Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres will put them at greater risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. “Rather than begging Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres, the authorities should identify, publish and use confiscated assets as isolation centres as a temporary measure. “Using confiscated assets as isolation centres will be proportionate, necessary, and serve legitimate objectives: namely, to protect public health and public order,” it said. According to SERAP, the proposed measure will be lawful, effective and in public interest. “Using confiscated assets as proposed, will neither violate the accused’s right to property nor entail a duty to compensate. “Our recommendations, apart from being compatible with Nigeria’s international anti-corruption obligations including the UN Convention against Corruption which has been ratified, will enhance the ability of the authorities to effectively and satisfactorily respond to COVID-19.” it said.
3 May 12:09 • The Guardian • https://guardian.ng/news/serap-wants-confiscated-buildings-used-as-isolation-centres/Rating: 0.30
SERAP wants confiscated buildings used as isolation centres
Kindly Share This Story: The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Federal Government to identify, publish and use confiscated buildings as isolation centres for COVID-19 patients. SERAP made the the call in a letter to President Muhammadu Buhari, which was made available to newsmen in Lagos. The letter, dated May 2, was signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Mr Kolawole Oluwadare. It urged Buhari to instruct the attorney-general of the federation to identify and publish such assets. It said that using confiscated assets as isolation centres would provide an enabling environment for the treatment and care of patients and improve Nigeria’s ability to respond to COVID-19 as well as protect public health. “While it is important to ramp up testing for COVID-19 to prevent the spread of the virus, asking Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres will put them at greater risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. “Rather than begging Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres, the authorities should identify, publish and use confiscated assets as isolation centres as a temporary measure. “Using confiscated assets as isolation centres will be proportionate, necessary, and serve legitimate objectives: namely, to protect public health and public order,” it said. According to SERAP, the proposed measure will be lawful, effective and in public interest. “Using confiscated assets as proposed, will neither violate the accused’s right to property nor entail a duty to compensate. “Our recommendations, apart from being compatible with Nigeria’s international anti-corruption obligations including the UN Convention against Corruption which has been ratified, will enhance the ability of the authorities to effectively and satisfactorily respond to COVID-19.” it said. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 12:25 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/serap-wants-confiscated-buildings-used-as-isolation-centres/Rating: 2.43
COVID-19: SERAP asks Buhari to use confiscated stolen assets as isolation centres
Kindly Share This Story: Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent an urgent appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari urging him to “urgently instruct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Abukabar Malami, SAN to work with appropriate ministries and agencies to identify, publish and use confiscated stolen assets as isolation centres.” SERAP said: “Using confiscated assets as isolation centres would provide safe and enabling environments for the treatment and care of people, improve the authorities’ ability to respond to COVID-19, reduce the risks to Nigerians and to public health.” The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire had last week reportedly begged Nigerians to donate and temporarily make their buildings available as isolation centres. According to him, more buildings would be needed, as the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) aims to test two million people in the next three months. In the urgent appeal dated 2 May, 2020 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization said: “While it is important to ramp-up testing for COVID-19 to prevent the spread of the virus, asking Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres would be counter-productive, as it would put them at greater risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. SERAP also said: “Rather than begging Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres, the authorities should identify, publish and use confiscated assets as isolation centres, as a temporary measure. Using confiscated assets as isolation centres would be proportionate, necessary, and serve a legitimate objective, namely to protect public health and public order (ordre public).” According to SERAP, “The proposed measure would be lawful, and more effective, as it would be in the public interest. Using the confiscated assets as proposed would neither violate the accused’s right to property nor entail a duty to compensate. The proposal by the Minister of Health would pose unnecessary risks to public health.” The urgent appeal, read in part: “SERAP urges you to ask Mr Malami to urgently work out the details and modalities for implementing these recommendations with the Ministry of Health, Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).” “SERAP urges you to ask the Minister of Health to drop the idea of begging Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres, and to move swiftly to focus on implementing these recommendations as a step towards effectively reducing the spread of COVID-19, treating and caring for people, and fulfilling the right to health, in line with Nigeria’s human rights obligations and the sustainable development goals.” “Our recommendations, apart from being entirely compatible with Nigeria’s international anti-corruption obligations including the UN Convention against Corruption, which has been ratified, would also enhance the ability of the authorities to effectively and satisfactorily respond to COVID-19.” “Reducing health risks associated with Nigerians donating their buildings as isolation centres would complement the authorities’ objectives of ending COVID-19.” “As the right to health is closely related to and dependent upon the realization of other human rights, including the right to private and family life, asking Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres may also violate this fundamental human right.” “The recommendations would also enhance the ability of the authorities to effectively implement the country’s international human rights obligations particularly regarding to take effective steps to prevent, treat, and combat epidemic, endemic and other diseases, such as COVID-19.” “SERAP’s request is also in line with the repeated public commitment by your government to provide details and locations of all recovered stolen public funds.” “Publishing confiscated assets would also be entirely consistent with the judgment by Justice Hadiza Rabiu Shagari of the Federal High Court, Lagos, which ordered your government to tell Nigerians about the stolen assets it allegedly recovered.” “The judgment was delivered in July 2017 following a Freedom of Information suit number: FHC/CS/964/2016 brought by SERAP. Your government has refused to obey the judgment, despite Mr Malami publicly promising to do so.” “We hope that the aspects highlighted will help guide your actions in acting to ensure enabling environments as isolation centres to treat and care for Nigerians, as the NCDC takes steps to ramp up testing for COVID-19.” Copied in the urgent appeal are: Mr Abukabar Malami; Dr Osagie Ehanire; Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, Director General, NCDC; Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, Chairman, ICPC; and Ibrahim Mustafa Magu, Acting Chairman, EFCC. Vanguard Kindly Share This Story:
3 May 09:47 • Vanguard News • https://www.vanguardngr.com/2020/05/covid-19-serap-asks-buhari-to-use-confiscated-stolen-assets-as-isolation-centres/Rating: 2.43
Coronavirus: Convert recovered stolen buildings into isolation centres, SERAP tells Buhari
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has sent an urgent appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari urging him to “urgently instruct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Abukabar Malami SAN to work with appropriate ministries and agencies to identify, publish and use confiscated stolen assets as isolation centres.” SERAP said: “Using confiscated assets as isolation centres would provide safe and enabling environments for the treatment and care of people, improve the authorities’ ability to respond to COVID-19, reduce the risks to Nigerians and to public health.” The Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, had last week reportedly begged Nigerians to donate and temporarily make their buildings available as isolation centres. According to him, more buildings would be needed, as the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) aims to test two million people in the next three months. In the urgent appeal dated May 2, 2020 and signed by SERAP deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “While it is important to ramp-up testing for COVID-19 to prevent the spread of the virus, asking Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres would be counter-productive, as it would put them at greater risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19.” SERAP also said: “Rather than begging Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres, the authorities should identify, publish and use confiscated assets as isolation centres, as a temporary measure. Using confiscated assets as isolation centres would be proportionate, necessary, and serve a legitimate objective, namely to protect public health and public order (ordre public).” According to SERAP, “The proposed measure would be lawful, and more effective, as it would be in the public interest. Using the confiscated assets as proposed would neither violate the accused’s right to property nor entail a duty to compensate. The proposal by the Minister of Health would pose unnecessary risks to public health.” The urgent appeal, read in part: “SERAP urges you to ask Mr Malami to urgently work out the details and modalities for implementing these recommendations with the Ministry of Health, Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC), the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).” “SERAP urges you to ask the Minister of Health to drop the idea of begging Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres, and to move swiftly to focus on implementing these recommendations as a step towards effectively reducing the spread of COVID-19, treating and caring for people, and fulfilling the right to health, in line with Nigeria’s human rights obligations and the sustainable development goals.” “Our recommendations, apart from being entirely compatible with Nigeria’s international anti-corruption obligations including the UN Convention against Corruption, which has been ratified, would also enhance the ability of the authorities to effectively and satisfactorily respond to COVID-19.” “Reducing health risks associated with Nigerians donating their buildings as isolation centres would complement the authorities’ objectives of ending COVID-19.” “As the right to health is closely related to and dependent upon the realization of other human rights, including the right to private and family life, asking Nigerians to donate their buildings as isolation centres may also violate this fundamental human right.” “The recommendations would also enhance the ability of the authorities to effectively implement the country’s international human rights obligations particularly regarding to take effective steps to prevent, treat, and combat epidemic, endemic and other diseases, such as COVID-19.” “SERAP’s request is also in line with the repeated public commitment by your government to provide details and locations of all recovered stolen public funds.” “Publishing confiscated assets would also be entirely consistent with the judgment by Justice Hadiza Rabiu Shagari of the Federal High Court, Lagos, which ordered your government to tell Nigerians about the stolen assets it allegedly recovered.” “The judgment was delivered in July 2017 following a Freedom of Information suit number: FHC/CS/964/2016 brought by SERAP. Your government has refused to obey the judgment, despite Mr Malami publicly promising to do so.” “We hope that the aspects highlighted will help guide your actions in acting to ensure enabling environments as isolation centres to treat and care for Nigerians, as the NCDC takes steps to ramp up testing for COVID-19.” Copied in the urgent appeal are: Abukabar Malami; Osagie Ehanire; Chikwe Ihekweazu, Director General, NCDC; Bolaji Owasanoye, Chairman, ICPC; and Ibrahim Mustafa Magu, Acting Chairman, EFCC.
3 May 09:19 • Premium Times Nigeria • https://www.premiumtimesng.com/coronavirus/391136-coronavirus-convert-recovered-stolen-buildings-into-isolation-centres-serap-tells-buhari.htmlRating: 0.30
Ottawa investing in online health-care, Vancouver company studying COVID-19
3 May 13:31
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4 articles
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Ottawa investing in online health-care, Vancouver company studying COVID-19
The federal government is investing millions to boost online access to health services and to support a Vancouver biological company’s research into treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the new funding during his daily news conference in Ottawa this morning as provinces across the country prepare to start re-opening on Monday. The government is spending $240 million to boost access to online health services, including mental-health support and virtual access to doctors for primary care. Ottawa is also providing $175 million to AbCellera Biologics Inc., which Trudeau says has shown promising signs of progress in identifying antibodies that could be used create a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19. Trudeau also says Canada will work with its allies to get answers around the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 following unsubstantiated reports the virus leaked from a Chinese lab. But the prime minister insists the immediate focus is on helping Canadians through the pandemic. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 13:31 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-covid-19-lockdown-restrictions-slowly-being-relaxed-across-the-country-2/Rating: 2.18
Feds investing in online health-care, Vancouver company studying COVID-19
OTTAWA — The federal government is investing millions to boost online access to health services and to support a Vancouver biological company's research into treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the new funding during his daily news conference in Ottawa this morning as provinces across the country prepare to start re-opening on Monday. The government is spending $240 million to boost access to online health services, including mental-health support and virtual access to doctors for primary care. Ottawa is also providing $175 million to AbCellera Biologics Inc., which Trudeau says has shown promising signs of progress in identifying antibodies that could be used create a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19. Trudeau also says Canada will work with its allies to get answers around the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 following unsubstantiated reports the virus leaked from a Chinese lab. But the prime minister insists the immediate focus is on helping Canadians through the pandemic. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 3, 2020. The Canadian Press
3 May 15:40 • KitchenerToday.com • https://www.kitchenertoday.com/national-news/feds-investing-in-online-health-care-vancouver-company-studying-covid-19-2320293Rating: 0.30
Feds investing in online health care, Vancouver company studying coronavirus
OTTAWA — The federal government is investing millions to boost online access to health services and to support a Vancouver biological company’s research into treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the new funding during his daily news conference in Ottawa this morning as provinces across the country prepare to start re-opening on Monday. The government is spending $240 million to boost access to online health services, including mental-health support and virtual access to doctors for primary care. Ottawa is also providing $175 million to AbCellera Biologics Inc., which Trudeau says has shown promising signs of progress in identifying antibodies that could be used create a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19. Trudeau also says Canada will work with its allies to get answers around the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 following unsubstantiated reports the virus leaked from a Chinese lab. But the prime minister insists the immediate focus is on helping Canadians through the pandemic.
3 May 16:25 • 680News • https://www.680news.com/2020/05/03/feds-investing-in-online-health-care-vancouver-company-studying-coronavirus/Rating: 0.61
More for online health-care
OTTAWA - The federal government is investing millions to boost online access to health services and to support a Vancouver biological company's research into treatment and prevention of COVID-19. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the new funding during his daily news conference in Ottawa this morning as provinces across the country prepare to start re-opening on Monday. The government is spending $240 million to boost access to online health services, including mental-health support and virtual access to doctors for primary care. Ottawa is also providing $175 million to AbCellera Biologics Inc., which Trudeau says has shown promising signs of progress in identifying antibodies that could be used create a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19. Trudeau also says Canada will work with its allies to get answers around the spread of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19 following unsubstantiated reports the virus leaked from a Chinese lab. But the prime minister insists the immediate focus is on helping Canadians through the pandemic.
3 May 09:07 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/Canada/298976/Feds-boosting-online-health-servicesRating: 1.34
Kurnool sees unrelenting rise in coronavirus cases
3 May 18:18
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4 articles
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Kurnool sees unrelenting rise in coronavirus cases
Kurnool district is grappling with an unrelenting rise in COVID-19 cases, with 30 new cases being reported on Sunday alone. The total number of coronavirus cases in the district has now gone up to 466, with 379 persons still undergoing treatment at hospitals. Ten people have died so far while 77 have been discharged. While outgoing Municipal Commissioner Raveendra Babu is being treated at hospital, his COVID-19 status has not been confirmed officially. As a precautionary measure, Collector G. Veerapandian has quarantined himself and is holding all meetings either over video-conference or teleconference. New Municipal Commissioner D.K. Balaji, who assumed office, began his task of strengthening the processes in combating the COVID-19 and served notices on three employees on Sunday. Making an assessment of the sanitation in different areas in the city, the Commissioner along with the Health Officer and other officials reviewed the situation. Unhappy with the way sanitation in public places was being done, he served memos on three officials of 2A, 2B and 7B Divisions of the corporation and sought their reply within three days. He said the public health and sanitation was a key part of the fight against COVID-19 and that municipal workers had to do their best to support the efforts of the district administration and State Government. Out of the 30 new positive cases, 28 came from Kurnool city and two from Kodumuru mandal. The number of positive cases has jumped to 403 in Urban Local Bodies in the district and 63 in the rural areas. While there are four red zones in ULBs, there are five out of 23 mandals in rural areas. The State Government, meanwhile, released a list of 205 MBBS doctors appointed for performing duty in Kurnool district. The selected candidates have been asked to report to duty by Monday to the Principal, Kurnool Medical College, without fail. Waitlisted candidates will be taken in place of any candidate not joining on Monday.
3 May 18:18 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/kurnool-sees-unrelenting-rise-in-coronavirus-cases/article31496410.eceRating: 0.30
35 more test positive for COVID 19 in Bihar, total rises to 516
Thirty-five more people tested positive for COVID-19 in Bihar on Sunday, taking the total number of cases in the state to 516, officials said. Of the 35 people who tested positive for COVID-19 on Sunday, 10 were female while 25 were male from seven districts. Seven cases were reported from Munger district, followed by six in Bhagalpur, five each from West Champaran and Aurangabad, four from East Champaran, three including a one-and-half-year-old girl from Buxar and one each from Kaimur, Katihar, Sheohar, Arwal and Siwan districts, Principal Secretary, Health, Sanjay Kumar said in a tweet. "We are ascertaining their infection trail," Kumar said. Follow DH Coronavirus page for all the latest updates Of the 516 COVID-19 positive cases, Munger topped the list among 30 districts with 102 cases alone. The total number of active COVID-19 cases in the state is 393, while 119 people have recovered from coronavirus, officials said. For latest updates on coronavirus outbreak, click here Four persons have died of COVID-19 in the state so far, one each from Munger, Vaishali, East Champaran and Sitamarhi. Among the coronavirus-affected districts, Munger registered the highest positive cases of 102 so far, followed by Buxar (55), Rohtas (52), Patna (44), Nalanda (36), Siwan (31), Kaimur (28), Gopalganj, Madhubani and Bhojpur (18 each), Aurangabad (13), West Champaran (10) and Begusarai and Bhagalpur (11).
3 May 22:59 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/east-and-northeast/35-more-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-bihar-total-rises-to-516-833207.htmlRating: 2.25
Two Punjab Returnees Among Three New COVID-19 Cases In Nanded
General News Written By Press Trust Of India | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 12:21 IST Three more persons, including two drivers who returned from Punjab, tested positive for coronavirus in Maharashtra's Nanded district on Sunday, an official said. With this, the total number of COVID-19 cases in Nanded has gone up to 29, he said. "This morning, three persons tested positive for coronavirus. Out of them, two are drivers who returned from Punjab after providing a vehicle service," Nanded's civil surgeon Dr Neelkanth Bhosikar said. The third new patient is a female from Deglur Road area of Nanded, he said in a release. "Now, the number of COVID-19 patients who returned to Nanded from Punjab has gone up to five," the official said. The total number of COVID-19 cases in Nanded has now reached 29. Two of these patients died during treatment, the release said. On Saturday, 20 pilgrims currently residing at Nanded's Gurdwara Langar Sahib tested coronavirus positive. After this, Nanded Guardian Minister Ashok Chavan said the possibility of the drivers, who had ferried pilgrims from a gurdwara in Nanded to Punjab in buses, spreading the coronavirus infection among them cannot be ruled out. (Representative image: PTI)
3 May 12:21 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/two-punjab-returnees-among-three-new-covid-19-cases-in-nanded.htmlRating: 2.30
Kurnool reports 25 new cases, administration extra cautious
The Kurnool district administration has turned extra cautious with the number of COVID-19 positive cases reaching 436, with 25 new cases reported on Saturday and 360 of them still being treated in hospitals. There were 10 deaths and 66 persons have been discharged so far. District Collector G. Veerapandian too chose to hold a review meeting with the officers involved in the COVID19 either over videoconference or teleconference. Meanwhile, outgoing Municipal Commissioner Raveendra Babu is still admitted in the Government General Hospital, though he has been transferred to Kakinada and D.K. Balaji was appointed in his place. Officially there is no word on what his ailment was and if he was being tested for COVID also. Of the 25 new cases, 18 came from Kurnool city and five from Nandyal and one each from Adoni and Atmakur municipalities. Kurnool city and Nandyal registered the highest number of positive cases in the district with 265 and 90 cases respectively and of them 237 and 70 patients were still in hospitals. While four of the seven ULBs with positive cases are in the red zone, only five of the 23 mandals are in the red zone in Kurnool district. Meanwhile, the IPS Officers’ Wives’ Association on Saturday distributed fruit packets to the police personnel deployed in red zones and other places on COVID duty.
2 May 18:07 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/kurnool-reports-25-new-cases-administration-extra-cautious/article31491849.eceRating: 0.30
Role of Tablighi Jamaat members in spread of coronavirus condemnable: Adityanath
3 May 08:52
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5 articles
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Role of Tablighi Jamaat members in spread of coronavirus condemnable: Adityanath
Lucknow: Holding Tablighi Jamaat members responsible for the spread of COVID-19, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that being infected with a virus is not a crime but to hide it is definitely one. The chief minister said action would be taken against them for the "crime". Speaking at a programme of a news channel on Saturday, Adityanath said, "The role of Tablighi Jamaat was most condemnable. To get a disease is not a crime but to hide a disease which is infectious is definitely a crime. And this crime has been done by those associated with the Tablighi Jamaat." "In Uttar Pradesh and other places where the spread of the coronavirus has been seen, Tablighi Jamaat is behind it. Had they not hidden the disease and went about like its carriers, then perhaps we would have controlled the coronavirus outbreak to a large extent," he had said. A Tablighi Jamaat congregation held in March in Delhi's Nizamuddin area significantly contributed to the doubling of coronavirus cases in India.
3 May 08:52 • Deccan Chronicle • https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/030520/role-of-tablighi-jamaat-members-in-spread-of-coronavirus-condemnable.htmlRating: 1.64
Yogi Adityanath Blames Islamic Sect For Spread Of Coronavirus
Speaking at a programme of a news channel on Saturday, Adityanath said, "The role of Tablighi Jamaat was most condemnable." Lucknow: Holding Tablighi Jamaat members responsible for the spread of COVID-19, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that being infected with a virus is not a crime but to hide it is definitely one. The chief minister said action would be taken against them for the "crime". Speaking at a programme of a news channel on Saturday, Adityanath said, "The role of Tablighi Jamaat was most condemnable. To get a disease is not a crime but to hide a disease which is infectious is definitely a crime. And this crime has been done by those associated with the Tablighi Jamaat." "In Uttar Pradesh and other places where the spread of the coronavirus has been seen, Tablighi Jamaat is behind it. Had they not hidden the disease and went about like its carriers, then perhaps we would have controlled the coronavirus outbreak to a large extent," he had said. A Tablighi Jamaat congregation held in March in Delhi''s Nizamuddin area significantly contributed to the doubling of coronavirus cases in India. Email ArticlePrint Article Next Story
3 May 06:16 • The Hans India • https://www.thehansindia.com/news/national/yogi-adityanath-blames-islamic-sect-for-spread-of-coronavirus-620510?utm_campaign=pubshare&utm_source=Twitter&utm_medium=1874798778&utm_content=auto-link&utm_id=139Rating: 1.10
Role of Tablighi Jamaat most condemnable says Yogi Adityanath
Lucknow, May 03: Holding the Tablighi Jamaat responsible for the spread of COVID-19, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that being infected with a virus is not a crime but to hide it is definitely a crime. Speaking at a programme of a news channel, Adityanath said, "The role of Tablighi Jamaat was most condemnable. To get a disease is not a crime but to hide a disease which is infectious is definitely a crime. And this crime has been done by those associated with the Tablighi Jamaat." "In Uttar Pradesh and other places where the spread of the coronavirus has been seen, Tablighi Jamaat is behind it. Had they not hidden the disease and went about like its carriers, then perhaps we would have controlled the coronavirus outbreak to a large extend," he said. The chief minister said action would be taken against them for the "crime that they have committed". A Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Delhi in March turned out to be a major source of COVID-19 cases, with those who attended the meet returned home in different parts of the country after being infected with the deadly virus.
3 May 03:22 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/role-of-tablighi-jamaat-most-condemnable-says-yogi-adityanath-3082003.htmlRating: 0.30
Yogi Adityanath Says Role Of Tablighi Jamaat Attendees In Spread Of Covid 'condemnable'
General News Written By Digital Desk | Mumbai | Updated On: May 03, 2020 11:13 IST Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday said that being infected with a virus is not a crime but to hide it is definitely a crime, when asked about the spread of coronavirus due to the Tablighi Jamaat Markaz attendees. Speaking at a programme, UP CM Adityanath said, "The role of Tablighi Jamaat was most condemnable. To get a disease is not a crime but to hide a disease which is infectious is definitely a crime. And this crime has been done by those associated with the Tablighi Jamaat." He added: "In Uttar Pradesh and other places where the spread of the coronavirus has been seen, Tablighi Jamaat is behind it. Had they not hidden the disease and went about like its carriers, then perhaps we would have controlled the coronavirus outbreak to a large extend," he said. The chief minister said action would be taken against them for the "crime that they have committed". READ | Delhi Markaz's Maulana Saad Booked For Culpable Homicide; LoC For 2000 Foreign Tablighis On April 17, Saad had issued a statement stating that he has joined the Delhi police's investigation into the lockdown violation due to the Markaz event, replying to the notices issued by the police. He has also asked the police to issue a copy of the FIR detailing all the sections offences have been registered under. The Delhi Police on Thursday issued its fourth notice to Tablighi Jamaat chief Maulana Saad asking him to get tested for COVID-19 in a government laboratory. Saad, however, had earlier tested negative for COVID-19 in a private laboratory. His results were submitted to the Crime Branch of Delhi Police on Monday by his lawyer Fuzail Ayubi. READ |FIRs against 13 Tablighi Jamaat members for defying lockdown An FIR has been lodged against Maulana Saad under the Epidemic Disease Act 1897 for leading a religious congregation at the Nizamuddin Markaz in Delhi between March 13-15 amid the Coronavirus pandemic. As a result of the congregation, the virus spread across the country amounting to around 30% of India's total COVID-19 cases, the Health Ministry had informed earlier. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has also registered a money laundering case against Maulana Saad. The Health Ministry has revealed that over 30% of the total COVID-19 cases in India were related to the Markaz. Several states like Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Assam, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh have cases majorly due to attendees of the event and the people they came in contact with. Most of the above-mentioned states have traced the attendees, but those attendees in hiding have been warned of legal action if they don't surrender. (with PTI inputs) READ | Karnataka: IAS officer gets show-cause notice for lauding Tablighi Jamaat attendees
3 May 11:13 • Republic World • https://www.republicworld.com/india-news/general-news/yogi-adityanath-speaks-on-role-of-tablighi-jamaat-in-spread-of-covid.htmlRating: 2.30
Yogi Adityanath blames Tablighis for spread of COVID-19
Holding Tablighi Jamaat members responsible for the spread of COVID-19, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath has said that being infected with a virus is not a crime but to hide it is definitely one. The chief minister said action would be taken against them for the "crime". Speaking at a programme of a news channel on Saturday, Adityanath said, "The role of Tablighi Jamaat was most condemnable. To get a disease is not a crime but to hide a disease which is infectious is definitely a crime. And this crime has been done by those associated with the Tablighi Jamaat." "In Uttar Pradesh and other places where the spread of the coronavirus has been seen, Tablighi Jamaat is behind it. Had they not hidden the disease and went about like its carriers, then perhaps we would have controlled the coronavirus outbreak to a large extent," he had said. A Tablighi Jamaat congregation held in March in Delhi's Nizamuddin area significantly contributed to the doubling of coronavirus cases in India.
3 May 00:00 • Rediff • https://www.rediff.com/news/report/yogi-blames-tablighis-for-spread-of-covid-19/20200503.htmRating: 0.30
MHA asks States to create a second line of defence
3 May 18:18
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MHA asks States to create a second line of defence
Amid reports of policemen getting infected with the novel coronavirus, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked the States and the Union Territories to prepare a second line of defence to sustain the control strategy. In a note to all Chief Secretaries and Director-Generals of Police, the MHA said police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the personnel rendered ineffective by infection. While a majority of policemen are deployed for COVID-19-related work and other policing duties, the Head of Police Forces (HoPFs) may consider the option of ‘work from home’ for personnel not deployed on front-line duties wherever it is feasible, the communication said. Home Guards, Civil Defence personnel, NCC cadets, Scouts & Guides and Student Police Cadets could be utilised in areas where there were no imminent law and order problem, the MHA said. “They can especially be of help in maintaining order at the relief centres and in facilitating the maintenance of supply chain and coordinating other essential services.” The MHA said that while performing COVID-19-related duties, police/security personnel should help the public and deal with them with empathy and compassion, especially the weaker sections. They should monitor religious and social congregations during festivals to ensure physical distancing. The police should also be watchful of migrant labourers and slum areas to contain any unexpected and undesirable mass movement. The Centre’s instructions come after States reported infection among police and security personnel deployed as frontline workers to implement the lockdown orders and the guidelines to check the spread of the virus. In Tamil Nadu, the DGP had recently issued instructions that at least 25% of the 1.25 lakh police force could stay at home so as to keep a healthy reserve to meet any exigency. “It is imperative to make police personnel aware of the precautions to be taken while performing their assigned tasks in order to ensure that the strategy adopted for containing COVID-19 spread remains sustainable. Police authorities may take necessary precautions to sanitise the physical environment at the place of duty of police... A lot of awareness has been generated of the infection through various campaigns by the Government,” it said. The MHA said Police Control Rooms might be expanded, resourced and designed to incorporate special cells to handle all issues arising out of the pandemic. The staff manning the cells should be trained in elementary modules of the epidemic and appropriate responses to handle issues and scenarios they are likely to face. Such cells should be equipped with men and material, including drones that may be used for reconnaissance.
3 May 18:18 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/mha-asks-states-to-create-a-second-line-of-defence/article31496411.eceRating: 0.30
COVID-19: Centre asks states to prepare second line of defence with home guards, NCC cadets others
NEW DELHI: Concerned over scores of frontline security personnel catching the COVID-19 disease, the Centre has suggested to states to prepare an effective second line of defence by deploying home guards, civil defence and NCC cadets among others wherever feasible to contain the spread of the deadly virus. In a communication to all states and UTs, the Ministry of Home Affairs said the police chiefs may consider the option of 'work from home' for personnel not deployed on the frontline, and wherever possible. "To meet the challenge of COVID-19, and to ensure sustainment of control strategy for COVID- 19, police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the police personnel who may be rendered ineffective due to COVID infection during the pandemic," the ministry said. Over 200 central paramilitary personnel have been infected with COVID-19 till now, with a 55-year-old CRPF man succumbing to the disease last week. At least three police personnel of different state police forces have also died because of the virus. The home ministry said police authorities should strictly apply self-quarantine rules to its members, when needed, as per the guidelines issued by the Health Ministry. The home ministry said the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is a global health crisis which has affected a huge population the world over. The virus which causes the disease is highly infectious and even pre-symptomatic people can infect others. Any person who is in close contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19 (e.g. fever, cough, breathing difficulty, etc.) is at risk of contracting the disease. The home ministry said the police and security personnel are among the frontline workers performing duties to implement lockdown orders and government guidelines for containing the spread of the disease. Since they have to interact with the public on a daily basis, they are likely to be more vulnerable to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). "Instances have been noticed of police and security personnel getting infected. Hence, it is imperative to make police personnel aware of the precautions to be taken while performing their assigned tasks in order to ensure that the strategy adopted for containing COVID-19 spread remains sustainable," it said. In view of such cases, it is considered expedient to issue the guidelines to reiterate the precautions and measures to be taken, it said. The home ministry said police authorities may take necessary precautions to sanitise the physical environment at the place of duty of police and security personnel. Police or security personnel may be advised to keep themselves safe by practicing proper hygiene and physical distancing, it advised. Police authorities should also take care of safety and hygiene of its personnel by providing all necessary materials like hand sanitizers, soaps, masks, face shield, gloves, safe food, etc. and also train the personnel in their proper usage and disposal, the ministry said. It said home guards, civil defence, NCC cadets, Scouts and Guides and Student Police Cadets may be utilised in areas where there are not imminent law and order issues. They can especially be of help in maintaining order at the relief centres and in facilitating the maintenance of supply chain and for coordinating other essential services, according to the ministry. While performing COVID-related duties, police and security personnel should help general public and deal with them with empathy and compassion especially with the weaker sections of the society. They should monitor religious and social congregations during festivals to ensure social distancing, it said. Police should also be watchful of migrant labourers and slums to contain any unexpected and undesirable mass movement, it said, adding most state polices have already set up Control Rooms. It is reiterated that control rooms are the nerve centres of policing and must monitor, round the clock, the minutest concerns of policing during the pandemic, it said. The control rooms may be expanded, resourced and designed to incorporate special COVID-19 Cells, to exclusively look after all issues relating to the pandemic. The staff manning these cells should be trained on elementary modules relating to the epidemic and briefed about appropriate responses to help engage with issues and scenarios they are likely to be confronted with, the ministry said. Such cells should be adequately equipped with men and material, including drones which may be used for aerial reconnaissance, if required on urgent basis.
3 May 15:12 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/covid-19-centre-asks-states-to-prepare-second-line-of-defence-with-home-guards-ncc-cadets-others/articleshow/75521047.cmsRating: 0.30
COVID: Centre asks states to prepare second line of defence with home guards, NCC cadets others
Concerned over scores of frontline security personnel catching the COVID-19 disease, the Centre has suggested to states to prepare an effective second line of defence by deploying home guards, civil defence and NCC cadets among others wherever feasible to contain the spread of the deadly virus. In a communication to all states and UTs, the Ministry of Home Affairs said the police chiefs may consider the option of 'work from home' for personnel not deployed on the frontline, and wherever possible. Follow live updates on coronavirus "To meet the challenge of COVID-19, and to ensure sustainment of control strategy for COVID- 19, police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the police personnel who may be rendered ineffective due to COVID infection during the pandemic," the ministry said. Over 200 central paramilitary personnel have been infected with COVID-19 till now, with a 55-year-old CRPF man succumbing to the disease last week. At least three police personnel of different state police forces have also died because of the virus. The home ministry said police authorities should strictly apply self-quarantine rules to its members, when needed, as per the guidelines issued by the Health Ministry. The home ministry said the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is a global health crisis which has affected a huge population the world over. The virus which causes the disease is highly infectious and even pre-symptomatic people can infect others. Any person who is in close contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19 (e.g. fever, cough, breathing difficulty, etc.) is at risk of contracting the disease. The home ministry said the police and security personnel are among the frontline workers performing duties to implement lockdown orders and government guidelines for containing the spread of the disease. Since they have to interact with the public on a daily basis, they are likely to be more vulnerable to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). "Instances have been noticed of police and security personnel getting infected. Hence, it is imperative to make police personnel aware of the precautions to be taken while performing their assigned tasks in order to ensure that the strategy adopted for containing COVID-19 spread remains sustainable," it said. In view of such cases, it is considered expedient to issue the guidelines to reiterate the precautions and measures to be taken, it said. The home ministry said police authorities may take necessary precautions to sanitise the physical environment at the place of duty of police and security personnel. Police or security personnel may be advised to keep themselves safe by practicing proper hygiene and physical distancing, it advised. Police authorities should also take care of safety and hygiene of its personnel by providing all necessary materials like hand sanitizers, soaps, masks, face shield, gloves, safe food, etc. and also train the personnel in their proper usage and disposal, the ministry said. It said home guards, civil defence, NCC cadets, Scouts and Guides and Student Police Cadets may be utilised in areas where there are not imminent law and order issues. They can especially be of help in maintaining order at the relief centres and in facilitating the maintenance of supply chain and for coordinating other essential services, according to the ministry. While performing COVID-related duties, police and security personnel should help general public and deal with them with empathy and compassion especially with the weaker sections of the society. They should monitor religious and social congregations during festivals to ensure social distancing, it said. Police should also be watchful of migrant labourers and slums to contain any unexpected and undesirable mass movement, it said, adding most state polices have already set up Control Rooms. It is reiterated that control rooms are the nerve centres of policing and must monitor, round the clock, the minutest concerns of policing during the pandemic, it said. The control rooms may be expanded, resourced and designed to incorporate special COVID-19 Cells, to exclusively look after all issues relating to the pandemic. The staff manning these cells should be trained on elementary modules relating to the epidemic and briefed about appropriate responses to help engage with issues and scenarios they are likely to be confronted with, the ministry said. Such cells should be adequately equipped with men and material, including drones which may be used for aerial reconnaissance, if required on urgent basis.
3 May 19:18 • Deccan Herald • https://www.deccanherald.com/national/covid-centre-asks-states-to-prepare-second-line-of-defence-with-home-guards-ncc-cadets-others-833094.htmlRating: 2.25
MHA orders ‘second line of defence’ for police as cases rise
New Delhi, May 03: The ministry of home affairs (MHA) on Sunday directed chief secretaries, director generals of police (DGPs) of all states and heads of central paramilitary forces to "prepare a second line of defence" in police to make up for those who may be rendered ineffective due to COVID-19. The MHA said the police chiefs may consider the option of ''work from home'' for personnel not deployed on frontline, and wherever feasible. "To meet the challenge of COVID-19, and to ensure sustainment of control strategy for COVID- 19, police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the police personnel who may be rendered ineffective due to COVID infection during the pandemic," the home ministry said. "Forces can use the services of home guards, civil defence, NCC cadets, Scouts and Guides and Students Police Cadets in the areas where there are not imminent law and order duties," it added. The order comes in the wake of reports of more personnel being infected with Covid-19 cases. The CRPF has been the worst hit with more than 100 of its troopers testing positive in Delhi which forced it to seal its headquarters on Sunday.
3 May 14:03 • Oneindia • https://www.oneindia.com/india/mha-orders-second-line-of-defence-for-police-cases-soar-3082246.html?utm_source=/rss/news-india-fb.xml&utm_medium=2.21.35.206&utm_campaign=client-rssRating: 0.30
Ministry of Home Affairs asks States to create second line of defence, amidst reports of police personnel contracting COVID-19
Amidst reports of police personnel getting infected by coronavirus, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has asked States/Union Territories to prepare a second line of defence to ensure sustainment of the control strategy for COVID-19. In a note to all Chief Secretaries/Director-Generals of Police, the MHA said police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the police personnel who may be rendered ineffective due to COVID-19 infection during the pandemic. While a majority of police personnel were deployed for attending to COVID-19 related work and other policing duties, Head of Police Forces (HoPFs) may consider the option of ‘Work from Home’ for personnel not deployed on frontline duties where feasible, the communication said. Home Guards, Civil Defence personnel, NCC cadets, Scouts & Guides and Student Police Cadets could be utilised in areas where there were no imminent law and order issues. “They can especially be of help in maintaining order at the relief centres and in facilitating the maintenance of supply chain and for coordinating other essential services.” The MHA said that while performing COVID-19 related duties, police/security personnel should help the general public and deal with them with empathy and compassion, especially with the weaker sections of the society. They should monitor religious and social congregations during festivals to ensure social distancing. Police should also be watchful of migrant labourers/ slum areas to contain any unexpected and undesirable mass movement. The Centre’s instructions follow after States reported COVID-19 infections among police and security deployed as frontline workers performing duties to implement lockdown orders and government guidelines for containing the spread of the disease. In Tamil Nadu, the DGP had recently issued instructions that at least 25 per cent of the 1.25 lakh police force could stay at home in order to keep a healthy reserve force standby to meet exigencies. “It is imperative to make police personnel aware of the precautions to be taken while performing their assigned tasks in order to ensure that the strategy adopted for containing COVID-19 spread remains sustainable. Police authorities may take necessary precautions to sanitise the physical environment at the place of duty of police…lot of awareness has been generated about the infection through various campaigns by the Government,” it added. The MHA said Police Control Rooms may be expanded, resourced and designed to incorporate special COVID-19 Cells, to exclusively look after all issues relating to the pandemic. The staff manning these COVID-19 cells should be trained on elementary modules relating to the epidemic and briefed about appropriate responses to help engage with issues and scenarios they are likely to be confronted with. Such COVID-19 Cells should be adequately equipped with men and material, including drones which may be used for aerial reconnaissance.
3 May 10:49 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/ministry-of-home-affairs-asks-states-to-create-second-line-of-defence-amidst-reports-of-police-personnel-contracting-covid-19/article31494317.eceRating: 0.30
MHA orders ‘second line of defence’ for police as Covid-19 cases rise
The ministry of home affairs (MHA) on Sunday asked chief secretaries, director generals of police (DGPs) of all states and heads of central paramilitary forces to “prepare a second line of defence” in police to make up for those who may be rendered ineffective due to Covid-19. In an order, the ministry told the states/union territories that they can use the services of home guards, civil defence, NCC cadets, Scouts and Guides and Students Police Cadets in the areas where there are not imminent law and order duties. The order came after many central police forces have reported Covid-19 cases. The CRPF has been the worst hit with more than 100 of its troopers testing positive in Delhi which forced it to seal its headquarters on Sunday. Click here for full Covid-19 coverage. The police chiefs have also been asked to consider the option of work from home for personnel not deployed on frontline and where feasible. “To meet the challenge of Covid-19, and to ensure sustainment of control strategy for Covid-19, police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the police personnel who may be rendered ineffective due to Covid-19 infection during the pandemic,” stated the order reviewed by HT. The government has suggested that the home guards, NCC etc can especially be of help in maintaining order at the relief centres and in facilitating the maintenance of supply chain and for coordinating other essential services. The police have also been asked to help the general public and deal with them with empathy and compassion especially the weaker sections of the society. The cops have been asked to also monitor religious and social congregations during festivals to ensure social distancing. “Police should also be watchful of migrant labourers/slums to contain any unexpected and undesirable mass movement,” it stated.
3 May 13:03 • Hindustan Times • https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/mha-orders-second-line-of-defence-for-police-as-covid-19-cases-rise/story-eWL9dC33JqQV6GN5SWETuN.htmlRating: 0.30
Bolsonaro tells rally Brazil lockdown destroying jobs
3 May 22:40
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Bolsonaro tells rally Brazil lockdown destroying jobs
Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro railed against the country's lockdown Sunday in a speech to thousands of anti-confinement demonstrators as the number of confirmed COVID-19 infections passed 100,000, with more than 7,000 deaths. Bolsonaro blamed state governors for continuing the lockdown in a speech outside his presidential palace in Brasilia. "The destruction of jobs by some governors is irresponsible and unacceptable. We will pay a high price in the future," the head of state said in a speech broadcast live on Facebook. Bolsonaro has repeatedly clashed with state governors, insisting that strict containment measures they are imposing are an overreaction, and damaging to the economy. The country registered 101,147 confirmed cases of the virus by Sunday, according to figures released by the Brazilian health ministry, with 275 deaths from COVID-19 within the previous 24 hours. Experts believe the overall number of COVID-19 cases could be 12 to 15 times higher, due to a large number of undetected cases given the lack of testing availability across the country's 210 million population. The demonstration in Brasilia drew a larger crowd than similar protests in recent weeks, and many people held up banners criticising Bolsonaro critics Rodrigo Maia, head of the chamber of deputies, and former justice minister Sergio Moro who resigned last week. Others in the crowd called on the army to intervene. "The people are with us and the army is on the side of the law, order, freedom and democracy," Bolsonaro told them. The Estado de Sao Paulo daily, one of the country's biggest newspapers, reported on its website that one of its photographers and his driver were attacked by demonstrators, who pushed and kicked them. Contrary to recent demonstrations in which he made an appearance, the far-right president -- who did not wear a mask -- maintained a distance of around two meters (six feet) from his nearest supporters after his address outside the presidential palace. However, he made an exception for supporters who joined him for a selfie with his nine-year-old daughter Laura. Experts are bracing for the biggest outbreak in South America to get far worse, as the peak of the pandemic is thought to be some weeks away. Last week, Rio de Janeiro state said it would extend stay-at-home orders until May 11, ignoring Bolsonaro's demands that local and state authorities encourage Brazilians to get back to work.
3 May 22:40 • Digital Journal • http://www.digitaljournal.com/news/world/bolsonaro-tells-rally-brazil-lockdown-destroying-jobs/article/571151Rating: 0.78
Bolsonaro tells rally Brazil lockdown destroying jobs
Brazil's President Jail Bolsonaro railed against the country's lockdown Sunday in a speech to thousands of anti-confinement demonstrators as the number of confirmed COVID-19 infections passed 100,000, with more than 7,000 deaths. Bolsonaro blamed state governors for continuing the lockdown in a speech outside his presidential palace in Brasilia. "The destruction of jobs by some governors is irresponsible and unacceptable. We will pay a high price in the future," the head of state said in a speech broadcast live on Facebook. Bolsonaro has repeatedly clashed with state governors, insisting that strict containment measures they are imposing are an overreaction, and damaging to the economy. The country registered 101,147 confirmed cases of the virus by Sunday, according to figures released by the Brazilian health ministry, with 275 deaths from COVID-19 within the previous 24 hours. Experts believe the overall number of COVID-19 cases could be 12 to 15 times higher, due to a large number of undetected cases given the lack of testing availability across the country's 210 million population. The demonstration in Brasilia drew a larger crowd than similar protests in recent weeks, and many people held up banners criticising Bolsonaro critics Rodrigo Maia, head of the chamber of deputies, and former justice minister Sergio Moro who resigned last week. Others in the crowd called on the army to intervene. "The people are with us and the army is on the side of the law, order, freedom and democracy," Bolsonaro told them. The Estado de Sao Paulo daily, one of the country's biggest newspapers, reported on its website that one of its photographers and his driver were attacked by demonstrators, who pushed and kicked them. Contrary to recent demonstrations in which he made an appearance, the far-right president -- who did not wear a mask -- maintained a distance of around two meters (six feet) from his nearest supporters after his address outside the presidential palace. However, he made an exception for supporters who joined him for a selfie with his nine-year-old daughter Laura. Experts are bracing for the biggest outbreak in South America to get far worse, as the peak of the pandemic is thought to be some weeks away. Last week, Rio de Janeiro state said it would extend stay-at-home orders until May 11, ignoring Bolsonaro's demands that local and state authorities encourage Brazilians to get back to work. lg/fjb/db/bgs https://www.facebook.com/policies
3 May 22:43 • Pulse Live • https://www.pulselive.co.ke/news/world/bolsonaro-tells-rally-brazil-lockdown-destroying-jobs/edc4n9gRating: 0.51
Bolsonaro tells rally Brazil lockdown destroying jobs
BRASíLIA — Brazil's President Jail Bolsonaro railed against the country's lockdown Sunday in a speech to thousands of anti-confinement demonstrators as the number of confirmed COVID-19 infections passed 100,000, with more than 7,000 deaths. Bolsonaro blamed state governors for continuing the lockdown in a speech outside his presidential palace in Brasilia. "The destruction of jobs by some governors is irresponsible and unacceptable. We will pay a high price in the future," the head of state said in a speech broadcast live on Facebook. Bolsonaro has repeatedly clashed with state governors, insisting that strict containment measures they are imposing are an overreaction, and damaging to the economy. The country registered 101,147 confirmed cases of the virus by Sunday, according to figures released by the Brazilian health ministry, with 275 deaths from COVID-19 within the previous 24 hours. Experts believe the overall number of COVID-19 cases could be 12 to 15 times higher, due to a large number of undetected cases given the lack of testing availability across the country's 210 million population. The demonstration in Brasilia drew a larger crowd than similar protests in recent weeks, and many people held up banners criticising Bolsonaro critics Rodrigo Maia, head of the chamber of deputies, and former justice minister Sergio Moro who resigned last week. Others in the crowd called on the army to intervene. "The people are with us and the army is on the side of the law, order, freedom and democracy," Bolsonaro told them. The Estado de Sao Paulo daily, one of the country's biggest newspapers, reported on its website that one of its photographers and his driver were attacked by demonstrators, who pushed and kicked them. Contrary to recent demonstrations in which he made an appearance, the far-right president -- who did not wear a mask -- maintained a distance of around two meters (six feet) from his nearest supporters after his address outside the presidential palace. However, he made an exception for supporters who joined him for a selfie with his nine-year-old daughter Laura. Experts are bracing for the biggest outbreak in South America to get far worse, as the peak of the pandemic is thought to be some weeks away. Last week, Rio de Janeiro state said it would extend stay-at-home orders until May 11, ignoring Bolsonaro's demands that local and state authorities encourage Brazilians to get back to work. © 2020 AFP
3 May 19:45 • Japan Today • https://japantoday.com/category/world/bolsonaro-tells-rally-brazil-lockdown-destroying-jobsRating: 2.09
Kate surprises new parents during video-call to London hospital
3 May 20:56
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Kate surprises new parents during video-call to London hospital
A new mum and dad received an unexpected surprise when the Duchess of Cambridge paid them a virtual bedside visit. Kate said hello during a video call to midwives she had worked with at Kingston Hospital last year. She chatted to Rebecca Attwood and John Gill with their baby Max nearby, and when she was told the infant had been born the night before, the royal said: ‘My goodness, you must be exhausted.’ She added Max was ‘so sweet’ before congratulating the new mum and dad. Midwives told the duchess the coronavirus outbreak had left some mothers suffering from anxiety, concerned about catching Covid-19. During another video call with experts from the sector, the duchess raised concerns about new parents, saying they should ‘reach out and ask for help’ if they need it. The call was made on April 22 to staff at the maternity unit of Kingston Hospital in south-west London, where she spent two days on a work placement last November. During her video chat from her Anmer Hall home in Norfolk, Kate spoke to midwives she had met before, and their colleagues, about how the experiences of expectant mothers and new parents have changed because of the coronavirus pandemic. To maintain social distancing, three pairs of midwives took it in turns to join the chat, while another was filmed putting on personal protective equipment (PPE) before taking the laptop in to introduce the duchess to baby Max and his parents. Ahead of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week which begins on Monday, Kate spoke to a group of experts last week, including Dr Alain Gregoire, chairman of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, and Dr Edward Morris, president of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The duchess, who has spent much of her public work highlighting the importance of the early years development of children and parental wellbeing, said to the group: ‘Parents do need to go out and reach out to those who can support them, particularly those who can provide knowledgeable resource as well. ‘It’s important to access and reach out for help when you do need it.’ Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 20:56 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/kate-surprises-new-parents-video-call-london-hospital-12649356/Rating: 2.18
Kate Middleton Congratulates Parents On Their Newborn In Surprise Phone Call
May 2, 2020 Joe Allen The new mother was operating on two hours of sleep when she spoke with the Duchess of Cambridge. Even as she’s quarantined with her family, Kate Middleton is still finding ways to bring some love to families across the United Kingdom. The Duchess of Cambridge recently surprised a pair of new parents with a video chat in which she congratulated them on their new child, People reports. Middleton was introduced to the couple, Rebecca and John, at Kingston Hospital, where Middleton did some work shadowing last November. “Very nice to meet you. This is definitely a first. Well, firstly, huge congratulations. Is it a little boy or a little girl?” Middleton said on the call. After the couple told the duchess that it was a boy, Middleton offered even more congratulations. “He’s so sweet. Congratulations!,” the royal mother said. In speaking with People, Rebecca said that her conversation with a member of the royal family had come as a shock to her. “Having a baby is an extraordinary experience at any time, but having one during lockdown and then having a surprise conversation with the Duchess of Cambridge after two hours sleep was particularly surreal!,” she said. Rebecca continued by saying that Middleton had asked what it was like to give birth during the coronavirus pandemic. She said that the midwives in the maternity ward had tried to make the process as normal as possible. The new mother said that apart from the masks, this birth was almost identical to when she had her first son in 2015. On her call, Middleton also checked in with the hospital’s staff to see how they’d been coping in light of the virus. “Are you very aware of a difference, or a shift in a mother’s emotional and mental wellbeing in comparison to before the pandemic?” Middleton asked. The staff told the duchess that the situation had led to an increase in anxiety, and then praised the staff for their ability to work through the challenge. The midwives on the call discussed the impact the coronavirus had had on them, and the importance of continued support for frontline workers. Last week, Middleton and Prince William launched Our Frontline, an initiative designed to provide 24-hour mental health support for frontline staff and key workers dealing with the virus. Throughout her time as a royal, Middleton has prioritized childhood development and the mental health of parents as two of her key issues. On the call, she told the staff that babies come regardless of the circumstances in the world, and said she was grateful to them for continuing to do the work they do in these new circumstances.
2 May 23:35 • The Inquisitr • https://www.inquisitr.com/6031413/kate-middleton-congratulates-parents-on-their-newborn-in-surprise-phone-call/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+google%2FyDYq+%28The+Inquisitr+-+News%29Rating: 0.30
Kate coos over newborn baby during virtual chat with parents
The Duchess of Cambridge has made a virtual bedside visit to new parents during a video call to midwives she worked alongside last year. Kate chatted to Rebecca Attwood and John Gill with their baby Max nearby, and when she was told the infant had been born the night before, the royal said: “My goodness, you must be exhausted.” Midwives told the duchess the coronavirus outbreak had left some mothers suffering from anxiety, concerned about catching Covid-19. During another video call with experts from the sector, the duchess raised concerns about new parents, saying they should “reach out and ask for help” if they need it. The video call was made on April 22 to staff at the maternity unit of Kingston Hospital in south-west London, where she spent two days on a work placement last November. Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. When the duchess, who is mother to six-year-old Prince George, Princess Charlotte, who celebrated her fifth birthday on Saturday, and two-year-old Prince Louis, began chatting with the parents of baby Max, she said: “Well firstly, huge congratulations. Is it a little boy or a little girl?” “It’s a little boy,” Ms Attwood told her, as she sat up in her hospital bed with her newborn son alongside her in a cot. Given a closer look at little Max, the duchess cooed: “He’s so sweet. Ah, congratulations. When did you have him?” Told he had arrived at 10pm the previous night, Kate said: “My goodness, you must be exhausted,” and his mother replied “Yes. I’m pretty tired now.” During her video chat, Kate spoke to midwives she had met before, and their colleagues, about how the experiences of expectant mothers and new parents has changed because of the coronavirus pandemic. To maintain social distancing, three pairs of midwives took it in turns to join the chat, while another was filmed putting on personal protective equipment before taking the laptop in to introduce the duchess to baby Max and his parents. From her Anmer Hall home in Norfolk, the duchess watched as the hospital birth centre’s lead midwife Sam Frewin, whom she had met during her work placement last November, appeared on camera in a mask and disposable apron. “I’m smiling, can you tell?” joked Sam. “I know,” gasped Kate, surprised by her appearance. Looking closer, she laughed, adding: “With your eyes, I can.” Later Jennifer Tshibamba, an antenatal midwife who is part of a team offering ultrasound scans and blood tests for genetic conditions, said wearing masks was an added challenge when giving parents difficult news. She said: “It’s the aspect of having that face-to-face contact and being at a distance and having your mask on and not seeing someone’s facial expressions and knowing that she might be hesitating to say something.” During the video call, the duchess asked about the concerns of mothers and was told by Jo Doumouchtsi, a perinatal mental health midwife, there had been an increase in referrals for anxiety. She said: “The main issues that women are having at the moment really are around coming into hospital and worries about catching Covid, but also about the isolation after the baby is born. “They have to self-isolate, so they are having limited support from their other family members.” Sorry, this content isn't available on your device. Ahead of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week which begins on Monday, Kate spoke to a group of experts last week, including Dr Alain Gregoire, chairman of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, and Dr Edward Morris, president of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The duchess, who has spent much of her public work highlighting the importance of the early years development of children and parental wellbeing, said to the group: “Parents do need to go out and reach out to those who can support them, particularly those who can provide knowledgeable resource as well. “It’s important to access and reach out for help when you do need it.” She added: “You speak to six mums and all of you realise you are going through the same thing. Before that, you’re worried that actually what you’re experiencing, you’re the only one who’s going through it.”
2 May 23:01 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/kate-coos-over-newborn-baby-during-virtual-chat-with-parents/Rating: 0.88
Kate coos over newborn baby during virtual chat with parents
The Duchess of Cambridge has continued her video call meetings with health professionals and frontline workers. The Duchess of Cambridge has made a virtual bedside visit to new parents during a video call to midwives she worked alongside last year. Kate chatted to Rebecca Attwood and John Gill with their baby Max nearby, and when she was told the infant had been born the night before, the royal said: “My goodness, you must be exhausted.” Midwives told the duchess the coronavirus outbreak had left some mothers suffering from anxiety, concerned about catching Covid-19. During another video call with experts from the sector, the duchess raised concerns about new parents, saying they should “reach out and ask for help” if they need it. The video call was made on April 22 to staff at the maternity unit of Kingston Hospital in south-west London, where she spent two days on a work placement last November. When the duchess, who is mother to six-year-old Prince George, Princess Charlotte, who celebrated her fifth birthday on Saturday, and two-year-old Prince Louis, began chatting with the parents of baby Max, she said: “Well firstly, huge congratulations. Is it a little boy or a little girl?” “It’s a little boy,” Ms Attwood told her, as she sat up in her hospital bed with her newborn son alongside her in a cot. Given a closer look at little Max, the duchess cooed: “He’s so sweet. Ah, congratulations. When did you have him?” Told he had arrived at 10pm the previous night, Kate said: “My goodness, you must be exhausted,” and his mother replied “Yes. I’m pretty tired now.” During her video chat, Kate spoke to midwives she had met before, and their colleagues, about how the experiences of expectant mothers and new parents has changed because of the coronavirus pandemic. To maintain social distancing, three pairs of midwives took it in turns to join the chat, while another was filmed putting on personal protective equipment before taking the laptop in to introduce the duchess to baby Max and his parents. From her Anmer Hall home in Norfolk, the duchess watched as the hospital birth centre’s lead midwife Sam Frewin, whom she had met during her work placement last November, appeared on camera in a mask and disposable apron. “I’m smiling, can you tell?” joked Sam. “I know,” gasped Kate, surprised by her appearance. Looking closer, she laughed, adding: “With your eyes, I can.” Later Jennifer Tshibamba, an antenatal midwife who is part of a team offering ultrasound scans and blood tests for genetic conditions, said wearing masks was an added challenge when giving parents difficult news. She said: “It’s the aspect of having that face-to-face contact and being at a distance and having your mask on and not seeing someone’s facial expressions and knowing that she might be hesitating to say something.” During the video call, the duchess asked about the concerns of mothers and was told by Jo Doumouchtsi, a perinatal mental health midwife, there had been an increase in referrals for anxiety. She said: “The main issues that women are having at the moment really are around coming into hospital and worries about catching Covid, but also about the isolation after the baby is born. “They have to self-isolate, so they are having limited support from their other family members.” Ahead of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week which begins on Monday, Kate spoke to a group of experts last week, including Dr Alain Gregoire, chairman of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, and Dr Edward Morris, president of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The duchess, who has spent much of her public work highlighting the importance of the early years development of children and parental wellbeing, said to the group: “Parents do need to go out and reach out to those who can support them, particularly those who can provide knowledgeable resource as well. “It’s important to access and reach out for help when you do need it.” She added: “You speak to six mums and all of you realise you are going through the same thing. Before that, you’re worried that actually what you’re experiencing, you’re the only one who’s going through it.”
2 May 21:31 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/kate-coos-over-newborn-baby-during-virtual-chat-with-parents/Rating: 0.30
Kate coos over newborn baby during virtual chat with parents
The Duchess of Cambridge has made a virtual bedside visit to new parents during a video call to midwives she worked alongside last year. Kate chatted to Rebecca Attwood and John Gill with their baby Max nearby, and when she was told the infant had been born the night before, the royal said: “My goodness, you must be exhausted.” Midwives told the duchess the coronavirus outbreak had left some mothers suffering from anxiety, concerned about catching Covid-19. During another video call with experts from the sector, the duchess raised concerns about new parents, saying they should “reach out and ask for help” if they need it. The video call was made on April 22 to staff at the maternity unit of Kingston Hospital in south-west London, where she spent two days on a work placement last November. When the duchess, who is mother to six-year-old Prince George, Princess Charlotte, who celebrated her fifth birthday on Saturday, and two-year-old Prince Louis, began chatting with the parents of baby Max, she said: “Well firstly, huge congratulations. Is it a little boy or a little girl?” “It’s a little boy,” Ms Attwood told her, as she sat up in her hospital bed with her newborn son alongside her in a cot. Given a closer look at little Max, the duchess cooed: “He’s so sweet. Ah, congratulations. When did you have him?” Told he had arrived at 10pm the previous night, Kate said: “My goodness, you must be exhausted,” and his mother replied “Yes. I’m pretty tired now.” During her video chat, Kate spoke to midwives she had met before, and their colleagues, about how the experiences of expectant mothers and new parents has changed because of the coronavirus pandemic. To maintain social distancing, three pairs of midwives took it in turns to join the chat, while another was filmed putting on personal protective equipment before taking the laptop in to introduce the duchess to baby Max and his parents. From her Anmer Hall home in Norfolk, the duchess watched as the hospital birth centre’s lead midwife Sam Frewin, whom she had met during her work placement last November, appeared on camera in a mask and disposable apron. “I’m smiling, can you tell?” joked Sam. “I know,” gasped Kate, surprised by her appearance. Looking closer, she laughed, adding: “With your eyes, I can.” Later Jennifer Tshibamba, an antenatal midwife who is part of a team offering ultrasound scans and blood tests for genetic conditions, said wearing masks was an added challenge when giving parents difficult news. She said: “It’s the aspect of having that face-to-face contact and being at a distance and having your mask on and not seeing someone’s facial expressions and knowing that she might be hesitating to say something.” During the video call, the duchess asked about the concerns of mothers and was told by Jo Doumouchtsi, a perinatal mental health midwife, there had been an increase in referrals for anxiety. She said: “The main issues that women are having at the moment really are around coming into hospital and worries about catching Covid, but also about the isolation after the baby is born. “They have to self-isolate, so they are having limited support from their other family members.” Ahead of Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week which begins on Monday, Kate spoke to a group of experts last week, including Dr Alain Gregoire, chairman of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, and Dr Edward Morris, president of the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The duchess, who has spent much of her public work highlighting the importance of the early years development of children and parental wellbeing, said to the group: “Parents do need to go out and reach out to those who can support them, particularly those who can provide knowledgeable resource as well. “It’s important to access and reach out for help when you do need it.” She added: “You speak to six mums and all of you realise you are going through the same thing. Before that, you’re worried that actually what you’re experiencing, you’re the only one who’s going through it.”
2 May 21:31 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/02/kate-coos-over-newborn-baby-during-virtual-chat-with-parents/Rating: 0.30
Ex-Government adviser forms ‘transparent’ lockdown science committee
3 May 19:28
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Ex-Government adviser forms ‘transparent’ lockdown science committee
A former Government chief scientific adviser has assembled a group of experts to look at how the UK could work its way out of coronavirus lockdown. Sir David King, who worked under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, created the board to emphasise the “importance of transparency” following concerns over the current meetings of the UK Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE). The group is informing ministers’ response to the Covid-19 crisis, and the 80-year-old cited the issue of the Prime Minister’s aide, Dominic Cummings, being present at the meetings, saying it could cause “confusion”. He told the PA news agency: “I know this is a controversial point, but I certainly think that I would never have had the Prime Minister’s chief strategy adviser on board, because I think that it is perfectly feasible to provide clear scientific advice and then for the strategy and the politics to be determined separately.” He said he was concerned Mr Cummings’s presence had given Boris Johnson “two advisers” on coronavirus, with “a chief scientific adviser giving the advice from Sage and at the same time a strategy adviser who, frankly, is not a scientist and isn’t in a position to summarise that advice”. Sir David’s new 12-strong committee of academics will convene for the first time on Monday and is keen to investigate seven key points, including how can successful testing and tracing be achieved, and what social distancing measures will be needed in the future. Sir David said he will share their findings and workings with the public by streaming meetings on YouTube, and reflected on his career working with Government. He said: “If we’re not given access to the science advice it’s very difficult to evaluate that, and by given access I mean, when I was chief scientific adviser I explained to Tony Blair and Gordon Brown that every bit of advice I put into them I would put into the public domain as well.” He added: “I recognised I was giving advice, but they were making the political decision, they would bring in strategy advisers and other advisers, but the advice was purely scientific.” Last week, current chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said a partial list of Sage members would be issued “shortly”. Coronavirus: Everything you need to know
3 May 19:28 • ITV News • https://www.itv.com/news/2020-05-03/ex-government-adviser-forms-transparent-lockdown-science-committee/Rating: 0.88
Ex-Government adviser forms ‘transparent’ lockdown science committee
A former Government chief scientific adviser has assembled a group of experts to look at how the UK could work its way out of coronavirus lockdown. Sir David King, who worked under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, created the board to emphasise the “importance of transparency” following concerns over the current meetings of the UK Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage). The group is informing ministers’ response to the Covid-19 crisis, and the 80-year-old cited the issue of the Prime Minister’s aide, Dominic Cummings, being present at the meetings, saying it could cause “confusion”. He told the PA news agency: “I know this is a controversial point, but I certainly think that I would never have had the Prime Minister’s chief strategy adviser on board, because I think that it is perfectly feasible to provide clear scientific advice and then for the strategy and the politics to be determined separately.” He said he was concerned Mr Cummings’s presence had given Boris Johnson “two advisers” on coronavirus, with “a chief scientific adviser giving the advice from Sage and at the same time a strategy adviser who, frankly, is not a scientist and isn’t in a position to summarise that advice”. Sir David’s new 12-strong committee of academics will convene for the first time on Monday and is keen to investigate seven key points, including how can successful testing and tracing be achieved, and what social distancing measures will be needed in the future. Sir David said he will share their findings and workings with the public by streaming meetings on YouTube, and reflected on his career working with Government. He said: “If we’re not given access to the science advice it’s very difficult to evaluate that, and by given access I mean, when I was chief scientific adviser I explained to Tony Blair and Gordon Brown that every bit of advice I put into them I would put into the public domain as well.” He added: “I recognised I was giving advice, but they were making the political decision, they would bring in strategy advisers and other advisers, but the advice was purely scientific.” Last week, current chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said a partial list of Sage members would be issued “shortly”.
3 May 19:01 • Express & Star • https://www.expressandstar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/ex-government-adviser-forms-transparent-lockdown-science-committee/Rating: 0.30
Ex-chief scientist forms 'transparent' committee to advise end of lockdown
A former Government scientific advisor has formed his own committee to look at how the UK could leave the coronavirus lockdown. Sir David King, who worked under Labour prime ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, said he created the board to emphasise the ‘importance of transparency’. Concerns have been raised over the current meetings of the UK Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage). The group is informing ministers’ response to the Covid-19 crisis, and the 80-year-old cited the issue of the Prime Minister’s aide, Dominic Cummings, being present at the meetings, saying it could cause ‘confusion’. He said: ‘I know this is a controversial point, but I certainly think that I would never have had the Prime Minister’s chief strategy adviser on board because I think that it is perfectly feasible to provide clear scientific advice and then for the strategy and the politics to be determined separately.’ Sir David added he was concerned Cummings’s presence had given Boris Johnson ‘two advisers’ on coronavirus, with ‘a chief scientific adviser giving the advice from Sage and at the same time a strategy adviser who, frankly, is not a scientist and isn’t in a position to summarise that advice’. Sir David’s new 12-strong committee of academics will convene for the first time on Monday and is keen to investigate seven key points, including how can successful testing and tracing be achieved, and what social distancing measures will be needed in the future. He said he will share their findings and workings with the public by streaming meetings on YouTube, and reflected on his career working with Government. Sir David added: ‘If we’re not given access to the science advice it’s very difficult to evaluate that, and by given access I mean, when I was chief scientific adviser I explained to Tony Blair and Gordon Brown that every bit of advice I put into them I would put into the public domain as well.’ Last month top Tories joined the calls for Cummings to be banned from scientific advisory meetings during the coronavirus crisis. David Davis, former Brexit Secretary, feared the presence of ‘non-scientist members’ could lead to changes in the advice given from the Sage committee. He said: ‘We should publish the membership of Sage, remove any non-scientist members, publish their advice in full, and publish dissenting opinions with the advice,’ Last week, current chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said a partial list of Sage members would be issued ‘shortly’. Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. For more stories like this, check our news page.
3 May 22:13 • Metro • https://metro.co.uk/2020/05/03/lockdown-committee-formed-ex-government-scientific-advisor-12649488/Rating: 2.18
Ex-Government adviser forms ‘transparent’ lockdown science committee
Sir David King, who worked under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, said he created the board to emphasise the ‘importance of transparency’. A former Government chief scientific adviser has assembled a group of experts to look at how the UK could work its way out of coronavirus lockdown. Sir David King, who worked under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, created the board to emphasise the “importance of transparency” following concerns over the current meetings of the UK Government’s Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage). The group is informing ministers’ response to the Covid-19 crisis, and the 80-year-old cited the issue of the Prime Minister’s aide, Dominic Cummings, being present at the meetings, saying it could cause “confusion”. He told the PA news agency: “I know this is a controversial point, but I certainly think that I would never have had the Prime Minister’s chief strategy adviser on board, because I think that it is perfectly feasible to provide clear scientific advice and then for the strategy and the politics to be determined separately.” He said he was concerned Mr Cummings’s presence had given Boris Johnson “two advisers” on coronavirus, with “a chief scientific adviser giving the advice from Sage and at the same time a strategy adviser who, frankly, is not a scientist and isn’t in a position to summarise that advice”. Sir David’s new 12-strong committee of academics will convene for the first time on Monday and is keen to investigate seven key points, including how can successful testing and tracing be achieved, and what social distancing measures will be needed in the future. Sir David said he will share their findings and workings with the public by streaming meetings on YouTube, and reflected on his career working with Government. He said: “If we’re not given access to the science advice it’s very difficult to evaluate that, and by given access I mean, when I was chief scientific adviser I explained to Tony Blair and Gordon Brown that every bit of advice I put into them I would put into the public domain as well.” He added: “I recognised I was giving advice, but they were making the political decision, they would bring in strategy advisers and other advisers, but the advice was purely scientific.” Last week, current chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said a partial list of Sage members would be issued “shortly”.
3 May 19:01 • Shropshire Star • https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/uk-news/2020/05/03/ex-government-adviser-forms-transparent-lockdown-science-committee/Rating: 0.30
Dr. Bonnie Henry warns against ‘missteps’ as B.C. prepares to begin reopening
3 May 14:37
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Dr. Bonnie Henry warns against ‘missteps’ as B.C. prepares to begin reopening
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is urging continued vigilance even as British Columbia prepares to begin loosening restrictions in response to COVID-19 next week. The province confirmed a new outbreak Saturday at Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry, where three workers have tested positive. There are now 52 cases linked to Superior Poultry and 35 with United Poultry, Henry said. “It is far too easy to tip the scales against us and undo the hard work and sacrifice that everybody here in B.C. has made,” she said during a public briefing Saturday. “We cannot afford any missteps as we look to ease our restrictions in the coming days and weeks.” Officials are also concerned about workers returning to B.C. from the Kearl Lake project in Alberta, as the number of cases linked to that outbreak continues to grow, she said. It’s “vitally important” that anyone returning from Kearl Lake self-isolate for 14 days and that their families practise physical distancing, she said. British Columbia recorded 26 new cases Saturday, bringing the provincial total to 2,171. Two more people have died and 1,376 have fully recovered. The provincial government will release dynamic modelling for infections on Monday, including information about who is getting infected and where. It will also reveal what reopening plans will look like in the province next week. The timing is in line with Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, Dr. Henry said, although she said that restrictions have been different in each province. “If we look at what we have put in place and the orders and restrictions in B.C., they have not been as draconian, you might say, as some other places,” she said. British Columbia also can’t mimic jurisdictions like Sweden, where a focus has been on building so called community or “herd immunity,” nor New Zealand, which has received global praise for its response. Those countries do not share a border with a country hard hit by the virus, she said. “We are very close to a very large country that is having itself a very large outbreak. As we know, early on, Washington state had a dramatic increase in cases that affected us quite dramatically here in B.C.,” Dr. Henry said. “So it’s a balance, we all have our own approach.” Testing will be a vital part of entering the next stage of pandemic response, especially identifying any cases that don’t have identifiable links to existing outbreaks or clusters, she said. Public health is also putting resources toward contact tracing and ensuring testing is available for anyone who shows any symptoms, she said. Our Morning Update and Evening Update newsletters are written by Globe editors, giving you a concise summary of the day’s most important headlines. Sign up today.
3 May 14:37 • The Globe and Mail • https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/british-columbia/article-dr-bonnie-henry-warns-against-missteps-as-bc-prepares-to-begin/Rating: 2.18
Can't afford any 'missteps'
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is urging continued vigilance even as British Columbia prepares to begin loosening restrictions in response to COVID-19 next week. The province confirmed a new outbreak Saturday at Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry, where three workers have tested positive. There are now 52 cases linked to Superior Poultry and 35 with United Poultry, Henry said. "It is far too easy to tip the scales against us and undo the hard work and sacrifice that everybody here in B.C. has made," she said during a public briefing Saturday. "We cannot afford any missteps as we look to ease our restrictions in the coming days and weeks." Officials are also concerned about workers returning to B.C. from the Kearl Lake project in Alberta, as the number of cases linked to that outbreak continues to grow, she said. It's "vitally important" that anyone returning from Kearl Lake self-isolate for 14 days and that their families practise physical distancing, she said. British Columbia recorded 26 new cases Saturday, bringing the provincial total to 2,171. Two more people have died and 1,376 have fully recovered. The provincial government will release dynamic modelling for infections on Monday, including information about who is getting infected and where. It will also reveal what reopening plans will look like in the province next week. The timing is in line with Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, Henry said, although she noted that restrictions have been different in each province. "If we look at what we have put in place and the orders and restrictions in B.C., they have not been as draconian, you might say, as some other places," she said. British Columbia also can't mimic jurisdictions like Sweden, where a focus has been on building so called community or "herd immunity," nor New Zealand, which has received global praise for its response. Those countries do not share a border with a country hard hit by the virus, she noted. "We are very close to a very large country that is having itself a very large outbreak. As we know, early on, Washington state had a dramatic increase in cases that affected us quite dramatically here in B.C.," Henry said. "So it's a balance, we all have our own approach." Testing will be a vital part of entering the next stage of pandemic response, especially identifying any cases that don't have identifiable links to existing outbreaks or clusters, she said. Public health is also putting resources toward contact tracing and ensuring testing is available for anyone who shows any symptoms, she said.
3 May 05:59 • Castanet • https://www.castanet.net/news/BC/298962/Henry-warns-against-missteps-as-B-C-prepares-to-reopenRating: 1.34
Henry warns against 'missteps' as B.C. prepares to begin reopening
VICTORIA - Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is urging continued vigilance even as British Columbia prepares to begin loosening restrictions in response to COVID-19 next week. The province confirmed a new outbreak Saturday at Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry, where three workers have tested positive. There are now 52 cases linked to Superior Poultry and 35 with United Poultry, Henry said. "It is far too easy to tip the scales against us and undo the hard work and sacrifice that everybody here in B.C. has made," she said during a public briefing Saturday. "We cannot afford any missteps as we look to ease our restrictions in the coming days and weeks." Officials are also concerned about workers returning to B.C. from the Kearl Lake project in Alberta, as the number of cases linked to that outbreak continues to grow, she said. It's "vitally important" that anyone returning from Kearl Lake self-isolate for 14 days and that their families practice physical distancing, she said. British Columbia recorded 26 new cases Saturday, bringing the provincial total to 2,171. Two more people have died and 1,376 have fully recovered. The provincial government will release dynamic modelling for infections on Monday, including information about who is getting infected and where. It will also reveal what reopening plans will look like in the province next week. The timing is in line with Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, Henry said, although she noted that restrictions have been different in each province. "If we look at what we have put in place and the orders and restrictions in B.C., they have not been as draconian, you might say, as some other places," she said. British Columbia also can't mimic jurisdictions like Sweden, where a focus has been on building so called community or "herd immunity," nor New Zealand, which has received global praise for its response. Those countries do not share a border with a country hard hit by the virus, she noted. "We are very close to a very large country that is having itself a very large outbreak. As we know, early on, Washington state had a dramatic increase in cases that affected us quite dramatically here in B.C.," Henry said. "So it's a balance, we all have our own approach." Testing will be a vital part of entering the next stage of pandemic response, especially identifying any cases that don't have identifiable links to existing outbreaks or clusters, she said. Public health is also putting resources toward contact tracing and ensuring testing is available for anyone who shows any symptoms, she said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 2, 2020.
2 May 23:29 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/henry-warns-against-missteps-as-bc-prepares-to-begin-reopening/it72897Rating: 0.30
Henry warns against 'missteps' as B.C. prepares to begin reopening
VICTORIA - Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry is urging continued vigilance even as British Columbia prepares to begin loosening restrictions in response to COVID-19 next week. The province confirmed a new outbreak Saturday at Fraser Valley Specialty Poultry, where three workers have tested positive. There are now 52 cases linked to Superior Poultry and 35 with United Poultry, Henry said. "It is far too easy to tip the scales against us and undo the hard work and sacrifice that everybody here in B.C. has made," she said during a public briefing Saturday. "We cannot afford any missteps as we look to ease our restrictions in the coming days and weeks." Officials are also concerned about workers returning to B.C. from the Kearl Lake project in Alberta, as the number of cases linked to that outbreak continues to grow, she said. It's "vitally important" that anyone returning from Kearl Lake self-isolate for 14 days and that their families practise physical distancing, she said. British Columbia recorded 26 new cases Saturday, bringing the provincial total to 2,171. Two more people have died and 1,376 have fully recovered. The provincial government will release dynamic modelling for infections on Monday, including information about who is getting infected and where. It will also reveal what reopening plans will look like in the province next week. The timing is in line with Alberta, Ontario and Quebec, Henry said, although she noted that restrictions have been different in each province. "If we look at what we have put in place and the orders and restrictions in B.C., they have not been as draconian, you might say, as some other places," she said. British Columbia also can't mimic jurisdictions like Sweden, where a focus has been on building so called community or "herd immunity," nor New Zealand, which has received global praise for its response. Those countries do not share a border with a country hard hit by the virus, she noted. "We are very close to a very large country that is having itself a very large outbreak. As we know, early on, Washington state had a dramatic increase in cases that affected us quite dramatically here in B.C.," Henry said. "So it's a balance, we all have our own approach." Testing will be a vital part of entering the next stage of pandemic response, especially identifying any cases that don't have identifiable links to existing outbreaks or clusters, she said. Public health is also putting resources toward contact tracing and ensuring testing is available for anyone who shows any symptoms, she said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 2, 2020. — By Amy Smart in Vancouver. Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version had different case numbers at two poultry plants based on incorrect information provided during a briefing.
2 May 21:54 • iNFOnews.ca • https://infotel.ca/newsitem/covid-bc/cp1941594476Rating: 0.30
Rise in coronavirus cases expected to stabilise anytime soon: Niti Aayog member VK Paul
3 May 10:01
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Rise in coronavirus cases expected to stabilise anytime soon: Niti Aayog member VK Paul
New Delhi: The continuous rise in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus is expected to stabilise anytime soon, Niti Aayog member V K Paul said on Sunday. He also said the rationale behind the government's decision to extend the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3 is to consolidate the gains of the first and second phase of restrictions. In an interview to , Paul said sudden spurt in number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to containment strategy. "The rationale (behind extending the lockdown till May 17) is that the gains of lockdown need to be consolidated in the country...Real goal of lockdown was to suppress the chain of transmission of the virus. So, we will lose that, if we abruptly end it," he said. Paul, who is heading an Empowered Group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle coronavirus outbreak, said that at the same time where situation is good, the opening will take place with caution and care. Replying to a question that whether India has slipped into community transmission stage, he said, "Essentially, we think it (continuous rise in coronavirus cases) is still amenable to containment strategy". He also noted that India is nowhere close to the kind of escalation of coronavirus cases that it witnessed during the pre-lockdown phase. "In the pre-lockdown stage, we were doubling our number of cases in every five days. Before that even at every 3 days. Now, we are doubling in 11-12 days. "So, overall the rate of spread has diminished but yes the number still has not stabilised. But we expect it to stabilise anytime soon," the Niti Aayog member said. Reacting to criticism that India is not doing enough tests, Paul said India's testing strategy has been fine-tuned from time to time based on the stage of coronavirus disease. "And we have build and increased our capacities. Today, we are doing more than 50,000 tests every day and we have done more than 7 lakh tests total," he pointed out. On what will be the new normal after the lockdown ends, the Niti Aayog member said working from home wherever possible, will become a new normal until pandemic is totally extinguished. "After the lockdown ends, our new normal is going to be be very different. There will be no big collection of people, there will be no religion congregation or big events. "We will have to wear masks. Lots of things will change until the pandemic is totally extinguished," he observed. The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 1,301 and the number of cases climbed to 39,980 in the country on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. The Centre has extended the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3, when the second phase of these restrictions was scheduled to end. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown from March 25, which was later extended by two more weeks to contain the virus spread. However, several experts have cautioned that the lockdown is severely impacting the economy and many rating agencies and industry bodies have forecast a sharp dip in the country's economic growth rate for the current fiscal.
3 May 10:01 • The Economic Times • https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/rise-in-coronavirus-cases-expected-to-stabilise-anytime-soon-niti-aayog-member-vk-paul/articleshow/75517219.cmsRating: 0.30
The new norm will be different post lockdown: Niti Aayog
New Delhi: The continuous rise in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus is expected to stabilise anytime soon, Niti Aayog member V K Paul said on Sunday. He also said the rationale behind the government's decision to extend the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3 is to consolidate the gains of the first and second phase of restrictions. In an interview to PTI, Paul said sudden spurt in number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to containment strategy. "The rationale (behind extending the lockdown till May 17) is that the gains of lockdown need to be consolidated in the country...Real goal of lockdown was to suppress the chain of transmission of the virus. So, we will lose that, if we abruptly end it," he said. Paul, who is heading an Empowered Group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle coronavirus outbreak, said that at the same time where situation is good, the opening will take place with caution and care. Replying to a question that whether India has slipped into community transmission stage, he said, "Essentially, we think it (continuous rise in coronavirus cases) is still amenable to containment strategy". He also noted that India is nowhere close to the kind of escalation of coronavirus cases that it witnessed during the pre-lockdown phase. "In the pre-lockdown stage, we were doubling our number of cases in every five days. Before that even at every 3 days. Now, we are doubling in 11-12 days. "So, overall the rate of spread has diminished but yes the number still has not stabilised. But we expect it to stabilise anytime soon," the Niti Aayog member said. Reacting to criticism that India is not doing enough tests, Paul said India's testing strategy has been fine-tuned from time to time based on the stage of coronavirus disease. "And we have build and increased our capacities. Today, we are doing more than 50,000 tests every day and we have done more than 7 lakh tests total," he pointed out. On what will be the new normal after the lockdown ends, the Niti Aayog member said working from home wherever possible, will become a new normal until pandemic is totally extinguished. "After the lockdown ends, our new normal is going to be be very different. There will be no big collection of people, there will be no religion congregation or big events. "We will have to wear masks. Lots of things will change until the pandemic is totally extinguished," he observed. The Centre has extended the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3, when the second phase of these restrictions was scheduled to end. However, several experts have cautioned that the lockdown is severely impacting the economy and many rating agencies and industry bodies have forecast a sharp dip in the country's economic growth rate for the current fiscal.
3 May 15:06 • Deccan Chronicle • https://www.deccanchronicle.com/business/in-other-news/030520/the-new-norm-will-be-different-till-pandemic-is-totally-eliminated-ni.htmlRating: 1.64
Rise in corona cases expected to stabilise anytime soon: Niti Aayog member
The continuous rise in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus is expected to stabilise anytime soon, Niti Aayog member V K Paul said on Sunday. He also said that the rationale behind the government's decision to extend the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3 is to consolidate the gains of the first and second phase of restrictions. In an interview with PTI, Paul said the sudden spurt in number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to a containment strategy. "The rationale (behind extending lockdown till May 17) is that the gains of lockdown need to be consolidated in the country...The real goals of lockdown were to suppress the chain of transmission of the virus. So, we will lose that, if we abruptly end it," he said. Paul, who is heading an Empowered Group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle coronavirus outbreak, said that at the same time where the situation is good, the opening will take place with caution and care. ALSO READ: Over 1 mn RT-PCR tests for coronavirus detection conducted in India: ICMR Replying to a question that whether India has slipped into the community transmission stage, he said, "Essentially, we think it (continuous rise in coronavirus cases) is still amenable to containment strategy". He also noted that India is nowhere close to the kind of escalation of coronavirus cases that it witnessed during the pre-lockdown phase. "In the pre-lockdown stage, we were doubling our number of cases in every five days. Before that even at every 3 days. Now, we are doubling in 11-12 days. So, overall the rate of spread has diminished but yes the number still has not stabilised. But we expect it to stabilise anytime soon," the Niti Aayog member said. The death toll due to Covid-19 rose to 1,301 and the number of cases climbed to 39,980 in the country on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. ALSO READ: Coronavirus LIVE The Centre has extended the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3, when the second phase of these restrictions was scheduled to end. However, several experts have cautioned that the lockdown is severely impacting the economy and many rating agencies and industry bodies have forecast a sharp dip in the country's economic growth rate for the current fiscal.
3 May 11:18 • Business-Standard • https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/rise-in-covid-19-cases-expected-to-stabilise-anytime-soon-niti-aayog-120050300589_1.htmlRating: 0.30
‘Need to consolidate gains’: Niti Aayog's VK Paul on lockdown extension
The continuous rise in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus is expected to stabilise any time soon, Niti Aayog member VK Paul said on Sunday. He also said the rationale behind the government’s decision to extend the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3 is to consolidate the gains of the first and second phase of restrictions. In an interview to PTI, Paul said that the sudden spurt in number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to the containment strategy. “The rationale (behind extending lockdown till May 17) is that the gains of lockdown need to be consolidated in the country...Real goals of the lockdown was to suppress the chain of transmission of the virus. So, we will lose that, if we abruptly end it,” he said. Paul, who is heading an Empowered Group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle coronavirus outbreak, said that at the same time where situation is good, the opening will take place with caution and care. Replying to a question that whether India has slipped into community transmission stage, he said, “Essentially, we think it (continuous rise in coronavirus cases) is still amenable to containment strategy.” He also noted that India is nowhere close to the kind of escalation of coronavirus cases that it witnessed during the pre-lockdown phase.“In the pre-lockdown stage, we were doubling our number of cases in every five days. Before that even at every 3 days. Now, we are doubling in 11-12 days. So, overall the rate of spread has diminished, but yes the number still has not stabilised. But we expect it to stabilise anytime soon,” the Niti Aayog member said. Reacting to criticism that India is not doing enough tests, Paul said India’s testing strategy has been fine-tuned from time to time based on the stage of coronavirus disease. “And we have build and increase our capacities. Today, we are doing more than 50,000 tests every day and we have done more than 7 lakh tests total,” he pointed out. On what will be the new normal after the lockdown ends, the Niti Aayog member said working from home wherever possible, will become a new normal until pandemic is totally extinguished. “After the lockdown ends, our new normal is going to be be very different. There will be no big collection of people, there will be no religion congregation or big events. We will have to wear masks. Lots of things will change until the pandemic is totally extinguished,” he observed. The death toll due to Covid-19 rose to 1,301 and the number of cases climbed to 39,980 in the country on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. The Centre has extended the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3, when the second phase of these restrictions was scheduled to end. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown from March 25, which was later extended by two more weeks to contain the spread of the coronavirus. However, several experts have cautioned that the lockdown is severely impacting the economy and many rating agencies and industry bodies have forecast a sharp dip in the country’s economic growth rate for the current fiscal.
3 May 10:38 • BusinessLine • https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/need-to-consolidate-gains-niti-aayog-member-vk-paul-on-lockdown-extension/article31494270.eceRating: 1.98
Coronavirus | Rise in COVID-19 cases expected to stabilise any time soon, says Niti Aayog member V.K. Paul
The continuous rise in the number of people testing positive for coronavirus is expected to stabilise any time soon,Niti Aayog member V K Paul said on Sunday. He also said the rationale behind the government’s decision to extend the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3 is to consolidate the gains of the first and second phase of restrictions. Also read: Coronavirus | No new COVID-19 cases after May 16, says study In an interview to PTI, Dr. Paul said sudden spurt in number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to containment strategy. “The rationale (behind extending lockdown till May 17) is that the gains of lockdown need to be consolidated in the country...Real goals of lockdown was to suppress the chain of transmission of the virus. So, we will lose that, if we abruptly end it,” he said. Dr. Paul, who is heading an Empowered Group on medical equipment and management plan to tackle coronavirus outbreak, said that at the same time where situation is good, the opening will take place with caution and care. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak under control, without lockdown India would have around one lakh cases by now: Government Replying to a question that whether India has slipped into community transmission stage, he said, “Essentially, we think it (continuous rise in coronavirus cases) is still amenable to containment strategy”. He also noted that India is nowhere close to the kind of escalation of coronavirus cases that it witnessed during the pre-lockdown phase. “In the pre-lockdown stage, we were doubling our number of cases in every five days. Before that even at every 3 days. Now, we are doubling in 11-12 days. “So, overall the rate of spread has diminished but yes the number still has not stabilised. But we expect it to stabilise any time soon,” the Niti Aayog member said. The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to more than 1,300 and the number of cases climbed to over 39,000 in the country on Sunday, according to the Union Health Ministry. The Centre has extended the lockdown by two more weeks after May 3, when the second phase of these restrictions was scheduled to end. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had first announced a 21-day nationwide lockdown from March 25, which was later extended by two more weeks to contain the virus spread. However, several experts have cautioned that the lockdown is severely impacting the economy and many rating agencies and industry bodies have forecast a sharp dip in the country’s economic growth rate for the current fiscal.
3 May 10:04 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/coronavirus-rise-in-covid-19-cases-expected-to-stabilise-any-time-soon-says-niti-aayog-member-vk-paul/article31494186.eceRating: 0.30
UN: Virus efforts jeopardise vaccines for millions of MENA children
3 May 08:48
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3 articles
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UN: Virus efforts jeopardise vaccines for millions of MENA children
AMMAN, May 3 — The coronavirus pandemic could jeopardise vaccination campaigns in the Middle East and North Africa, Unicef warned today, saying millions of children could miss out on polio and measles immunisations. The UN agency said most countries in the region were continuing with routine campaigns, under strict controls to prevent the spread of the virus. But it warned that some vaccination campaigns had been suspended as health workers were diverted to fighting the Covid-19 illness. “As a result, one in five children or 10 million children under the age of five risk missing their polio vaccination,” it said in a statement. “Nearly 4.5 million children under the age of 15 risk missing their measles vaccination.” Ted Chaiban, Unicef’s regional director, said it was “absolutely critical that every child gets immunised against deadly diseases including polio, measles, diphtheria and hepatitis”. He said measures including disinfection, protective clothing and social distancing meant that “immunisation for children is possible even in the time of Covid”. UNICEF and the World Health Organization warned in mid-April that around 117 million children worldwide risked contracting measles as dozens of countries curtailed vaccination programmes to battle the pandemic. The head of the global organisation fighting polio told AFP in early April that the novel coronavirus had dealt an unprecedented blow to mass immunisation drives, risking a resurgence of the disease. — AFP
3 May 08:48 • Malaymail • https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2020/05/03/un-virus-efforts-jeopardise-vaccines-for-millions-of-mena-children/1862606Rating: 1.42
Millions of minors in Middle East, N Africa risk missing vaccines
The coronavirus pandemic could jeopardise vaccination campaigns across the Middle East and North Africa, the United Nations children's agency (UNICEF) has said, warning that millions of children could miss out on polio and measles immunisations. "As a result, one in five children or 10 million children under the age of five risk missing their polio vaccination," UNICEF said in a statement on Sunday. "Nearly 4.5 million children under the age of 15 risk missing their measles vaccination." Ted Chaiban, UNICEF's regional director, said it was "absolutely critical that every child gets immunised against deadly diseases including polio, measles, diphtheria and hepatitis". He said measures including disinfection, protective clothing and physical distancing meant that "immunisation for children is possible" even in the time of the new coronavirus, which causes a highly infectious respiratory disease known as COVID-19. "COVID-19 pandemic is overstretching health systems, as frontline workers are supporting the outbreak response. Despite that, nearly 1.5 million children on average are getting their vaccines every month," Chaiban said. UNICEF said most countries in the region were continuing with routine campaigns, under strict controls to prevent the spread of the virus. But the UN body warned that some vaccination campaigns had been suspended as health workers were diverted to fighting COVID-19. UNICEF and the World Health Organization warned in mid-April that approximately 117 million children worldwide risked contracting measles as dozens of countries curtailed vaccination programmes to battle the pandemic. In many parts of Africa, medical aid projects that might normally include measles and other vaccine campaigns have stalled as countries closed their borders and limited routine health services.
3 May 10:01 • Aljazeera • https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/05/millions-minors-middle-east-africa-risk-missing-vaccines-200503080455132.htmlRating: 2.44
Virus efforts jeopardise vaccines for millions of MENA children: UN
Amman, Jordan. The coronavirus pandemic could jeopardise vaccination campaigns in the Middle East and North Africa, UNICEF warned Sunday, saying millions of children could miss out on polio and measles immunisations.The UN agency said most countries in the region were continuing with routine campaigns, under strict controls to prevent the spread of the virus.But it warned that some vaccination campaigns had been suspended as health workers were diverted to fighting the COVID-19 illness."As a result, one in five children or 10 million children under the age of five risk missing their polio vaccination," it said in a statement."Nearly 4.5 million children under the age of 15 risk missing their measles vaccination."Ted Chaiban, UNICEF's regional director, said it was "absolutely critical that every child gets immunised against deadly diseases including polio, measles, diphtheria and hepatitis".He said measures including disinfection, protective clothing and social distancing meant that "immunisation for children is possible even in the time of COVID".UNICEF and the World Health Organization warned in mid-April that around 117 million children worldwide risked contracting measles as dozens of countries curtailed vaccination programmes to battle the pandemic.The head of the global organisation fighting polio told AFP in early April that the novel coronavirus had dealt an unprecedented blow to mass immunisation drives, risking a resurgence of the disease.
3 May 00:00 • THE CITIZEN • https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/news/-Virus-efforts-jeopardise-vaccines-for-millions-of-MENA/1840386-5541344-4nm0ta/index.htmlRating: 0.30
Covid-19: Thirty more test positive
3 May 13:28
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Covid-19: Thirty more test positive
Kenya has reported 30 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours after testing 883 samples. The Ministry of Health on Sunday said two deaths were also reported in the same period, bringing total number of deaths to 24. Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Health Rashid Aman added that the country registered 15 recoveries, bringing total of patients discharged from hospital to 167. During the daily coronavirus briefing in Nairobi, Dr Aman decried the casual attitude adopted by Kenyans in following the directives issued by the government to slow down the spread of the disease. He said many people have continued to violate the social distancing rule while some eateries and hotels failed to enforce the Ministry of Health directives. CRITICISED Matatus and boda bodas were also criticised for negligence. The CAS also said that some mosques are now opening at night for worship. “We have observed that some mosques have revised prayer time and are now opening for prayers at night. I must warn such religious leaders that this contravenes the directive that suspended all religious gatherings. They must stop this practice forthwith, failure of which legal action in accordance with Public Health Act shall be taken against them,” he said. He warned that action will be taken against those breaking the rules with the police now asked to create special quarantine areas for those who violate curfew laws. "I wish to state that such individuals will not be accommodated at the usual government quarantine facilities. Instead, the Inspector General of Police has been directed to designate a curfew breakers holding place. The place must be able to meet the social distancing requirement." At the same time, Dr Aman urged citizens to go for targeted testing in areas that have been identified as high risk. Some of Covid-19 hotspots in the country currently are Kawangware and Eastleigh in Nairobi and Mvita, Kisauni and Likoni in Mombasa. TESTING He said many people have been reluctant to go for testing since it was launched two days ago with only 803 out of expected 2,000 in Kawangware and 494 out of 3,000 tested in Eastleigh. “I want to appeal to Kenyans to willingly come forward to be tested. If we have to flatten our infections and minimise the risk of transmission, the Ministry of Health encourages Kenyans in the target areas to present themselves to the testing teams. Experience has shown that countries that have managed to flatten their infection curve quickly, have heavily relied on targeted testing. The tests will be conducted free of charge.” Out of the 30 new cases, 19 were reported in Mombasa, eight in Nairobi, two in Bungoma and one Kitui. This brings the total number of counties where the virus has been reported to 16. The Ministry of Health has meanwhile asked Kenyans not skip hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic, saying measures have been put in place to ensure that the virus is not transmitted in health centres. “I want to remind Kenyans that as we continue to address covid-19 pandemic, the other health services must continue to be provided to Kenyans. In this regard, I call upon all Kenyans to continue accessing health services in their 5 preferred facilities. Our records are indicating low hospital visitation for health services. Let us all be reminded that this kind of health seeking behaviour can lead to other more serious consequences.” The Coronavirus Tracker
3 May 13:28 • Daily Nation • https://www.nation.co.ke/news/Kenya-records-30-new-Covid-19-cases-/1056-5541542-euv9loz/index.htmlRating: 1.96
Two-third expats among 85 new corona cases in Oman
By Tamara AbueishDUBAI -- Oman reported 85 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours, which brings the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 2,568, the Ministry of Health announced.Out of the newly detected cases, 21 were Omani nationals and 64 were non-Omanis, the ministry said.One person died, raising the virus-related death toll in the country to 12.Meanwhile, 750 people have recovered from the coronavirus in Oman.Authorities urged the public to adhere to preventative measures such as social distancing and staying at home to slow the spread of the virus.“With our commitment to health isolation and social distancing, we will prevent ourselves, our families, and our community from the spread of the coronavirus,” the ministry said in a statement.The first two coronavirus cases in Oman were announced on Feb. 24 after two Omani women were infected during a trip to Iran.Since then, the government has imposed strict measures to prevent the virus from spreading further. The capital Muscat was put under a complete lockdown, and Ramadan mass gatherings were banned. -- Al Arabiya English
3 May 11:59 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592618/World/Mena/Two-third-expats-among-85new-corona-cases-in-OmanRating: 0.30
Top news of the day: Number of coronavirus cases in India crosses 40,000; Centre asks States to create second line of defence as more police personnel contract COVID-19, and more
India registered a record jump of 83 deaths and 2,487 cases in 24 hours as the number of COVID-19 fatalities rose to 1,306 and total cases climbed to 40,263 on May 3, according to the Union Health Ministry. | What’s allowed and what’s not in red, green and orange zones In a note to all Chief Secretaries/Director-Generals of Police, the Ministry of Home Affairs said police forces need to prepare an effective second line of defence to make up for the police personnel who may be rendered ineffective due to COVID-19 infection during the pandemic. | HRD Ministry to announce fresh dates for NEET, JEE on May 5 Dr. Paul said sudden spurt in number of coronavirus cases is still amenable to containment strategy. | Rate of growth of new COVID-19 cases steadying for a while: Harsh Vardhan India coronavirus lockdown Day 40 updates|Interactive map of confirmed coronavirus cases in India |State-wise tracker for coronavirus cases, deaths and testing rates |Helpline numbers |Download The Hindu’s multi-language e-book on essential COVID-19 information The military jets, including Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar, flew over Rajpath and then orbited over Delhi for around 30 minutes from 11 a.m. | Modi hails mega exercise The driver used to ferry CRPF employees working at the headquarters to their homes and was in quarantine since he showed symptoms two to three days ago. The Centre has, however, said plasma therapy for treatment of coronavirus patients is at an experimental stage and it has the potential to cause life-threatening complications. After facing flak for charging exorbitant fares to transport stranded migrants, the State government has announced that they will ferry migrants to their respective districts without any fare for three days starting from May 3. “The government will not allow indiscriminate entry of people returning from other States. They should have valid registration and an approved vehicle route chart with them. Anyone found coming without informing the authorities will be turned away from 12 border check points,” Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy said. The Indian missions in the country opened online registration for the expatriates who wish to fly back home after getting stuck in the country amidst the lockdown. The Ministry of National Health Services said 23 patients died in the last 24 hours, taking the total toll to 440. So far, 4,817 people have recovered from the deadly virus, the Ministry said. Coronavirus |Allow districts with high economic activity to resume all industrial, business operations: CII The distinction of essential and non-essential items should be removed and all factories should be permitted to restart, according to CII. Not just upset, Ganguly conceded he cannot help feeling a big scared of what’s unfolding because of the disease.
3 May 14:18 • The Hindu • https://www.thehindu.com/news/top-news-of-may-3-2020-number-of-coronavirus-cases-in-india-crosses-40000-centre-asks-states-to-create-second-line-of-defence-as-more-police-personnel-contract-covid-19-and-more/article31495058.eceRating: 0.30
Kenya records 30 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours
Kenya has reported 30 new coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours after testing 883 samples. The Ministry of Health on Sunday said two deaths were also reported in the same period, bringing total number of deaths to 24. Chief Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Health Rashid Aman added that the country registered 15 recoveries, bringing total of patients discharged from hospital to 167. During the daily coronavirus briefing in Nairobi, Dr Aman decried the casual attitude adopted by Kenyans in following the directives issued by the government to slow down the spread of the disease. He said many people have continued to violate the social distancing rule while some eateries and hotels failed to enforce the Ministry of Health directives. CRITICISED Matatus and boda bodas were also criticised for negligence. The CAS also said that some mosques are now opening at night for worship. Advertisement “We have observed that some mosques have revised prayer time and are now opening for prayers at night. I must warn such religious leaders that this contravenes the directive that suspended all religious gatherings. They must stop this practice forthwith, failure of which legal action in accordance with Public Health Act shall be taken against them,” he said. He warned that action will be taken against those breaking the rules with the police now asked to create special quarantine areas for those who violate curfew laws. "I wish to state that such individuals will not be accommodated at the usual government quarantine facilities. Instead, the Inspector General of Police has been directed to designate a curfew breakers holding place. The place must be able to meet the social distancing requirement." At the same time, Dr Aman urged citizens to go for targeted testing in areas that have been identified as high risk. Some of Covid-19 hotspots in the country currently are Kawangware and Eastleigh in Nairobi and Mvita, Kisauni and Likoni in Mombasa. TESTING He said many people have been reluctant to go for testing since it was launched two days ago with only 803 out of expected 2,000 in Kawangware and 494 out of 3,000 tested in Eastleigh. “I want to appeal to Kenyans to willingly come forward to be tested. If we have to flatten our infections and minimise the risk of transmission, the Ministry of Health encourages Kenyans in the target areas to present themselves to the testing teams. Experience has shown that countries that have managed to flatten their infection curve quickly, have heavily relied on targeted testing. The tests will be conducted free of charge.” Out of the 30 new cases, 19 were reported in Mombasa, eight in Nairobi, two in Bungoma and one Kitui. This brings the total number of counties where the virus has been reported to 16. The Ministry of Health has meanwhile asked Kenyans not skip hospital during the Covid-19 pandemic, saying measures have been put in place to ensure that the virus is not transmitted in health centres. “I want to remind Kenyans that as we continue to address covid-19 pandemic, the other health services must continue to be provided to Kenyans. In this regard, I call upon all Kenyans to continue accessing health services in their 5 preferred facilities. Our records are indicating low hospital visitation for health services. Let us all be reminded that this kind of health seeking behaviour can lead to other more serious consequences.”
3 May 00:00 • The East African • https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/scienceandhealth/Kenya-records-30-new-Covid-19-cases-/3073694-5541886-a58gs9/index.htmlRating: 0.41
Oman sees drop in daily number of corona cases
By Joanne SerriehDUBAI -- Oman has seen a drop in its daily increase with the health ministry recording only 36 new coronavirus cases over the past 24 hours, compared to 99 the day before.The sultanate has maintained its low death toll at 11 out of a total 2,483 cases. Meanwhile, 750 people have recovered so far, according to the health ministry.Authorities continue to urge people to adhere to preventative measures such as social distancing and staying at home to slow the spread of the virus.“With our commitment to health isolation and social distancing, we will prevent ourselves, our families, and our community from the spread of the coronavirus,” the ministry said in a statement.The Sultanate of Oman announced its first two cases of COVID-19 on Feb. 24, two Omani women who had caught the virus in Iran.The Omani government under new Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq has put some measures in place, including a complete lockdown in the capital Muscat, where a majority of the cases have been identified.A few days before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan began, authorities banned mass gatherings and extended the lockdown in its capital until May 8 as the number of new cases continued to rise. -- Al Arabiya English
2 May 13:33 • Saudi Gazette • https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/592595/World/Mena/Oman-sees-drop-in-dailynumber-of-corona-casesRating: 0.30